By ARABELLA SERRATA
Staff Writer
From weighing 265 pounds to a remarkable 145, Port Isabel native Phylisia Tamayo now lives a new life. The 39-year-old underwent Bariatric weight loss surgery at South Texas Health System in Edinburg.
Growing up, Tamayo says she was always on the “heavier side” but maintained athleticism. “I took pride in my muscular legs and excelled in various sports, so the number on the scale was not a big concern for me,” said Tamayo. Growing into adulthood, she experienced a gradual weight increase. Eventually, Tamayo was on several medications due to health issues like high blood pressure, pre-diabetes, and high cholesterol. “Despite this, I was oblivious to the extent of my weight gain and the impact it was having on my mental and physical well-being,” said Tamayo. Eventually, she found herself in a “vicious cycle of struggle.”
Before the surgery, Tamayo said she tried various weight loss methods. Some included running, gym workouts, and sports. She also experimented with diets, medications, and even injections. “While I experienced some temporary success, I continued to struggle with [health] conditions…which resurfaced whenever I relied on medication to manage them,” said Tamayo.
In 2020, Tamayo said she experienced a massive turning point in her life, giving birth to her son. She said she found out she was at her “heaviest weight” shortly after giving birth. “The doctor’s warning about the heightened risk of a stroke by age 40 served as a wake-up call, prompting me to prioritize my health for the sake of my son,” she said. “Becoming the best mother I could be to him, ensuring I was present and active, and securing a healthy and happy future together became my primary motivation for opting for surgery.”
According to the official STHS website, candidates for the surgery must have a BMI of 40, or be more than 100 pounds overweight. They could also have a BMI greater than 35 and have at least one or more obesity-related health issues, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, other respiratory disorders, non-acholic fatty liver disease, osteoarthritis, lipid abnormalities, gastrointestinal disorders, or heart disease.
According to the website, the surgery helps patients lose weight by “reducing the size of the stomach, or a combination of making the stomach size smaller and re-routing the small intestine so the patient does not absorb all of the calories being consumed.”
Tamayo learned about the surgery from members at STHS. Her primary physician, Dr. Brenda Salinas, was the one who helped her start on the path to surgery, “and she initiated the process that ultimately allowed me to reclaim my life,” said Tamayo. She called the staff at STHS “guardian angels” for their help, including Salinas, Dr. Luis Reyes, and Amy Flores.
Dr. Reyes helped Tamayo explore all possible options. “He alleviated my fears, addressed my questions with patience, and demonstrated a genuine interest in understanding me, my son, and my family,” said Tamayo. There was also a support group for the women called “Bari buddies” that met to help its members share their experiences and encourage each other to keep up with their goals.
To prepare for the surgery, Tamayo had to lose weight independently. According to Tamayo, she was 265 at her heaviest, 242 on the day of her surgery, and now weighs 145. “This prerequisite demonstrates the patient’s commitment to putting in the effort to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle in the long run,” explained Tamayo. Tamayo also had to navigate mental hurdles in preparation for the surgery, including overcoming her food addiction. “Each day, I must consciously make choices about what I eat. I am thankful for the gift of life and the opportunity for a fresh start, and I am determined to uphold healthy habits, maintain a healthy weight, and lead an active lifestyle,” said Tamayo.
Tamayo called the recovery process “truly remarkable.” She said her newfound jubilation made her realize how severe her situation was prior. “My days are now brimming with joy, laughter, and the pleasure of engaging in activities I love, such as softball and my newfound passion for pickleball.” Tamayo has also found enjoyment in finding new foods that fuel her life and making exercise a “non-negotiable” part of her routine.
To celebrate the growth of Tamayo and the other women who went through the surgery, STHC held its third annual Transformation Celebration Fashion Show. The show featured five women who, according to an STHC press release, “transformed their lives through bariatric surgery and a long-term commitment to healthy living.” The four other women featured in the show include Maxine Aguirre, Heidi Stream, Rocio Anahi Garcia, and Rachel Rodriguez. Clothing for the event was provided by Leona Style, a boutique located in McAllen, Texas.
Tamayo encourages anyone in a situation like hers to maintain resilience. “Whether you’ve lost 1 pound or 100, each achievement should be celebrated. Every effort you make towards improving your health and well-being is significant and should be acknowledged as a success,” she said. “Keep moving forward, stay focused on your goals, and remember that every little bit of progress is a step in the right direction. You are succeeding simply by taking action and making positive changes in your life.”
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