In the summer of 2021, Marsha took a bold step toward reclaiming her health and happiness. After years of unsuccessful dieting, creeping weight gain, and declining confidence, she chose mini gastric bypass surgery. That decision changed her life.
Before surgery, Marsha had reached 265 pounds. The scale creeping closer to 300 became the wake-up call she couldn’t ignore. She had tried countless weight loss programs—everything from Weight Watchers to low-carb plans—but the results were always short-lived. Emotional eating became her escape, especially during stressful times, and traditional dieting just couldn’t provide the reset she needed.
Encouraged by friends who had experienced success with mini gastric bypass, and supported by her husband and parents, she made the commitment. Since the procedure, Marsha has lost over 100 pounds. She’s gone from a size 24 to a size 12, and while she experienced a temporary setback during a stressful period, the tools and structure from surgery helped her regain control.
What stands out most is how mini gastric bypass improved her daily life. She no longer hesitates to attend social events or travel. She can walk stairs without exhaustion, sit comfortably in airplane seats, and share meals with her husband without worry. She also no longer needs a CPAP machine for sleep apnea and has seen major improvements in her cholesterol levels.
Beyond physical benefits, Marsha’s mindset has transformed. The surgery helped her reset her relationship with food, allowing her to build new habits and regain her confidence. She no longer shops in the plus-size section, avoids mirrors, or hides from public life. Instead, she embraces each day with energy and pride.
Mini gastric bypass surgery gave Marsha the breakthrough she had been searching for—something that no diet or temporary solution had ever been able to provide. It wasn’t just about the weight she lost. It was about gaining back the life she wanted to live.
If you’re exploring your options for weight loss surgery in Missouri, Marsha’s journey proves that transformation is possible with the right support and approach. Take the first step toward a healthier future by learning more about mini gastric bypass surgery with Dr. David Hargroder.
Watch The Interview
Video Transcript
Dr. David Hargroder:
Hello again, everyone. I’m Dr. David Hargroder, and today I’m joined by a special guest—Marsha. Why don’t you tell us a little about yourself?
Marsha:
I’m Marsha Hawkins. I had surgery on June 30, 2021—almost four years ago. Before surgery, I was up to 265 pounds. It scared me how close I was getting to 300, so I had the surgery and lost 110 pounds.
Dr. Hargroder:
That’s incredible.
Marsha:
I've had a stressful six months. I lost my dad and slipped back into some old eating habits as a comfort, and I’ve put on 10 pounds. But I’m back on track now.
Dr. Hargroder:
That’s good to hear. It’s not uncommon for stressful life events—like a loss, divorce, or financial difficulty—to trigger weight regain. But having had the surgery, you’ve got the tools to bounce back. And if it ever feels like too much, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Marsha:
Thank you. I even brought before-and-after pictures. And I just got a new driver’s license photo—I couldn’t believe the difference.
Dr. Hargroder:
You look fantastic. You mentioned wearing size 24s before surgery. What are you wearing now?
Marsha:
I’m in size 10s or 12s now—mostly 12s.
Dr. Hargroder:
What made you finally decide on surgery?
Marsha:
I’ve been heavy most of my life. A couple of friends’ sisters had the surgery, and one of them goes to my church. She looked incredible. She talked to me about the surgery for a year, but I kept saying I could do it on my own. Then I gained another 20 pounds.
My husband and I talked about it, and he said, “If we needed a new car, we’d find a way to make payments. Why not for your health?” My parents were also really supportive. So I did it—and I’m so glad I did.
Dr. Hargroder:
Had you tried other methods before?
Marsha:
Oh, yes. Weight Watchers, fen-phen, low carb—you name it. I’d lose 40 pounds and gain back 50. The surgery helped because I couldn’t overeat, and it gave me the space to fix my mindset.
Dr. Hargroder:
What changes have you noticed in your day-to-day life?
Marsha:
I’m more confident. Even doing the laundry—I pull out my jeans and think, “Wow, I fit in these.” I used to avoid social events and hide from people. My husband had to go to weddings and funerals alone. I wouldn’t even go to ball games. But now? I go out, I show up, and I enjoy life.
Dr. Hargroder:
Was it mostly about physical discomfort or more emotional?
Marsha:
Definitely emotional—embarrassment and depression. I’d eat in secret and feel ashamed. But my husband never said a negative word. He was supportive, and so were my parents. My mom even said, “I’ve got my daughter back.”
I can sit in a seat without feeling uncomfortable. My son and I went to Ireland last year, and for the first time, I didn’t need the airplane seatbelt extended. It was such a great feeling.
Dr. Hargroder:
That’s powerful. Have you noticed any improvements in health?
Marsha:
I had sleep apnea—I don’t need the CPAP anymore. My blood pressure hasn’t improved much, though I still take meds. But my cholesterol is fantastic now—around 130.
Dr. Hargroder:
That’s great. Blood pressure doesn’t always resolve, especially if there’s a family history, but the other gains are still huge. Any surprises or unexpected benefits?
Marsha:
The stairs! At work, I used to take the elevator to avoid huffing and puffing. Now I run up and down those stairs all day. It’s night and day.
Dr. Hargroder:
That’s likely improved cardiac function—studies show 100% of patients experience better heart efficiency within a year.
Marsha:
I believe it. And my relationships have improved, too. I want to go places now. My two best friends are tiny and have been since high school. I used to avoid going out with them. Now we do everything together, and they’re proud of me.
Dr. Hargroder:
What’s something you wish you’d known earlier?
Marsha:
I wish I had done it 15 years sooner. Giving up Coca-Cola was tough, though. Funny story—I work in drug court, and when I lost weight, everyone joked they needed to drug test me!
Dr. Hargroder:
Any advice for someone considering surgery?
Marsha:
Do it. The only things you’ll lose are weight, inches, and low self-esteem. I’ve wasted so much money on diets and junk—this was the best investment I ever made.
Even my brother, who used to tease me, is proud. And now I tease him—he’s the one gaining, and I’m the one offering him my old 3Xs!
Dr. Hargroder:
You seem so full of life. You’ve earned those wrinkles.
Marsha:
That’s right. I’m 62, and I feel great. I just can’t say enough good about you, Sherry, and Carla. You’ve got a great team. I’m looking forward to this year’s Christmas gathering too.
Dr. Hargroder:
Thanks, Marsha. This has been wonderful. Keep an eye out for this interview—we’ll post it on our YouTube channel in the next couple of weeks.
Marsha:
Thank you, Dr. Hargroder. Have a great day.
Dr. Hargroder:
You too!