Patient Stories

Cyndee’s story
The decision to get bariatric surgery was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make. Being overweight my entire life was taking its toll on my health—I knew I needed to make a big change. After researching options for four years, I knew bariatric surgery was right for me. I went to a seminar in Phoenix and consulted with my local doctor. I was referred to Rob Berger, M.D., the new bariatric surgeon in Flagstaff. My consultation with Dr. Berger and his nurse, Nancy, was very comfortable; I felt they were truly concerned with my weight and health problems. Dr. Berger answered every question I had thoroughly, explaining each bariatric surgery option. After my consultation, I felt confident in receiving my surgery at Flagstaff Medical Center and I took the next steps toward better health.

While in the hospital, Dr. Berger and my nurse stopped by every day to see how I was doing. It was great to have them there to answer any questions I had and for the support they gave me. Everyone at FMC was positive, uplifting and compassionate throughout my bariatric journey. Once I was back home, the staff at FMC was still helping me toward recovery. I meet with Dr. Berger for a check-up once a month, and with a dietitian to make sure I am eating right. Whenever I have a question I know I can call FMC, and they are more than willing to help.

This experience has been life-changing in not only a physical sense, but has been very emotional for me as well. FMC offers bariatric surgery support groups for people who have had the surgery, will have the operation soon, or are thinking about having it. Throughout the process I kept asking myself, “Did I do the right thing?” I know that I did. It is one of the most vital parts of their program to know the decision you are making is the right one.

Through FMC, I got a holistic approach to my problem. It wasn’t just snip, cut, be on your way, but a healing process that will last.

Joe and Everett's stories

When bariatric surgery began being offered in November of last year at FMC, it wasn’t just Flagstaff and the surrounding community that was interested; many FMC employees decided this program was what they needed to turn their lives around and take the steps toward better health.

Joe Canedo is the friendly face who always gives you a smile and a “have a nice day” at the grill in the Cafeteria. What you might not know about Joe is that he recently made a decision that has completely changed his life. He received bariatric surgery, and has lost more than 100 pounds as a result. Joe had various health problems because at 387 pounds he was 162 pounds overweight. He had high cholesterol, high blood pressure, hereditary type II diabetes and blood clots in his legs. In 2000, Joe almost lost his life because of the blood clots in his varicose veins. He had surgery, and recovered. But he still had various health complications; doctors told him that if he didn’t do something about his weight, he would inevitably have a stroke that could potentially kill him. “It was really a wake-up call. I couldn’t believe that I was having all these problems just because I was overweight. I understood this was a major issue and needed to do something
about it.”

Everett Knowles, who has been an employee in the materials management department for 5 years was also drastically overweight and suffered from many weight-related health problems such as high blood pressure, asthma and sleep apnea. His father had a heart attack and his brother died because of their bad health in relation to their weight. “The surgery was a no-brainer for me,” said Everett. “I knew I had to do something about my health to turn everything around.”

Joe tried every diet imaginable to try and shed his extra pounds—everything from the Atkins diet to specialty diet pills—but nothing worked. He would always lose about 40 pounds, only to regain it and double the weight he lost. “I was so frustrated; I’ve had a weight problem all my life. I didn’t want to be the fat kid anymore; it was time to do something about it,” Joe said.

Joe decided bariatric surgery was for him. His insurance approved him, and he went through with the surgery only a couple days after gaining approval. “I went into the surgery with a peaceful mind and a positive attitude. I knew what risks were there, and was knowledgeable about the entire process. I knew this was something I had to do. I just prayed about it, and let go of my fear and anxiety,” Joe said.

The surgery was a success for both Joe and Everett; they felt absolutely no pain. On the same day of Joe’s surgery he started walking to begin an exercise routine as soon as possible. One month after surgery Joe lost 50 pounds. Normal weight loss one month after surgery is between 25-35 pounds.

Overall, Everett has lost 95 pounds since he had the surgery March 2005. He believes it is because of the personalized attention he received at FMC. “Everyone here is so friendly and caring; they really made me feel at home.”

Joe and Everett had to change their entire lifestyle after the surgery. They have to eliminate certain foods and drinks from their diets, and are not allowed to have any sugar, soda or alcohol for the rest of their lives. Joe only eats one meal a day because of the small size of his stomach. “I don’t care about the things I can’t have anymore; it’s a small sacrifice to make. Would I rather be alive and healthy, or have a candy bar? In my mind, it’s an easy choice.”

Joe says his energy level has improved immensely; he walks three miles every day, no matter what. “I know that once I don’t go one day, I’ll end up stopping completely. So I make a point of forcing myself to walk those three miles. It’s a state of mind; you need to know what’s right for your body.” The surgery was such a success for Joe because of his complete dedication to a healthier lifestyle. “This surgery isn’t just a quick fix, but a totally different way of living,” Joe said.

The weight Joe has lost has been so drastic that many can’t believe it’s him. “I went to see some of my family members about two months after the surgery, and when my wife’s relative saw me she thought my wife had divorced me and remarried.” Joe is still losing weight, and is only 40 pounds away from the normal weight for his height; but Joe doesn’t want to stop there. “In my eyes, I still have another 95 pounds to go.”

Joe refuses to buy new clothes while he’s still shedding pounds, which has caused him a little embarrassment. “I was at the grocery store, and as I was reaching for an energy drink on the top shelf, my pants fell down!”

As a result of the surgery, both Everett’s and Joe’s health problems have completely disappeared. “The difference is really amazing. I am not taking all kinds of pills, feeling tired all the time or having medical problems. This surgery truly saved my life. I am so thankful,” Joe said.

Everett couldn’t agree more. “I just can’t say enough good things about Dr. Berger and the entire program. I am really lucky to have gotten the surgery. I feel as if I have been given my second chance.”

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