INSPIRATION

Justin A.’s Gastric Bypass Story

I just wanted to share my weight loss surgery journey over the past two years with Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP). For decades I battled with my weight. In 2021, it finally reached a breaking point when, as a single full time father of two very young children, I was in the shower and realized that I had been standing for less than five minutes before I was in so much pain that I was actually considering buying a medical chair in order to just keep myself hygienic and I was the heaviest weight I had ever been.

At that moment, I knew I had to do something different because the diets I had tried and failed for years weren’t cutting it. I had a family member who had gotten the Gastric Bypass RNY with RMAP and decided that I needed to take a drastic step to take back control of my life for myself and my kids. I was ready for change and all of the mental/physical requirements that came with it. I refused to end up a 36-year-old man who was bedridden by the prison he had created for himself. I was pre-diabetic. I couldn’t climb stairs, walk long distances or play with my children, and I was eating every single one of my emotions.

When I started the process with RMAP in October of 2021, I was 506 pounds. By my RNY surgery date on February 15^th, 2022, I was down to 465 pounds. The surgery was a success. Afterward, as with most patients there were struggles with eating and balancing the much-needed vitamins, water, and protein intake to lose and maintain. There were absolutely moments of “What the heck did I do? I shouldn’t have taken such a drastic step. I’m not going to make it through this.” I want current and future patients to know that this is absolutely normal. You will have brief moments of regret. Push through them. Stick to the plan set forth by your physicians. The payoff is worth all of it. When you see the numbers on the scale, and you feel the difference…I promise, it’s worth it.

Here I am, two and half years post-surgery, and I have never felt more incredible. My numbers are all healthy, no longer pre-diabetic, cholesterol is all good, my lungs don’t struggle, my sleep apnea is gone, and there is no longer the strain on my heart.

I started at 506 pounds. Now I weight 245 pounds. With an astounding 261-pound weight loss, I am literally half the man I was, and I owe my success to the team and resources at RMAP. Without them, I may not have even still been around.

Thank you for all the support and care that you offer to your patients. The way you save lives is absolutely life changing. I’m a whole new me!!!

–Justin A.
Surgeon: Dr. Steven C. Simper
Surgery: Gastric Bypass
Surgery Date: 2/2022
SW: 506
CW: 245
TWL: 261

Read more patient stories here.

Interested in learning more about weight loss surgery? Learn more information here.

If you would like to share your weight loss surgery story with others and on Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) other social media outlets, contact Jessica at Jessica@rmapinc.com.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1521 East 3900 South, Suite 100
SLC, UT 84124

Susan O.’s Gastric Bypass Story

Sep 25 By rmap nurse

My name is Susan, and I have spent many years of my life gaining and losing weight. I was doing great losing in 2017 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I quit dieting to focus on that.

I gained a lot of weight after. I am without a doubt a food addict. I’m currently a six-year cancer survivor. Over the years, my dad suggested bariatric surgery. I said no, because I knew I wasn’t ready to make that kind of lifetime change and commitment. But then in 2023, something changed in me.

I was 345 pounds and in terrible health. I was about to turn 50, and I was a spectator in my life, no longer a participant. I knew in my heart I was ready to change, ready to get my life back. I started the process in May of 2023 to get bariatric surgery. I did all of my insurance requirements and had Gastric Bypass on December 19^th, 2023. I was 345 pounds.

At 7½ months post-op, I’m down 129 pounds so far! I now weigh 216 pounds. My personal goal is 180 pounds. I would be happy with that. My surgeon was Dr. Douglas Greer, and he is awesome. I had a rough first night after surgery, and Dr. Greer explained that I would no doubt at some point have “buyers’ remorse,” because most people do. My first 3 months were rough learning my new stomach, and dumping syndrome sucks, but I finally got the hang of it. I now have no regrets. I feel better than I have in years, and I am once again participating in my life. I do still struggle with body dysmorphia, and I have a lot of loose skin, but I’m so glad I had the surgery.

Surgeon: Dr. Douglas C. Greer
Surgery: Gastric Bypass
Surgery Date: 12/19/2024
SW: 345
CW: 216
TWL: 129

Read more patient stories here.

Interested in learning more about weight loss surgery? Learn more information here.

If you would like to share your weight loss surgery story with others and on Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) other social media outlets, contact Jessica at Jessica@rmapinc.com.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1521 East 3900 South, Suite 100
SLC, UT 84124

Heather M.’s Gastric Bypass Story

Sep 18 By rmap nurse

A year ago, I had a small idea of where my life was headed, but I’m not sure I could ever have truly pictured just where my life would be and where I see it heading.

I just celebrated my one-year anniversary of my Gastric Bypass. The surgery that I chose to have. The surgery that has truly changed my life…saved my life! I have a second chance at living the life I have always wanted.

First, let me share what I feel bariatric surgery is NOT:

It is not a quick fix to weight loss problems. It is an invasive and life altering surgery that takes months and, for some even years, to get approved by insurance and the surgeons themselves. Mine took about 5-6 months of jumping through hoops to make sure I was both medically and psychologically ready for what would come after the surgery took place.

It is not the easy way out. A year out and I still have to be careful of what I eat and how much. Sometimes I make the right choices and sometimes I do not. Does that mean I have failed? No. It just means I have to choose differently at my next meal. It also can mean that I may never be able to eat that particular food again, or maybe in time, my body will say “okay, we can have this in small doses.” The fact that my stomach is much smaller does help tremendously in losing weight, but it is not a cure-all in keeping weight off forever.

Bariatric surgery is not a permanent solution. Over time, it is possible to stretch my stomach back out. This is something I am quite scared of having happen, and yes, I have had my moments of eating too much to where I am uncomfortable or even “dumping,” and that worries me. So, I try very hard to be mindful of the amount I eat at each meal, because I have worked far too hard to allow myself to go back to where I was a few years ago.

Bariatric surgery has been the most difficult lifestyle change I have ever made.

Now let me tell you what bariatric surgery IS to me:

It is a chance to take back your life—if you are willing to work HARD! And I mean hard, because this is probably the most challenging thing I have ever been through. Deciding to change one’s entire life—completely—is not some easy feat. You have to put in the work. You also have to surround yourself with people who will support you. Luckily, every person in my life (family, friends, coworkers) all jumped on board and supported me during my crazy new life journey. For that, they have my sincerest and deepest THANK YOU and LOVE!

That being said, this journey is also a real eye opener of who you are surrounded by. I am so very blessed to have a positive support system during this crazy time in my life. Going through something like this isn’t easy, even with a fantastic support system. I cannot even begin to wrap my head around what it would have been like to have not been encircled by people who were not supportive of the path I have chosen.

This process messes with your head. A full year post Gastric Bypass surgery, and 171 pounds off my body, 125 pounds of that is since surgery, and I still have “fat girl” mentality. I still find myself reaching for clothing that is a few sizes too big. Maybe it’s because I’ve always been that big girl hiding under her clothes. Maybe it’s because I’m afraid to be disappointed when I try a smaller size and it doesn’t fit. Maybe I’m just “trained” to grab the larger size. I don’t know, but it messes with your head. I have tried to help myself a bit with this by routinely purging my closet of clothes that are too big. That is as much as my pocketbook will allow, because I cannot afford a whole new wardrobe since I’m still in the process of losing to maintenance.

I also have a very hard time seeing myself getting to what is considered my ideal weight for my height (108-145 pounds), but my sister has that one covered for me. She won’t let me give up on myself. Not saying I won’t try, it’s just hard to wrap your head around that number when you haven’t been that particular weight since you were a kid.

Last, but certainly not least, this has been one of the best things I have ever done. Making the choice to have Gastric Bypass has given me my life back in so many ways. I have more energy to spend doing things with my family. I am able to do things that for MANY years I was unable to do. I have plans for the future that I hope to make happen, if finances allow, that I could have never even contemplated making a reality before this surgery, but now it won’t be my weight holding me back.

At almost 50 years old, my life is just beginning and I am going to enjoy, appreciate, and savor every single moment!

Surgeon: Dr. Steven C. Simper
Surgery: Gastric Bypass
Surgery Date: 8/2023

Read more patient stories here.

Interested in learning more about weight loss surgery? Learn more information here.

If you would like to share your weight loss surgery story with others and on Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) other social media outlets, contact Jessica at Jessica@rmapinc.com.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1521 East 3900 South, Suite 100
SLC, UT 84124

Advice from Weight Loss Surgery Patients, Part 3

Sep 4 By rmap nurse

Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians || www.RMAP.com || (801) 268-3800

As you prepare for bariatric surgery, it is normal to experience a range of emotions. Hopefully one of them is excitement as we are excited for you and the commitment you have made to work toward a healthier lifestyle. Weight loss surgery never has been or will be the “easy way out.” This is why we feel the support you receive before and after surgery are vital to your long-term success!

Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) requires all patients to participate in a comprehensive Education Program to help you prepare, and continue to support you on your journey post-operatively. Which is why in our private Facebook support group page, we have asked our patients “What advice do you have for patients considering weight loss surgery?”, and these were their answers:

Leesha – 1: don’t be afraid, better health is awaiting! 2: Start taking vitamins before surgery. 3: Hair will fall off, but will grow again. 4: Walk and drink lots of water. 5: RMAP has the best doctors and care.

Heather – LOVE YOURSELF!

Susan – Weight loss surgery is a tool, you still have to put in a lot of work. 2. Make sure you’re ready to make a lifetime change. 3. Don’t compare yourself to others, some lose slower and some faster. 4. It’s a marathon not a sprint 5. Trust the process and believe in yourself

Suzan – It literally saved my life! It hasn’t been easy but worth it! Always work in progress! Best decision in my life! It will be 11 years in December!

Shanna – It is life changing. Don’t put it off, just do it. Follow the blue Bible and the support of the FB page and staff at RMAP. You won’t regret it!!

Lisa – Drastic change amazing results and the best follow up support ever. I have friends who have got the surgery elsewhere and they are blown away by the consistency and overall care RMAP provides. It takes a village.

Rebecca – View the surgery as the beginning of your new lifelong health, not a diet to lose some weight. Research, ask questions, listen to the RMAP consults before the surgery so you are prepared. This surgery isn’t for everyone (but definitely was for me and no regrets!), but learning something after surgery is too late. Follow the RMAP plan and dietician training 100% for optimal success. Truly the best!

Stephanie – You may regret it, but when you are there, try to remember that just because you have regrets doesn’t mean it was the wrong decision.

Daniela – When you’re truly ready for the changes wls brings, it’ll feel like it was easy even when you know how hard it is. Take pictures before and every step during. It will help you get over your body dysmorphia a bit easier. Remember, it took you a lifetime of bad habits and genetics to get to the point you turned to the surgery for help freeing yourself from all the pain and discomfort of your fat cocoon. Expect it to take time to reach your goal. But don’t delay living your best life as you work towards goal. Everyone’s goal is different while similar. And that means everyone’s journey won’t be quite the same either. But trust the process. Drink the water! Take the vitamins! Eat the protein! Avoid the grains and potatoes and pastas and junk! Move your body! And laugh often. Love yourself enough to do this for yourself!

Jodi – The Rouen y gastric bypass saved my life. You need to understand that losing the weight is still going to take work. Also, it’s not going to solve every issue you have. It’s not a cure all. My advice is to make sure you are getting therapy. I also recommend if you have a partner that you go to couple’s therapy. It’s VERY important. This year marked 21 years since my surgery. I lost 165lbs and have been able to keep it off. So not get discouraged when the weight loss slows down. You’ve got this!

Michelle – Just do it! I was scared and put it off for years after my doctor suggested looking into bariatric surgery. I’d never had surgery before and had family that had bariatric surgery decades ago who experienced complications, and had put most of the weight back on which made me very hesitant to seriously look at this option for myself. Eventually, I joined FB groups and polled them all with one of the questions being, “would you do it again?” 100% said yes – even my family members and others who had had complications. The only regret they seemed to have was not doing it sooner. I’m only 8.5 month post op but I agree with them! Being able to breathe, not sweat profusely, willingly take the stairs, have energy and endurance to keep up with my kids, and work with my horses at 44 is life changing. I do wish I’d done it sooner!

If you would like to read more patient stories for more information on how patients have done after weight loss surgery, go here.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1521 East 3900 South, Suite 100
SLC, UT 84124

Dustin M.’s Duodenal Switch Story

Aug 21 By rmap nurse

My name is Dustin, and I am honored to share my journey with you. In July 2023, I underwent a Duodenal Switch procedure with Dr. Rodrick McKinlay. Throughout my life, I struggled with being overweight, often dismissed as “big-boned” with the expectation that my weight would eventually normalize.

However, after my seventh-grade year, my mental health declined significantly. I lost interest in my passions, including dance—a pursuit I had cherished since the age of two—and found myself increasingly disengaged from life, preferring sleep over engagement.

Following high school, I embarked on a career in the financial sector, where sedentary work and easy access to unhealthy snacks contributed to substantial weight gain. By age 24, my weight had escalated to 325 pounds, accompanied by severe sleep apnea, stage 2 hypertension, and significant circulation issues. My primary care physician continuously warned me about the deterioration of my health, including the looming threat of type 2 diabetes.

In January 2023, I resolved to make a change for the better. I contacted Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians, researched various surgeons, and after thorough consideration, proudly chose Dr. McKinlay. The process moved swiftly—my insurance claim was submitted, I completed a psychiatric evaluation, and before I knew it, my surgery was scheduled.

The impact on my life has been profound. I have gained invaluable insights into myself and my relationship with food. I now listen to my body and respond to its needs. My sleep apnea has resolved, my blood pressure is normal, and I experience considerable relief in my back and joints.

I’ve lost an incredible 170 pounds, now proudly weighing 155 pounds. My smile is a reflection of this genuine transformation, not a façade, as it radiates the joy and confidence that this journey has brought me. I am deeply grateful for this transformative second chance at life. If you are contemplating weight loss surgery and are ready to embrace a life-changing journey, I wholeheartedly recommend reaching out to Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians and Dr. Rodrick McKinlay.

–Dustin M.
Surgeon: Dr. Rodrick D. McKinlay
Surgery: Duodenal Switch
Surgery Date: 7/2023
SW: 325
CW: 155
TWL: 170

Read more patient stories here.

Interested in learning more about weight loss surgery? Learn more information here.

If you would like to share your weight loss surgery story with others and on Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) other social media outlets, contact Jessica at Jessica@rmapinc.com.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1521 East 3900 South, Suite 100
SLC, UT 84124

Mark B.’s Gastric Bypass Story

Feb 27 By rmap nurse

I have struggled with my weight most of my life and because of my weight I was pre-diabetic, had high blood pressure, and acid reflux.

In June 2022 when I was 43 years old, I was moving with the help of some friends. I wasn’t feeling well the whole time and after dropping off a load at the storage unit, I couldn’t catch my breath and collapsed. It was quick, and luckily, I had good friends and family there with me. They called the ambulance and I was transported to the hospital. My oldest was 3 years old and my wife was pregnant with our second child.

At first doctors thought I had a heart attack. After more testing, turns out my heart was in A-Fib, not a heart attack. I was relieved. After a few days in the ICU, the doctors were able to get my heart back into normal rhythm and I was able to go home with my family. I can’t tell you how blessed I felt to be with them and that things weren’t worse.

To say this experience was a wake-up call is an understatement. I decided that I had waited too long and it was time to change my lifestyle. I opted to have Gastric Bypass surgery. I had the surgery in February 2023. I have lost a total of 160 pounds. I feel so much better! Acid reflux is gone, high blood pressure is gone, and I no longer take any medication. A-Fib is under control without any medication. The biggest blessing is that I have the energy to play with my young kids and not feel pain. I don’t have to tell them I “can’t” do things that they want me to do with them.

Having the surgery was one of the best decisions I have made.

–M. Baldwin
Surgeon: Dr. Rodrick D. McKinlay
Surgery: Gastric Bypass Roux-en-Y
Surgery Date: 2/22/23
SW: 345
CW: 185
TWL: 160

Read more patient stories here.

Interested in learning more about weight loss surgery? Learn more information here.

If you would like to share your weight loss surgery story with others and on Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) other social media outlets, contact Jessica at Jessica@rmapinc.com.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

Daniel R.’s Gastric Bypass Story

Feb 8 By rmap nurse

My journey started earlier in the year when I ended up at the ER for high blood pressure. I wasn’t feeling good and went to urgent care, and my blood pressure was at 299, so they sent me to the ER where I spent the night. After that, I set up an appointment to establish a regular doctor.

On the first visit, the doctor said with my weight, sleep apnea, prediabetes, and high blood pressure, that he recommended weight loss surgery. I told him I had already considered that and was looking into going to Mexico to do it. He told me that a lot of insurances cover [weight loss surgery] if it was medically necessary, and so I put in my paperwork with his recommendation. Part of that was to lose weight on my own first, which I lost 40-ish pounds in about a month. I saw a dietician and psychologist at St. Mark’s and then I got approved. I was super excited and nervous. I wanted to better my health so I can be around longer for my son, Daniel Cruz.

I finally got my surgery date, and a week before, my wife and I found out we were expecting a second child! That just backed up my decision even more that I was doing the right thing.

The week right after surgery, I ended up at the ER twice because my blood pressure dropped down to 43 and got severely dehydrated. I tried my hardest to stay hydrated, but it is very difficult to consume water for the first few weeks. It gradually got easier. At that point, I got taken off all my medicine and no longer needed my sleep apnea machine to sleep. I no longer snore while sleeping either! I only take my multivitamins and calcium chews!

I quickly started losing lots of weight and dropping sizes in clothes. Before I knew it, I went from using 5XL shirts and size 50 jeans to my current L-XL shirts and size 34 jeans. I can sit and put one leg on top of the other, which I had not done for over 20 years!

I also started being able to go on long walks and not be suffocating trying to catch my breath. I have been implementing better behaviors for my son as well.

I really enjoy playing with my children and being able to do more activities with them that I was not able to before. It’s always crazy and fun seeing people I had not seen for a long time, and seeing their reaction to my drastic changes.

For me, the only complications I had was the first week post-surgery, like I mentioned before. Besides that, I have been very blessed and lucky with my results. My goal the first year was to lose 150 pounds, and I hit that goal. This year, I am trying to lose another 30-50 pounds so that I can do skin removal surgery, then I want to get back into bodybuilding like I did when I was fresh out of high school!

There are times when I feel like I don’t recognize the person I see in the mirror, but inside, I am the same person, but better and healthier than before my surgery.

–Daniel R.
Surgeon: Dr. Rodrick D. McKinlay
Surgery: Gastric Bypass Roux-en-Y
Surgery Date: 12/13/21
HW: 433
SW: 397
CW: 253
TWL: 144

Read more patient stories here.

Interested in learning more about weight loss surgery? Learn more information here.

If you would like to share your weight loss surgery story with others and on Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) other social media outlets, contact Jessica at Jessica@rmapinc.com.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

The Negativity of Weight Stigma and Bias

Jan 25 By rmap nurse

Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians www.RMAP.com (801) 268-3800

Have you ever been judged by others for your weight, and/or for your bariatric surgery? If so, you know firsthand the negative and harmful effects of weight stigma and bias.

The World of Obesity Federation defines weight stigma as “the discriminatory acts and ideologies targeted towards individuals because of their weight and size. Weight stigma is a result of weight bias. Weight bias refers to the negative ideologies associated with obesity.”

Weight stigma can result in devastating emotional responses such as depression, low self-esteem and anxiety, which can lead to even more potential consequences. However, weight stigma can affect more than the emotional health, but also on social and physical health. Some individuals have reported to intentionally avoid social gatherings or settings in order to remain isolated away from fear of being criticized.

Effects of Stigma on Physical Health

We know some of the emotional effects stigma can cause, but what about physical health?

Treatment: Some might avoid medical care for problems they are experiencing. This will cause barriers to the treatment and strategic prevention of obesity for the patient.

Eating Behaviors: According to Canadian Medical Association (CMA), weight stigma and shaming can actually cause eating disorders, such as binge eating, emotional eating, restrictive eating, weight cycling, and eating anxiety.¹

Stress: It has been studied and shown by the research of the American Psychological Association (APA) that stigma correlates with increased stress hormone levels. Stress, long-term or chronic, can have serious effects on our bodies, including the musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, endocrine, gastrointestinal, nervous, and even the reproductive systems.²

Self-Harm or Suicide: In some instances, weight stigma is so severe that it has led to self-harm or suicidal ideations and acts. Although no studies to date have investigated the topic of body weight and suicide ideation, the prevalence of both obesity and suicide ideation has risen in the last several decades suggesting that obesity may increase the risk of suicide ideation.³

Places Stigma Can Take Place

The environment can also play a part in weight stigma—the chairs at the movie theaters, restaurants, and airlines are not designed to accommodate people with obesity. Medical tables and gowns are also sometimes unable to accommodate patients with obesity.

Schools and Educational Environments: According to Obesity Action Coalition (OAC), bullying has become an epidemic. In a national survey of overweight sixth-graders, 24% of the boys and 30% of the girls experienced daily teasing, bullying or rejection because of their size.⁴ But not only are students victimized, teachers can also commonly be victimized by their peers. For more information on bullying, please visit the following web sites:
- Education.com
  www.education.com/topic/school-bullying-teasing
- National Institute of Health
  nih.gov/news/health/sep2010/nichd-21.htm
- Centers for Disease Control
  cdc.gov/ncipc/dvp/electronic_aggression.htm

Workplace: It has been shown that employees who are obese or who carry excess weight are frequently treated poor or unfairly in the workplace.⁵ This can include unfair hiring practices, lower wages (women affected by obesity earn 6% lesser, and men earn 3% lesser, for work identically performed), harsher discipline from employees, wrongful termination, and negative stereotypes (for example: laziness, less competent, undisciplined, less ambitious, less productive).The article continues with some employers beginning to impose financial penalties, such as charging employees who are obese more in healthcare costs until they are able to reduce their body mass index (BMI).

Personal Relationships: This topic could by far be argued to be the most harmful to people affected by obesity. Being criticized by spouses/partners, parents, siblings and children, are the most common source of stigma comments, and can be the most damaging comments made, intentionally or not.

Healthcare and Medical Settings: Research done with support from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease (NIDDK) have shown that many healthcare providers strongly regard people with obesity with negative attitudes and stereotypes.⁶ This way of thinking can influence judgment, interpersonal behavior and decision-making, as well as person perceptions, and can then impact the care they provide to patients with obesity. Some healthcare providers can view obesity as an avoidable risk factor that hinders their ability to treat and prevent disease.

Social Media: Weight discrimination has increased significantly in the United States, as much as 66% between 1995 and 2006, and 71% of adolescents reported being bullied about their weight in the past year.⁷ Social media, such as Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, or Twitter could have both negative and positive influences on weight stigma. It has a potentially notorious role in both worsening and reducing weight stigma. In a study of college-age women at Utah State University, exposure to “thin-ideal” magazines and sites provoked higher body dissatisfaction, negative effect, eating disorder symptoms, and decreased self-esteem.⁸

Combating Weight Bias

Tackling weight stigma and bias requires a united effort from everyone. There are many ways to help prevent bias and get involved with the movement. This can be done starting with individual actions in your daily life, and ranges all the way down to speaking out for those who might think their voice doesn’t matter, or are being bullied or teased.

Use respectful language when talking to or about people affected by obesity. “Fat jokes” and certain vocabulary words are harmful and support society’s stigma. Modeling respectful language is a way to influence others to do the same.

Educate yourself and others to help understand that obesity is a disease with compound causes. This can also help harmful weight-based stereotypes and bullying in any setting.

The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) have a Weight Bias Task Force that will take on any social media platform which displays weight stigma and bias in the media. You can contact them if you see any examples of weight-based stereotypes by going here.

We here at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) encourage you to get involved, become educated, and help to make a difference in lessening weight stigma and bias. Use your voice, stand up for others, and help reduce the negative stigma associated with the disease of obesity.

If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. If you are experiencing mental health-related distress or are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support, please don’t wait or hesitate to reach out.

Call or text 988
Chat at 988lifeline.org

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

Resources

Lauren Vogel, “Fat Shaming is Making People Sicker and Heavier”, Canadian Medical Association, v.191 (23); 2019 Jun 10, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6565398/
William Shaw, PhD; Susan Labott-Smith, PhD, ABPP; Matthew M. Burg, PhD; Camelia Hostinar, PhD; Nicholas Alen, BA; Miranda A.L. van Tilburg, PhD; Gary G. Berntson, PhD; Steven M. Tovian, PhD, ABPP, FAClinP, FAClinHP; and Malina Spirito, PsyD, Med, “Stress Effects on the Body”, American Psychological Associated (APA), https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/body
Carlyn Graham, Michelle Frisco, “The Relationship Between Obesity and Suicide Ideation Among Young Adults in the United States”, SSM Popul Health, 2022, Jun, 18: 101106, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9079098/#:~:text=Obesity%20is%20highly%20stigmatized%20in,suicide%20ideation%20among%20young%20adults
JoAnn Stevelos, MS, MPH, “Bullying, Bullycide and Childhood Obesity”, Obesity Action Coalition, Winter 2011, https://www.obesityaction.org/resources/bullying-bullycide-and-childhood-obesity/
“Weight Bias in the Workplace”, Obesity Action Coalition, 2015, https://www.obesityaction.org/wp-content/uploads/Weight-Bias-in-the-Workplace.pdf
SM Phelan, DJ Burgess, MW Yeazel, WL Hellerstedt, JM Griffin, M van Ryn, “Impact of Weight Bias and Stigma on Quality of Care and Outcomes for Patients with Obesity”, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease (NIDDK), 2015 Apr; 16(4): 319-326, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4381543/
Olivia Clark, Matthew M. Lee, Muksha Luxmi Jingree, Erin O’Dwyer, Yiyang Yue, Abrania Marrero, Martha Tamez, Shilpa N. Bhupathiraju, Josiemer Mattei, “Weight Stigma and Social Media: Evidence and Public Health Solutions”, 2021 Nov 12; 8: 739056, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8632711/
Nicole Hawkins, P Scott Richards, H Mac Granley, David M Stein, “The Impact of Exposure to the Thin-Deal Media Image on Women”, 2004 Spring; 12(1):35-50, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16864303/

Setting Goals after Bariatric Surgery 2023

Dec 21 By rmap nurse

Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians www.RMAP.com (801) 268-3800

People often criticize bariatric surgery as “taking the easy way out.” We know that there is nothing easy about the decision and commitments you have made. We acknowledge your bravery and hard work to get you where you are today. As we enter the New Year, we hope you will continue to focus on the new you.

Finding worth in self is probably the biggest challenge all of us face. We forget who we are. Once we remember and reclaim our worth, our loves take on new meaning. Positive self-talk is one of the keys to your long-term success. If you think positively about yourself, you are more apt to shower yourself with rewards and self-praise that will keep you on the path of a healthy lifestyle.

Even though bariatric surgery affords many physical advantages, you may still struggle with some other emotional difficulties. Most of us fall into the trap of assuming a change in our lives will solve all of our problems. How often have you thought to yourself: “If I just had a new house, more money, more time, a new job or more space, I would be happy?” Many of you may have thought to yourselves before having bariatric surgery that losing weight would make you forever happy and your problems would go away. Many of us have realized that way of thinking is in vain. None of these things will take away emotional difficulties. The road to health is not an easy one. You will experience a lot of challenges that will be difficult to deal with.

Tips for Setting Goals for 2023

Here are suggestions and tips as you set your goals for the New Year. Keep these in mind and remember you are of worth and that you are accomplishing so much:

Refrain from negative self-talk where you call yourself stupid, dumb, fat, lazy, or a failure. Replace these words with verifiable examples of successful behaviors, not concepts.
Refrain from talking negatively about yourself to others. When you talk negatively about yourself to others, you are providing them with instruction on how you wish to be treated. Begin to put a voice to your success no matter how small.
If you are part of a religious sect, turn to your faith for peace.
Check out books from the library about self-esteem.
Keep a journal on your emotional stability day to day. Record the choices you make that bring you joy and stability.
Continue attending support groups. Make friends with patients in your groups. It helps to confide in someone who has had the same experience as you. Share your challenges and successes.
Emotional difficulties are a part of life, but sometimes a more serious problem is present. If you feel that you suffer with a psychiatric problem, do not be afraid to consult your primary care physician.

As you set your goals, it is also important to reward yourself for your accomplishments. Rewards should not be food related. Food is for nutrition. Reward yourself with something of value, such as a massage, new golf clubs, or a charm bracelet. Some have put money away for each 10 pounds lost, then gone on a vacation. Take the time to thank yourself and acknowledge yourself.

We hope you have a wonderful and happy New Year from us here at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP)!

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

Kristy R.’s Gastric Bypass Story

Nov 23 By rmap nurse

I have struggled with my weight my entire life. I gained weight from medications and found the food comforting when times got tough. I had health issues come and go. I watched my family members go through similar struggles and just assumed I was destined to be the same way.

Months before my last pregnancy, I found out I was Type 2 Diabetic. I started a medical diet program that worked around my increasing number of medications. My pregnancy was rough from start to finish. Strict diets, insulin shots, so much counting and stress. I still gained lots of weight. At delivery, I was 287 lbs.! I was 29 years old and almost 300 lbs. I felt shame; I felt ugly. My daughter was born early and rushed to the NICU. I found myself just snacking away and crying as I felt like a horrible mother, but I was also in denial that my diabetes would remain.

Three weeks after my emergency delivery, my mother-in-law was hospitalized. The doctors stated it was complications from her Type 2 Diabetes. She was still in her early 50’s. We drove out of state with our newborn on oxygen with us. We stayed a week and left after the doctors stated she was improving. Upon our return, we found our oldest cat (my therapy kitty) was starving himself from depression. He was 15 years old and was declining quickly. We immediately started working on improving his chances. There was so much stress and pain. I again ignored my eating knowledge and continued eating through my feelings. Within days of arriving home, we received the phone call that my mother-in-law had passed away due to her complications of diabetes. We were devastated. I was on the verge of a breakdown.

It didn’t end there for us; our kitty also took his last breath. Within the first two months of 2018, I had three traumatic events happen. I was terrified! I WAS LOST. I didn’t know what to do. I finally decided I wanted to live longer than the next 20 years. I wasn’t going to allow my diabetes to take me away from those I love. I restarted working with my doctors, the diets no longer helped, and I was exercising and exhausting myself.

After months of hardly any success, my doctor recommended weight loss surgery. I completed the seminar that summer. I worked with my doctors and insurance to complete all the necessary steps. I chose Dr. Rodrick McKinlay as my surgeon. His explanation made me feel comfortable with my decision. My starting weight before surgery was 249 lbs. in September 2019.

After my Gastric Bypass surgery, my diabetes didn’t change as I had hoped. I again felt defeated and lost. I wanted to cheat on my diet and just give up. I was still early in the process. Dr. McKinlay and his staff ensured I was supported and reminded me I needed to trust the process. I stuck to the “blue bible.” I researched different recipes. I found a new love of cooking and trying new foods, not because I knew it would taste great but because I knew it would FUEL my body. I started treating my body better.

Slowly I was off all medications. I reversed my Type 2 and hit my goal weight by my 10-month mark. I had cut out all bad foods, sodas, snacking, etc. I found it easier to watch my protein intake and measure my fuel in volume and not weight. I kept my portion size to the recommended size.

A year later (almost to the date), I had an extended panniculectomy. They removed 5 lbs. of loose skin from my midsection. I will not lie, that hurt me more than any of my children’s births! I healed much slower and started having fainting and dizzy spells. It turned out I had developed reactive hypoglycemia. My blood sugars would spike and then crash within 45 minutes of eating carbohydrates. I mean, I would almost pass out from eating bell peppers if I didn’t eat double the amount of protein with them. I had to learn a new fuel process. I had to add some small carbs back in. I struggled with self-image at that point. Fat brain is a real thing, and it takes time to heal. I felt ugly again.

I started daily affirmations, participating in the group chats, taking photos and only saying positive things about them. I went on two women’s retreats to learn to love myself. You can retrain your brain. You can do hard things. You need to be patient with yourself and forgive yourself. I have learned so much; I have healed so much.

I am now three years out from my Gastric Bypass. I still struggle with reactive hypoglycemia, but I am managing it with my diet. I have not gone back to bad eating habits! I mean, after losing my job in 2020, I tried, and it made me sick, so lesson learned. It’s true, you do gain a little weight back, and then your body settles. I have maintained my weight of 128 lbs. for almost two years now. My lowest weight was 115 lbs. I didn’t feel healthy then. My original goal weight was 125 lbs.

I am so happy and healthy now! I love camping, hiking, chasing my kids, cooking, baking, and the challenge of trying new, healthy foods. I even make my coffee healthy! I have improved my quality of life and my family life. If you are starting this journey, be nice to yourself and trust the process. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, to reach out for anything you need help with. If you are maintaining or even getting back on track, you got this, and keep pushing forward!

–Kristy R.

Surgeon: Dr. Rodrick D. McKinlay
Procedure: Gastric Bypass Roux-en-Y
Surgery Date: 8/19/19
SW: 249
CW: 128
TWL: 121

Read more patient stories here.

Interested in learning more about weight loss surgery? Learn more information here.

If you would like to share your weight loss surgery story with others and on Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) other social media outlets, contact Jessica at Jessica@rmapinc.com.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

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