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Gideon YeakleyObese American with food and sleep addiction
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Early Struggles and Food Addiction
- Meeting Kaylee and the Search for Help
- Turning to Dr. Nowzaradan
- Gastric Bypass Surgery and a New Addiction
- Embracing Therapy and Finding Strength
- Overcoming Inner Barriers and Regaining Strength
- Weight Loss Journey and Family Reconciliation
- Ongoing Progress and a Brighter Future
Early Struggles and Food Addiction
From a young age, Gideon Yekli struggled with food addiction as a way to cope with the pain of his parents' divorce. At the age of 12, he was sent to a weight loss camp due to his excessive weight gain. By the time he graduated high school, he weighed over 400 pounds. His struggles with food only intensified after his mother's death when he was 25, leading to a spiral of overeating.
Meeting Kaylee and the Search for Help
Despite his weight and appearance, Gideon met Kaylee, who loved him for who he was. However, his inner pain continued to manifest in his excessive weight gain. After the tragic deaths of his father and sister within three days of each other and Kaylee's cancer diagnosis, Gideon's food addiction reached its peak.
Turning to Dr. Nowzaradan
Desperate to turn his life around, Gideon turned to world-renowned weight loss surgeon Dr. Younan Nowzaradan. After an initial consultation that revealed his shocking weight of over 650 pounds, Gideon was given an ultimatum: lose 50-60 pounds within a month or face the possibility of being denied surgery.
Gastric Bypass Surgery and a New Addiction
After losing 30 pounds, Gideon underwent gastric bypass surgery, which successfully curbed his food cravings. However, a new addiction emerged: sleeping excessively. Dr. Nowzaradan attributed this to Gideon's tendency to use avoidance as a coping mechanism, as he had done with food.
Embracing Therapy and Finding Strength
Six months after surgery, Gideon's struggles continued as he failed to find a job and lost motivation. Kaylee decided to return to Oklahoma with their son, while Gideon stayed in Texas with Dr. Nowzaradan. Determined to overcome his challenges, he sought therapy with Dr. Shaun Maguire.
Overcoming Inner Barriers and Regaining Strength
With the support of therapy, Gideon began to open up about his emotional turmoil and regain a sense of purpose. He started spending quality time with his stepson, Jonathan, and gradually increased his activity levels.
Weight Loss Journey and Family Reconciliation
Through continued therapy and the support of his family, Gideon lost a total of 200 pounds. He found employment at a juvenile detention center, providing support for young people in trouble. Together with Kaylee and Jonathan, he found happiness and fulfillment in their newfound life.
Ongoing Progress and a Brighter Future
Today, Gideon weighs 428 pounds and continues to lose weight. His journey has been an inspiration to others struggling with similar challenges. His story is a testament to the transformative power of seeking help, embracing therapy, and never giving up hope, even in the face of adversity.
