Patient Stories
Juaquetta Murray
Age: 51
Weight Loss: 82 lbs.
My name is Juaquetta Murray and for years I struggled with my weight. Like many people, I tried several different ways to lose weight. Some of them worked for a little while, but the weight always came back. After years of dieting and starting over, I realized I needed a more permanent solution.
I started talking to friends, doing research online, and learning more about bariatric surgery. After reading positive reviews and hearing great things about Grandview's program, I decided to schedule a consultation.
From the beginning, I felt comfortable with Dr. Barton Woods and the entire team. Everyone took the time to explain the process, answer my questions, and make sure I understood what to expect. That support made me feel confident every step of the way.
One thing that stood out to me was how accessible and caring the staff were. Whenever I needed something, they were quick to respond and always willing to help. The level of care was unlike anything I had experienced before.
Of course, losing weight has changed my life, but the biggest transformation has been how I feel about myself. I have so much more confidence now. I can wear the clothes I want to wear, feel comfortable in social situations, and enjoy activities I used to avoid. One of my favorite victories was being able to ride amusement park rides without worrying about whether I would fit.
One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been inspiring others. After seeing my success, two of my nieces decided to pursue bariatric surgery themselves. They were hesitant at first, but after watching my progress, they took that step and now say it was one of the best decisions they have ever made.
It wasn't until about six months after surgery that I truly realized how much my life had changed. My husband and daughter noticed the difference before I did. When old photos started popping up on social media, I couldn't believe how far I had come.
Today, nearly two years after surgery, I have maintained my weight loss and continue to enjoy a healthier, more active life. The surgery gave me the opportunity, but maintaining my results has become a commitment that I am proud of.
If someone is considering bariatric surgery, my advice is simple: do it. If you're tired of going from one diet to another without lasting success, this can be a life-changing tool. Choosing this program was one of the best decisions I've ever made, and I'm grateful every day for the confidence and quality of life I've gained.
Glenn Wienksi
Age: 52
Weight Loss: 157 lbs.
I had been overweight most of my life and got to my heaviest weight of 345 pounds during Covid. My wife and I were staying in a hotel and eating out every day. I gained more and more weight and just could not lose it.
In 2022, I went to my primary care doctor. He was concerned about my weight and said I should look into bariatric surgery. A year later, my family and I went to Gulf Shores. I wanted to go to the historic forts, but it was so hot and I was so overweight, I could not walk around. My knees were hurting, and I would have to sit in the shade while my wife and son walked around and took pictures for me.
That's when I said, "I can't do this on my own. I need help." That was in October 2023 and I had surgery a month later.
My primary care doctor recommended Grandview, and I went to the bariatric surgery seminar Dr. Frey was leading. I chose the surgery because of my age, 52 at the time, and because Dr. Frey thought I would be more successful with a bypass. He was right!
I currently weigh 188 pounds and can do everything now! I used to have to wear knee braces just to go bowling. Now, I can go bowling with no pain.
I can walk with no pain. I go on long hikes, sometimes close to 15,000 steps in just two hours, and I was never able to do that before. I sleep better. I am no longer snoring. I have so much energy that I got bored at home and picked up a second job just to get out of the house more.
My biggest surprise from this journey has been my knee pain being gone. I thought I had arthritis in both knees and would eventually have to have knee replacements. But it is no longer an issue.I really focus on keeping my weight at my target number. I still chart my calories. I also go to the gym at least three to four days per week and try to get at least 15,000 steps in a day. I would definitely recommend this to others. The whole staff have been amazing, from the receptionist to the nutritionist, to Dr. Frey. They have always been encouraging and supportive and that has meant everything!
Janna Parris
Weight Loss: 126 lbs.
My name is Janna Parris and I decided to seek help because I was tired of being tired. I was overweight, uncomfortable, and felt like I wasn't able to live the life I wanted with my kids.
I did GLP-1 injections and just about every diet under the sun, but nothing worked long-term for me. I first heard about the weight-loss clinic through my best friend, and from my very first visit, I knew this experience was different. Everyone at the clinic is so friendly and welcoming. The communication is great, and they really take the time to get to know you and understand your “why.”
Around three months into the program I remember thinking, this is actually going to work. A few months later, I lost my mom. That was a huge turning point for me because I realized I couldn't eat my feelings anymore. I had to learn how to deal with difficult things without relying on food for comfort, and that became a major part of my journey.
The changes have been incredible. I've lost 126 pounds. My blood work is now completely normal. My high blood pressure is gone, my pre-diabetes is gone, and I can breathe and walk so much better. I've even replaced my entire wardrobe. My confidence is miles ahead of where it used to be.
The most rewarding part of this journey has been my family. We're a sports family and spend a lot of our time at baseball fields. Before, I was just trying to get through the day. Now, I can enjoy being there, be present with my family, and even take my younger kids to the park between games and play with them.
One day, my 5-year-old told me, "Mom, I can tell you feel so much better. You smile all the time now." I hadn't really noticed that change until she pointed it out. Knowing that my kids see a happy mom who feels good in her own skin means everything to me. I would do this journey 10 times over just for that feeling.
More than anything, the most rewarding part is showing my children that the weight didn't win. I tried and failed many times, but I didn't give up. Being able to show my kids that perseverance pays off is something I'll always be proud of.
If I had known how good I would feel today, I would have done this 10 years ago. I've already referred several people to the clinic because of the experience I've had. The entire staff make you feel comfortable from day one. They treat you like a person, not just a patient, and that kind of support makes all the difference.
Otinesha Paige
Age: 35
Weight Loss: 89 lbs.
Occupation: Human Resources Manager
I struggled with weight gain throughout my childhood and really began to lose control in college. At one point, my weight topped 330 lbs. I started having all sorts of health issues, including high blood pressure and sleep apnea. Then, I was diagnosed with kidney failure caused by a genetic condition. This led me to undergo dialysis and ultimately require a kidney transplant.
I had to get my weight under 250 lbs. to be eligible for the transplant. At this point, I knew I had to change my lifestyle completely. I lost 85 lbs. on my own, but was still not yet under 250, so I decided to have gastric sleeve surgery at Grandview Medical Center.
In October 2021, I had a kidney transplant, and my life completely changed for the better. I am down by almost 150 lbs. I like how I look, my confidence is renewed, and my health has also been restored. I care about making healthy decisions, including the foods I eat and the amount of water I drink. I can walk and play at the park with my daughter without being out of breath. I don't worry about whether I can make it up the stairs or fit in a certain seat. I am a new person with a second chance!
My advice to people considering weight loss surgery is to go for it. Don't be discouraged if others don't agree or understand your decision. Do it for your health. I am so grateful to Dr. William Pennington at Grandview Medical Center for helping me reach my goal to have a kidney transplant.