WeightWise Bariatric Program

04/17/2025

Melissa's success story: Before undergoing gastric bypass surgery, Melissa struggled with daily activities, especially when it came to playing with her children. Excess weight led to health issues like sleep apnea and put tremendous strain on her knees, ankles, and back, making even basic movement difficult and painful.

She had considered weight loss surgery many times over the years, but financial constraints and lack of time off from work made it impossible. It wasn’t until she began a new job with better benefits that the possibility became real. Once she learned that her insurance would cover the procedure, she didn’t hesitate to move forward with it.

Meeting the surgeon for the first time was a nerve-wracking experience, but Dr. Walton quickly helped ease her fears during the initial consultation. From that point forward, the entire team—from hospital nurses to the dietitian and nurse practitioner—provided unwavering support and guidance, making the entire process feel less daunting and more empowering.

Since the surgery, her life has transformed dramatically. She completed her first 5K in September 2024, reaching a major personal goal. One of the most meaningful moments came when her 8-year-old son joyfully said, “I can finally wrap my arms all the way around you!”—a moment that confirmed she had made the right decision.

As of today, two years post-surgery, she has lost a total of 150 pounds, going from 335 lbs to 185 lbs.

04/01/2025

🎉 The History of April Fools' Day! 🎉

Ever wondered how April Fools' Day came to be? It’s a day full of tricks, laughter, and lighthearted pranks, but the origins of this tradition remain a bit of a mystery. Here's a dive into some theories about how this playful day came about:

The Switch to the Gregorian Calendar (1582)
One popular theory traces the origins to 1582, when Pope Gregory XIII introduced the Gregorian calendar, moving the new year from April 1st to January 1st. People who still celebrated the new year on April 1st were called "April fools," and others would play tricks on them—perhaps by sending them on "fool's errands" or inviting them to phony parties. This theory is widely accepted, but there’s no definitive evidence linking the calendar change directly to the tradition.

The Roman Festival of Hilaria (Ancient Times)
Another possibility comes from ancient Rome, where a festival called Hilaria (meaning "joyful") was celebrated at the end of March. People would dress up in disguises, and the tone of the celebration was playful and mischievous—similar to the pranks we associate with April Fools’ Day today.

The French Tradition
In France, April Fools’ Day is called "Poisson d'Avril" (April Fish), and one theory is that it comes from the tradition of giving someone a fake fish on April 1st. This prank may have originated from the French court’s attempts to make fun of people who were “out of the loop” after the calendar shift.

Though the exact origin remains unclear, April Fools' Day has evolved into a global celebration of humor, creativity, and harmless mischief. 🎭

So whether it’s pulling pranks on friends, family, or coworkers, remember that the spirit of April Fools’ Day is all about fun! 🎉

03/30/2025

💥We’d like to take a moment to express our gratitude for our incredible WeightWise community.💥

We see all of you coming together to nurture the WeightWise community with constant love and support for one another, and we couldn’t be more proud of each and every one of you.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel disconnected or alone, even when surrounded by others, especially on your bariatric journey. That’s why cultivating a supportive community is so important. A supportive community is more than just a group of people; it’s a network of trust, empathy, encouragement, and sometimes tough love. It’s a place where you can truly be yourself, knowing you’ll be accepted and uplifted.

In a supportive community, we celebrate each other’s victories, big and small, and provide a safety net during challenges. We listen with compassion, offer a helping hand when needed, and remind one another that we’re not alone. Whether online or in-person, this sense of belonging fosters growth, resilience, and a shared sense of purpose.

What makes a supportive community thrive?

Active Listening: When people feel heard, they feel valued. A community that listens and validates each other’s experiences creates an environment of trust.

Mutual Respect: In a supportive space, differences are celebrated, and everyone is treated with kindness and respect. Understanding each person’s unique perspective fosters deeper connections.

Encouragement & Positivity: A community that lifts others up creates an atmosphere where people can thrive. Encouraging words, acts of kindness, and positive reinforcement can make all the difference.

Shared Goals: Whether it’s weight loss, physical goals, or simply the pursuit of a healthier and happier life, having common goals strengthens bonds and motivates everyone involved.

A Safe Space for Vulnerability: Being able to show up authentically—without fear of judgment—is key. A supportive community provides a space where people can be vulnerable and seek help when needed.

Let’s remember, every supportive community starts with one person reaching out, one kind word, or one small act of generosity.

Each day we can ask ourselves: How can I be part of creating a supportive environment for those around me?

03/28/2025

Victori's success story:

She started her journey with WeightWise just before her 31st birthday. She had two young boys, but struggled to keep up with them. Hiking, which had always been something she loved, became something she dreaded. Even simple outings terrified her because she would get out of breath just walking from the car to the door. She was borderline diabetic, on medication for high blood pressure, indigestion, heartburn, and taking water pills, and had to regularly see a cardiologist. Emotionally, she felt like a failure.

She hadn’t fully considered weight loss surgery until about six months before contacting WeightWise. After many failed attempts at losing weight, she decided it was finally time to make a change. She wanted to be present and active in her children's lives and her own, so she made the call.

Working with the WeightWise team was an incredible experience. From the beginning, they were supportive, and that continued well beyond the surgery.

Now, her life is completely different. She loves being able to run and play with her children, and she can keep up with all her kindergarten students with ease. The energy and joy she feels now is something she hadn’t experienced in years.

03/26/2025

03/23/2025

🌟 The Benefits of a Healthy Body Mass Index! 🌟

Did you know that maintaining a healthy Body Mass Index can do wonders for your overall health? Here are just a few reasons why it’s so important:

1️⃣ Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: A healthy BMI lowers your risk of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure! 💖
2️⃣ Better Mobility: Maintaining a healthy weight can make it easier to stay active and move without discomfort or strain. 🚶‍♀️
3️⃣ Improved Sleep: With a balanced weight, you’re more likely to sleep soundly, reducing the risk of sleep apnea and snoring. 💤
4️⃣ Enhanced Mood: A healthy BMI can help regulate hormones, boost energy, and improve your mental well-being! 😊
5️⃣ Longer Life: Maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to a longer, more vibrant life! 🌱

A healthy BMI is just one part of living a happier, healthier life. Keep moving toward your goals – you’ve got this! 💪✨

03/21/2025

Mike's Success Story:

Before his weight loss surgery, he had been overweight for most of his adult life, but over the last year, his weight had escalated significantly. His energy was at an all-time low, and everyday tasks, like putting on socks and shoes, left him winded. His clothes were getting tighter, and he had to upgrade to a 2XL shirt and 42-inch pants. He was on multiple medications for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea, yet his health continued to worsen. He was dissatisfied with how he looked and felt, and began to worry about his mortality as his health continued to decline.

After years of trying and failing with various diets, he decided it was time to take real action. A friend on Facebook had shared her success with bariatric surgery, which sparked his interest. She described it as a physical tool that helped her break through the barriers she had been struggling with for years, and this resonated deeply with him. He knew then that this was the change he needed, both for himself and for his loved ones.

On February 21st, he reached out to WeightWise for a consultation and chose the Gastric Sleeve. Given his weight, BMI, and co-morbidities, he was approved. From the start, his experience with WeightWise was positive. His Patient Advocate, Jayme, was responsive and helpful with all his questions, and the specialists were supportive and encouraging. His doctor was thorough and made him feel confident in his decision.

After surgery, he committed to drinking plenty of water and walking daily. Within weeks, his clothes started fitting more loosely, and his energy began to improve. By June, he had lost 55 pounds. His doctor was amazed by his progress—his blood pressure had dropped, cholesterol levels normalized, and he was taken off his medications.

Six months after surgery, he was walking briskly twice a day, feeling more energized, and no longer needed a CPAP machine. His pant size dropped from a 42 to a 36, and his shirt size went from a 2XL to a Medium. His confidence soared as he wore clothes he had always wanted but never felt comfortable wearing before. He had lost 110 pounds and was down to 193 pounds, a weight he hadn't seen since his twenties. Although he still had 10-15 pounds to lose, he was confident that with the tools and changes he had made, he would reach his goal soon.

03/20/2025

Embracing the Beauty of Spring: A Season of Renewal and Growth 🌸🌿

As the chill of winter fades away and the days stretch longer, spring bursts onto the scene with its vibrant colors, refreshing air, and a sense of new beginnings. 🌷

Spring isn’t just a season—it’s a reminder that growth is always possible. Whether it's the first blooms on trees, the soft touch of grass beneath your feet, or the song of birds returning to the skies, spring breathes life into everything it touches.

It's a time to shed the old, embrace change, and look forward to what's ahead. Nature itself goes through a transformation, and so can we. Take a moment to reflect on the opportunities this season brings—fresh starts, new projects, and the chance to reconnect with what makes you feel alive.

So, whether you’re planning outdoor adventures, getting your garden ready, or simply soaking in the sunshine, let spring fill your heart with hope and remind you that the best is yet to come.

🌼 Here’s to blooming where you’re planted and thriving like the season itself! 🌞

03/15/2025

🌱 Daily Wellness Tips for a Healthier You 🌱

Take small, intentional steps every day to nurture your body and mind. Here’s how you can embrace a holistic approach to wellness:

Move Your Body Daily: Whether it’s a walk, yoga, or a workout, keep your body active to boost your mood and energy levels. Every step counts!

Drink Water Regularly: Stay hydrated throughout the day. Water is essential for your body to function at its best, so make sure to sip often.

Enjoy Fresh Air & Sunshine: Step outside to breathe in the fresh air and soak up some sunlight. It’s a simple way to lift your spirits and improve your health.

Fill Your Mind with Positive Thoughts: What you think, you become. Cultivate a positive mindset and surround yourself with uplifting thoughts that empower you.

Get Enough Sleep: A good night’s rest is crucial for overall wellness. Aim for 7-9 hours to help your body recover and stay energized.

Eat More Protein & Vegetables: Fuel your body with nutrient-rich foods. Protein and vegetables will give you the energy you need to thrive throughout the day.

Remember, wellness is a journey, not a destination. Small daily habits can make a big difference in your overall health and happiness. 🌿💚

03/13/2025

Niomi's Success Story:

Before undergoing weight loss surgery, her life was filled with the energy and enthusiasm of a young woman who loved staying active. She spent her childhood playing kickball, softball, and volleyball, always engaged in physical activities. As she grew older, she even joined the cheer squad, where she thoroughly enjoyed the workouts and the camaraderie. However, everything changed after she became a mother. The demands of motherhood, a full-time job, and the everyday stresses of life began to take their toll, and slowly but surely, she started to gain weight.

A turning point in her life came when she took a trip to Miami with friends. Afterward, when she saw the pictures, she was shocked by how much weight she had gained. The images were a wake-up call that made her reflect on how she had allowed herself to reach that point. Another incident that deeply impacted her was a visit to an amusement park with her daughter. Due to her size, she was unable to ride with her daughter, and it left her feeling like a failure. She knew at that moment that something needed to change.

It was during this time that a friend from work shared his incredible weight loss journey after having weight loss surgery at Weightwise. Inspired by his success, she decided to contact Dr. Broussard and take the first steps toward her own transformation.

Though her journey is still ongoing, she is incredibly proud of the progress she has made. At her highest weight of 299 pounds, she has successfully lost over 100 pounds. The pre-surgery appointments with Weightwise medical professionals played a crucial role in her preparation and success. While she doesn’t see her journey as a “before and after,” she recognizes that she is a work in progress and feels immense pride in the woman she has become.

If she could offer advice to others, it would be to seriously consider weight loss surgery. It requires dedication and hard work, but the results have been truly life-changing for her.