Half the Girl, Twice the Woman

Hey, everyone!

My name is Rachel, and in 2020 I embarked on an incredible journey of self-discovery and transformation. Through trials and challenges, I have lost a remarkable 180 pounds, reshaping my body and my life in the process.

It all started with a decision to prioritize my health and well-being. Before I underwent a vertical sleeve surgery, I had already managed to shed 50 pounds through sheer determination and hard work. However, as the weight melted away, I faced a new set of challenges— one of them being excess skin that now hinders my ability to live comfortably in my new body.

Let me assure you that throughout this journey, I have always loved myself. That unwavering self-love remains intact. However, I believe that I deserve to be able to fully enjoy and embrace the skin I'm in, free from the physical discomfort caused by the remnants of my past weight. It is a constant reminder of the incredible progress I've made, but also a reminder of the obstacles I still face.

The road to reaching my goal weight has not been easy. It has demanded perseverance, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. Now, as I stand here, half the weight I used to be, I feel like twice the woman I was before. This journey has empowered me in ways I never thought possible.

The intense skin removal surgery that I now require is not only physically demanding but also financially burdensome. The sheer amount of excess skin I need to have removed surpasses what is considered a standard procedure, and finding a surgeon willing to undertake this task has been a challenge in itself. After countless consultations, frustrating appointments, and even a canceled surgery, I am finally ready. I have a major skin removal surgery scheduled for December 2023.

However, what troubles me deeply is the lack of coverage for skin removal by insurance plans for bariatric patients like myself. These surgeries are not cosmetic; they are medically necessary for our well-being and quality of life. I have spent countless hours on the phone with my insurance, fighting for the coverage I believe we all deserve. It is simply unacceptable that we have to face this financial burden alone.

This is why I am reaching out to you, my beloved community, for support. Your generosity and contributions to my skin removal fund will not only help me regain physical comfort but also restore my sense of freedom. Each act of kindness will have a lasting impact on my life, allowing me to fully embrace and celebrate the person I have become.

I am incredibly grateful for your love, encouragement, and understanding. Thank you for joining me on this transformative journey and for believing in my right to feel comfortable in my own skin. Your support means the WORLD to me.

With lots of love and gratitude,

Rachel