LMC Bariatric Surgery Patient Shares Five-Year Journey of Transformation and Renewed Purpose

7/10/2026

For Robert Vedia, a 17-year law enforcement veteran, choosing bariatric surgery was about more than losing weight—it was about gaining a healthier future.

In 2010, Vedia received a kidney transplant after being in dialysis for about five years. Weight gain can be one of the side effects of a kidney transplant.

Because diet and exercise were not helping him, in 2022, Vedia underwent bariatric surgery performed by Dr. Michael C. Morris, general and bariatric surgeon at Laredo Physician Associates and medical director of the bariatric weight loss services at Laredo Medical Center since 2008. In less than a year, he managed to lose about 150 pounds and rid himself of his chronic disease conditions, including high blood pressure and sleep apnea. Today, Vedia says the decision has transformed nearly every aspect of his life.

“My energy has improved. It’s also been more of a lifestyle change—not just health-wise, but an all-around improvement,” he said.

Over the past several years, Vedia has experienced improvements in his health, energy level, and overall well-being. He says the changes have strengthened both his personal life and his ability to continue serving the community through his work with the Laredo Police Department and the Texas State Guard.

“The whole point of getting this surgery is to have a better quality of life,” he said. “I want to live longer. I want to be there for my children, my family, and my community.”

While he acknowledges that the journey requires dedication and long-term commitment, Vedia believes the results have made it worthwhile.

"If you’ve tried weight-loss pills, if you’ve tried going to the gym, and life’s demands continue to get in the way, I’d recommend looking into the benefits of bariatric surgery,” he said.

Laredo Medical Center’s bariatric weight loss surgery program has helped thousands of patients take meaningful steps toward better health through an approach that combines surgical knowledge, education, and ongoing support. Under the leadership of Dr. Morris and his support team, the program has provided weight-loss surgery and long-term guidance to patients in Laredo and South Texas for almost 20 years.

For Vedia, bariatric surgery provided what he describes as a second chance—a chance to improve his health, spend more time with loved ones, and continue making a difference in the lives of others.

If excess weight is affecting your health, mobility, or quality of life, help may be closer than you think.

To learn more about available treatment options, including robotic-assisted procedures, at Laredo Medical Center or to register for a free seminar or call the LMC Bariatric Department at (956) 796-2662.

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