After gastric sleeve surgery in New Jersey, Professor N. Hyland beat obesity, improved her health, and discovered new adventures with her family.
“Seeking care from a skilled bariatric surgeon who has dedicated his career to treating obesity is the best way to improve your health and your life. Most doctors (and people) don’t know nearly enough about obesity. Screw the shame game—find the right doctor and start living your best life.”
(Note: Professor Hyland permitted us to share her recent social media post that cites her motivation to have bariatric surgery, her surgeon choice, Dr. Seun Sowemimo, and her 360-degree life change thereafter. We are deeply grateful to share her eloquent surgical weight loss commentary which will undoubtedly inspire others fighting the same battle to move forward.)
September 2025 | We just got back from an amazing trip to England and Ireland. We walked 20,000 steps a day and climbed a terrifying 618-step mountain staircase on Skellig Michael, built by sixth-century monks (second photo is me reaching the top). We were a family on the move every day, and I was keenly aware that four years ago I never could have considered taking this trip. My weight would have prevented it for me—and, by extension, for my kids and my husband, Mike.
The Turning Point: Choosing Gastric Sleeve With Dr. Sowemimo in NJ
In two days (Sept. 1), it will be four years since I had gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Seun Sowemimo at Prime Surgicare in Freehold, New Jersey. I started my journey with him in March 2021 (see first photo above). Since then, I’ve lost around 170 pounds, along with sleep apnea and most of my arthritic pain. I gained lower cholesterol, lower A1C, lower blood pressure, and far greater mobility.
Dr. Sowemimo didn’t just save my life—he made it possible for me to truly live my life.
Life After Bariatric Surgery: 170 Pounds Lost and Health Restored
This recent vacation was a stark reminder of how different my life is now. I can walk for miles, fit comfortably in airplane seats, not sweat profusely with minimal exertion, and even pack two weeks’ worth of clothing into a carry-on (smaller clothes take up less space!). Most importantly, I can experience amazing things that I simply couldn’t before.
Living Fully: From Skellig Michael to Everyday Joys
I’m grateful to Dr. Sowemimo, his entire staff, my employer for offering health insurance that allowed me to address this lifelong condition, and my family who supports and encourages me always. I wish this same abundance of riches for everyone living with obesity.
If you struggle with obesity and find your health, mobility, or opportunities limited by it, I hope you’ll consider seeking medical help. Feel free to contact me—I’m happy to talk about my experience.
Our culture of shame around obesity causes many people to remain steeped in self-loathing instead of seeking medical help. Some doctors even add to this shame. But seeking care from a skilled bariatric surgeon who has dedicated his career to treating obesity is the best way to improve your health and your life. Most doctors (and people) don’t know nearly enough about obesity. Screw the shame game—find the right doctor and start living your best life. ❤️
Professor Nora Hyland | September 2025 | Reprinted from social media with permission