Page 77 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2020

and HEALTHY
Mother of Three Battles Graves’ Disease Through Surgical Weight Loss
story by Kelsey Sunderman-Foster T photos courtesy of Tasha Smith
asha Smith’s journey to take control of her health wasn’t always easy – in fact, it usually wasn’t. Earlier in life, Smith was diagnosed with Graves’ disease, an
immune system disorder that causes an overproduction of thyroid hormones. After receiving treatment for the disease, her hyperthyroidism shifted to hypothyroidism.
“Hypothyroidism can cause some to have a slow and sluggish metabolism, making losing and maintaining weight especially di cult,” she said. “Ever since 2007, I found myself putting on weight that I just couldn’t get rid of. No matter how hard I worked at it, the weight wouldn’t budge.”
Feeling discouraged, the mother of three boys sought help. “I knew my sons needed a mother who was happy and healthy. At the time, I wasn’t either of those things,” said Smith. “Dr. Avara came highly recommended by a friend who had gone through the process and had amazing results.”
Smith started looking into weight loss surgery in 2017, but wanted to take the time to make a thoughtful and informed decision about her future. After speaking with the sta at the South Mississippi Surgical Weight Loss Center and doing her own research, she decided to do what was best for her health and wellbeing.
“On July 16, 2019, my life changed for the better,” Smith said. “That was the day that I had my laparoscopic gastric sleeve surgery. Since then I’ve lost a total of 95 pounds, and I’ve gone from wearing a 2XL uniform to a small!”
Now at a healthy weight of 174 pounds, Smith, a 39-year old registered nurse, could not be happier. “I love to dance, so being able to dance without my knees hurting and being able to be more active with my boys is amazing,” Smith said excitedly. “My sons are the light of my life, and I’m so happy to be able to enjoy life with them again.”
AFTER
SMITH
lost 95 pounds after surgery.
BEFORE SMITH prior to weight loss surgery.
The South Mississippi Surgical Weight Loss Center has been helping men and women like Tasha Smith to meet their weight loss goals since their formation in 2000. Founded by South Mississippi Surgeons (SMS), they have been providing the Coast with quality surgical care for over 30 years.
DR. WILLIAM AVARA, III DR. JASON PAYNE DR. JOHN HALL
South Mississippi Surgical Weight Loss Center
1124 Oakleigh Road, Ocean Springs 228.872.7277 • www.smsurgicalweightloss.com
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net
August 2020 | 77