From left to right:
Dr. Olsofka, Jessica Walker, Kirk Evans, Debbie Wedding, Lana Sartini, Dr. Lusco, and Lin Gant
Coordinators
Lana Sartini, RN, BSN and Debbie Wedding RN, BSN are the coordinators of the Bariatric Program at Sts. Mary and Elizabeth. They have 18 and 11 years of nursing experience respectively, and each have recent experience as operating room nurses at Sts. Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center. Their role is to assist patients through the program, beginning with the informational seminar. They provide assistance with the insurance approval process, coordinate scheduling for preoperative assessments/evaluations, preoperative testing, surgery scheduling and also work with the surgeon’s office staff in scheduling preoperative office visits. Debbie and Lana also educate patients both pre- and postoperatively and conduct monthly support group meetings.
Dietician/Nutrition Counseling
Jessica Walker MS,RD,LD is the dietician for the Bariatric Program. She has a bachelor’s degree in dietetics and also holds a master’s degree in exercise physiology. Jessica has worked at Sts. Mary and Elizabeth for almost 10 years as a clinical dietician and in pulmonary rehab as a dietician/exercise physiologist. She also has her certificate of training in Adult Weight Management. Jessica meets with LAP-BAND® System patients preoperatively to educate them on their pre- and post-operative diets. She also conducts dietary evaluations as required by some insurance companies. Post-operatively, Jessica continues to be available for any additional guidance that patients may require.
Exercise Program
Kirk Evans, EP,CSCS,MS and Lin Gant, RN,BSN,MA are exercise specialists who plan and direct each patient’s fitness program. Kirk has a bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Medicine and a master’s degree in Exercise Physiology. He is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and is the primary exercise coordinator with the Bariatric Program. Lin is a registered nurse, exercise specialist and educator. She has over 18 years experience in cardiac rehabilitation. In addition, Lin spent several years as a staff nurse in coronary care and as a flight nurse with the Air National Guard.
A healthy lifestyle change not only involves losing weight, but also involves becoming more physically active. The Bariatric Exercise Program at Sts. Mary and Elizabeth is designed to assist each participant develop a personal plan for physical activity and fitness. Kirk and Lin help each patient obtain a healthier lifestyle by incorporating strength training, cardiovascular exercise and healthy eating habits.
