Archbold Medical Center| Archives Magazine | Spring 2019

8 ARCHBOLD MEDICAL CENTER TAMMY LITTLE “My deciding factor was when I was told by my orthopedist that I was too young to have a knee replacement,” said Little. “I’ve had five previous knee surgeries, and he suggested that I might benefit by seeing a bariatric physician.” Little has struggled with her weight since middle school, and she tried fol- lowing Weight Watchers for a while. According to Little, what made the bariatric program different than any other program was the help she received. “I have support with this program, “I would recommend bariatric surgery to anyone that has struggled with their weight,” said Little. “The surgery has given me so much more energy and confidence. And that is a great combination!” which is vital to my success,” said Little. “Dr. Hanisee has this amazing support group, and it makes me feel like I have my own personal cheerleading team. If I have a question, no matter how small or silly I think it is, they always answer it in a serious manner.” Little had gastric sleeve surgery on September 20, 2018. She has lost 92 pounds from her highest weight, and she plans to lose a total of 114 pounds. This will put her at a normal body mass index. “This journey has really changed my life in several ways,” said Little. “I’m able to climb steps without feeling as though —Continued on page 10 LAST SPRING, Archbold launched a new Bariatric and Weight Management Program, which offers a comprehensive range of individualized weight-loss services led by a dedicated team of experts. Archbold’s unique program, which offers nonsurgical and surgical options for effec- tive long-term weight-loss results, is designed to help patients achieve their weight- loss goals, improve their overall health and enhance their quality of life. Archbold’s Bariatric and Weight Management Program is the only one of its kind in the region to have two fellowship-trained bariatric surgeons: Katie Hanisee, MD, and Joey Jarrard, MD. Since the implementation of the program last year, Dr. Hanisee and Dr. Jarrard have had many patients who have seen success through bariatric surgery. Patients Crissy Williams and Tammy Little were delighted to share their success stories. I need to sit down, and I’m able to walk and stand up easier.” Little also had to relearn how to eat and read labels. “Kudos to those who can read labels, because it is really complicated,” said Little. “I’ve also learned that it’s okay to have a little treat every once in a while. We just have to be mindful of what food and how much of it we are putting into our bodies.” Ready for adventure One of Little’s biggest accomplishments since joining the bariatric program was horseback riding with her husband for their 25th wedding anniversary. “My husband and I have always enjoyed horseback riding in the moun- tains, but we’ve always had to go to a certain farm that could accommodate larger people,” said Little. “This year, for our anniversary, we were able to go to a different place that didn’t have to accommodate us based on our size.” When asked if someone should con- sider the bariatric journey, this is what she had to say: “I would tell someone considering this journey to do research,” said Little. “Bariatric surgery is a life-changing event, and it is not one to be taken lightly. You have to relearn how to eat and will have frustrations, but the good that comes from the journey outweighs the bad.” TAKE the WEIGHT OFF ARCHBOLD’S BARIATRIC PROGRAM for new adventures