“This was the best decision I could've made,” said Cierra Johnson, mom of four girls and a recent weight-loss surgery patient of Mercy bariatric surgeon Dr. Katelin Mirkin.
Like many, Johnson struggled with her weight and the impact it had on her energy, confidence and overall well-being. The combination of diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure was taking a toll on her body. She considered weight loss surgery in 2022 but got nervous about the procedure and tried to shed the pounds on her own.
In 2024, Johnson began working as a medical assistant in Dr. Mirkin’s office and was seeing great patient outcomes daily. In November of the same year, she began having stroke-like symptoms at work and was admitted to the hospital.
“Once I was released from the hospital, I was more determined to get my health back on track,” she said. “Working in the bariatric field gave me a unique perspective on the power of transformation, not just physically but mentally and emotionally.”
Powerful motivation came from patients themselves.
“I loved hearing how highly they spoke about Dr. Mirkin, and it made me really want to move forward with the surgery myself,” Johnson said. “Dr. Mirkin is a great surgeon and is dedicated to what she does. Besides working with her, she treated me so well, like any other patient, and I appreciate that.”
Since Johnson’s surgery in May 2025, her glucose levels have improved and her blood pressure and cholesterol decreased into the normal range. But it hasn’t all been easy.
“Some days were rough,” Johnson said. “But the entire team was so motivating and encouraging. When I felt like giving up, they always pushed me and celebrated even the small accomplishments. With the support of my family, medical team and my own determination, I embraced bariatric surgery as a tool to reclaim my health.”
Today, Johnson is stronger, healthier and more energized – not just for herself but for her daughters. “I want to show them that with commitment and support, anything is possible,” she says.
Johnson says anyone taking this path or considering it should know they’re not alone. It’s important to reach out, lean on your support system and believe in your ability to change. Every step forward is a victory.
“It wasn’t easy, but the results have been life changing. I make sure I do some type of exercise before the end of each day. I love the way I look now and enjoy taking pictures every chance I get.”
