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WEIGHT LOSS WOMAN NAMED IN NATIONAL FINAL A Stocksbridge woman who lost 7.5 stone after undergoing weight loss surgery has been named a finalist in the Miss Bariatric 2025 competition, a pageant celebrating the transformation and achievements of women who have had bariatric surgery. Kirsten White, 33, a Talent Acquisition Specialist, will take to the stage in the national competition, which includes categories such as photogenic, interview, evening gown, fun fashion, and an optional swimsuit segment. The pageant, first launched in 2024, aims to empower and inspire those who have undergone life-changing weight loss. Kirsten describes her place in the final as a deeply personal achievement. “Being a finalist means the world to me,” she said. “It’s a testament to my hard work, resilience, and the transformation I’ve undergone—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too.” Her journey began when she found herself struggling with daily tasks, including simply getting out of bed due to painful ankles.
“That was my wake-up call,” she said. “It was the moment I realised I needed to take control of my health and well-being.” Adjusting to life after weight loss surgery presented challenges, including learning how to eat again and adapting to new portion sizes. “It was a process of trial and error, but patience and listening to my body helped me through it,” she explained. While her physical transformation was significant, Kirsten acknowledges that overcoming body dysmorphia and rebuilding self-confidence was equally important. “Even now, I sometimes see my old self in the mirror, but looking back at before-and-after photos reminds me of how far I’ve come,” she said. Since her transformation, Kirsten has embraced new opportunities, including a career she loves and the confidence to interact with people daily. She is also looking forward to marrying her supportive fiancé in April 2025,
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wearing a wedding dress she never imagined would fit her. As she prepares for the Miss Bariatric pageant, Kirsten hopes to inspire others struggling with self-esteem and body confidence. “I want people to know they are capable of change,” she said. “With the right support, research, and determination, anything is possible.”
She also has a message for those considering weight loss surgery: “It’s not a quick fix, but a lifestyle change. Surround yourself with a supportive community, do your research, and believe in yourself.” For Kirsten, empowerment means embracing one’s worth and using her platform to uplift others. “I just want to walk down that catwalk with my head held high, proud of what I’ve achieved,” she said.