Baylen Dupree, a 23-year-old woman, has expressed her apprehension about trying on wedding dresses due to recent weight gain. In an episode of TLC’s Baylen Out Loud, which chronicles her life with Tourette syndrome, Baylen shared her concerns with her friend Lela while discussing her upcoming wedding with fiancé Colin Dooley.
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During the conversation, Baylen confessed her nervousness about fitting into wedding dresses, attributing her weight gain to a new medication she is taking. She explained how the medication, a mood stabilizer, has caused her to gain weight significantly, affecting the fit of her clothes. Baylen candidly remarked, “I need to get in shape first. My jeans don’t fit. I’m surprised my sweatpants do.”
Reflecting on a previous experience with medication-induced weight gain, Baylen expressed her worries about going down a similar path again. She revealed that a medication she took two years ago led her to gain 30 pounds in just one month, leaving her understandably anxious about the current situation. Baylen emphasised her desire to be able to walk down the aisle at her wedding rather than feeling unable to move due to excess weight.
Despite her concerns, Baylen excitedly explored wedding dress options online, expressing a preference for non-traditional pink dresses over the conventional white ones. She shared her hopes of stunning her fiancé with her choice of attire on their special day, highlighting her determination to wear a dress that reflects her unique style and personality.
Baylen and Colin’s love story began in November 2022 when they connected through a dating app. The couple’s relationship blossomed, with Colin demonstrating a deep understanding and acceptance of Baylen’s Tourette syndrome. Their engagement, announced exclusively to PEOPLE in February, marked a significant milestone in their journey together.
In her interview with PEOPLE, Baylen described Colin as her rock and source of unwavering support, referring to him as her “medicine.” She expressed gratitude for his ability to understand and comfort her, providing a sense of peace amidst life’s challenges. The couple’s upcoming nuptials promise to be a celebration of their love and commitment to each other.
Fans can follow Baylen’s journey, filled with candid moments and heartfelt revelations, on new episodes of Baylen Out Loud airing on TLC every Tuesday evening. The show offers a glimpse into Baylen’s life, showcasing her resilience and authenticity as she navigates the complexities of living with Tourette syndrome.
As Baylen bravely confronts her insecurities and embraces her unique journey towards marriage, her story serves as a reminder of the power of self-acceptance and love. Her openness about challenges such as weight gain resonates with many, inspiring others to embrace their individuality and celebrate their true selves.