Estelle Keraldy’s Transformation: From 134 Kilo Weight to Reunion Bypass Journey at 37

Woman’s Life Transformed After Bypass Surgery at 31

Réunion Island, France – A woman, identified as Estelle, is sharing her story of remarkable recovery and renewed life following bypass surgery undergone at the Western Hospital center Réunion (CHOR) at the age of 31. Initially weighing 131 kg post-operation, Estelle has dramatically improved her health and quality of life, now advocating for proactive health measures for those struggling with morbid obesity.

Estelle’s journey began with frequent hospital visits and a physician’s recommendation for a bypass. Despite initial resistance from her mother, Estelle made the heroic decision too proceed with the surgery. the conversion has been profound.

“Now I can move better, when before I couldn’t move,” estelle explained. “I had help, home nurses. It has changed my life, I can do activities, it doesn’t bother me. I feel better.”

While she initially experienced dietary adjustments after the procedure, Estelle reports being able to eat normally now. She continues to receive ongoing care at the CHU de Bordeaux, including treatment for sleep apnea.A recent biopsy revealed a link in her esophagus requiring treatment, a potential precursor to cancer that is now being addressed.

Now residing in mainland France for the past three years, Estelle has channeled her experience into positive action, founding an association dedicated to supporting others.

“I advise them to do physical activities, not to be afraid, to take courage because it will change their life,” Estelle urges those battling morbid obesity. “set up a good diet, balanced and avoid sweets. They have to do it to change their lives.”

Understanding Bypass Surgery & Morbid Obesity: A Long-Term Perspective

Estelle’s story highlights the potential benefits of bariatric surgery, like a gastric bypass, for individuals facing severe obesity and related health complications.However, its crucial to understand that bypass surgery isn’t a quick fix. It’s a important medical intervention requiring lifelong commitment to lifestyle changes.

What is a Gastric Bypass?

A gastric bypass reduces the size of the stomach and reroutes the digestive system, limiting food intake and nutrient absorption.This can lead to ample weight loss and improvements in obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea.

Beyond Surgery: The Importance of Holistic Care

Estelle’s ongoing care at CHU de Bordeaux, including sleep apnea treatment and monitoring for esophageal issues, underscores the importance of comprehensive, long-term follow-up after bariatric surgery. This includes:

Dietary Counseling: A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is essential for maintaining weight loss and overall health.
Physical Activity: Regular exercise is vital for improving cardiovascular health,building muscle mass,and enhancing well-being.
Mental Health Support: Addressing emotional and psychological factors related to weight and body image is crucial for long-term success.
Regular Medical Check-ups: Ongoing monitoring for potential complications and nutritional deficiencies is essential.

The Rising Tide of Obesity & Preventative Measures

Morbid obesity is a growing global health concern. While surgery can be a life-changing option for some,preventative measures remain paramount. These include:

Healthy Eating Habits: Prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods, limiting sugary drinks, and controlling portion sizes.
Regular Physical Activity: Aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Early Intervention: Addressing weight concerns early on, especially in children and adolescents.
Public Health Initiatives: Promoting healthy lifestyles through education, access to affordable healthy food, and safe environments for physical activity.

Estelle’s journey serves as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of medical intervention combined with personal determination and a commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Her message of courage and proactive health management offers hope and inspiration to those facing similar challenges.

What specific pre-operative preparations where crucial for Estelle’s Reunion bypass surgery?

Understanding Estelle’s Starting Point: A Life Constrained by weight

Estelle Keraldy, a resident of Reunion island, embarked on a life-altering journey at the age of 37, driven by the significant health challenges stemming from a weight of 134 kilograms (approximately 295 pounds). Her story isn’t unique; it reflects the struggles of manny battling severe obesity and its associated complications. Before undergoing bariatric surgery, specifically a Reunion bypass, Estelle faced limitations in daily activities, increased risk of chronic diseases, and a diminished quality of life. Common issues faced by individuals with similar morbid obesity include:

Joint pain and mobility issues

Increased risk of type 2 diabetes

Cardiovascular problems like hypertension and high cholesterol

Sleep apnea and respiratory difficulties

Psychological distress, including depression and anxiety.

Estelle’s decision to pursue surgical intervention wasn’t taken lightly. It was a carefully considered step after exploring and often failing with conventional weight loss methods.

The Reunion Bypass: A Detailed Look at the Procedure

The Reunion bypass, also known as the single-anastomosis duodenal bypass with a sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S), is a relatively newer bariatric procedure gaining prominence for its effectiveness. It combines elements of both the gastric sleeve and the duodenal bypass.Here’s a breakdown of what the surgery entails:

1. Sleeve Gastrectomy: Approximately 80% of the stomach is removed, creating a smaller, tube-like stomach (the “sleeve”). This restricts food intake.
2. Duodenal Bypass: A significant portion of the small intestine (duodenum) is bypassed, reducing calorie and nutrient absorption.
3. Single Anastomosis: The remaining stomach is connected directly to the lower part of the small intestine, creating a single connection point.

Compared to the traditional Roux-en-Y gastric bypass,the Reunion bypass is technically less complex,potentially leading to shorter surgery times and a reduced risk of complications. However,like all bariatric surgeries,it requires a thorough pre-operative evaluation and a commitment to long-term lifestyle changes. Weight loss surgery isn’t a quick fix; it’s a tool to facilitate a healthier lifestyle.

Estelle’s Surgical Journey and Post-Operative Care

Estelle’s surgery was performed by a specialized bariatric team in Reunion Island. The success of any bariatric procedure hinges on meticulous pre-operative planning, skilled surgical execution, and diligent post-operative care. Key aspects of Estelle’s post-operative plan likely included:

dietary Progression: A gradual transition from liquids to pureed foods, then to soft foods, and finally to a balanced, solid diet. This is crucial to allow the stomach to heal and adjust.

Nutritional Supplementation: The Reunion bypass can affect nutrient absorption, necessitating lifelong supplementation with vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D.

Regular Follow-Up Appointments: Monitoring Estelle’s weight loss, nutritional status, and overall health was paramount. These appointments allowed the medical team to address any concerns and provide ongoing support.

Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a regular exercise routine and making sustainable dietary changes were essential for maintaining long-term weight loss and preventing weight regain.

Weight Loss Results and Health Improvements

Following the Reunion bypass, Estelle experienced significant and sustained weight loss. While specific numbers are personal and vary, individuals undergoing this procedure can typically expect to lose 60-80% of their excess weight within the first 12-18 months. For Estelle, this translated to a substantial reduction from 134 kg. Beyond the aesthetic benefits, the surgery led to remarkable improvements in her health:

Resolution of Type 2 Diabetes: Many patients with