A Commitment to Herself, A Weight-Loss Journey Together  

When Staci Horton decided to pursue bariatric surgery at WVU Medicine, she knew she was beginning a journey that would require commitment and trust in herself and her care team. At her initial appointment in late 2024, Staci was seeking more than just weight loss. She wanted lasting change.  

Her path was shaped by her own past experiences, as well as stories she’d heard about others’ struggles to keep the weight off. She understood that weight loss surgery isn’t a quick fix, but the beginning of a health journey.

“You have to be prepared,” she said. “It’s overwhelming at first, and you do get  scared, but when you focus on the journey and the process, it’s the most rewarding thing you can do for yourself.”  

In December 2024, Staci underwent a revision of her gastric bypass and hiatal hernia repair with Dr. Anthony Mark. From the beginning, she felt confident in her decision.

“Dr. Mark didn’t treat me like a number. He treated me like family,” Staci shared. “He has an incredible bedside manner, and that compassion combined with his knowledge made all the difference for me.”

Dr. Mark and the team at WVU Medicine Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery were prepared to go on Staci's journey with her.

“Our success is their success, and vice versa,” Dr. Mark said. “A lot of it involves lifestyle modifications. We do a lot of focused education on how to change our habits and make healthier decisions. In the end, they’re the ones putting in the work, we are just providing them the information and support that they need along the way.”  

Since surgery, Staci has experienced significant progress. As of February 2026, she has lost a total of 178 pounds on her journey, and more importantly, she has gained a renewed sense of focus and awareness about her health.

“This entire process has made me more conscientious and more focused on the things I need to do to stay healthy,” she said.  

Looking back at her journey, Staci emphasizes the importance of support and education.  

“You shouldn’t go through this alone,” she said. “Having the right team and the right support system changes everything.” Today. Staci is proud of how far she’s come and is grateful for the care she received at WVU Medicine, which has helped her move forward in with confidence and hope.  

Learn more about medical weight loss options at WVU Medicine in the Eastern Panhandle.