From Caregiver to Patient
The Story of Johnese Cochran
For Johnese Cochran, a lifelong resident of Lucedale, Mississippi, family has always been at the center of everything. As a dedicated CNA for 32 years and a member of the Singing River Hospice of Light team for nearly 17 years, she has devoted her career to caring for others. After years of putting everyone else first, Johnese realized it was time to prioritize her own health.
After hearing positive experiences from fellow employees, she chose the Singing River Weight Loss Center and underwent a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy with Dr. John Hall. Since surgery, Johnese has lost 68 pounds and gained a healthier, more active life.
“My first visit with Dr. Hall and his team was wonderful. They treated me like a person, not just a number. Dr. Hall sits down with you and explains everything. He takes time with you.”
Being an employee gave Johnese a unique perspective on the care she received.
“My experience on the patient side was very good. Singing River has the best employees, and they treated me like a queen with their sincere and caring ways.”
The results have been life changing.
“I feel like a new woman. I can bend over and tie my shoes without being out of breath. I can cross my legs, play with my grandchildren, and walk a mile now. I have so much more energy.”
For Johnese, the biggest victory isn’t just the number on the scale; it’s getting back to the life she loves. Whether she’s spending time with her husband, making memories with her children and grandchildren, or continuing to serve patients at Singing River, she feels stronger, healthier, and more confident than ever before. When asked what stands out most about her experience, her answer is simple.
“Dr. Hall made me feel like a person, not just a patient. He truly cares about the people he treats and wants them to succeed.”
For anyone considering weight loss surgery but feeling uncertain, Johnese offers heartfelt encouragement.
“This is one of the best decisions I have made in my life. If you are considering this surgery, I say do it and do not wait. From my experience, you will never regret it.”
Take the First Step Today
When you feel ready to start your weight loss journey, contact the experts at Singing River Weight Loss Center. We are an American College of Surgeons Quality Partner and a member of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program.
Weight Loss Surgery at Singing River