Richard Peterson Bariatric Surgeon M.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.S.

Obesity is more than an inconvenience for individuals; it is a struggle for life. It is either a struggle for life in the direst sense because of the many medical problems it causes or is associated with, or it is a struggle for life and the quality that is often lacking because of the stigma of obesity. For many it is both. I've spent the majority of my professional surgical career focusing on obesity and helping patients find their own way to a new and more fulfilling self. Surgery isn't always the answer and for most it is a last resort to their lifelong battle with obesity. I believe in making sure that individuals are well informed and fully participate in the decision making process when surgery is involved. Patients have options and they should consider them all before any final decision is made. My job is to show them the tools that they have at their disposal, give them that tool and provide lifelong maintenance to ensure that they will be successful with the tool they have chosen. I would remind you that surgery isn't the easy way out. Many patients tell me that a loved one or friend believes that 'they took the easy way out'. Surgery is far from that. You will work as hard with surgery as with any other diet or weight loss program you have previously undertaken. The difference for most is that the tool we provide is the jumpstart to success that is often missing in those other programs. You will be as successful as you allow yourself to be. As you begin this journey to a healthier and newer you, I would be honored to be a part of it.

• Nancy Marquez — Austin, TX

• Younan Nowzaradan — Houston, TX