Patient Stories
Sutter Bariatric Services
Shawn
As a firefighter, Shawn is used to making life and death decisions. But his decision to have bariatric surgery didn’t come so easily. “Of course, I wasn’t happy being overweight. It caused problems in my personal life and my professional life,” Shawn said. “But weight-loss surgery is a big deal, so I took a few months to seriously consider everything before committing to it.”
Like many who struggle with obesity, Shawn had tried various diets and exercise plans throughout his life. “I had some success,” he said. “But the results wouldn’t last.” In addition to his size, Shawn had been dealing with other health issues including gouty arthritis, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. When he talked to his doctor about weight-loss surgery and getting healthy, he was referred to Dr. Jeffery Jenkins, a surgeon at Sutter Auburn Faith Hospital.
“I liked Dr. Jenkins as soon as I met him,” says Shawn. “He took time to listen to my situation, and explained the procedure and its pros and cons. I felt like I was in good hands.”
After meeting his insurance requirements, Shawn had gastric bypass surgery in October of 2007. “I had no complications,” said Shawn. “And the nurses at Sutter Auburn were wonderful. Everyone there was friendly and caring. It’s a quality hospital with a quality team.”
Today, a little more than a year past his surgery, Shawn describes his post-surgery life as amazing. “It’s been a great year. I followed Dr. Jenkins’s instructions and have lost a lot of weight,” says Shawn. “Now, I have more energy, I’m happier and have much more self confidence.” Shawn has become increasingly physically active in the past months, too. “I’m pretty involved in the cycling community, and recently did some rides that raise money and awareness for MS and AIDS. It’s great to be involved, I feel better about everything.”
Shawn’s overall health has improved, too. “My gout is under control, and so is my blood pressure and cholesterol, he says. “I don’t take any more meds, except for my multivitamin. I feel wonderful – both mentally and physically. I would recommend Dr. Jenkins and Sutter Auburn to anyone who needs bariatric surgery.”