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If you've driven by UnityPoint Health -- Trinity Regional Medical Center lately, you may have noticed that the expansion on our building is now fully enclosed. We have made significant progress on our surgery renovation and expansion, and we are getting closer to our opening date next March. I know our surgeons and team members are looking forward to using the new and improved space.
While construction work continues outside our main doors, I am excited to share an update about what's happening inside. Earlier this year, our newest general surgeon, Dr. Julie Kim, completed her first bariatric surgery with our team in Fort Dodge.
Dr. Kim has more than 22 years of experience and offers sleeve gastrectomy at UnityPoint Health -- Trinity Regional Medical Center. This minimally invasive surgical option reduces the size of the stomach to help patients feel full sooner and support long-term weight loss. During the procedure, approximately 80 percent of the stomach is removed using surgical staplers.
In May, I had the privilege of observing Dr. Kim in surgery and was deeply impressed by her exceptional technical expertise and her calm, confident presence in the operating room. Equally memorable was the genuine compassion and kindness she extended to her patient, reflecting the remarkable bedside manner that defines her care.
We recently heard from Jody Castor, of Fort Dodge, who had a sleeve gastrectomy with Dr. Kim in April at 70 years old. Castor was one of the very first patients at Trinity and has since lost over 50 pounds.
"I feel so optimistic about my life," she says. "Sometimes I catch myself smiling while I'm driving for no reason at all. Life used to feel like a grind. Now I have energy, nothing hurts and I feel like I have a future."
"Seventy isn't too old," Castor says. "Don't give up on yourself. If you're struggling with obesity, know that there is help. This program gave me a second chance at my health, and I'm so grateful I did it."
Throughout their weight loss journey, patients are supported by a multidisciplinary team, including board-certified surgeons, registered dietitians, mental health providers and specialized nurses. They collaborate from the initial consultation through long-term follow-up to support lasting health improvement.
I am excited for our community as we continue expanding access to comprehensive weight care services available to patients close to home. In a later phase, the program will include medical (non-surgical) weight management, offering a comprehensive, long-term approach to metabolic health and obesity care in Fort Dodge.
In addition to bariatric surgery, Dr. Kim offers expertise in foregut and reflux surgery, hernia repair, gallbladder surgery, wound care, and gastrointestinal endoscopy. Having had the privilege of observing Dr. Kim in the operating room, I am delighted that she has brought her exceptional skill and dedication to Fort Dodge.
Shannon McQuillen is the vice president of operations for UnityPoint Health -- Fort Dodge.