No Looking Back: Life After Sleeve Gastrectomy at CentraCare

Originally from Pennsylvania, Matt Marshall moved to St. Cloud, Minnesota, 15 years ago. He enjoyed a busy life filled with family activities, fishing, model railroading, woodworking, and home improvement projects. Despite these fulfilling hobbies, Matt faced a significant struggle: excess weight. At one point, his weight topped 552 pounds. After trying various diets with fleeting results, he sought a lasting solution.

Matt found the team at CentraCare Weight Management, who recommended sleeve gastrectomy as the best option for his weight and health status. This surgery removes the left side of the stomach, which includes a portion that produces hormones that stimulate hunger. The reduced stomach size causes a feeling of fullness after eating a small amount of food.

Initially hesitant, Matt decided to follow the advice and received additional support from Zayda Cedarleaf, PA-C, and Lynn Schoenberg, LD, RD, who guided him through the process, including the navigation of medical insurance.

"My role is to prepare patients for surgery, making sure they meet all pre-surgical requirements, have their questions answered, and feel comfortable with the various changes they can expect post-operatively," said Zayda. "It is incredibly rewarding to follow along with patients as they navigate through surgery to their new way of life."

Surgery and Recovery

Matt faced the day of surgery with fear and anticipation, but the procedure went smoothly. Remarkably, he returned to work the very next day with minimal pain and no complications. "Obviously, you know there's always risks with anything, but I had absolutely no issues," said Matt.

Life After Surgery

The sleeve gastrectomy marked the beginning of his transformation, but it wasn't a magic fix. It required commitment and adapting to a new way of eating, avoiding certain foods and making healthier choices. For Matt, the sacrifice was worth it.

"I used to be a heavy pop drinker," said Matt. "I haven't had a can of pop in a year and a half. And I don't miss it at all. It is 100% a lifestyle change but the pluses outweigh the cons."

He recommends surgery to anybody struggling to lose weight. He said, "With the surgery, I am down almost 260 pounds. It is worth it, just listen to your doctors and follow the plan." As part of that plan, Matt uses weight loss drugs to maintain his results.

Gratitude for CentraCare

For Matt, the sleeve gastrectomy wasn't just about weight loss – it was about reclaiming his life.

One year later, Matt has embraced an active lifestyle. He enjoys daily walks with his dog, hiking, and spending time with his kids – activities that were once distant dreams.

"It's unbelievable how many things I was missing with my kids. The surgery was a game changer for me. It was the best thing that I've ever done. I wish I would've done it a long time ago. But I am not looking back anymore — I'm looking forward to what I can do. I got my life back."