Health care

From 468 pounds to 10K races

Maricopa man took journey through bariatric surgery in Gilbert and beyond

Samuel Martinez once weighed 468 pounds, but now he is running in 10K races.

Courtesy Dignity Health

When Samuel Martinez moved from Los Angeles to Arizona in 2020, he did not imagine that a global pandemic would reshape his life in more ways than one.

As stay-at-home orders took effect and daily routines dissolved, Martinez, who had always struggled with his weight, found himself working long hours and eating for comfort.

“I really saw my weight blow up during that time,” the Maricopa resident said. “I spent my days working and eating and eating and working.”

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