Patient Spotlight: Ashlea Wilkes
After losing 100 pounds with the help of bariatric surgery, Ashlea Wilkes is reflecting on how U of U Health’s Comprehensive Weight Management program helped her gain self-confidence and a new perspective on life.
Wilkes battled with her weight for years, trying various diets and exercise routines with little success. Faced with deteriorating health and a diagnosis of pre-diabetes, she knew she needed a more comprehensive approach to weight loss. After extensive research, she found the help she needed at U of U Health.
"My true motivation for having bariatric surgery was to stop disliking myself and to find happiness with who I was,” Wilkes said. "The entire bariatric program and support groups is what made it possible for me to be successful in my journey.”
The program’s multidisciplinary approach is a key aspect of helping patients achieve their goals. With monthly support groups, dietary classes, psychological evaluations, and ongoing follow-ups, Wilkes noted that she felt empowered and supported.
Wilkes’ surgeon, Eric Volkmann, MD, prepared her for the surgery while helping her plan for long-term success. Meanwhile, Whitney Stevens, RD, walked Wilkes through changing her dietary habits both prior to and after the surgery.
After her surgery, the program helped Wilkes adjust to the challenges of adapting to a new lifestyle. Rebecca Kohler, PA-C, assisted her in the post-operative recovery, ensuring Wilkes received the care needed to thrive. With the guidance of her providers and support group members, Wilkes learned to navigate her diet, physical activity, and overall mindset.
"I had to start paying attention to the foods that actually made my body feel good." Wilkes said. “And I had no clue my body was capable of enjoying exercise, but now it’s become a stress reliever.”
Despite the challenges, Wilkes said she experienced profound transformations not just physically but also mentally. She noted, “I have a lot more confidence in myself, and it has nothing to do with how I look. It’s how I feel about myself.”
While Wilkes focuses on positive aspects of her journey, she also acknowledges the misconceptions surrounding bariatric surgery. She noted that her success is not as easy as it may seem.
“I think people assume that having a weight loss surgery is taking the “easy” way out, but there is nothing easy about this,” Wilkes said. “It takes commitment and perseverance to recover from surgery and learn to eat in a completely different way.”
Now that she has reached the incredible milestone of losing and maintaining a 100lb weight loss, Wilkes is proud to share her success and advice with those considering bariatric surgery.
"This is not something to take lightly, but it will change you," Wilkes said. "The program will help you succeed if you pay attention and do your part. the weight management team will be there to support you through every step."