Samantha, a dedicated teacher and mother of five, was living in a constant state of exhaustion. Simple joys like playing with her children or moving around the classroom were hindered by fatigue, joint pain, and the burden of excess weight. After years of watching her energy fade and her health decline, she made a life-changing decision to undergo mini gastric bypass surgery under the care of Dr. David Hargroder.
Drawn to the procedure’s minimal invasiveness, shorter recovery time, and reliable long-term outcomes, she chose mini gastric bypass over traditional gastric bypass. After attending an informational seminar and carefully researching her options, she underwent surgery in December 2020.
The impact was immediate and powerful. Samantha experienced dramatic weight loss, reducing nearly half of her original body weight. Her energy surged, and she quickly found herself participating in activities she once avoided—riding roller coasters, running with her kids, and fully engaging in her teaching role.
More than just weight loss, the surgery provided unexpected relief from physical pain. Chronic knee and back discomfort vanished shortly after surgery, and she was able to avoid a recommended knee replacement for several years. Emotional benefits followed, including increased confidence and renewed self-esteem.
Her success was also supported by diligent post-operative care. Following Dr. Hargroder’s advice closely, Samantha remained consistent with supplements, maintained high protein intake, and adapted to new dietary habits. She found manageable ways to navigate common side effects and remained in regular communication with her care team.
Samantha’s story is a testament to how mini gastric bypass surgery, when paired with commitment and guidance, can completely transform a life. It empowered her to become a more present parent, a more active professional, and a healthier individual.
For anyone considering weight loss surgery in Missouri, her experience highlights how life-changing the mini gastric bypass can be. Reach out to MGB Surgery to explore your options for a healthier, more energized future.
Watch The Interview
Video Transcript
Dr. Hargroder:
Welcome, everyone. We’re here today with Samantha Graven, one of our amazing patients who had the mini gastric bypass surgery. Samantha, why don’t you tell everyone a little about yourself?
Samantha:
Sure! I’m a mom of six kids—four girls and two boys. I’ve been married for twenty-one years. I work as a billing specialist at a local hospital and I also do part-time work at a grocery store. So life is full!
Dr. Hargroder:
Absolutely. And you had your surgery in November of 2023. We're just a few months out, and how much weight have you lost?
Samantha:
I'm down 83 pounds. I feel like a whole new person.
Dr. Hargroder:
That's incredible. Tell us about some of the changes you've seen in your health.
Samantha:
Before surgery, I was on three different blood pressure medications and using a CPAP machine for sleep apnea. After surgery, I’ve been off all blood pressure meds since December, and I no longer use the CPAP. It's been a huge improvement in my quality of life.
Dr. Hargroder:
That’s exactly what we love to hear. And how about your energy and daily life?
Samantha:
It’s like night and day. I used to struggle just walking from the parking lot into work. Now I’m moving around, keeping up with my kids, and I feel like I’ve got my life back. My knees don’t hurt anymore. I’m not out of breath walking up the stairs. It's amazing.
Dr. Hargroder:
It really is. So, what was it that made you finally decide to have the surgery?
Samantha:
Honestly, I just got tired of being tired. I saw a Facebook post about one of your live videos and decided to watch it. Something about it just clicked. I started watching all of your videos, and they really helped me understand the surgery and what to expect. I made the decision that night to call your office.
Dr. Hargroder:
That’s fantastic. And what would you say to someone else who might be on the fence?
Samantha:
Do it. Don’t wait. I spent so much time being afraid—of the unknown, of change—but now I wish I’d done it years ago. This surgery has given me my life back. If you’re thinking about it, just call. Reach out, watch the videos, talk to someone who's been through it. You won’t regret it.
Dr. Hargroder:
Samantha, thank you so much for sharing your story. You’re such a great example of the success that can come from taking that step. I appreciate you being here.
Samantha:
Thank you. I hope my story helps someone else take that same step.