August 21, 2024 – Steven Padilla, a 42-year-old clinical nurse coordinator at HCA Florida University Hospital, has been on a lifelong journey battling obesity. Weighing 494 pounds at his heaviest, Steven faced threats of health challenges, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. The struggle to maintain a sense of normalcy in his daily life became increasingly difficult.
“For a long time, I considered surgery as a way to conquer this battle that I had been dealing with for years,” Steven shares. “When I found Dr. Donkor, I felt confident that this was the right path for me. I knew things would get better after the surgery.”
Steven decided to undergo gastric bypass surgery, a life-changing decision that he now calls “the best decision I’ve made in my entire life.” He was up and walking the same day after the procedure, a moment that marked the beginning of his transformation.
“While the surge in popularity of weight loss medications is understandable, it’s important to recognize that these treatments are often viewed as quick fixes and may not address the underlying causes of obesity. Medications can be helpful for some patients, particularly in the short term, but they don’t offer the comprehensive and lasting results that weight loss surgery can provide. Bariatric surgery is a proven and effective treatment for individuals struggling with severe obesity. These procedures not only help patients lose significant amounts of weight but also address the factors contributing to obesity, leading to long-term success in weight management “, said Dr. Charan Donkor, General Surgeon.
Today, Steven weighs 345 pounds, a significant improvement that has opened up new possibilities for his future. “This surgery saved my life,” he says. “I’m excited about the road ahead and the opportunities it brings. Looking back, I wish I had pursued this surgery 10 years ago.”
The bariatric surgery program at HCA Florida University Hospital is dedicated to helping patients achieve their weight loss goals through a multidisciplinary approach to obesity treatment.
About HCA Florida University Hospital
HCA Florida University Hospital is a state-of-the-art, multi-specialty hospital that partners with top clinical leaders and use enhanced technology to deliver exceptional patient experiences. The comprehensive medical facility provides a full range of healthcare services to Davie, FL, and its surrounding communities, including 24/7 emergency care with board-certified emergency physicians, maternity, orthopedics, oncology, neurosciences, diagnostic services, imaging, and a full range of robotic and minimally invasive surgical services. HCA Florida University Hospital features all-private patient rooms. It is located adjacent to the campus of Nova Southeastern University in Broward County. For more information on HCA Florida University Hospital, please visit HCAFloridaHealthcare.com.
About HCA East Florida Division
HCA East Florida Division, a part of HCA Florida Healthcare, is a family of 14 hospitals, seven free-standing emergency rooms, 12 ambulatory surgery centers and 105 physician practices along the Treasure Coast and in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade Counties. More than 15,000 dedicated colleagues proudly make up the East Florida Division and are committed to improving more lives in more ways and giving back to the communities. For more information, please visit HCAFloridaHealthcare.com.
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