A PAGE FROM A DOCTOR’S DIARY

Together through every step

Seven years ago, Anaya walked into our clinic as a young, bubbly girl. She had struggled with obesity since puberty. She chose to undergo a bariatric surgery in the form of a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and stepped into a new phase of life.

Yesterday, she came in for a follow-up consultation—a graceful woman, now married, a mother of two, and running her own business. Over the years, life has changed beautifully for her. But one thing hasn’t changed: her struggle with weight. Unlike many other health conditions, obesity is rarely understood. The frustration, the social pressure, the silent judgment—it can eat you up from inside.

Over the last 7 years, we have walked this journey together as a team—helping her through phases of weight regain after both pregnancies. This time, too, we helped her achieve her weight loss target. Our patients slowly become part of a larger family, and their victories, big or small, mean everything to us.

She told us about the joy and hope she regains with even a little progress, made possible through our support. And as she left, she said, “I really love you for all the support that you have given to me through the years.” Hearing that touched me deeply. It’s moments like these that make all the effort worthwhile.

This journey is not about numbers on a scale. It is about being understood, supported, and never left alone.

Obesity is a chronic and relapsing disease. And that is why it needs long-term care—care that continues well beyond the treatment itself.

©️Dr. Aparna Govil Bhasker

PS- The image is AI generated