Kristal Hartman / Verywell
Kristal Hartmanis an accomplished health professional and passionate advocate for obesity awareness.
My journey withobesitybegan in my teens, a period marked by the physical and emotional changes puberty brings.
Painful periods and hormonal issues led me to start using birth control.
Kristal Hartman / Verywell
While it helped manage my symptoms, it also resulted in significant weight gain.
This discovery led to a diagnosis ofhypothyroidismand, soon after,polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS).
My 20s were a roller coaster of trying to start a family.
After a successful first pregnancy, I experienced several miscarriages.
Fertility treatments and the stress of these experiences took a toll on my body.
The emotional toll was immense, and the societal stigma surrounding obesity made things worse.
Facing Stigma in Healthcare
It was then that my endocrinologist suggestedbariatric surgery.
My primary care physician, however, was less supportive.
I waited a year before considering surgery, hoping to fix myself.
During that year, my health deteriorated further, leading to two hospitalizations.
I realized I wouldnt be there for my children if I didnt make a significant change.
Their sadness and concern for my health motivated me to finally schedule an appointment at a bariatric surgery center.
Losing 100 pounds over the following year transformed my health and my life.
The surgery helped me address the root cause of my health issuesobesityrather than just treating the symptoms.
Living with obesity is a lifelong journey.
Obesity is a disease I battle every day, a constant voice whispering doubt.
Its not about a lack of willpower or a sedentary lifestyle.
Obesity is a disease, and every person affected by it has tried to find solutions.
Recognizing this, I joined the Obesity Action Coalition and became an advocate for others facing the same struggles.
For the first time, I found a community of people who truly understood my journey.
I advocate for those living with obesity.
Dont let stigma and shame prevent you from seeking the care you deserve.
Together, we can change the narrative around obesity, one story at a time.
As told toLindsay Curtis.
