Busy Mom Going Strong Years After Weight Loss Surgery

“Weight-loss surgery transformed my life in ways I never thought possible. I weighed 318 pounds and had difficulty moving. As a Certified Nursing Assistant, I lacked energy and experienced ongoing pain, which made it hard to do my job. “I wanted to be healthier and more active, so I finally decided to take control. After extensive research, I chose to have a gastric bypass at Emerson with bariatric surgeon Dr. David Lautz. It was the best decision I ever made.”

In the Beginning

“I had surgery in 2015. Over time, my weight dropped nearly 200 pounds. I grew happier and healthier. My everyday aches and pains disappeared, and I became pregnant for the first time.”

Revisiting and Revising

“The pandemic took a toll on my health. Stress, pregnancy, and life as a busy mom of two boys led me back to old eating habits. By 2022, I had gained weight, which resulted in reflux and sleep apnea. I considered weight-loss medication but did not want to do regular shots, so I contacted the Center for Weight Loss for help. I was grateful they were there to support me again.

After discussing options with Dr. Lautz, I decided to have revision surgery, an effective tool for those who need a ‘tune-up’ years after their original surgery. Dr. Lautz also repaired my hernia, which fixed my reflux. This surgery got me back on track to reclaim my health and well-being.”

“Life is so much better. I easily bend over to tie my shoes and pick up things from the floor. I am grateful every day to live fully, free of the extra weight, especially when I easily climb into my children’s beds and kiss them goodnight. I fit in close, right next to them!

Supporting Each Other

My husband also had a gastric bypass at Emerson. He lost significant weight and lives healthy. His career as a truck driver is so much better because he is comfortable sitting on long drives. Today, we enjoy outdoor activities together. We ride motorcycles and are fully active with our kids – simple pleasures we could not do before.

The Journey of a Lifetime

I wish I decided to have surgery much sooner. Emerson’s team is fantastic, supporting my husband and me through our journeys and giving us new, healthy lives – from buying our first home to being active parents. We run with our family on the beach, play on the floor, and are fully present as our boys grow up. If you are overweight and suffer from health issues, research it. You deserve to live the life you dream of.”

Shawna’s Tips for Anyone Thinking About Weight-Loss Surgery:

• Schedule a consultation with a surgeon to make an informed decision.
• Do not wait. My biggest mistake was waiting.
• Weight-loss surgery is not the easy way out. You will need to stick with the program to see results.
• Never give up. The journey is hard but worth it.