Stories & results
Real stories. Real people. Realistic expectations.
Every patient journey is different. Patient stories can help others feel less alone, but they should never be read as a promise of individual results. At OHC, stories are shared with consent and with respect for the complexity of obesity treatment.
What patient stories can show
- Why someone asked for help
- What made them consider treatment
- How they experienced the preparation process
- What changed after treatment
- What challenges remained
- What support helped them continue
The most important message is this: you are not alone, and support is available.
The stories below are shared by OHC patients, in their own words, with their consent.
Patient story
“The bariatric surgery saved my life twice.”
It only took one flight, heading for one amazing holiday, and the moment I had to ask for a seat extender broke me inside. That was when I admitted I had a problem that wasn’t going to go away on its own. In September 2023 I began my journey with Dr Thinus Smit, and on 13 November 2023 I had bariatric surgery. Six months later, while celebrating my progress, the team’s physician discovered what I thought was progress was actually Stage 3 breast cancer — cancer that, before the surgery, would have gone undetected. Dr Smit and his team dropped everything to support me through the surgeries that followed. Today, I am the person I was always meant to be.
— Marcelle, patient at Obesity Health Centre, shared with consent
Patient story
“More energy, confidence, and more reasons to smile.”
Eight months ago I took a huge step towards a healthier, happier me, and today I’m feeling more confident than ever. This transformation isn’t just about the weight I’ve lost, but the life I’ve gained. To anyone on their own journey: keep going. Progress takes time, but it’s so worth it.
— Thelma Olckers, patient at Obesity Health Centre, shared with consent
Patient story
“Same me, different chapter.”
In just four months, I’ve reached an incredible milestone — 33kg down. This journey has taken courage, consistency and commitment, supported by faith and the right medical care. It was made possible through the collective support of Dr Thinus Smit, the bariatric team, dedicated practice staff and the Obesity Community Fund.
— Madelein Kleynhans, patient at Obesity Health Centre, shared with consent — 33kg in 4 months
Results vary
Weight loss, health improvement and quality-of-life changes differ from person to person. Outcomes are influenced by:
Patient consent and privacy
Patient stories are only shared with consent. We respect each person’s dignity, privacy and right to tell only the parts of their story they are comfortable sharing.
