From Bariatric Surgery To Bodybuilding!
December 24, 2013A Before and After Celebration: Featuring Alyssa R.
OH Username: Hammy_Grl
Weight loss: 180 pounds
Surgery type: Duodenal Switch
Surgeon: Dr. Viveck Prachand
Not only was I given a second chance at life, but I was given a brand new life! Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would have the opportunity to change my own life.
My story isn’t much different than anyone else's; big kid, big teenager, big young adult. I tried all the diets, “miracle pills”, and even the Lap-Band. After two failed Lap-Bands and growing to 340lbs my doctor told me about the DS surgery. After a slow start of weight loss I had my “click” moment where I realized that the surgery only does so much. It was MY responsibility to change my lifestyle to help the surgery do what I need it to. Once I reached my goal weight, I wanted to challenge my body even further so there the decision came to start bodybuilding. I am currently studying to be a certified personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and want to work specifically with those who are classified morbidly obese. It is my goal in life to help others with that same transformation. We all need to help each other through this. We are all a community, we are here for each other and we all deserve to be proud of what we see looking back in the mirror.
Editor's note: Keep an eye out for Alyssa's book about her journey set to be released in the Summer of 2014!
