Stephanie Marie Haaz, a 39-year-old from Somerset, Kentucky, had always faced challenges with her weight. 
Throughout her life, she was known as the "funny friend," but deep down, she yearned for a healthier version of herself. In 2016, she took her first step toward change and began a weight loss journey with a surgeon who was then practicing in Somerset.
Stephanie chose the Lap-Band surgery, believing it was the best option for her at the time. By 2017, at the time of surgery, she weighed 249 pounds. Over the following year, she worked diligently and saw remarkable results, reaching her lowest weight of 135 pounds.
However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted her progress. With limited access to follow-up care and the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle during lockdowns, Stephanie’s health began to decline. By 2022, she experienced troubling symptoms, including dizziness and near blackouts. A visit to the emergency room revealed her Lap-Band was too tight and at risk of slipping. The Lap-Band was deflated, and doctors advised its removal for her safety.
Stephanie turned to the Cumberland Bariatric Institute for help, where she met bariatric surgeon Joseph Eid, MD, FACS, and Robin Goff, APRN, who recommended removing the Lap-Band. After the removal, Stephanie's weight began to climb, eventually returning to 249 pounds. Despite her best efforts, including weight loss medications and lifestyle changes, she struggled to make progress.
In 2023, Stephanie made a life-changing decision. She and Dr. Eid agreed that gastric bypass surgery would be her best option. On September 5, 2023, Stephanie underwent the procedure at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital.
“Gastric bypass was the best option for Stephanie given her history with the Lap-Band and the complications she experienced,” explained Joseph Eid, MD, FACS. “We see many patients who face similar issues, and gastric bypass, which involves creating a smaller stomach pouch and rerouting the digestive system to limit food intake and absorption, provided the best outcome for her. Our goal was to ensure Stephanie had all the tools and support she needed for long-term success.”
Her experience with Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital and Cumberland Bariatric Institute was overwhelmingly positive. The staff’s kindness and support stood out to her, making her feel welcome and valued. From oversized chairs and comfortable facilities to the genuine care shown by nurses and doctors, Stephanie felt reassured every step of the way. "The nurses were so kind and always quick to respond when I needed them, “said Stepanie. “Dr. Eid and Myra both checked on me while I was in the hospital, which made me feel truly cared for. I recovered so well that my entire stay was only 24 hours!"
Dr. Eid and Myra, a nurse at the institute, became key figures in her journey, offering encouragement and compassionate care. Stephanie shared, “I would definitely say nurse Myra really stands out during my experience. She is always so sweet and caring, and she remembers me and encourages me.”
Today, Stephanie weighs between 160 and 170 pounds and continues to work toward her health goals. Her journey has given her a new lease on life—her sleep apnea is gone, her energy has returned, and she can participate fully in activities with her husband and children. She’s even planning to have skin removal surgery in January 2025 to complete her transformation.
Beyond the physical changes, Stephanie's journey has inspired a personal and professional evolution. In December 2023, she earned her GED and enrolled in college, where she is pursuing a nursing degree with aspirations to work in the operating room. She also became a state-certified CNA and now works full-time at a nursing home.
Stephanie’s advice to others considering weight loss surgery is simple yet powerful: “Learn everything you can about the procedures and choose what’s best for you. Don’t let negativity hold you back—this journey is about your health and happiness.”
Stephanie credits Cumberland Bariatric Institute and its compassionate team for helping her regain control of her life and health. Through their care, she found the confidence to not only improve her physical well-being but also to embrace new opportunities for herself and her family.
"This experience has changed my life in so many ways,” explained Stephanie.” It became a second chance to learn how to eat, exercise, and live not just healthier, but happier. The bypass surgery and weight loss have given me the energy to stay active with my husband and kids and enjoy life in new ways. I have confidence that I never had before.”
Dr. Eid shared, “Stephanie’s dedication to her health and well-being has been truly inspiring. It’s an honor to be part of her story and witness her transformation.”
