Unless your familiar with the WLS community, you can’t really understand the motivation why people do (or do not) certain things.  Consider why she wouldn’t talk about it in detail.  She said she was afraid.  Afraid of what people will think, afraid people will look down on her, and criticize her.  Honestly, a lot of us won’t tell exactly because of that.  I have friends who’s own family ridiculed them for having the surgery.  For others, friends have been lost, and marriages have ended in divorce. When you finally decide to take control and pursue WLS, there will be people around you who simply can’t handle it.  It takes careful thought as to who you tell, if anyone.  Simply put, it’s a personal choice – whether you’re a celebrity or not.

Weight loss surgery is so much more than just losing weight.  There is a huge emotional and psychological aspect of this as well.  And, these could be extremely difficult issues for many people.  That’s why research is so important and asking yourself tough questions. 

One question remains which may never be answered – why did she allude to this, but not come right out and share her story?  Publicity?  Aire of mystery?  I honestly think she did it as a way of “testing the waters” to see what the reaction would be by the fans and critics.

I’m glad Star finally came out and shared the news.  Not because she’s a celebrity, but because now she can finally relax, not worry about what others think, and get on with her life.  Good for you Star.

My name is Patrick Burke, also known as The “Baron.”  I’ve had gastric bypass surgery, and still losing weight.  For me, it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.  If I had to do this over, I would.  I have been obese my entire life.  Like most obese people, I tried virtually everything to lose weight.  The problem is, I can lose it, but can not maintain it.  I developed Type II Diabetes, and was at the beginning stages of sleep apnea.  Not to mention the severe back, knee, and ankle pain from supporting all this weight for so long. My BMI topped out at 48, classifying me as morbidly obese.  It was only a matter of time before I developed hypertension and other co-morbidities associated with obesity.  Worse of all, I could see my weight rising.  My weight loss journey wasn’t just a “want to” – it became a “need to.”

I have been researching, and following WLS for years, ensuring I knew exactly what I was getting into.  I’ve met hundreds of wonderful people.  Most have been wildly successful, while for others, it has become a nightmare.  This column looks at all sides of weight loss surgery, the good and the bad, and the problems with having health insurance covering the procedure.

I invite your comments, stories, and questions.  I’m here to help you understand, dispel the many myths and misconceptions of weight loss surgery.