Kellie decided that struggling with her weight was something she wanted to address. “I want to be around for my kids,” she said. “I’m a single mom, and I enjoy spending time with my boys.”
Kellie Miller
Transportation Assistant
K
ellie Miller has been a transportation assistant at Strong Memorial Hospital for 25 years—and she loves her job. “I love the interaction I have with my patients,” she said. “Even on days when I struggle, they pick me up.”
As a single mom, Kellie decided that struggling with her weight was something she wanted to address. She developed asthma at the age of 12 and her sons also both have it. To keep an eye on her health and monitor her breathing, Kellie has developed a good relationship with her doctor, whom she sees every six months. So, when her doctor discussed the possibility of bariatric surgery with her, she decided to go home and talk with her sons about the pros and cons of undergoing the operation. “My sons said, ‘Mom, go for it’—and I did,” she recalled. “I feel so thankful that my health benefits allowed me to do it. They are a blessing.”
Preparing for the surgery was a challenge. Kellie had to reach a certain body mass index (BMI) before she could have the procedure, so she followed the advice of a dietitian. She cut out burgers, fries and soda, and started eating more vegetables. She also began to exercise—walking and joining a gym where she uses the elliptical machine regularly and participates in classes. “Zumba became my best friend,” she said with a laugh.
Kellie has lost 140 pounds so far thanks to the procedure and her hard work. And she couldn’t be happier with the results. “I have so much more energy,” she said. “I can walk home from work, I’m breathing better—and I rarely need my asthma pump. Every day is a journey, but I’m happy!”
One of the things Kellie enjoys most is traveling, especially to the Caribbean, which she visits at least once a year—and can do so more easily now. “I love the sun, blue water and white sand,” she said. “It makes me feel alive!”
To maintain her new healthy lifestyle, she’s considering taking advantage of the Benefit Funds’ partnership with WeightWatchers. “It’s a great program that really holds you accountable for what you eat,” she explained. “I learned some tips about the program from my friends and I absolutely credit that for helping me lose weight before my surgery. To add a discounted WW membership to what I already have, you can’t get any better,” she said. “My benefits really are the best around!”