Local Grandmother Turns Hero After Weight Loss Surgery

In a twist that sounds straight out of a movie, Consuella Craig recently found herself in the spotlight for reasons beyond her remarkable weight loss journey. After undergoing a significant weight loss surgery at GBMC HealthCare in February 2022, Craig's new chapter took an unexpected turn toward heroism.

On January 30, 2024, Craig was on her way to the University of Maryland St. Joseph’s Medical Center with her pregnant daughter. But fate had other plans, and Craig ended up delivering her granddaughter, Keilaiah, right there in the car, proving that sometimes life throws you into the deep end without warning.

“There was no time to think, I just jumped into action to keep my daughter and granddaughter safe until help arrived,” Craig said.

Reflecting on the link between her bariatric surgery and her heroic act, she highlighted how her improved health and mobility played a crucial role in her ability to manage the situation.

"Two years ago, I couldn't have imagined doing something like this," she said. "This surgery gave me a second shot at life and look where we are now!”

The day after her unexpected adventure, Craig was back at GBMC, not for medical reasons, but to celebrate her successful weight loss journey with a photo shoot. She credits her surgery, performed by Shauna Costinett, MD, FACS, with not only enhancing her quality of life but also enabling her to be there for her family in ways she never thought possible.

“It’s funny, one of my inspirations for moving forward with surgical weight loss was my granddaughter, Keilani. I wanted to be able to spend quality time with her and be a good role model for her. In a way, she helped motivate me to reach for a new life, which included being able to help her little sister into the world.”

Craig's life post-surgery is a testament to the positive changes that can come from such medical interventions. Freed from the need for a CPAP machine for sleep apnea and blood pressure medication, her energy levels have skyrocketed. Craig, who works as an assistant principal, now enjoys an active lifestyle, participating in sports and running, showing the benefits of her surgery extend far beyond weight loss.

Craig is not just celebrating her health; she's enjoying every moment with her family, including her granddaughters, Keilaiah and Keilani. Like so many successful weight loss patients, Craig’s story is about gaining a fuller, more vibrant life and the ability to face whatever comes with courage and resilience.