Living Without Limits

Commitment and consistency have been the driving forces behind Dr. Jasmine Thornton’s transformative health journey. As a 36-year-old wife, mother, and charter school administrator, she battled her weight since adolescence, but becoming a mother shifted her perspective. “My daughter’s unstoppable energy and spark for life made me realize I needed to keep up—not just for her, but for myself,” she shared. 

Balancing a demanding career and motherhood, Dr. Thornton was feeling both physically and mentally weighed down. She recalls the day her daughter made her competitive dance team. While her daughter celebrated, she felt a sense of dread. At 432 pounds, the thought of cross-country flights, squeezing into tiny airplane seats, and navigating big city streets felt unfathomable. “I realized my fears weren’t just impacting me—they were affecting my daughter’s opportunities, too.” 

Reclaiming Her Health at Singing River Weight Loss Center

Determined to take control of her health, Dr. Thornton thoroughly researched bariatric facilities. She read patient testimonials and combed through social media tags. Despite numerous nearby options, none met her standards for patient care. She wanted a doctor who would invest in her journey beyond the operating room. 

“I knew my journey didn’t have to look like anyone else’s. I was committed to being a success story.”

When she met Bariatric Surgeon Dr. Jason Payne and the staff at Singing River Weight Loss Center, Dr. Thornton knew she had found the right place. “I was treated with dignity and respect from the beginning. My questions were answered, and any missed calls were promptly returned,” she said. She did not hesitate in committing to the three-hour drive to access the level of care she desired. 

“From our first appointment, he analyzed my stats and asked me explicitly about my relationship with food and exercise,” she recalled. He made it very clear that lasting change would require hard work and determination.  

After her surgical sleeve gastronomy in September 2022, Dr. Thornton felt prepared to succeed. She was well informed about the recovery process, experienced no complications, and stayed committed to her post surgery plan. Before her surgery, apprehension crept up as she read about potential complications, but conversations with Dr. Payne reassured her. “I knew my journey didn’t have to look like anyone else’s,” she said. “I was committed to being a success story.”  

Life Without Limitations

Now, two years-post surgery and 201 pounds lighter, Dr. Thornton lives without limitations. She flies comfortably without a seatbelt extender, takes on physical activities without hesitation, and has experienced a complete transformation in her quality of life.

“It wasn’t just about weight loss for me; it was about reclaiming my quality of life,” she said. Today, Thornton credits Singing River Weight Loss Center for investing in her weight loss success, even till this day. “It’s comforting to know I have that unwavering support, always,” she said. “They didn’t just change my life—they helped me take it back.”