<div>Hello!
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<div>My name is Will Pope and a little over six years ago, I made a decision that saved my life: I had vertical sleeve gastrectomy surgery after years of struggling with my weight, health issues, and the emotional toll that came with it. At my heaviest (374 lbs), I felt stuck—trapped in a body that couldn’t keep up with the life I wanted to live. I was battling sleep apnea, joint pain, chronic fatigue, and the fear that my best years might already be behind me.
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<div>But that surgery was just the beginning.
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<div>Since then, I’ve lost over 200 pounds, weighing in now at 172 lbs. What followed was not easy—it was a complete transformation of my lifestyle. I had to relearn everything I thought I knew about food, about exercise, about how I saw myself. I committed to moving my body every day, eating with intention, and showing up even when it was hard. And it was hard. But every drop of sweat, every meal prepped, and every goal crushed brought me closer to the person I always knew was inside me. An army of supporters including my partner, family and friends were undoubtedly a huge contributing factor to my success.
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<div>Now I can say: I’m proud. I’m healthy. I’m active. I’m living a life I never knew existed when i was 374 pounds.
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<div>But there’s still one major barrier and battle to overcome: <strong><em>the excess skin.</em></strong>
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<div>Losing that much weight comes with a physical reminder that isn’t talked about enough—loose, painful, and sometimes debilitating skin that impacts my mobility, comfort, and confidence. It’s not just cosmetic—it’s a medical necessity for me to truly complete this journey. Unfortunately, reconstructive surgery is considered elective by most insurance providers, and the financial burden is substantial.
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<div>That’s why I’m asking for help, in the same way my circles pointed me toward the right resources for surgery.
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<div>I’m thrilled to have found an expert in reconstructive surgery following massive weight loss at The Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington with Dr. Douglas Forman, and have a surgery date for a early January 2026 for an extended Abdominoplasty - Fleu-De-Lis Extended, and Mastopexy -Gynecomastia procedures. 
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<div>If you’ve followed my journey, supported me, or believe in second chances and transformations, I would be incredibly grateful for your support in helping me afford this next and final step. Your donation doesn’t just help me feel comfortable in my body—it helps me finish the work I started when I decided to fight for my life.
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<div>Thank you for reading, for cheering me on, and for believing that people can change—and thrive! Wishing you and yours all the best on your journeys!
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<div>With gratitude,
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<div>Will
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<div>Instagram: @popepiqua
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