Page 103 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2019

As a young adult, I developed type 2 diabetes. When I was told it could
be reversible with weight loss, I
knew something had to change.
Jacob Havard
FACING PAGE AND RIGHT: JERA AND JACOB HAVARD have lost a combined 175 pounds. FAR RIGHT: THE HAVARDS before weight loss surgery from South Mississippi Surgical Weight Loss.
to a women’s 18 or XXL,” she said. “I am still a work in progress and looking forward to my 100 pound loss mark.”
Jacob has lost 85 pounds. “At my highest weight, I wore a men’s 56 pants or men’s 4XL and I am now in a men’s 46 or 2XL,” he said. “My goal is to be below 200 pounds.”
The Havards say that weight loss surgery has changed both of their lives for the better. “It has given me such
a confidence boost,” Jera said. “Because I have a better self-image, I don’t let things stand in my way. I no longer let my weight stop me from living my life to the fullest. This new found confidence has also helped with my insecurities which, in turn, has helped with my anxiety.”
Jacob says that anyone struggling with their weight should consider weight loss surgery, saying, “It is definitely not a quick fix, but it’s a tool to help you on your weight loss journey. It is worth it in the end.”
With their weight under control, the couple has been able to enjoy each other and their hobbies more fully. Jacob is an avid comic book reader and loves art, even teaching art lessons at his local library to give back to the community. Jera enjoys designing and making t-shirts,
crafting, and traveling with Jacob.
The South Mississippi Surgical Weight Loss Center
has been helping men and women like Jacob and Jera Havard to meet their weight loss goals since their formation in 2000. Founded by South Mississippi Surgeons (SMS), they have been providing the Coast with quality surgical care for over 30 years.
To learn more about weight loss surgery, visit their website at smsurgicalweightloss.com, where you can register to receive a free information session.
DR. WILLIAM AVARA, III DR. JASON PAYNE DR. JOHN HALL
South Mississippi Surgical Weight Loss Center
1124 Oakleigh Road, Ocean Springs 228.872.7277 • www.smsurgicalweightloss.com
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July 2019 • SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living 103