Corrie Cape, a dedicated member of the Russell Springs community and leader in Kroger's produce department, has been happily married to her husband, TJ, for nine years. Together, they cherish the daily adventures of raising their vibrant six-year-old daughter, Vada. In 2022, Corrie embarked on a transformative journey toward better health and well-being. Wrestling with weight concerns since her teenage years, she confronted the harsh reality of her parents' type 2 diabetes, mindful of its potential impact on her own health and her role as a positive influence on her daughter. Despite persistent efforts to lose weight through various diets over the years, she struggled to achieve lasting results, leaving her uncertain about the future.
In search of a sustainable solution, Corrie turned to her trusted primary care physician for guidance. Recognizing the gravity of Corrie's situation, her provider recommended consulting with Dr. Eid at the Cumberland Bariatric Institute, a board-certified, robotically trained bariatric surgeon. Dr. Eid proposed a vertical sleeve gastrectomy, a procedure aimed at reducing the size of the stomach and promoting weight loss.
Corrie shared, “My primary care doctor spoke very highly of Dr. Eid. I’m very thankful I chose Dr. Eid because I have had nothing but a wonderful experience.”
The decision to undergo such a transformative surgery was a testament to Corrie's strength and the power of a supportive community. Like many others contemplating bariatric surgery, she grappled with fears and uncertainties. However, with the unwavering support of her medical team, the encouragement of loved ones, and her own courage, she embarked on this life-changing journey.
On December 27, 2022, Corrie underwent a vertical sleeve gastrectomy at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. This procedure involves the removal of a large portion of the stomach, leaving behind a smaller, sleeve-shaped pouch. The sleeve gastrectomy restricts food intake by reducing the stomach's capacity, leading to significant weight loss over time.
“The whole staff at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital genuinely cared about my comfort and well-being. From the attentive anesthesiologist to the kind and hospitable nurses, they treated me wonderfully during my stay,” Corrie shared, highlighting the exceptional care she received post-op.
As Corrie's journey unfolded, the support and guidance she received from Cumberland Bariatric Institute proved invaluable. From the initial consultation with Dr. Eid to the ongoing care provided by the clinic's dedicated staff, Corrie felt empowered every step of the way. During her transformation, Corie shed an astounding 170 pounds, a testament to her unwavering commitment to her health and well-being.
“The thing that stands out the most to me is how much knowledge they want to make sure that you're receiving. You can tell that they strive to make sure that all their patients are confident and comfortable with all the care they are receiving and that they will be super successful,” exclaimed Corrie. “Myra has been so sweet and kind and is only a phone call away. And Robin Goff has been super helpful, keeping me encouraged and motivated.”
“Vertical sleeve gastrectomy is an effective procedure because it not only reduces the size of the stomach but also positively impacts hormonal signaling, leading to substantial and sustainable weight loss for many individuals,” explained Dr. Joseph Eid. “I am incredibly proud of Corrie’s decision to commit to her health, and I am thrilled to witness her thriving and making remarkable progress. Moments like these reaffirm why I love being a bariatric surgeon.”
Beyond the physical changes, Corrie's journey with bariatric surgery brought about profound emotional and psychological shifts. She discovered newfound confidence and self-assurance with each milestone on her weight loss journey. No longer held back by the weight that once burdened her, Corrie embraced life with renewed vigor and vitality.
Corrie shared, “I feel alive again. I feel like I'm truly visible as a person. My mental health is the best that it has ever been. I have never felt this confident in myself, and I've never felt this proud of myself. I am beyond excited to live the rest of my life knowing that I can be a positive role model for my little girl and that I will be here for her.”
Today, as she reflects on her journey, Corrie is grateful for the opportunity to reclaim her health and transform her life. With a newfound sense of purpose, she looks forward to inspiring others on their own paths to wellness.
“The first step is the absolute biggest and scariest to take, but once you do it, you'll wish that you would have done it much sooner,” Corrie says. “It is worth every worry that you might carry right now, but once you get over that hill, it is absolutely wonderful, and the life you have ahead of you is so beautiful.”
Corrie's story motivates those navigating their own struggles with weight and health. She credits her success to courage, perseverance, and the support of her family and medical team. Corrie eagerly anticipates the opportunity to share more quality time with her daughter, Vada, and to match her boundless energy and enthusiasm. She looks forward to being able to keep pace with Vada's playful antics and adventures, embracing the chance to fully engage in mother-daughter activities without feeling physically limited by her weight.
“For my daughter Vada to know and understand that she is capable of achieving anything that she sets her mind to and to know that I'm going to be here for her is worth everything,” Corrie concludes.
