Bariatric Surgery: Transforming Lives and Renewing Health—Travis’s Inspiring Journey
Life can change dramatically in just six months, and Travis Shewmaker, a 37-year-old welder from Savannah, Missouri, is a testament to that. His inspiring transformation showcases the power of bariatric surgery and the profound impact it can have on one’s lifestyle and health.
A Weight Loss Journey Begins
In July, Travis weighed a staggering 412 pounds. Fast forward to February, and he proudly holds a record of losing over 130 pounds thanks to the transformative effects of bariatric weight-loss surgery at Saint Luke’s Center for Surgical Weight Loss.
As the pounds shed away, Travis discovered more than just a change in his weight; he experienced a complete life transformation. With renewed energy, he embraced a passion for physical exercise and noticed marked improvements in his health, enjoying better lab results and enhanced social interactions.
“I’m 6 foot 5, so I was a big guy and could be intimidating,” Travis shares. “Now, I have people coming to talk to me and ask me questions. I am still the same person I was, but people treat me differently.”
Taking the First Step: A Consultation and Decision
Travis’s inspirational journey began humbly with an initial consultation about treating an umbilical hernia with Dr. Todd Moore, a general surgeon at Saint Luke’s. During his visit, Dr. Moore emphasized the importance of weight loss for safer and more effective treatment, leading Travis to Dr. Brent Sorensen, a specialist at the Center for Surgical Weight Loss.
After consulting with Dr. Sorensen, Travis opted for gastric bypass surgery—an effective procedure that creates a small pouch at the top of the stomach to limit its capacity and reroutes the digestive system for reduced nutrient absorption. In July 2024, Travis underwent the surgery after diligently completing pre-surgery nutrition and exercise education classes.
“I was nervous going into the surgery, but the team at Saint Luke’s Center for Surgical Weight Loss was great,” Travis recalls. “I was super happy with the whole process.”
The Journey Continues: Lifestyle Changes and Support
Surgery was just the beginning of Travis’s journey. Post-surgery success required commitment and regular follow-up visits, which are vital for achieving healthy weight loss. Dr. Sorensen advises that patients attend scheduled postoperative appointments every two weeks, moving toward annual visits, allowing for personalized plans crafted by dieticians and exercise physiologists.
“Having a compassionate dietitian and physical trainer who never made my questions seem like a bother made all the difference,” Travis reflects.
Today, Travis prioritizes working out four to five times a week, a lifestyle change he now cherishes.
Beyond the Scale: Health Improvements
The effects of Travis’s weight loss extend beyond mere numbers on a scale. As his weight decreased, he observed significant improvements in his health metrics, including reduced cholesterol, blood pressure, and insulin levels. Dr. Sorensen notes that this is typical among patients; obesity ties closely to numerous health complications, including reduced life expectancy.
“A lot of health issues can arise with extra weight, such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes,” Dr. Sorensen explains. He remarks on the 70% success rate of weight loss surgeries, particularly highlighting gastric bypass as an effective treatment for Type 2 diabetes.
Travis previously battled Type 2 diabetes, relying on three medications to manage his insulin and cholesterol levels. Now, thanks to his transformation, he proudly claims to be medication-free and no longer diabetic.
“If you’re Type 2 diabetic and just on maybe one or two pills to control it, about 75% of the time immediately after surgery your diabetes resolves,” Dr. Sorensen clarifies.
Celebrating Life’s Little Victories
Celebrating more than just health, Travis recounted a deeply personal milestone that encapsulated his transformation. One of his biggest victories? Sitting in a booth at a restaurant—an experience he hadn’t enjoyed since he was 18. The realization struck him during a dinner with friends when he effortlessly slid into a booth, something he could have only dreamed of before.
“I went to dinner with a couple of friends before Thanksgiving, and it was packed,” he says. “I saw we were getting sat at a booth, so I sat down and slid in. I had like 4 inches in between me and the table—and I almost cried.”
An Empowering Message: Weight Loss Surgery is a Tool
Reflecting on his incredible six-month journey, Travis advocates for weight loss surgery as a valid treatment that can lead to rewarding experiences. However, he emphasizes that it’s not a quick fix. “Losing 130 lbs. in six months is the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” he asserts. “The surgery is just a tool. You have to create a lifestyle change.”
Begin Your Own Journey
If you’re inspired by Travis’s story and considering a commitment to health through weight loss surgery, take the first step today. Visit Saint Luke’s Center for Surgical Weight Loss to learn more about their services and meet their dedicated team of experts. You can also kickstart your journey by watching our online educational seminar.
Empower yourself today—because a healthier, happier life is just a decision away!
