At Phoenix Health, we witness life-changing transformations daily through our expert weight loss surgery programmes. One inspiring journey is that of Neveans, who bravely shared her story to encourage others facing similar struggles. Her experience highlights the power of bariatric surgery not just to lose weight , but to reclaim a fulfilling and healthy life.
The Struggle Before Surgery
Like many who are living with obesity, Neveans tried countless diets and weight loss methods over the years, only to find herself stuck in a frustrating cycle of short-term success and long-term setbacks.
“Like many others, I tried every diet and slimming pill I could find—Cambridge, Herbal Life, the cabbage diet, to name a few. While I experienced some weight loss with each, none of them were sustainable, and the weight always crept back on, often with a few extra pounds each time.”
By 2022, her weight had reached over 24 stone. A turning point came during a trip to the Edinburgh Festival with friends, where the physical and emotional toll of her weight became impossible to ignore.
“I was in constant pain, struggling to breathe, sweating, and feeling embarrassed. I realised something had to change. I was ready to take that leap. By this point, I was 24 stone and 9lbs, suffering from back pain, PCOS, sleep apnoea, and worsening asthma. I could barely walk for five minutes without needing to rest.”
Taking the First Step with Phoenix Health – Private weight loss Clinic in the UK
It was at this critical moment that Neveans turned to Phoenix Health. Our clinic provides personalised bariatric care and comprehensive aftercare support for patients seeking long-term solutions through weight loss surgery. From the initial consultation to post-operative aftercare, we ensure each patient feels supported, informed, and empowered every step of the way.
Surgery Day: A New Beginning
For Neveans, this journey began with a thorough medical assessment with our consultant, where her unique medical needs and goals were carefully reviewed. After being approved for weight loss surgery, she underwent a mini gastric bypass in July 2023– —one of the many options we provide.
“Thankfully, I was accepted for surgery, and in July 2023, I underwent a mini bypass. The recovery was smoother than expected, though I felt quite sick from the anaesthesia. I also had a hernia that was repaired during the surgery.”
Overcoming Early Challenges
Bariatric surgery is a life-altering procedure, and at Phoenix Health, we prepare patients for the emotional as well as physical changes that come with it. Neveans openly shared her experience in the initial months after the operation:
“The first few months after the operation were tough. I grieved my old life and old eating habits, but I knew I wanted this change more than anything. This felt like my last chance to turn my life around.”
Progress and Milestones
By October 2023, just a few months after surgery, Neveans had already lost over 4 stone and felt ready to tackle new fitness goals.
“I had lost over 4 stone and felt ready to join a gym. Initially, I could barely manage one or two sessions a week, but it was a start. I felt unfit and uncomfortable, but I kept going, and it slowly became easier.”
Staying on Track with Phoenix Health Support
Our multidisciplinary bariatric team at Phoenix Health offers continuous guidance on nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being. Neveans’ journey was no exception; her progress was supported by expert bariatric diet advice and regular follow-ups to ensure sustainable weight loss results.
“Managing food was also becoming more manageable. Though I still missed elements of my old eating habits, I began to notice positive changes. I could walk up the stairs without feeling out of breath, and the pain in my back was decreasing.”
Of course, any bariatric patient will tell you that the journey isn’t without its hurdles. Neveans was candid about one such challenge:
“Dumping is also a very real part of this journey. I haven’t had it often (overall), and I still get it if I eat something too fatty, sugary, or oily. “
New Life after weight loss
By April 2024, her fitness and overall health had transformed dramatically.
“I was going to the gym five times a week, and the changes in my fitness, strength, and body shape were becoming more visible– —even when the scales didn’t reflect much movement. This kept me motivated.“
Today, Neveans enjoys a vibrant and active lifestyle that once felt out of reach. She’s gone from a size 26 to a size 6 in tops and a size 10 in trousers, embracing her new-found freedom and confidence.
“I’ve sold many of my old clothes on Vinted and embraced buying a whole new wardrobe. I now enjoy clothes shopping on the high street– —a pleasure I never thought I’d experience.”
Celebrating Non-Scale Victories
“I’ve sold many of my old clothes on Vinted and embraced buying a whole new wardrobe. I now enjoy clothes shopping on the high street– —a pleasure I never thought I’d experience.”
“Some of the non-scale victories that mean the most to me include:”
“The seatbelt fitting comfortably on a plane”
“Being able to sit in any chair without discomfort or encroaching on others’ space”
“Walking through a train or plane aisle without having to turn sideways”
“Feeling comfortable in my own skin and owning the space I occupy, rather than trying to shrink myself”
“Watching muscle definition slowly but surely start to appear”
“Enjoying being more active, going for walks and hikes”
Ready for Your Own Transformation?
At Phoenix Health, we believe that weight loss surgery is about more than just numbers it’s about restoring quality of life. Nevean’s story is a shining example of what’s possible when expert care from a weight loss clinic meets patient determination.
If you’re considering weight loss surgery and want to learn more about how Phoenix Health can help you on your journey, don’t hesitate to get in touch; You can submit FREE online consultation request via the form below. Your transformation could be closer than you think.
Call us: 01244 738 159
Email: Enquiries@phoenix-health.co.uk
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Medically Reviewed by Lujain Alhassan, BSc, ANutr
Registered Associate Nutritionist and Bariatric Nutrition
