Theresa D. - My Story

Gastric Bypass  |  2003 My Life Before Bariatric Surgery Before surgery I had sleep apnea and joint pain, but my real pain was emotional. How many times was I told that I had such a pretty face--too many to count. I was just a face…a pretty face to many others. I felt trapped in this body, the wrong body, with the pretty face.

I’d felt that way since I was a little girl—taunted for being heavy. I was sure that my family was embarrassed of me--I was the fat daughter, fat sister, and fat cousin.

This mindset of shame brought with it many fears--mirrors, crowds, warm weather, pools, bright dressing rooms, restaurant booths, airplanes, amusement rides, and chairs with arms. I dreaded grocery shopping because, I was sure every single person I encountered wondered what the big girl had in her cart. Family photos were awkward. I always used small kids as props in family photos. I felt it helped, but it really didn’t.

Making the Decision

I could not keep up with my 3-year-old son and I feared being the fat mom when he started school in just a couple short years. It was time to reclaim my life.

My Barix Clinics Experience

I felt safe.

How My Life Has Changed

I am in the right mind and body now. Everything I wrote about my life before has been reversed and my full life moves forward every day.  I am making new memories—healthy and positive.

To Those Considering Bariatric Surgery

Face it! It will improve your life!