Health Care

Katrina's Journey to Whole Health through Bariatric Surgery

April 26, 2024 |

AdventHealth

| Estimated read time: 3 minutes

Weight loss can be life changing. Not only does it reduce your risk of heart disease, many types of cancer and other serious health concerns, but it can also help you to feel better, enjoy activities you weren’t able to before and improve your entire outlook on life.

Bariatric surgery may be a practical way for those struggling with weight loss to achieve and maintain the results they desire. Each year, a growing number of Americans turn to this effective, low-risk solution to help them reach their goals. Katrina Hill is one of those who sought assistance through bariatric surgery. She shares her success story below:

Why did you decide to have bariatric surgery?: I wasn’t feeling well. I was breathing hard and wheezing – like I had asthma, even though I didn’t. My back hurt all the time, and I was not able to participate in family activities. I was just really uncomfortable. I wanted to be the healthy version of myself, so I could enjoy the second half of my life.
Who was your bariatric surgeon?: My surgeon was Dr. Rishi Ramlogan at AdventHealth North Pinellas.
What treatments did your surgeon discuss with you?: Dr. Ramlogan went over all the treatment options with me. I had been interested in a gastric sleeve but, because of my acid reflux and other symptoms, Dr. Ramlogan recommended a gastric bypass.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve encountered on your weight-loss journey?: Initially, after the surgery, I wasn’t sure if I was getting enough protein, but when I had my labs done, everything was fine.
What is one of the biggest misconceptions you’ve heard about bariatric surgery?: I think the biggest misconception is about the difficulty of the healing process, but my recuperation from the procedure wasn’t bad at all. I felt great after a couple of weeks.
How has your health changed following the surgery?: It has changed in so many ways. I had my surgery in December 2022, and so far, I’ve lost 109 pounds. I no longer have heartburn or high blood pressure, and I have been able to stop taking all of the medications I was on. I can walk a long way without getting winded or wheezing, and I can run circles around my grandkids.
What plans do you have for your future?: I want to travel the world. Now, I can get on and off airplanes much easier and don’t have to use a seatbelt extender. I can walk around as a tourist and enjoy myself and just enjoy life. I can do so many activities that I couldn’t before. I plan to live life to the fullest!
What’s your advice for someone considering bariatric surgery?: I would definitely give it serious thought. It changed my life, and it can change yours. I look so much better. I feel better. My life is better.

We’ll Support Your Choice to Get Healthy

We thank Katrina Hill for her inspiring testimony. Choosing to have bariatric surgery is a life-changing decision, and it's essential to consult a professional who can evaluate your unique needs.

You are not alone in this journey; our professional and compassionate experts are available to answer your questions. When you're ready we'll be here to help you take your first step toward a brand-new life. Visit us here to learn more.

Katrina's Journey to Whole Health through Bariatric Surgery

Katrina's Journey to Losing Over 100 Pounds

We’ll Support Your Choice to Get Healthy

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