Meet John Hurley, bariatric surgery patient of Dr. Cameron Askew at Brookwood Baptist Medical Center

They say, “A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words,” and John’s before and after photo surely speaks volumes about his journey to healthier lifestyle. At 270 pounds and a heart patient of Dr. Anu Rao, John Hurley, 54, was taking heart medicine, using a sleep machine and having cholesterol issues. Additionally, he had a heart ablation by Dr. Sanjeev Hasabanis, electrophysiologist also affiliated with Brookwood Baptist Medical Center. With multiple health issues, John knew it was time for a change.

It’s been nearly a year since John’s bariatric surgery performed robotically by Dr. Askew and he has such a story to tell. He has made such a transformation that many old friends don’t recognize him!

Here’s more from John about his experience at Brookwood Baptist:

“I made a decision in 2021 to take control of my health. Over the years I had made similar decisions and always failed. I tried before to lose weight but this time was different because I realized I couldn’t do it myself. I was able to transform my body and my life. In one year I went from 269.8 pounds to 151 pounds, a 2xl shirt to a small, from a size 40 jean to a 28 waist jean. Some of these numbers/accomplishments blow my mind but I did it— ME! You can do it too. Just start today.

One of the best parts about the health and fitness journey are the people you meet along the way.

I am so thankful I was fortunate to meet Dr. Cameron Askew and the incredible support team at Brookwood Baptist Medical Center. From my first visit with her and her amazing team, I knew then that I was in store for an incredible journey ahead of me.

It's really funny some of the feedback you hear from people as well. Believe it or not, some people aren’t happy that you’ve accomplished your goals. Who wouldn’t be happy for you when you no longer take heart meds, you no longer need to use a sleep machine, you’ve got good cholesterol and are able to walk upstairs without being out of breath?!

Thank you to Dr. Askew and the fabulous support team at Brookwood Baptist Medical Center! You have encouraged me and motivated me along this journey!

My advice to others would be…Don’t stop! Keep going! Make 2022 the best yet!”

At left is a before and after photo of John and at right is John wearing a suit jacket he used to wear prior to his weight loss surgery!

“This testimonial reflects the results achieved by this patient. As each case is different and must be independently evaluated and managed, actual results will vary.” Bariatrics/Surgical Weight loss Criteria: "Weight loss surgery is generally designed for those with a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 40, or equal to or greater than 35 with serious comorbidities. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding with the Lap Band® is also FDA-approved for weight loss surgery in people with a BMI of 30 to 35 who have at least one obesity-related condition. Weight loss surgery is considered safe, but like many types of surgery, it does have risks. Consult with your physician about the risks and benefits of weight loss surgery."