My weight always used to negatively affect my daily life. I had physical but especially emotional constraints. I opted for bariatric surgery after years failing with several diets. I weighed more and more, and this worsened after having 2 kids. I was hiding myself and avoiding to go out. When I had to, I was always looking for places I could reach by car. At the same time, food was my greatest obsession, I was thinking about it all the time. Obesity was such a problem for me that I isolated myself from everything and everybody. I constantly felt judged by everybody. Bariatric surgery drastically changed my life. I got full mobility back and I enjoy walking and doing sports. My approach to food also changed: it is now a secondary thing; I’m sated with small portions and I could even avoid eating if I wanted. My healthier relationship with food makes me more relaxed.

LIFE BEFORE SURGERY

Before surgery, I had several daily difficulties. It was hard for me to even tie my shoelaces. I struggled dressing my children up. I was almost depressed. I couldn't accept myself anymore, I couldn't dress as I wished. Doing sports was impossible for me. I had a lot of extra-weight and I wasn't even able to take a bike ride because of it. Now everything is easier for me, even walking is completely different.

HOW FRANCESCA’S LIFE HAS CHANGED

Surgery made me a different person. I didn't change only in the way I look, but in my character too. I started being confident, free, spontaneous and peaceful. This makes me less aggressive, while before I used to often struggle with anger. I enjoy going out, I enjoy dressing nicely and make an appearance.

My son told me about how he used to be ashamed of me when I was picking him up from school. He continued saying that now he's proud of me. This hurt me but made me feel extremely happy and confident at the same time, as I knew he was really satisfied about his mother's change.

The surgery made me feel good, I live better now. I’m comfortable with myself and others.

It’s a path to be followed with commitment and motivation, but I can ensure that after a few months the first results will be noticeable. I asked myself: “why didn’t you do it before?”

I used to be third-grade obese, now I achieved my ideal weight and I am extremely happy I reached this goal.