Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1427828
2 | Health Matters: Providence Mission Hospital Bariatric Surgery Patient Celebrates His Birthday at Support Group Patrick Santini was happy to spend his 65th birthday speaking to a group of strangers about his weight loss journey—that's how grateful he is to Providence Mission Hospital. Santini helped kick off a new kind of support group at Providence Mission Hospital where both individuals considering bariatric surgery and those who have already had the surgery come together to share their experiences. Louise Bacon, MD, director of the bariatric program and chief of the surgery department, hosts the monthly support group with a dietitian. "Studies demonstrate that patients who participate in support groups are more likely to maintain their weight loss," she says. "The surgery is just a tool. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key." Santini has lost 110 pounds in just the six months since the surgery. He's worked hard to achieve Letter to the Community A s we enter this season of giving and gratitude, it's the perfect time to reflect on all the gifts of this past year. Like hospitals all across the country, we've had our fair share of challenges. However, we've seen our team of caregivers demonstrate unbelievable strength and resilience, dedicated to giving the gift of hope and healing. At Providence Mission Hospital, we continue to deliver the highest level of care in our community. In the last issue of Health Matters, I talked about our No. 1 ranking in Orange County from Newsweek as part of their list of World's Best Hospitals. U.S. News & World Report has since honored us once again as the No. 1 hospital in South Orange County, including us on its list of 2021–22 Best Regional Hospitals Honor Roll. We're so grateful to receive such prestigious accolades. They demonstrate what we already know: Mission is here to care for you … whenever you need us. I hope you have a safe holiday season, Mission family! #50YearsofSacredMoments Seth R. Teigen, FACHE, Chief Executive Providence Mission Hospital Sign up for the next bariatric support group, on Dec. 9 at 6 p.m. by emailing ila.sadeghian@ providence.org. this progress, walking five to six miles per day and being mindful of his portion sizes. "I have so much more energy," he says. At his heaviest, he reached 304 pounds. Now he's buying a new belt every couple of months. Santini is passionate about sharing his story to empower others. "As a surgeon, I can talk all day long about data and the surgery," Dr. Bacon says. "But actually hearing someone else's experience is invaluable." Dr. Louise Bacon