Grandma, 53, Lost More Than 130 Lbs. Now, She’s Set a Goal for Herself to Run 50 Marathons Across the U.S. (Exclusive)

**Christie Woodard’s Inspiring Journey: From Gastric Bypass to Half Marathons Across America**

In a remarkable tale of resilience, 53-year-old Christie Woodard has transformed her life following gastric bypass surgery, which enabled her to shed over 130 pounds. Additionally, she is now more than halfway through her ambitious goal of participating in half marathons across all 50 states, successfully completing races in 36 states so far.

Woodard reflects upon her life prior to surgery, explaining that she experienced a relatively normal weight during her youth and into her 30s. However, as she entered perimenopause and simultaneously quit smoking, she faced a sudden weight gain of around 80 pounds, leaving her feeling overwhelmed and drowning in her struggle with obesity. Despite numerous attempts at various weight-loss methods — including prescription medications, commercial weight-loss plans, intermittent fasting, and countless fad diets — Woodard found herself trapped in a cycle of short-term success followed by regaining the weight, often with a few extra pounds.

At her heaviest, weighing approximately 260 pounds, Woodard found everyday activities increasingly challenging. She recalls a painful moment when she struggled to lift her grandchild off the ground and another experience of getting stuck in a hotel bathtub, which left her humiliated and in tears. Woodard also often avoided stepping on the scale altogether, feeling a sense of denial and helplessness regarding her condition.

Despite her intelligence and a solid understanding of health and fitness, Woodard felt she lacked control over her weight. Health issues began to pile up, including pre-diabetes, elevated blood pressure, and severe acid reflux. It was during a local news segment that Woodard had a stark realisation; upon seeing herself on television, she recognised the extent to which her weight had affected her life. This moment spurred her to seriously consider weight-loss surgery.

Having contemplated this path for several years, Woodard was inspired by friends who had undergone similar procedures and a medical professional she followed on social media, Dr. Elizabeth “Betsy” Dovec. Taking a bold step, she contacted Dr. Dovec and learned that gastric bypass may be more suitable for her than other options she had initially considered. Woodard underwent the surgery in January 2022 and has maintained her weight loss since, finding an incredible increase in her quality of life.

Dr. Dovec, a renowned bariatric surgeon and CEO of BodyByBariatrics, has played an essential role in Woodard’s journey. She describes Woodard as an extraordinary individual, and witnessing her triumphs has been a rewarding experience for Dr. Dovec. According to her, gastric bypass surgery is one of the most studied and effective operations, as it not only reduces the size of the stomach but also fundamentally alters the body’s metabolism and hormonal signals that govern hunger and weight management.

Having always held an interest in running, Woodard completed her first half-marathon post-surgery in November 2022. She expressed a feeling of liberation and joy during the race, stating that the experience felt radically different after her weight loss. Inspired by a fellow runner wearing a “50 States Half Marathon Club” tank top, she decided to pursue the goal of running in all 50 states, kicking off her plan in January 2023.

This year, Woodard intends to conquer races in Illinois, Kentucky, South Dakota, and Michigan, alongside possibly fitting in additional events. Her journey last year was notably successful, with 11 states completed, and she continues to make progress towards her goal, one state at a time.

Beyond the weight loss, Woodard highlights significant improvements in her health. She is no longer required to take medications related to obesity, which she describes as an extraordinary gift. Furthermore, her newfound confidence has transformed her outlook on life, enabling her to embrace new experiences and adventures that she previously shied away from.

In sharing her experience, Woodard emphasises the importance of mindset in achieving long-term success. She advocates that surgery can modify one’s physical anatomy but that true change occurs through daily choices and attitudes towards health. Additionally, she seeks to challenge the stigma surrounding obesity, imparting that it is a complex disease and cannot be reduced to simple notions of willpower alone.

For Woodard, her story serves a greater purpose; if it resonates with just one person and offers hope, she considers it worthwhile. As she continues to inspire others with her achievements, Woodard exemplifies how determination and the right support can lead to extraordinary life changes.