For as long as he can remember, Andre Nixon of LaBelle, Missouri, struggled with his weight. At just 28 years old, weighing 415 pounds, Andre was terrified of following in his father’s footsteps. His dad passed away at only 36 years old from complications of high blood pressure and kidney disease. Andre was already battling high blood pressure himself, along with sleep apnea. “My snoring was pretty bad; it sounded like a train,” Andre joked. “My poor grandmother had to crank the TV up just to drown it out.”
At first, Andre thought he was too young to consider bariatric surgery. He began by cutting out fried food, and while he saw some progress, he knew he needed more help. That’s when a friend who had undergone bariatric surgery over ten years earlier encouraged him to look into it. After hearing about the long-term benefits, Andre spoke with his primary care physician, who supported the idea. Another friend who had previously undergone bariatric surgery recommended Dr. Mujeeb Siddiqui, Bariatric Surgeon at Hannibal Regional Weight Management Solutions. In May of 2024, Andre met with Dr. Siddiqui for the first time. “We sat down and had a long conversation about my struggles,” Andre said. “He really listened, explained the different procedures, and helped me understand what might work best for me. What I appreciated most was that I never felt pressured, just supported.”
Andre took time to consider his options, but once he committed, he was all in. By surgery day, thanks to working with dietitians and making lifestyle changes, he had already lost 45 pounds and was down to 375. On December 12, 2024, Andre underwent Duodenal Switch surgery, one of the most complex but effective bariatric procedures. “The first month was rough,” Andre admitted. “I couldn’t eat or drink nearly what I used to, and it was a big adjustment. But looking back, I’d go through that month a hundred times over, because of how successful this surgery has made me.”
One year later, Andre has lost a remarkable 165 pounds, weighing 250. “This surgery has given me a whole new outlook on life.” He exclaims. He has more energy than ever before, his blood pressure is under control without medication, he no longer needs a CPAP machine, and best of all, no more snoring! Friends who haven’t seen him in years often don’t recognize him at first glance. His family, who were initially nervous about the surgery now see the difference. Today, they’re proud and grateful for the decision he made. Andre also credits his success to the support that he received along the way from the Weight Management Solutions Team and their community. He worked closely with dietitians to better understand nutrition, leaned on the support group, and stays connected with others through their online community, where he shares his story and cheers others on.
Andre’s advice to anyone who is struggling with obesity: “You only have one life. Don’t waste the best years of it being afraid to make a change.” If you’re ready to take the first step toward a healthier future, the team at Hannibal Regional Weight Management Solutions is here to guide you. Call (573) 248-5407 or visit hannibalregional.org/weightloss to learn more.