Meet Lisa, a patient at the Bariatric and Metabolic Institute (BMI) at Arkansas Heart Hospital, who underwent gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Samuel Bledsoe.

A Defining Moment

In October 2020, my mom suddenly passed away due to diabetes. That caused me to take a good look at myself, and at that moment, I knew my life needed to change so I didn’t leave my children without a momma, too.

I was 5’3”, weighing 306 pounds, wearing a 3X shirt and a 22/24 jeans. I was hurt, depressed, embarrassed, ashamed, and always hiding from cameras. I literally couldn’t get out of the shower and dry off without being completely out of breath and feeling like I just ran a marathon.

The Phone Call

I had an appointment for some lab work and the doctors let me know I was very close to full blown diabetes. So, I immediately picked up the phone and called the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute.

In May 2021, I got the call from Heather, a coordinator at BMI, saying I was approved, and my life would be changed! She set me up an appointment a month later with Dr. Bledsoe.

I went in having knowledge of all the procedures and he let me know the safest option for me was the gastric sleeve. Never once did I feel scared, unsafe or unsure. I finally felt that I would be able to take my life back!

I met with Courtney, one of the dietitians, and she gave me so many helpful tips that I was ready to get back home and start my new healthy lifestyle.

Living Proof

You can truly tell each doctor, nurse, dietitian and coordinator at BMI has your best interest in mind and truly cares about their patients. I highly recommend BMI to everyone. I am living proof that your life can be changed.

Ninety days out of surgery, I was 106 pounds down with more energy than I’ve ever had in my life.

Now, I’m going to the gym. The person who couldn’t dry off for five minutes without heavy breathing and feeling like they would pass out is exercising one hour a day!

If you’re on the fence, have the surgery for yourself and your family. Take your life back one pound at a time.”

If you’re interested in learning more about bariatric surgery, visit bmi.arheart.com. Read more inspirational patient stories and find BMI-friendly recipes.