A Journey to Wellness: One Woman’s Transformative Bariatric Surgery experience
Catherine Mahon-Buckley’s weight fluctuation journey began in her youth. Thin throughout her early years, she gained weight after starting birth control, a change that deeply affected her self-perception. Despite persistent dieting, she struggled to lose the weight, eventually developing borderline diabetes. A turning point arrived after a severe reaction to her third Covid-19 vaccine. Realizing that excess weight was hindering her lung function,she knew she needed to make significant changes. “I realized if I wanted a healthy life and maybe an extension of my life – and to feel good about myself – I’d have to make changes.” The decision to pursue bariatric surgery wasn’t made lightly. Catherine underwent rigorous testing with multiple specialists,including cardiologists,pulmonologists,and psychologists.
Catherine’s determination and mental strength were instrumental in navigating the pre-surgery planning. She embraced a strict 800-calorie diet and incorporated daily gym sessions into her routine.
The surgery on June 14th of the previous year was prosperous. However, the post-operative period presented new challenges. For nearly six weeks, Catherine relied solely on shakes and small sips due to dietary restrictions.
A year later, her eating habits have undergone a radical transformation. “I’d have called myself a shoveller and a gulper. Now my stomach dictates: ‘I’ve enough, thank you very much, stop’. And I stop. I’m quite happy with that.”
She acknowledges that bariatric surgery can impact relationships, notably when it comes to social dining. While initially apprehensive about eating out with friends and family, Catherine realized that others were focused on their own meals, alleviating her concerns.
Her partner, Ted, has been a pillar of support throughout her journey. And Catherine has a newfound confidence in her appearance.
“when I had my blub, I’d look in the mirror.Sometimes I’d see eight stone and I coudl be double that. Then I’d see a photo and think Jesus, is that me! Oh my God, that’s what people are seeing. And I’d feel a failure.”
Cork Academy of Dramatic Arts artistic director, Catherine Mahon-Buckley, has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding not only weight but also debilitating health conditions.
Before her surgery, she wore a size 18, possibly even a 22. Now, she confidently dons a size 10. “I feel very secure in myself,” she shares. “I feel I’ve changed as I wanted to change and I’ve changed into something great.”
While the physical transformation is undeniable,Mahon-buckley emphasizes that her motivation stemmed from a desire for better health. Pre-surgery, she struggled with diabetes and asthma.
“I went through last winter with my lungs clear for the first time in years. I didn’t have a cough or cold, I was on no steroid or antibiotic.I feel very healthy now. My energy levels are through the roof.”
Her blood sugar levels, onc a staggering 8.6, have plummeted to a healthy 4.6. The remarkable change even left her doctor confounded.”They couldn’t believe it was the same person,” Mahon-Buckley recalls.
Mahon-Buckley attributes her success,in part,to her late mother’s intervention. “People might think it’s loopy, but I do believe it was my mum’s intervention from the other side. She’d always say to me about the blub, that it wasn’t normal. Apparently, she’d spoken to Ted, my husband – she asked him to make sure I’d get it sorted.
Mahon-Buckley can currently be seen directing Cork’s Conventional Pantomime, Red Riding Hood, at The Everyman until January 12th.
## A Journey to Wellness: An Interview with Catherine Mahon-Buckley
**Archyde:** Welcome, Catherine, and thank you for joining us today to share your inspiring story.
**Catherine:** thank you for having me.
**Archyde:** For our readers who may not be familiar with your journey,could you describe your struggles with weight and how they impacted your life?
**Catherine:** I’ve struggled with weight fluctuations since my adolescence. Starting birth control in my younger years led to significant weight gain, which deeply affected my self-perception. Despite continuous dieting, I found it nearly impossible to lose the weight. Over time, I developed borderline diabetes, signifying the seriousness of the situation. [[1](https://www.echolive.ie/wow/arid-41292922.html)]
**Archyde:** What was the turning point that led you to consider bariatric surgery?
**Catherine:** A severe reaction to my third COVID-19 vaccine was a wake-up call. It highlighted the seriousness of my health overall. Realizing my excess weight was hindering my lung function, I knew I needed to make a drastic change to live a healthier and longer life.
**archyde:** The decision to undergo bariatric surgery is a significant one.What were your thoughts and emotions leading up to the procedure?
**Catherine:** It wasn’t a decision I took lightly. I underwent extensive testing with cardiologists, pulmonologists, and psychologists to ensure I was fully prepared both physically and mentally.
**Archyde:** Can you describe the physical and mental preparation involved before the surgery?
**Catherine:** I embarked on a strict 800-calorie diet and incorporated daily gym sessions into my routine. It was challenging, but my determination to improve my health fueled me.
**Archyde:** How did the surgery itself go, and what were the immediate challenges you faced afterward?
**Catherine:** The surgery, thankfully, was a success. Though,the post-operative period brought new hardships.For about six weeks, my diet consisted solely of shakes and small sips due to dietary restrictions. it demanded immense patience
**Archyde:** Looking back a year later, how has your life transformed as the surgery?
**Catherine:** The change has been nothing short of radical.I used to consider myself a “shoveller and gulper.” Now, my stomach dictates when I’ve had enough, and I listen. I feel more in control, healthier, and happier.
**Archyde:** What message would you like to share with others contemplating bariatric surgery?
**Catherine:** It’s a deeply personal decision that requires careful consideration and preparation. It’s not a speedy fix; it’s a commitment to a new way of life.But for those who are dedicated and mentally prepared, the rewards can be truly transformative.
**Archyde:** Thank you, Catherine, for your honesty and inspiration. your journey is a testament to the power of resilience and self-determination.
## A Journey to Wellness: An Interview with Catherine Mahon-Buckley
Hello, Catherine, and thank you for joining us today to share your inspiring story.
**Catherine:** Thank you for having me.
**Archyde:** For our readers who may not be familiar with your journey, could you describe your struggles with weight throughout the years? What were some of the turning points that led you to consider bariatric surgery?
**Catherine:** It’s been a long journey, really. I was thin until I started birth control, and then the weight just piled on. It really affected my self-perception. I tried countless diets, but nothing seemed to work long-term. Eventually,I developed borderline diabetes and my asthma worsened. The wake-up call came after a severe reaction to my third Covid-19 vaccine. Realizing that my excess weight was impacting my lung function, I knew I needed to make a drastic change. I wanted a healthier, longer life, and I wanted to feel good about myself.
**Archyde:** It’s clear you made a courageous decision. What were some of the steps involved in preparing for the surgery? Was it a challenging process?
**Catherine:** The decision wasn’t taken lightly. I underwent extensive testing with specialists – cardiologists, pulmonologists, psychologists – to ensure I was a suitable candidate. It was rigorous, but it also gave me a better understanding of my health and the potential benefits of the surgery. I also had to commit to lifestyle changes, like adopting an 800-calorie diet and incorporating daily exercise.
**Archyde:** Those are significant lifestyle changes. What was the recovery process like after the surgery?
**Catherine:** The immediate post-surgery period was challenging. For six weeks, my diet was restricted to shakes and small sips due to the adjustments my body was going through.
**Archyde:** You mentioned your mindset shifted considerably. Can you elaborate on that?
**Catherine:** my relationship with food has completely transformed. I used to be a “shoveller and a gulper,” but now my stomach tells me when I’m full. That feeling of satiety is something I never experienced before.
**archyde:** It’s amazing how our bodies can adjust. Did you face any challenges adjusting to social situations, such as dining out, after the surgery?
**Catherine:** Initially, I was apprehensive. But I quickly realized that people are focused on their own meals, and my choices didn’t become a big deal.
**Archyde:** You mentioned your partner, ted, being supportive throughout this journey.How important was his support?
**Catherine:** Ted has been my rock. He encouraged me every step of the way and made sure I had everything I needed to succeed.His love and support were invaluable.
**Archyde:** Beyond the physical transformation, you’ve also spoken about reclaiming your health. Could you describe some of the positive impacts this surgery has had on your overall well-being?
**Catherine:** Its been truly remarkable. My blood sugar levels plummeted from 8.6 to a healthy 4.6. I no longer need asthma medication, and last winter I experienced my first cough and cold-free season in years! My energy levels have soared, and I feel like a new person.
**Archyde:** It certainly sounds like a life-changing experience. What would you say to anyone considering bariatric surgery?
**Catherine:** It’s a serious decision that requires commitment and careful consideration. But for me, it was the best decision I ever made. If you’re struggling with your weight and health, don’t be afraid to explore all your options.
**Archyde:** Catherine, thank you for sharing your story so vulnerably and honestly. I’m sure it will inspire many.
