Meet Nerissa Stewart

 

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Nerissa Stewart a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Nerissa, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.

The journey to find my true purpose began with a personal battle—a weight loss transformation that not only changed my body but reshaped my entire outlook on life. After struggling with my weight for years, I discovered that I could reclaim my health through the bariatric surgery process. This life-altering decision was just the beginning.

As I navigated my own weight loss journey, I became an active member of the Bariatric Community. Engaging with others who were experiencing similar challenges was paramount. Their stories of resilience and triumph inspired me and provided a sense of belonging that I had always yearned for. It was here that I realized my passion lay in helping others understand that they are not alone; there is a path to reclaiming their health and happiness.

Seeing the impact that the bariatric community had on my journey sparked a fire within me, ultimately guiding me to become the CEO of Bariatric Society. This organization aims to empower individuals by offering resources, support, and a platform for education and connection.

Through my experiences, I’ve learned that purpose often finds us unexpectedly, often in the midst of our struggles. My journey not only led me to improve my own life but also to serve as a beacon of hope for others. I’m dedicated to transforming the narratives around weight loss and health, reminding everyone that it’s never too late to find their own purpose and make a change for the better.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

As the CEO of the Bariatric Society, I am honored to lead an organization dedicated to supporting bariatric patients through their transformative journeys. Our mission is to empower individuals by providing essential resources, fostering community connections, and creating educational opportunities tailored specifically for those navigating the challenges of obesity and weight loss surgery.

We offer a wide range of services, including informative workshops, webinars, and support groups, all aimed at enhancing the bariatric experience. One of our standout initiatives is the Bariatric Book Club, where members come together to explore literature focused on health, wellness, and personal development. This nurturing environment encourages discussion, accountability, and the sharing of insights, creating a supportive space for growth and healing.

Excitingly, we are hosting our 4th annual Bariatric Retreat this November in San Diego. This event promises to be an immersive experience filled with expert speakers, engaging workshops, and activities designed to rejuvenate the mind and body. Attendees will connect with fellow bariatric patients, sharing stories and strategies while building lasting friendships. This retreat is not just an event; it’s an opportunity to recharge, learn, and celebrate our journeys together!

Join us in creating an uplifting and supportive community for all those impacted by obesity, and help us spread awareness about the importance of understanding and addressing weight-related health challenges.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Reflecting on my journey, three qualities stand out as particularly impactful: resilience, community engagement, and continuous learning.

1. **Resilience**: The ability to bounce back from setbacks has been crucial. There were times when my progress stalled, and motivation waned, but my commitment to my goals kept me going. For those just starting, I advise you to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Cultivating a resilient mindset can be done through visualization techniques, journaling your progress, and celebrating small wins along the way.

2. **Community Engagement**: Building connections within the bariatric community has provided me with invaluable support and wisdom. Sharing experiences fosters a sense of belonging and accountability. If you’re early in your journey, seek out groups, forums, or local meet-ups focused on bariatric health. Networking with others who understand your struggles can provide encouragement and practical tips that might resonate with your journey.

3. **Continuous Learning**: Understanding the physical and emotional aspects of weight loss has been fundamental. I prioritized educating myself about nutrition, exercise, and mental health. For those just embarking on their journeys, I recommend dedicating time to read books, attend workshops, or follow credible sources online. Knowledge equips you to make informed decisions that positively affect your journey.

In summary, focus on building resilience, engaging with a supportive community, and committing to a path of continuous learning. These foundations will help ensure that you’re not just surviving your journey, but thriving in it.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Absolutely! We are actively seeking partnerships and collaborations to further our mission of supporting the bariatric community. We welcome connections with:

1. **Weight Loss Influencers and Patients**: We believe that personal stories and experiences are powerful tools for motivation and support. If you’re an influencer or a patient passionate about bariatric health, we’d love to collaborate on content that inspires and uplifts others.

2. **Bariatric Surgeons and Surgery Centers**: Your expertise is invaluable in providing quality information and resources to our community. We are looking to partner with surgeons and centers that prioritize patient education and care, helping us share insights on best practices and innovative approaches in bariatric surgery.

3. **Healthy Brands**: We’re eager to connect with brands that align with our values and want to support the bariatric journey. Whether you offer nutritional products, fitness solutions, or mental health resources, collaborating with us can amplify your positive impact on the community.

If you’re interested in partnering with us, please reach out! You can connect with me through our website at BariatricSociety.com or send me a direct message on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by obesity and weight loss journeys. Let’s join forces to help build a healthier, supportive community!

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