For years, when it came to doing anything physical or social, Kari Hankins heard a discouraging voice in her head that said, “Maybe you can’t.” Now, thanks to the Weight Loss Institute of Columbus Regional Health, that voice is gone.
“I thought about weight-loss surgery for a long time,” Kari said. “I’ve longed for the ability to live my life to the fullest without the nagging thought that I can’t.”
Kari reached what Weight Loss Institute Medical Director Dr. David Lee would call her “aha moment” in 2019 when she suffered blood clots to her lungs.
“I knew then that I needed to do something,” she said.
Upon referral from her primary care physician, Kari made an appointment with Dr. Lee, who listened thoroughly to her wishes and concerns. Together, they agreed that the sleeve gastrectomy procedure would be the best fit for her. And the results were amazing. Since her surgery in the summer of 2020, Kari has lost 200 pounds and is now off medication for blood pressure, cholesterol, etc.
But the impact of the surgery didn’t hit Kari until a certain moment she had with her daughter.
“My daughter said, ‘Hey, let’s go to Holiday World,’ and I jumped at the chance to do that without a second guess,” Kari recalled. “I took the chance to ride the rides and walk the park without thinking I couldn’t or shouldn’t.”
Kari’s new lease on life also propelled her toward a new career as a certified, online health coach. Kari has worked in the medical field for many years as a medical assistant, so patient care is near and dear to her heart. This new personal venture allows her more one-on-one time to make a difference in people’s lives.
“My weight-loss experience gave me the confidence to help others through their own,” she said.
Kari credits the Weight Loss Institute team with setting a great example for her to follow.
“I can message them and ask them questions. They provide all the support and follow-up care you could need,” she said. “They’ve been very receptive to my needs. In changing my life, I’ve found a passion to help others do the same.”