Tina has been a Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant since 1998. She attended college in San Antonio, Texas where she spent most of her childhood. She has worked in bariatrics since 2006. Tina has played many characters during her time as a medical assistant, including the role of patient advocate. As a patient advocate for Kettering Bariatrics, Tina assists patients through their pre- and postoperative periods. Her role as a medical assistant consists of taking care of patients' needs in the office setting, evaluating vital signs, calling in medications, filling out FMLA forms after surgery, and assisting the physician and the physician assistants. Not only does Tina have experience working with bariatric patients, but she was one as well! She underwent placement of a Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band while in Texas in July of 2007. She has lost 10 dress sizes to date and has gained her life back. Tina truly knows what it feels like to be on both sides of the table, and she would do it all again. She looks forward to helping other patients on their journey while continuing on her own.