Weight loss is amazing

What a pleasure it has been to follow the transformation of Jasmin Sciascia.

Jasmin's plight first came to prominence in April 2010 when Whanganui MP Chester Borrows petitioned the district health board on her behalf for gastric bypass surgery. At that time Jasmin was 220kg and she had been told she would not survive to reach age 30 without drastic intervention. She had been seen by different medical specialists at no fewer than three health boards. Her plight was more than desperate.

Many were sympathetic and argued the surgery - estimated to cost anything up to $35,000 - should be covered by the Whanganui board. It declined on the basis it did not have a policy to cover such cases.

Meantime, support grew for Jasmin, as did criticism. There were those who felt that she should take responsibility for her condition and future well-being and lose the weight through exercise and diet.

Fortunately Jasmin found a way to get her gastric bypass in Korea.

Now 131kg lighter, the transformation from the person who flew out of the country two years ago is amazing.

There is still more to be done. As outlined in Saturday's article, she will require further surgery to remove excess skin and that will mean ongoing after-care and support.

That she has come this far says something for this young woman's determination. To face repeated painful surgeries, lengthy recuperation and accept the public role she has taken on suggests a strength of character and drive to be admired.

Her progress has been astounding, impressing the surgeons and others associated with her case. But Jasmin is not finished yet, she still has goals.

Based on what we've seen in the past couple of years, there is every reason to expect she will reach those too.

Congratulations on what you have achieved so far Jasmin, and best of luck on the remainder of your journey.

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