Member and Host Stories

Real journeys.
Shared understanding.

Obesity is an isolating disease. These members found connection, practical support, and people who understand. Community is a tool they use everyday to manage obesity.

In their own words

Meet two members and one host of BariNation.

Every experience with obesity is personal. By sharing what helped them feel informed, supported, and less alone, Heather, Shauna, and Kristie show the power of finding the right community.

Story 01

Heather C

Post-op
VSG
GLP-1 medication
Member since 2026

“BariNation has helped me feel part of a community and allowed me find acceptance around bringing my whole self into all parts of my life. While I joined because I needed a place in my life where people would have similar experiences it also made me realize I need to bring these experiences into my everyday life and share them with people in my “real” life. It’s great to connect with other members of the community and it’s also really helped me be more open with people about the treatments I’ve tried and what has worked for me and to be more open about It because you never know who it might hear something that would really help them ”

Story 02

Shawna R

Pre-op
GLP-1 medication
Member since 2026

"From the moment I found BariNation, I felt welcomed. Unlike other groups where I was one of hundreds listening from the sidelines, here I was greeted by name and became part of a real community. I’ve connected with people farther along the journey who have generously shared their experience, advice, and practical ideas. With surgery just two weeks away, that support—from navigating the liquid diet to preparing for life after surgery—has been incredibly valuable. I don’t feel like I’m doing this alone."

Story 03

Kristie DiLaura, LMSW

Host
Member since 2021
20+ years
Therapist

“I am passionate about leading groups as there is so much power in individuals with shared goals and experiences supporting one another. Leading support groups and working with individuals affected by the disease of obesity have been my absolute favorite parts of my work/career. I am just amazed by the emotional and mental work that group members have done and the ways that they show up for themselves differently after several years of really digging deep”

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Real journeys.Shared understanding.