Hi, I’m Sarah.
I never thought I’d be the kind of person who’d make one of these pages. But today, I’m swallowing my pride and asking for help — because I’m fighting for my health, and maybe even my life.
I’m 28 years old, living in Asheville, NC, and for the past 12 years I’ve been battling severe obesity, a condition that has dramatically impacted my ability to live a full, mobile life. I currently weigh over 390 pounds and suffer from:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Type 2 Diabetes (diagnosed last year)
Hypertension
Degenerative joint pain in my knees and hips
Depression and low self-esteem
I work part-time at a retail store, and while I love my job, it doesn’t provide insurance or enough income to afford the care I need. I’ve tried many programs — keto, calorie restriction, fitness coaching, medication — all with minimal long-term success.
Last month, I had a consultation with a specialist who recommended gastric sleeve surgery. It’s my best medical option at this point. But the total estimated cost is far beyond my means, especially since I’m uninsured.