At 63, Lebanon County resident Jerry Gilbert walked into WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital hoping for change. What he didn’t expect was a transformation that would inspire his wife and redefine their future.

Now, almost a year after he had bariatric surgery and lost nearly 120 pounds, he accounts with enthusiasm, “I feel phenomenal. I actually feel like I’m 20. I have a lot more energy. My blood pressure is right on. All my blood tests came back fantastic. It's the best decision I have ever made.”

The changes were so dramatic that Jerry joked, “The sad part was that I had to get a whole new complete wardrobe. I had to donate all my jerseys because they don’t fit anymore!”

Cindy, his wife and partner in this journey, watched Jerry’s transformation with pride. “He followed every guideline like he was supposed to. He’s disciplined himself to adjust to this new lifestyle and I think it’s wonderful and he looks fantastic,” she said.

Photos from left to right are just one year a part featuring Jerry with his grandson, Jacob, in his lap and their pups surrounding them on the floor around the holiday season.

Reflecting on his full experience, Jerry added, “My stay at the hospital was the best experience I have ever had. They checked on me way beyond what I have ever experienced in addition to doctors that care and the availability of the latest technology.”

Robotic surgery excellence

To anyone interested in receiving robotic-assisted surgery at WellSpan Jerry reassures “it is nothing to panic about, it’s actually a good thing.”

In fact, WellSpan was the first health system in Pennsylvania and remains among only three health systems nationwide recognized as a Robotic Surgery Network Center of Excellence by the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), underscoring our commitment to advanced technology and patient safety.

Robotic surgery isn’t performed by a robot; it’s a minimally invasive technique that enhances a surgeon’s precision, range of motion, and visibility in hard-to-reach areas.

Chelsea Sinsheimer, physician assistant on the left, talks with Jerry during one of his post-surgery appointments at the WellSpan Bariatric Surgery in Aug. 2025.

“Robotic surgery allows us to complete complex procedures with precision, flexibility, and control while minimizing patient impact,” said Dr. Jason Marone, who supported Jerry’s bariatric surgery. “Patients experience less pain, reduced blood loss, fewer complications, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery, helping them return to what they love and build a healthier community.”

One step at a time

Following a successful bariatric robotic-assisted surgery, Jerry’s success gave him confidence and healthfulness to tackle his next challenge: a knee replacement at WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital.

He consulted with Dr. Anthony Helwig, orthopedic surgeon at WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital, who reassured him that even though he can offer assistance with his knee, the surgery outcomes are really reinforced through rehab and exercises after surgery.

His journey inspired Cindy, who decided to follow in his footsteps to complete her right knee replacement at WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital with Dr. Helwig as well.

“It is amazing, it is like night and day,” said Cindy. “Coming out of the surgery, I had very minimal bruising. Now, the pain I was in for years is nearly gone.”

The WellSpan difference: Compassion, technology and trust

Throughout their experiences, Jerry and Cindy found that the WellSpan difference was rooted in compassion, technology and trust. Jerry described Dr. Marone as “a doctor that has a lot of respect for his patients. He worries about your specific problem. He makes you feel like he’s more than just a doctor.”

“If I encountered a problem, I know he would be there to help,” he added. “In fact, he was. I told Dr. Marone that he changed my life. It reassured us that you have to feel comfortable with your doctor or your surgeon. If you don’t, it’s a very big red flag.”

Cindy shared, “Dr. Helwig is another good one. You can tell they truly care and make the experience truly personalized.”

In addition to minimally invasive surgical care and personalized care, both credit the team at WellSpan Rehabilitation - Quentin Circle for making recovery enjoyable and effective.

“The rehab care team really know how to make it fun. They know what’s going to work and what doesn’t,” Cindy shared.

Cindy finishing up one of her final rehabilitation care visits alongside one of her physical therapist assistants, Andrew Fox.

“Watching both of them regain mobility, reduce pain, and return to the moments that matter most is incredibly rewarding after their first knee replacements,” Dr. Anthony Helwig. “Their dedication shows what’s possible when advanced surgical care and committed rehabilitation work hand in hand.”

Looking ahead: Hope and gratitude

Each of them has one new knee and a new lease on life, but they won’t stop there. They are both determined to follow each other on completing their remaining knee.

For Jerry and Cindy, health isn’t just about numbers, it’s about being there for their grandchildren. Years ago, they adopted three grandchildren, now teenagers.

“We can actually walk with them around the mall now when they want to go shopping,” Cindy laughed. “We want to be our best selves for them, to see their life milestones and be present in the future.”

As they plan future surgeries and continue their recovery, Jerry and Cindy remain grateful for the support and resources they’ve received.

“We did a lot of the legwork to get here,” Jerry says, “but WellSpan made it possible.”

Inspired by Jerry and Cindy’s story? Learn more about our bariatric and orthopedic services at WellSpan Health.

Jerry and Cindy walk hand in hand as they exit one of Cindy’s final rehab visits – until their next knee replacement.