PINEHURST, N.C. – For years, Michelle Braun of Charlotte, N.C., was unsure about weight-loss surgery, but after countless unsuccessful dieting attempts and experiencing physical pain and limitations due to her weight, she knew it was time for a change.
Braun said a primary motivation for her weight-loss journey was her children. Watching them grow up, she felt a deep sadness in her inability to be physically active with them. They had become accustomed to helping her with tasks she couldn't perform due to her weight.
On a self-healing journey and in a great place mentally, Braun wanted her outward self to reflect the inner joy she had found. Inspired by a friend's success with weight-loss surgery, she began researching her options.
Feeling comfortable and confident after extensive research and meeting with the team at the Metabolic & Weight Management Center in Pinehurst, she decided to move forward with the surgery.
In April 2023, Braun underwent gastric sleeve surgery and has since lost more than 100 pounds. She attributes her success to the caring and knowledgeable staff at the Metabolic Center, especially Raymond Washington, M.D., a general and bariatric surgeon with Pinehurst Surgical Clinic and the Metabolic & Weight Management Center.
Braun said upon meeting Dr. Washington, she knew she had found the right program.
"Dr. Washington was down to earth and spoke to me, not at me. He empathized with my plight," she recalled. "His qualifications were impressive, but it was his compassion and our connection that solidified my decision."
The Metabolic & Weight Management Center offers both surgical and non-surgical medical weight management services and a comprehensive approach to weight loss that is tailored to each patient’s specific goals.
A collaborative effort by Pinehurst Surgical Clinic, FirstHealth of the Carolinas and Pinehurst Medical Clinic, the Center is unique to the area and one of the few comprehensive metabolic centers in North Carolina.
Since weight-loss surgery, Braun's life has transformed in ways she never imagined. She is happier, and those around her share in her joy. She recently rode a roller coaster for the first time in 30 years.
She finds joy in hiking and taking walks with her dog. Tasks that once seemed insurmountable, like food prepping, are now enjoyable as she has the energy to prepare healthy, delicious meals.
A lover of life and celebrations, Braun experienced a particularly profound moment at her sister’s New Year’s Eve birthday party. She danced the night away with pure joy, free from the pain and discomfort that once held her back.
Braun said her only regret is not having the surgery sooner. "For too long, I thought it was taking the easy way out,” she said.
“Now I know that's not true. Surgery is not the easy way out; it's a tool to support your journey to a healthier and happier life. Ultimately, you still have to do the work."
Looking ahead, Braun has one goal left to accomplish. Her father, who has passed away, loved playing golf, a passion they once shared. Her weight prevented her from playing golf with him in his later years, a regret that lingers.
In his loving memory and to celebrate her achievements, she looks forward to playing golf again. It will be an emotional and rewarding accomplishment, a testament to her remarkable journey.
Braun’s story is a powerful reminder that transformation is possible, and with the right support and determination, one can reclaim their life and happiness. To learn more about the Metabolic & Weight Management Center, visit WeightLossNC.org or call (910) 725-7966.
