My Decision to Have Gastric Sleeve Surgery
As you read this…
I am likely getting ready for surgery, in surgery, or recovering from surgery. I have decided to undergo gastric sleeve surgery to help me lose weight and manage my health better. Today, on World Storyteller Day, I want to share my story with you.
I have struggled with my…
weight for most of my life. As a child, I was always bigger than the other kids, even though it didn't seem that way in pictures. People often made negative comments about my weight, from teasing and name-calling to well-intentioned but hurtful remarks about my food choices, exercise habits, and appearance. These comments hurt me deeply and made me feel ashamed of my body. (Looking at the pictures below, it might seem that I was normal size, but my sister is three and a half years older than me, and I am bigger than her in all of the pictures. I also was competing in high school weightlifting in the 183+ pounds weight group as 170 pounds. I was going against all of the plus size woman, there were no other weight groups that were high)
Despite my efforts…
to lose weight through diet and exercise, I have struggled to maintain a healthy weight. I have experienced ups and downs, losing weight before college and my wedding, but gaining it back during stressful periods, pregnancy, and miscarriages. I have also faced health challenges that have made weight loss even more difficult, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). (Pictured below are my highs and lows throughout the last several years of my life, in the red shirt, 1st picture, I was 6 weeks pregnant with my third miscarriage but looked much further along)
My ADHD makes it hard for me to…
stick to a diet and exercise plan, as I tend to have an all-or-nothing mentality and can become easily discouraged by setbacks. My PCOS has disrupted my hormones and metabolism, leading to weight gain and difficulty losing weight. I have tried many approaches to weight loss, but none have worked long-term.
That is why I have decided to have…
gastric sleeve surgery. This surgery removes a large portion of the stomach, reducing its capacity to hold food and limiting the amount of food I can eat. This forces me to make healthier food choices and eat smaller portions, without feeling deprived or hungry. It also helps me manage my cravings and emotional eating, as I have clear rules to follow and a supportive medical team to guide me.
I know that gastric sleeve surgery is not…
a magic solution or an easy way out. It is a serious medical procedure that carries risks and requires lifelong commitment to healthy habits and follow-up care. But I believe it is the right choice for me at this time, based on my health history, goals, and values. I want to prioritize my health and well-being, and not let my weight define or limit me anymore.
I also want to share my story to…
help reduce the stigma and shame around weight and weight loss. I know that many people face similar struggles and pressures to conform to unrealistic standards and social expectations. I am not a failure or a bad person because of my weight. I am a complex, dynamic, and worthy human being who deserves respect, compassion, and support.
So, if you are reading this…
please wish me luck on my surgery and recovery. And if you are struggling with your weight, know that you are not alone and there are many options and resources available to help you. You are not defined by your weight, and you have the power to make positive changes in your life. Keep telling your story, and let's create a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. If you are interested I am documenting my journey on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/binx_barisleeve_journey/ (Healthy support only please)
