August 26, 2025
Ten Months, 170 Pounds, and a Whole New Life
Written by: Denver Health patient Felecia Vasquez
In March of 2024, I began my weight loss journey and entered the Denver Health Bariatric Surgery Center program, which would be my second time attempting the program. The first time around, time and seriousness weren't in my favor. It took another year before I felt serious about taking the next step. With hard work and dedication, I was able to lose about 60 lbs. before surgery, which helped me develop the mindset I needed to be successful. I had Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass surgery on October 23, 2024, and never looked back. Ten months and 170 pounds later, I am a completely different person. More than the number on the scale, I've gained energy, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. For the first time in my life, I am consistently doing something for myself, and it’s been nothing short of life-changing.
Overcoming Weight Loss Struggles
Before surgery, I spent years stuck in cycles of dieting, starting strong and then hitting plateaus that left me discouraged. I have been overweight my entire life, as far back as I can remember; weight was always my biggest struggle. This time felt different, the motivation, the seriousness of the situation, I could envision the kind of future my life would be if I didn’t do something, a harsh, unsettling reality was staring me in the face, and this was when I knew I was ready. I wanted more out of life. I wanted to be the healthy, happy mother my kids deserve.
To be honest, I almost backed out of the surgery the night before, as I was met with a mixture of nerves and uncertainty. I called my support system, weighed the pros and cons, remembered why I wanted this so badly, and then, for the first time in my life, I followed through. With the help and support of the incredible bariatric team at Denver Health, my vision became my reality.
A Healthier Life's Journey
This journey has taught me so much, especially that this is not a race. There is no finish line. I am learning that consistency is key, and the most important thing I can do is take it one day at a time. Just keep going, trust the process, and give myself grace.
The mental aspect has been one of the hardest parts, but therapy has helped me work through the deeper reasons behind my relationship with food. It helped me forgive myself, eat more intuitively, and stay focused on long-term changes.
Technology Tools for Weight Loss
I've also leaned into technology to support my journey. AI has been an amazing tool for creating personalized meal plans, grocery lists that fit my calorie goals, and simple, effective workouts I can do at home or the gym. This journey does not come easily, or happen overnight, it is a tool for a much bigger picture.
Unique Weight Loss Journey
If you're starting out, my biggest advice is this: don’t compare your journey to others, use your resources, ask for help, and don't be afraid to challenge yourself. Take the stairs, park a little farther, and when you're tired, go for that 10-minute walk anyway. You won't regret it.
I feel stronger, lighter, and more grounded than I've ever felt. I am thankful that Denver Health’s Bariatric Surgery Center prepared me for life after surgery. I wouldn’t have been even remotely successful if I hadn’t worked the program first. The only regret I have is not doing this sooner, though in truth, if I had done it earlier, I wouldn't have been ready.
