Laura Millar

Reclaiming Life, Love, and Long Walks

Three years ago, I was hospitalized with excruciating stomach pain. The doctors diagnosed me with two hernias—one in my intestines and another called a Morgagni hernia. To my surprise, they recommended bariatric surgery, explaining that weight loss would help my chances of a successful hernia repair. I didn’t know anyone close to me who had undergone bariatric surgery—the idea felt scary and unfamiliar.

I reached out to friends, hoping to gain some perspective. Some shared positive stories which gave me a sense of hope, but I had also heard horror stories about bariatric surgery and it terrified me. Weight loss had always been a battle throughout my adult life. When I started dating my husband, we got into a habit of eating both bad food and too much food. After having our first child, the post-pregnancy weight gain began to interfere with my life in more serious ways.

 It even started affecting the possibility of having another child.

As my weight increased, I developed arthritis in my knees. Walking became a painful challenge. I didn’t drive so walking was my only option, but even short distances became difficult. I had never been athletic, and the pain just made everything harder. I work in childcare so keeping up with the kids was essential, but it was becoming nearly impossible. Even simple activities with my own family like going on outdoor walks, left me exhausted. My husband often had to take over, and I felt like I was missing out on life with my family.

Going into surgery, the medical professionals were incredibly supportive through every step, and I felt well prepared. Post-surgery, I completely lost my appetite for three months, which helped me shed even more weight than I anticipated. The transformation has been nothing short of life-changing.

Today, I’ve lost nearly 100 pounds, and I can walk long distances without any issues.

 I have so much more energy, and I can finally keep up with my kids and enjoy activities with my family. My husband and I now spend our time walking together, rather than eating together. It’s incredible how something as simple as walking has brought us closer.

Throughout this journey, everyone in my life has been incredibly supportive. I’ve heard people say that surgery is the “easy way out,” but I can tell you it’s anything but. This process requires dedication and hard work. One of the most helpful tools has been keeping a food diary—which went from being something I dreaded but to something that has helped me a ton. 

Bariatric surgery wasn’t a decision I made lightly, but looking back, it was the best choice I could have made. I’m finally living the active, healthy life I always wanted, and I feel grateful for every step of this journey.