Newsworthy

Patti Shafer is proof that it’s never too late to reclaim your health—and your life.

For years, Patti led an active lifestyle, but health conditions affecting her hormones made weight management increasingly difficult. Diets, pills, and exercise routines didn’t help.

When her husband was diagnosed with a brain tumor and kidney cancer, stress and worry led her to gain more weight, eventually reaching 250 pounds. Faced with these challenges, Patti realized she needed to make a change—not just for her loved ones, but for herself.

“I knew I couldn’t care for him if I didn’t take care of myself first.”

That realization led Patti to the Stormont Vail Health Weight Management program, where she found the support, expertise, and compassion she needed to take the next step.

When Patti received gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Partha Bhurtel, she weighed approximately 238 pounds. Today, she maintains a healthy weight between 165 and 170 pounds—a life-changing transformation.

Life After Surgery: More Energy & Joy

Since her surgery, Patti stopped taking medications for insulin resistance and high blood pressure. Most importantly, she feels more energetic and experiences less pain. She credits the surgery with boosting her self-confidence and overall quality of life.

“I can play with my grandkids so much easier and better. I have so much more energy and fewer aches and pains. It’s the BEST feeling!”

Facing Fears, Finding Strength

Like many patients, she had concerns before surgery, especially about the risks and the chance of hair loss. But her care team made sure she was fully prepared. Recovery was smoother than expected, with minimal pain. While the liquid diet was tough at first, it was manageable—and worth it.

“They walked me through everything—mental assessments, nutrition counseling, and even meetings with other surgery patients. I felt prepared.”

A New Lifestyle, A New Outlook

Patti’s daily routine now includes golf, bike rides (eight miles, five times a week!), daily gym workouts, and five to six small meals a day. She’s committed to staying active and healthy—and loving every minute of it. She’s also noticed how others respond to her transformation.

“Clothes fit better, I move easier, and I just feel good.

People tell me I look great. They’re proud of me.”

Advice for Others

Patti’s advice is simple but powerful: listen to your surgery team, be ready to change your eating habits, drink water, exercise, and make the commitment.

“Listen to your Surgery team. Know that your eating habits will have to change. Drink water. Exercise. Make the commitment.”

And if she could say one thing to Dr. Bhurtel?

“Thank you. You absolutely changed my life forever. You’re doing so much for people by extending their livelihoods and lives.”

If you’re considering weight loss surgery, our Weight Management team is here to support you. Every journey is unique, and it’s never too late to take that first step toward feeling your BEST.