From 468 Pounds to Disneyland 5K

Dignity Health surgeon transforms Valley man into avid runner

Gilbert, Ariz. (Feb. 24, 2026) – After shedding an astonishing 130 pounds through Dignity Health's Bariatric Surgery and Weight Loss program, a young Valley man recently celebrated his health transformation by crossing the finish line of the Disneyland 5K. Samuel Martinez, 29, is now sharing his journey to prove that with determination and expert medical support, achieving a healthy weight and reclaiming your life can be a ‘dream come true’. 

“A few years ago, walking just one mile took me 40 minutes,” said Samuel of Maricopa, Ariz. “I am so proud to have finished the Disneyland 5K in 46 minutes.Choosing weight loss surgery and putting in the consistent work to achieve my goals has truly changed my life.”

Samuel’s personal turning point came after a profound family loss. His father, who was also obese, passed away at the  age of 50 in 2018. In the following years, and compounded by the pandemic, Samuel’s weight ballooned. He knew he had to make a change to avoid a similar fate. 

While he initially managed to trim his weight from 468 pounds to 338 pounds, Samuel still needed some additional and specialized support. He explored surgical weight loss options through consultation with Dr. Shawn Stevenson, director of bariatric and foregut surgery with the Dignity Health Medical Group.

In 2023, after careful consideration, Dr. Stevenson and Samuel decided duodenal switch surgery was the best suitable solution. This surgery combines the removal of a large portion of the stomach with an intestinal bypass. This shortens the path food takes through the intestines, reduces stomach capacity, limits nutrient absorption and helps mitigate the hunger hormone.

“Weight loss surgery is not a fairy tale or a magic bullet. It is, however, an important tool that provides significant help for patients needing to lose a substantial amount of weight,” said Dr. Stevenson. “This particular procedure is one option that can help patients with a BMI greater than 35 reduce the risk of other serious obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke.”

Nearly three years after his surgery at Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, Samuel weighs about 200 pounds and frequently hits the pavement to help maintain a healthy weight while balancing a healthy diet. This disciplined approach played a major role in preparing him for the Disneyland 5K. 

“I am incredibly proud of how far I’ve come,” said Samuel. “It’s a full circle moment to be healthy and strong enough to run a race, but really live my life. My weight loss surgery has not only allowed me to be active, it’s also given me the incredible opportunity to look forward to a long, healthy life with my new fiance. I am truly grateful.”

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