Mega Doctor News
Obesity is a multifactorial disease that affects a person’s quality of life; it can lead not only to disability, but various illnesses like diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.
Across the United States, obesity remains a serious public health concern with roughly 40% of adults considered obese due to having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC), while more than 22 million with a BMI of 40 or higher deemed morbidly obese.
In Texas, the prevalence of obesity is 35%, per the CDC.
For some individuals struggling to lose weight in their quest to lead a healthier life, weight-loss surgery is a critical first step in their journey to better health when diet and exercise alone aren’t enough.
Bariatric surgery is considered the most effective method for achieving significant and sustained weight loss, per the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, with nearly 580,000 people undergoing bariatric procedures worldwide every year.
In the Rio Grande Valley, a team of board-certified surgeons with the South Texas Health System Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Center has been helping patients kick start their long-term weight loss through bariatric surgery, including pre- and post-procedure support.
From the moment a patient considers bariatric surgery to their post-procedure weigh-ins and beyond, the STHS Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Center team helps patients every step of the way, offering the education, guidance and emotional support required to continue living healthy, all while helping them celebrate their weight loss milestones.
To celebrate the transformative journey of former patients who’ve undergone bariatric surgery, the STHS Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Center hosted its third annual Transformation Celebration Fashion Show on Saturday, March 22.
This year’s show featured five women who’ve transformed their lives through bariatric surgery and a long-term commitment to healthy living: Maxine Aguirre, Heidi Stream, Rocio Anahi Garcia, Rachel Rodriguez and Phylisia Tamayo. To date, the women have lost a combined 465 lbs. as part of their weight loss journey.
“It all begins with a choice,” says Rocio Anahi Garcia, who had never walked a runway prior to modeling in this year’s Transformation Celebration Fashion Show for the first time. “I had my ‘aha’ moment about a year ago when I realized I needed to make a change if I wanted to see my two sons grow up. Today, I walked that runway 65 pounds lighter and feeling a confidence I never even knew I had.”
Held at the Radisson Hotel McAllen Airport, the show presented the five women with the excellent opportunity to share their personal battles with excess weight with each other, their families and the community at large
“This is my third year taking part in this incredible event,” says Rachel Rodriguez, who lost 91 lbs. after undergoing bariatric surgery in December 2012 and committing to keeping the weight off for nearly 13 years through diet and exercise. “Each year, I meet new, inspiring and successful women. Hearing their testimonials and seeing how far they’ve come in their own battles with weight… and how much farther they want to go to lead a healthy life… keeps me motivated. It’s such an honor to share a stage with them.”
The five women walked the runway in three looks – two casual outfits and one formal ensemble – provided by Leona Style, owned and operated by Edna & Alexandria Posada, and CrashGal Couture, owned and operated by Leah Wise.
“While we were spoiled by getting our hair and make-up done and donning fabulous clothes many of us never imagined wearing before surgery, it was the opportunity to showcase our newfound confidence that really made the biggest impression,” says Heidi Stream, a retired Air Force veteran who has lost 88 lbs. since undergoing bariatric surgery in September 2023. “This is such a great event, and I am so grateful to be a part of it and to get to not only have the support of these women, but now also their friendship, it is the absolute best thing.”
While the annual celebration showcases the success stories of former patients, it’s also an opportunity to educate the community about the possibilities that come with bariatric weight loss surgery: increased confidence, improved physical and mental health and the camaraderie that comes with the support system provided by the STHS Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Center through its Beary Buddies support group.
“Witnessing these women with so much confidence and seeing their families cheering them on in the audience, it’s an indescribable feeling,” says Amy Flores, MSN, RN, Director, STHS Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Center. “Every year, I look forward to this event because of the positivity, and because it gives our patients a chance to show their family, friends and community just how far they’ve come and how hard they’ve worked throughout their weight loss journey after vowing to lead a healthier life.”
Weight-loss surgeons at the STHS Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Center can help individuals struggling with obesity achieve the long-term weight loss they need to lead a longer and healthier life. For more information on the program, visit southtexashealthsystemheart.com/services/weight-loss-surgery or call (956) 664-1616.
