How Brian Took Back his Health with Ochsner Digital Medicine

Brian Boudreaux, from Plaquemine, Louisiana, has experienced a profound transformation through the care and innovation of Ochsner Digital Medicine. Once confined to his bed and facing numerous health struggles, Brian now embraces life with renewed vigor and purpose.

A retired nurse, Brian knows the importance of self-care. Yet persistent high blood pressure, arthritis and significant weight gain had taken a heavy toll, leaving him feeling overwhelmed. That all changed when he joined Ochsner Digital Medicine.

Ochsner’s unwavering commitment to care helped Brian tackle significant health challenges. Reflecting on his experience, Brian shared:

“My experiences with Ochsner’s staff — including administrators, custodial workers, nurses, doctors, technicians and receptionists — have been phenomenal. Each one is genuinely concerned with my well-being and health improvements. They take their time, are thorough and collaborate with me to ensure I’m as healthy and strong as I can be.”

When Brian first started with Ochsner, his health issues seemed insurmountable. His hips were so damaged they had become immobile, forcing him to walk with great difficulty. Even sleep brought little relief due to constant pain, and his obesity led to a pulmonary embolism — a life-threatening condition.

“To say I was miserable is an understatement,” Brian admitted. “I actually thought I might end up bedbound in a nursing facility.”

Then, with Ochsner’s comprehensive approach, everything shifted. Brian began an incredible health journey. He lost 130 pounds — a milestone he has proudly maintained—and underwent life-changing surgeries, including hip and knee replacements. He received a pacemaker to regulate his heart and shoulder replacements to further restore his mobility.

Today, Brian lives a vibrant, fulfilling life. He has embraced his passion for homesteading, starting a garden and raising chickens and rabbits.

His renewed health allows him to return to the hands-on work he loves, from carpentry to mechanics, roofing and plumbing. His wife, as he jokes, is always by his side, assisting and offering instructions.

Brian’s confidence in Ochsner’s care is so strong that he has encouraged his loved ones — including his parents, wife, children and aunt—to choose Ochsner for their health care needs.

“I’ll choose Ochsner every time! Whether it’s for an emergency or a planned procedure, Ochsner is the only choice,” he emphasized.

For Brian, Ochsner is more than health care. It’s a source of hope, strength and second chances.

“From a nurse to now a patient, I hope everyone takes my advice to always choose Ochsner as their ‘go-to’ health care provider. With care, courtesy, discretion and professionalism, they’ll get you as close to ‘normal’ as humanly possible. Believe me, you won’t be disappointed!”