Pamela Bricker, Andrea Russell, and Sandra Schmidt

One sister bikes, one walks the trails and one works out on the treadmill. All of them now living healthier and happier lives after undergoing bariatric weight loss surgery at Silver Cross Hospital. Together, the three sisters have lost more than 300 pounds.

“One of the reasons we decided to have the surgery was because our mom was overweight and died at age 68 of congestive heart failure,” said Sandra Schmidt. “Our Dad was thrilled when we told him and is so proud of all of us that we have stayed committed to losing weight.”

Inspired by a co-worker who had weight loss surgery, Sandra told her sisters, Andrea Russell and Pamela Bricker, about it. They decided to attend a free informational seminar held at Silver Cross.

“This was a great way to learn about the entire process, said Andrea. “Once I learned what my options were, my apprehensions were alleviated and I became more determined to live a healthier life. Plus it has been a great support having my sisters to talk to during the entire process.”

Their surgeon was Dr. Christopher Joyce.

Pamela says you have to be determined to stick to the program, but the support is there to help you succeed. "We couldn't have found a better program. Dr. Joyce, his staff and the nurses at Silver Cross were all so kind, supportive and down-to-earth, we wouldn't have been so successful in our weight loss if it were not for them," said Pamela.

“Prior to my surgery, I suffered from high blood pressure and cholesterol, diabetes and painful joints. Now I’m not taking any of those medications,” said Pamela.

“I’ve lost weight that I never could lose,” added her sister Andrea.

“I should have done the surgery years ago because I wasted my forties being overweight,” says Sandra. “My life has changed dramatically. I used to have foot problems and now I don’t, and my stamina is so much stronger enabling me to play with my grandson.”

*Physicians on Silver Cross Hospital’s Medical Staff have expertise in their areas of practice to meet the needs of patients seeking their care.  These physicians are independent practitioners on the Medical Staff and are not the agents or employees of Silver Cross Hospital. They treat patients based upon their independent medical judgment and they bill patients separately for their services.