2024 Bariatric Connect Conference Co-Hosts — Lauren Sanchez & Yelena Kibasova

June 25, 2024

We are thrilled to announce Lauren Sanchez and Yelena Kibasova as the 2024 Bariatric Connect Conference Co-Hosts! Each year, ObesityHelp Conferences are filled with unparalleled excitement and energy, in part due to our amazing co-hosts, who both bring laughter, support, and inspiration to the stage. Lauren and Yelena will lead the way to ensure that your conference experience will be filled with education, motivation, unforgettable connections, and lots of fun. Join them at Bariatric Connect 2024 for an escape to beautiful, sunny Newport Beach, California, this September 20th and 21st!

Lauren & Yelena — 2024 Bariatric Connect Conference Co-Hosts

Having previously served as co-hosts, Lauren and Yelena understand your journey intimately. Both are WLS post-ops and patient advocates who devote their time and energy to supporting others. Together, they have lost an impressive combined total of 350 pounds!!

About Lauren

Lauren Sanchez underwent Lap-Band surgery in 2008, followed by a revision to RNY in 2014 due to irreversible dilation of the upper pouch. With relentless hard work and dedication, she has since lost a total of 200 pounds. As the volunteer Support Group Outreach Coordinator for the conferences, Lauren has spoken at support groups across the United States, both in-person and via video conferencing. She talks about the conference and the importance of community support at the support groups and shares her experiences as a 10-year attendee. Lauren lives in Southern California and enjoys spending time with her family.

Attending the ObesityHelp Conferences over the last 10 years has allowed me to put my focus on me... no one else. I carve this weekend out for me to focus on myself, get back on track, learn what's going on in the community, connect with old friends, and create new connections. ObesityHelp has always allowed me to feel so rejuvenated and informed during every event, and having that spark really helps me with keeping my mind, body, and spirit on track! - Lauren

About Yelena

Yelena Kibasova of MoreThanMyWeight.com is a 16-year bariatric post-op and NASM-certified personal trainer who provides coaching for bariatric patients at every stage of their journey. She is an award-winning writer and public speaker who passionately advocates for access to obesity care. You can find her content, inspiring and informative videos, and community support across all social media platforms at @morethanmyweight.

You can also attend Yelena's sessions at the 2024 Bariatric Connect conference! You'll love her energetic fitness session, Rise & Shine for Bodyweight Strength, and her insightful main session, My 16-Year WLS Journey: From Weight Loss to Maintenance.

Why does someone like me – a 16-year-out bariatric patient at maintenance weight – come to the conferences? I come to remember that I am an individual fighting the disease of obesity. I come to support and inspire those who are just starting the journey. And most of all, I come for the support and understanding of bariatric patients and medical professionals, because, let’s face it, they get it! - Yelena