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Why Neil Chose Weight Loss Surgery at Covenant Health’s Parkwest Medical Center

  • 4 minute read.
  • Last Updated: 6/10/2026

When Neil Crye learned his kidneys were failing, he knew he would need a transplant. But first, he needed to improve the rest of his health to become eligible for the transplant list. 

With help from the bariatric team at Covenant Health‘s Parkwest Medical Center, Neil lost more than 100 pounds. He regained his energy and took an important step toward improving his overall health and quality of life. 

A smiling family of four poses outdoors at sunset, with lush green grass and a scenic view behind them. Two adults each hold a young child, and the sky is colorful with clouds and orange, yellow, and blue hues.

Receiving His Diagnosis 

Neil is a husband, father of two and small business owner. He lives an active life in East Tennessee. Whether he’s hiking in the mountains, fishing or playing outside with his daughters, he’s always on the move. 

But in late 2019, a routine checkup revealed something unexpected. “I had some abnormal labs, so I went for a follow-up. That’s when they told me I had kidney disease,” Neil said. 

He was diagnosed with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a condition that causes scarring in the kidneys and leads to declining function over time. 

Taking Control of His Health 

As Neil’s kidney function declined, he knew he needed to act. To qualify for a transplant, he needed to lower his body mass index (BMI). That’s when he turned to Parkwest Medical Center.  

At Parkwest, Neil met with bariatric surgeon, K. Roberts Williams, MD, and decided to move forward with weight-loss surgery. “I wanted something that would work quickly so I could get on the transplant list,” he explained. 

From his first appointment, Neil says the team at Parkwest helped him feel informed, supported and confident in his decision. He attended a bariatric seminar, met with members of the care team and learned what to expect before, during and after surgery. 

“They walked me through everything,” Neil shared. “Any question I had, they were there to answer it. That made a big difference for me.” 

Five people, including two smiling young girls, stand indoors holding red heart-shaped objects. A banner for the East Tennessee Kidney Foundation and a Living East Tennessee sign are visible in the background.

Undergoing Weight Loss Surgery 

Neil underwent a sleeve gastrectomy, and the results were life-changing. 

“My pre-surgery weight was 347 pounds,” he said. “Within a year, I lost about 100 pounds.” 

Neil credits the procedure as the turning point in his weight loss journey. The surgery helped reset his habits and gave him the momentum he needed to make lasting changes.  

As the weight came off, he had more energy to stay active, which helped him continue building on that progress. Today, he has lost more than 125 pounds and has reached his goal weight of around 215 to 220 pounds. This is exactly the goal he set with Dr. Williams during his first consultation. 

Neil remarked how smooth and easy recovery was: “I’ve had more pain from a hangnail than from that surgery. Everything was simple, and everyone was easy to talk to. I am blessed that was the case for me.” 

He credits the Parkwest bariatrics team for helping him build healthier habits and stay on track after the procedure. 

A smiling man with a beard wears a blue polo shirt and a black-and-white cap while sitting against a bright orange background. A pen is clipped to his shirt.

A New Life and a New Chance 

Beyond the numbers on the scale, Neil says the biggest change has been how he feels day to day. “You forget how hard it is to live carrying that much weight,” he said. “Now, everything is easier. I can run, play with my girls, hike and just enjoy life more.”  His weight loss also helped him become eligible for a kidney transplant. Earlier this year, he received the call that he was next on the list, and he received his transplant.  

Encouragement for Others 

Today, Neil is grateful for his second chance. “I’m truly grateful I went through this. It put things into perspective and taught me what really matters,” he expressed.  Neil encourages others facing similar challenges to attend the bariatric seminars and consider bariatric surgery at Parkwest. “Having the right care team makes all the difference. Do your research. Talk to people.” he said. “It’s a massive, life-changing decision, but it’s worth it.” 

For Neil, that means more time with the people he loves. “Life was good before,” he said. “But now it’s even better.” 

Take the First Step 

If you or a loved one are considering weight-loss surgery or need support, Covenant Health is here to help. Learn more about our bariatric services or connect with a care team member today to see if it’s the right next step for you.

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