You’re probably well aware that being overweight puts you at higher risk of heart disease, diabetes and some cancers. But did you know that obesity also weakens your immune system, making you more likely to catch viruses and develop other infections?

So, you’ve decided to see a weight-loss surgeon. It’s a big step but you think it’s the right one. You’re tired of those kilos stubbornly sticking to you despite your efforts to shift them. You want a decisive change.

You’ve done your research, met your surgeon, asked your questions and decided to go ahead with bariatric surgery. Now, you’re wondering what to tell your family, friends and colleagues. How do you handle people’s questions about what you’ll be doing during your time off work?

Can you go to the gym yet? Can you visit Nan in her nursing home? Is it safe to go to hospital for your bariatric surgery now? In the middle of lockdown, we were encouraged to see ourselves as ‘safe at home’ rather than ‘stuck at home’.

Weight-loss surgery changes your body. That’s the aim, right? But you need to give yourself enough time to recover from the operation and adjust to a changed digestive system and diet.

What is your life worth? If you ask any person this question, most will tell you that their life is priceless. And it’s guaranteed that their loved ones will agree. How can you put a price on the life of your mum, dad, brother or sister? What about a close friend? How much is their friendship worth to you in dollars?