ENCORE - Past ASMBS President Dr. Ann Rogers Has a Mission: Ending Stigma and Shame in Obesity and Bariatric Treatment

Are we doing enough to ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against obesity? What if bariatric surgery is not just about weight loss, but about treating a chronic, misunderstood disease?In this revisited episode, we sit down with Dr. Richard Peterson, the newly elected president of the ASMBS, to talk about his mission to No One Left Behind. From his military roots to his passionate advocacy, Dr. Peterson delves deeply into why obesity is considered a disease, how bariatric surgery is a critical form of medical care rather than a cosmetic procedure, and what must change to ensure equitable access, education, and support for all.Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!   IN THIS EPISODE:(03:47) Dr. Peterson shares his professional background and the mission of ASMBS(10:40) As president, past initiatives will move forward and the discussion of bias toward obesity(18:01) Dr. Peterson’s mission is a call to action to “No One Left Behind,” which stems from his military background(31:06) Bariatric surgery is not a cosmetic procedure. Obesity is a disease(40:40) The importance of obesity education and why obesity not being associated with a specific organ was a game changer(49:06) Words matter, you aren’t just losing weight, you are fighting obesity(54:55) If you are suffering from obesity, you can get help. The mission is to remove the barriersKEY TAKEAWAYS:Dr. Peterson’s theme is “No One Left Behind," focusing on ensuring access to obesity treatment for all patients, supporting practices, and fostering unity across the bariatric community.Dr. Peterson continues efforts to reduce shame and stigma by educating medical professionals and the public that obesity is a disease, not a personal failing.Initiatives focus on integrating obesity education into medical curricula and advocating for comprehensive treatment access to enhance patient care.RESOURCES:BariNation Website Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-communityOTHER RESOURCES: BariNation - EmailGUEST RESOURCES:ASMBS - WebsiteDr. Richard Peterson LinkedInUT Health San Antonio BIOGRAPHY: Dr. Peterson serves as the Chief of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery for UT Health San Antonio and is the medical director of the Christus Weight Loss Institute at Westover Hills.Dr. Peterson is highly active in both clinical and academic aspects of bariatric surgery. He is the current president of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons (ASMBS), a past president of the Texas Association for Bariatric Surgery (TABS) and has...

Obesity is not your fault—but it is your fight. In this powerful BariNation episode, we welcome Dr. Faiz Shariff, renowned Bariatric Surgery and Metabolic Medicine physician, who breaks down the science proving obesity is a genetic disease, not a personal failure. Dr. Shariff explains how 70% of obesity stems from genetics and epigenetics, creating hormonal imbalances that set your body's weight set point beyond your control. We explore why bariatric surgery remains the most effective treatment for this chronic condition, yet faces massive stigma and insurance barriers. This conversation challenges everything you've been told about willpower and dieting, revealing why obesity is not your fault but your fight. Discover how metabolic disease treatment through surgery can change your genetic expression, improve your quality of life, and help you reclaim your crown.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   Why Obesity is Not Your Fault—Discover the science behind genetic factors, obesity, leptin resistance, and set point theory that proves 70% of obesity is genetic, not a willpower issue.Overcoming the obesity stigma and insurance coverage bariatric surgery barriers. Understand the challenges this treatment faces and how to navigate your bariatric surgery journey with the proper support.The power of Non-Scale Victories and Post Op Support—Shift focus from goal weights to disease resolution, flexibility, and lasting quality of life improvements.Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Dr. Faiz Shariff, the "Robot Queen" Obesity Medicine Physician, shares her medically proven position that "Obesity is Not Your Fault But It's Your Fight"06:19 Why Obesity Is Not Your Fault: Breaking down the outdated calories in/calories out paradigm and genetic factors in obesity science09:00 Understanding leptin resistance, hormonal imbalance, weight gain, and how the set point theory controls your body weight16:23 How bariatric surgery changes epigenetics and reduces passing bad genes to future generations, and the stigma associated with obesity20:43 Insurance covering bariatric surgery challenges and why obesity stigma creates unique treatment barriers compared to cancer32:07 Adaptive thermogenesis explained: Why repeated dieting makes weight loss harder each time36:56 Pre-op preparation and bariatric surgery journey mindset shifts for long-term success42:31 Non-Scale Victories matter more than goal weights: Focus on disease resolution and flexibility52:17 Building community, shedding toxic relationships, and gaining confidence post op support58:10 Final thoughts on identity shift, mindset change, and reclaiming your crown in the fight against chronic diseaseKEY TAKEAWAYS:  Obesity is 70% genetic. Your body conserves energy through genetic factors, obesity, and epigenetics, creating hormonal imbalance and weight gain through leptin resistance and the elevated set-point theory. This isn't about willpower; it's about biology fighting against you.Obesity stigma creates dangerous barriers. Unlike cancer patients, those with obesity face insurance coverage, bariatric surgery denials, requirements not to gain weight during approval, and judgment for seeking treatment. This chronic disease deserves the same respect as any...

Hair loss after bariatric surgery, or while on GLP-1 medications, is a common issue among patients, but it doesn't have to be permanent. In this BariNation episode, we welcome back Dr. Edmund Chen to discuss why hair loss after bariatric surgery occurs and what you can do about it. Dr. Chen explains that post-bariatric surgery hair thinning happens due to the stress the body is subject to from surgery and rapid weight loss. The good news? With the right approach—including increased protein for hair growth, targeted vitamins like biotin and zinc, and getting in movement for increased blood flow—you can minimize loss and promote healthy regrowth. April shares her personal journey with hair loss and the strategies that helped her see real results. Whether you're pre-op or already experiencing thinning, this episode offers practical, expert-backed solutions.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   ✅ Why bariatric patients experience hair loss and how metabolic surgery side effects, like caloric deficit and body stress, trigger hair loss✅ The essential role of protein for hair growth and how increasing your daily intake can help prevent post-bariatric surgery hair thinning and support regrowth✅ Which bariatric vitamin regimen works best, including biotin and zinc supplements, collagen for hair health, and hair, skin, and nails vitamins to promote stronger hair✅ How exercise and hair growth are connected through increased blood flow to the scalp, plus proven hair regrowth treatment options for hair regrowthTune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Why do bariatric patients experience hair loss after weight loss surgery 03:30 Top three solutions: protein for hair growth, vitamins, and brands that support hair growth 04:30 Importance of bariatric vitamin regimen, including biotin and zinc supplements, and collagen for hair health07:39 How exercise and hair growth connect through increased scalp blood flow09:02 Practical tips: massage scalp, focus on basics before investing in expensive hair regrowth treatment10:33 Dr. Chen reassures patients that hair loss is temporary and regrowth happens after reaching their lowest weightKEY TAKEAWAYS:  💎 Bariatric hair loss is temporary and typically stops once you reach your lowest weight—it's a sign your body is prioritizing weight loss surgery recovery and metabolic changes over hair growth💎 Increase your protein for hair growth intake beyond typical goals (aim for 80-90 grams daily if experiencing thinning) since hair is made of protein and requires adequate nutrition to regenerate💎 Exercise and hair growth are directly connected—regular movement increases blood flow and oxygen to hair follicles on your scalp, creating healthier conditions for regrowthABOUT THE GUEST: Dr. Edmund Chen, a skilled bariatric surgeon, graduated with honors from Johns Hopkins University and earned his medical degree from Cornell University. After researching metabolism at the National Institutes of Health and training at Northwestern and Duke, he specializes in ultra-minimally invasive bariatric surgery using the da Vinci system, including gastric sleeve, bypass, and revisions. Known for compassionate, patient-focused care, he optimizes outcomes for bariatric patients at his...

Have you ever felt judged or misunderstood because of your weight or health struggles? Shame and stigma often surround the conversation about obesity and treatments like bariatric surgery. In this revisited episode of the BariNation podcast, we welcome Dr. Ann Rogers, past Bariatric Surgeon and President of ASMBS (American Society of Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery), who sheds light on the stigma surrounding bariatric surgery and how it addresses more than just weight loss. Dr. Rogers explains how bariatric surgery can correct serious health problems like diabetes, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease, ultimately improving a person's quality of life. We also dive into the resistance to bariatric surgery, the changes needed in healthcare, and how medications and mindfulness can play a role in weight management. Dr. Rogers also shares valuable advice to help break the cycle of shame and self-doubt.We need your help to keep the BariNation Podcast in production. Your one-time or recurring donations help us ensure this free support remains open to everyone. Click Drive To Thrive - Donation to learn more and give. THANK YOU for your support!IN THIS EPISODE:[00:42] What drew Dr. Rogers to bariatric surgery and improving the quality of life[6:58] Why do people resist bariatric surgery? Is it shame and stigma[15:36] Changes general practitioners need to make in the insurance industry[25:01] Medications to lose weight and why obesity wants to come back[34:55] The value of mindfulness and the capacity to live life differently[40:23] Discussion that Medicare and Medicaid will have access to GLP1 and forecasting for 2025 and Dr. Rogers's parting advice[45:54] Believing the lies we tell ourselves and hear more in the BariNation Support CommunityKEY TAKEAWAYS:Bariatric Surgery Addresses More Than Weight Loss. While bariatric surgery visibly impacts weight, its actual value lies in addressing underlying health conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease, significantly improving quality of life. However, the stigma surrounding obesity and bariatric surgery often deters patients from seeking help. Obesity is a complex, chronic disease that is influenced by genetics, biology, and environmental factors. It's not just a matter of personal choice or willpower; blaming individuals for their condition is unjust and counterproductive.Bariatric surgery and related treatments can offer substantial benefits, and despite challenges like weight regain or access to medications, patients should remember that they are worthy of care and support.RESOURCES:BariNation Website Patient Resource LinkGUEST BIO: Dr. Rogers is the Director of the Penn State Health Surgical Weight Loss Programs. Dr. Rogers is past President of the American Society of Metabolic & Bariatric Surgeons (ASMBS).ASMBS MISSION: To enhance the well-being of individuals affected by obesity and associated illnesses through the progression of metabolic and bariatric surgical techniques and other medical interventions.

Bariatric support programs are key to long-term success. In this episode of BariNation, Kellie Armstrong, RN and Integrated Health Director at ASMBS, shares insights from her 20-year journey as both a bariatric patient and healthcare leader. She discusses the evolution of obesity medicine, the power of multidisciplinary care, and the three C’s of success—continuous, conversation, and connection—highlighting why strong patient-provider communication changes everything.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   How bariatric support programs have evolved from isolated surgical procedures to comprehensive integrated health teams that provide wraparound bariatric care throughout your entire journeyWhy long-term weight loss success depends on continuous patient-provider communication and staying connected to your bariatric program accreditation-certified care team beyond the first year post-opWhat questions to ask when shopping for a metabolic bariatric surgery program, including how to find obesity medicine specialists who treat obesity as the chronic disease of obesity it truly isThe importance of post-op support groups and bariatric patient education in maintaining your results, plus why bariatric surgery follow-up should never stop, even 20 years after your procedureTune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Introduction 06:35 Kellie’s first bariatric surgery patient in 2000, and how nursing education has evolved in obesity medicine13:09 The intersection of professional and patient life: merging your bariatric identity with everyday life19:27 Why bariatric support programs are not a quick fix and the importance of using tools from your toolbox22:27 Creating patient-provider communication pathways and keeping integrated health teams accessible to patients26:59 The three C's framework: continuous, conversation and connection for long-term weight loss success30:22 How ASMBS accreditation programs share best practices and collaborate across bariatric care coordination teams40:53 The future of obesity medicine and eliminating stigma in disease of obesity treatment46:31 Discussion of shopping for the right bariatric program, asking for bariatric surgery follow-up resources and contacting your insurance provider50:30 Don't seek medical advice on social media: the importance of professional bariatric patient educationKEY TAKEAWAYS:  Bariatric surgery is just one tool, Long-term success requires lifelong, integrated care including nutrition, behavioral health, medication, and lifestyle support.Choose programs that stay with you. Find a bariatric team offering real relationships and full support, or ask to be connected with obesity medicine specialists.Your bariatric journey becomes life. Stay connected through post-op groups, annual follow-ups, and peers who understand your experience for years to come.Bariatric care has evolved — from open surgeries and long hospital stays to minimally invasive procedures and comprehensive, team-based obesity treatment.ABOUT THE GUEST: Kellie Armstrong's RN career began at Rhode Island Hospital in 1998, progressing from staff nurse to Bariatric Surgery Service Line Manager when Brown University Health merged its bariatric programs in 2012.

In this revisited episode, we look back at the theme for 2025, Relentless Curiosity. Dr. Sarah Hayek, a bariatric surgeon at the Kentucky Bariatric Institute, is back on the podcast to share her husband’s journey through bariatric surgery. She discusses the emotional and physical factors behind his decision and highlights the importance of embracing change in overcoming obesity. We explore how the surgery isn’t just for extreme obesity, the role of community support, and why some medical approaches may inadvertently contribute to the problem. Tune in to learn how bariatric surgery can be transformative for individuals at different stages of obesity and why support is key to long-term success.Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.IN THIS EPISODE:[2:42] The theme for Bari-Nation in 2025 is Relentless Curiosity [4:36] Dr. Hayek shares her husband’s journey through bariatric surgery[15:35] Looking at the risk factors and deciding to have bariatric surgery[25:21] Understanding that obesity is a disease[30:56] Surgery is not just for the obese[39:41] Obesity is an isolating disease, and you need the community of the BariNation[48:56] The Kentucky Bariatric Institutes approach to obesityKEY TAKEAWAYS:Bariatric surgery is not limited to individuals with extreme obesity. Those with moderate excess weight or health risks from visceral fat can also benefit, making surgery a preventative health measure rather than a last resort.The decision to undergo bariatric surgery often stems from the realization that traditional weight management methods—like diet and exercise—may not be enough. It's a critical tool in a broader treatment plan, including medical support and lifestyle adjustments.Long-term success in weight management post-surgery is tied to daily habits, continuous care, and emotional support. The community of Bari-Nation plays a vital role in helping individuals navigate challenges and maintain motivation throughout their transformative journey.RESOURCES:BariNation Website Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-communityGUEST RESOURCES:Kentucky Bariatric Institute - WebsiteBIOGRAPHY: Kentucky Bariatric Institute (KBI) is excited to welcome Sarah Hayek, MD, MEd, to the Georgetown and central Kentucky communities. Dr. Hayek will enhance the bariatric program by offering robotic bariatric surgery and general surgery procedures. She completed medical school at Geisinger Commonwealth in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and a residency in general surgery at Geisinger Medical Center, with an additional year in surgical education research. With over two years of experience, Dr. Hayek...

Bariatric support groups provide an essential community for weight loss surgery patients. Today, we welcome Jonathan Cleveland to the BariNation Podcast to discuss his transformative experience just two months after VSG surgery. Jonathan shares how the BariNation community helped him navigate post-op bariatric surgery recovery challenges, from managing protein intake to celebrating non-scale victories. He reveals how the "space and grace" motto became his daily mantra when struggling with post-op bariatric life expectations. Natalie Tierney and Herb Lentz, who host the beginner bariatric meetup groups in the BariNation Community, co-host the episode to advocate for the power of peer connection versus unreliable internet searches and Facebook groups.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   ✅ How bariatric support groups provide emotional validation and practical advice that Facebook groups and internet searches cannot match✅ Why connecting with the bariatric community with Natalie Tierney in BariNation helps navigate post-op bariatric life challenges like protein and hydration goals✅ The "space and grace" approach to managing frustration during weight loss surgery recovery and celebrating non-scale victories✅ How beginner bariatric patient support meetups create a safe space for pre-op and newly post-op patients to share experiences✅ Why joining trusted virtual support groupsand meetups in BariNation  leads to better outcomes than self-diagnosing symptoms through unreliable online sourcesTune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Natalie Tierney opens the episode and invites Jonathan Cleveland and Herb Lentz to introduce themselves as members of the BariNation membership community. Jonathan is a two-month post-op bariatric patient, and Herb hosts beginner bariatric meetups02:36 How bariatric support groups provide a community with like-minded individuals who understand the unique struggles and non-scale victories06:05 The "space and grace" motto helps manage frustration with protein intake after surgery and hydration goals during weight loss surgery recovery, and other tips10:17 Overcoming fear of joining bariatric community online meetups as a newbie and finding welcoming peer support12:32 Jonathan shares why bariatric support groups provide trusted advice versus going down rabbit holes on Facebook groups and unreliable internet sourcesKEY TAKEAWAYS:  💎Bariatric support groups offer understanding that friends and family cannot provide, creating a space where members celebrate non-scale victories like not needing seatbelt extenders with genuine excitement💎 The "space and grace" mantra helps manage early post-op bariatric life frustrations when struggling to meet protein intake after surgery and hydration targets during weight loss surgery recovery💎 Virtual support groups provide vetted advice from real bariatric patient support members and medical professionals, preventing harmful self-diagnosis from unreliable Facebook groups and internet rabbit holes💎 Beginner bariatric community online meetups create cohorts where pre-op and newly post-op patients practice curiosity, ask questions without judgment, and build family-like connectionsABOUT THE GUEST: Jonathan Cleveland...

In this revisited episode, we're diving into the theme of curiosity—how it shapes our journey, fuels personal growth, and helps us navigate life after bariatric surgery. Curiosity isn’t just about asking questions; it’s about staying open to new possibilities, exploring uncharted paths, and discovering what works best for you. Our definition of thriving is to progress towards or realize a goal despite or because of circumstances, and curiosity plays a key role in helping us thrive. Together, we’ll unpack how curiosity can lead to breakthroughs, deepen your self-awareness, and transform your perspective on health, wellness, and beyond. Let’s jump in and spark some curiosity!Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.IN THIS EPISODE:00:00 Introduction0:49 Using the tool of curiosity to thrive in 2025 after bariatric surgery2:54 Jason describes how relentless curiosity has taken him to the gym7:01 Natalie shares how she struggled with what was within her control10:33 This episode is for everyone to thrive and use relentless curiosity 11:53 Get curious about your bariatric journey and try new things within your control13:44 Being relentless about curiosity to thrive and actively using the BariNation communityKEY TAKEAWAYS:Try using curiosity as a proactive tool to overcome obstacles and thrive, regardless of circumstances. This approach involves shifting from frustration to asking empowering questions like "I wonder what would happen if...?" to spark problem-solving and innovation.Instead of feeling overwhelmed by all the challenges, try solving one problem at a time. This focused approach allows for incremental progress, whether adapting a fitness routine, making bariatric dietary adjustments, or tackling life challenges.Practicing curiosity within a supportive community amplifies its impact. Engaging with others who understand and encourage experimentation creates a safe space to try new things, share insights, and celebrate progress together and bariatric surgery.RESOURCES:BariNation Website ABOUT:If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.

What are the advantages of a bariatric surgery care team? Today, you will discover the vital role of an integrated health team in bariatric surgery. On this episode of the BariNation podcast, we are thrilled to interview Heidi Bednarchuk, exploring why a cohesive bariatric surgery care team is key to patient care success. From pre-op preparation to post-op support, discover how to choose a team that supports your obesity treatment journey and enhances quality of life. Heidi shares insights on building an integrated health team for bariatric surgery, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration for long-term wellness.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   The critical role of a bariatric surgery care team in ensuring successful patient care throughout the obesity treatment journeyHow an integrated health team collaborates to provide comprehensive pre-op preparation and post-op support for lasting resultsWhy prioritizing quality of life is key to choosing the right bariatric surgery care team for your needsPractical questions to ask to identify an integrated health team for bariatric surgery that supports long-term wellnessThe importance of patient care advocacy and how a cohesive team enhances obesity treatment outcomesTune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.TIMESTAMPS:  02:50 Heidi’s role in integrated health team leadership for patient care and the vital role of the bariatric surgery care team beyond pre-op preparation and post-op support12:28 Heidi explains why evaluating the bariatric surgery care team is crucial for quality of life in the obesity treatment journey, such as roles like the bariatric nurse14:33 Heidi uses a fruit smoothie analogy to describe a cohesive, integrated health team for bariatric surgery, enhancing quality of life25:05 Advice on questions to identify an effective bariatric surgery care team, focusing on interdisciplinary team communication32:24 Heidi discusses studies showing patient care priorities like nutrition and mental health in post-op support, often overlooked42:24 Discussion of the stigma, eliminating old mindsets and communicating with care teams who are not integrated                                                                                                                      47:30 Emphasis on staying connected with the bariatric surgery care team to avoid post-surgical support drop-off for obesity treatmentKEY TAKEAWAYS:  An integrated health team for bariatric surgery collaborates to enhance quality of life and address challenges in obesity treatment.Asking the right questions helps identify an effective bariatric surgery care team focused on interdisciplinary team...

Have you ever felt stuck in your bariatric journey, unsure what to do next?  Are you seeking a supportive community that understands life's challenges after surgery? If these questions resonate with you, you won’t want to miss this episode of the BariNation podcast.In this re-release episode, we dive deep into the real experiences and challenges of bariatric patients, offering tools and insights to help you on your journey. In this episode, we’re exploring two pivotal concepts—"space and grace" and "pause and pivot"—that are integral to the BariNation support community for bariatric patients. These tools are designed to assist members in navigating their weight loss journey with greater ease and understanding.Whether you're just starting your weight loss journey or you've been living with bariatric surgery for years, the BariNation community is designed to provide the support and motivation you need to stay on track. Tune into this conversation and community that will make you feel understood, supported, and empowered on your path. Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.IN THIS EPISODE:[1:26] BariNation is here for your bariatric surgery journey[3:20] BariNation offers Space and Grace[7:12] When facing a challenge, Pause and Pivot[11:11] The BariNation community is here to support youKEY TAKEAWAYS:Space and Grace – This concept emphasizes the importance of removing yourself from triggering situations (physically or mentally) and giving yourself understanding rather than harsh self-criticism. It’s about creating space to manage emotions and extend yourself grace without making excuses.Pause and Pivot – When facing challenges or hitting a plateau in the bariatric journey, taking a moment to pause, reflect, and reassess your direction can help you make intentional and sustainable changes. This prevents reactive decision-making and supports long-term success.Community and Support Matter – The BariNation podcast and support community provide a space for bariatric patients at all stages to connect, share experiences, and seek guidance from professionals and peers. Engaging with others on a similar journey can provide essential encouragement and perspective.BariNation Website