In 2018 Abby joined the Chicago, IL Walk from Obesity. Shortly before the Walk, Abby underwent bariatric surgery after feeling like her health was spiraling out of control. “It’s only been 12 weeks since my surgery and I feel so different already! I’ve lost about 50 pounds and my energy is already so much better. I can do so many things that people take for granted at times, like tying my shoes, painting my toenails, and putting on my own socks!!”

“I decided to participate in the ASMBS Foundation’s Walk from Obesity because I needed to prove to myself that I am worth it!” Abby’s 10-year-old son, Noah, also joined her for the walk. “My son is overweight and I need him to understand how important it is to get your weight under control and to be healthy.”

“The best part of the Walk was finishing! I enjoyed the people throughout the route cheering us on and the at the end there were people there to congratulate us. I also loved that I could walk with my family. During the walk, my son decided to run with another boy he had just met. I didn’t see him till the end of the walk and I was so proud of him, yet the first thing he told me was how proud he was of me!”

“ I feel that the Walk from Obesity offers a safe and inclusive space for people of all ages, fitness levels and walks of life.”