This Valentine’s Day, Brett and Kristen Yoh are giving each other something far more lasting than flowers: a healthier future.
Nearly 19 years after meeting at a community college in Pennsylvania, the two are celebrating the holiday in a new way.
The Yohs married in 2007 and have since built a life full of milestones: moving to Maryland, buying their first home, and welcoming their four-year-old daughter.
“We balance each other out. If I feel overwhelmed, he keeps me calm, and vice versa,” said Kristen. “We try to play into each other’s strengths and weaknesses.”
That same partnership is now carrying them through one of the biggest decisions of their lives, just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Turning a Decision Into Action
After years of working to manage his weight — including losing nearly 250 pounds on his own before regaining weight — Brett knew he needed a sustainable solution through weight-loss surgery.
“We had talked about it before, but it became a reality,” he said. “I really wanted to do it. So I scheduled an appointment at Ascension Saint Agnes.”
Both Brett and Kristen completed months of nutrition counseling and mental health preparation through the Ascension Saint Agnes Weight-Loss Program before moving forward with surgery.
Brett underwent SADI surgery, also known as “single anastomosis duodeno-ileal bypass” surgery, in October 2025. Kristen followed just under four months later in January 2026.
“In order to be a good candidate for bariatric surgery, patients must have a body mass index above 40, or above 35 with obesity-related comorbidities,” said Catriona Swift, DO, who performed weight-loss surgery on both Brett and Kristen. “At Ascension Saint Agnes, we offer a variety of weight-loss options and are adding new, innovative procedures that enable us to stay on the cutting edge of the field.”
Support for Success
Both Brett and Kristen are now adjusting to new routines together — from vitamins to meal planning — and holding each other accountable along the way.
“I think it’s good we are doing this together because we can support and help each other through,” Kristen said. “We make a good team.”
Since surgery, Brett has lost 105 pounds, but both emphasize the journey is about more than numbers.
Celebrations look different now — less centered around food and more focused on the moment itself.
“It has made those milestones more important and special,” Kristen said.
Weight-loss surgery patients at Ascension Saint Agnes have a network of support before, during and after surgery, including your doctor and care team, support groups and nutrition counseling.
A Different Kind of Valentine’s Day
This Valentine’s Day will be quieter than most. Kristen is still recovering, and chocolate is off the menu.
But the meaning behind the day feels stronger than ever.
“Whether it’s a couple going through this together or one supporting the other, give your partner grace,” Brett said.
For Kristen, the goal extends far beyond weight loss.
“I’m just looking forward to being healthier,” she said. “Weight loss is an added benefit, but I want a longer life.”
And this year, that commitment — to health, to partnership and to their future — is the sweetest gift of all.
Learn more about weight-loss surgery and register to attend an online seminar to start your weight-loss journey. Ascension Saint Agnes provides bariatric surgery and nutrition counseling for weight loss.
