Tampa, FL – On July 25, 2006, Jim Fivecoat, an Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) National Board of Director, and his wife Karen were featured on NBC’s “Today Show” to discuss their successful bariatric surgeries. On the show, Jim and Karen shared their inspirational stories of their Roux-En-Y gastric bypass surgeries, which took place in early 2003.

“Jim and Karen’s story is representative of the many positive stories we receive about bariatric surgery and the remarkable improvement it can lead to in quality of health and quality of life. Bariatric surgery is not without risk. When considering weight-loss surgery, you must balance the personal risk to your health caused by your morbid obesity with the potential risk and complications of the surgery,” said Joseph Nadglowski, Jr., OAC President and CEO.

In the October 2005 issue of “OAC News,” Jim and Karen shared their story, titled “Just the Two of Us,” with the OAC. They discussed their decision to have bariatric surgery, how it has changed their lives and the importance of educating yourself about available treatment options. To view their story, please visit the “Patient Stories” section of the OAC Web site located at www.obesityaction.org.

According to Jim, those interested in bariatric surgery need to fully educate themselves about the surgery itself as well as life after surgery. Jim also stresses the importance in having realistic expectations and fully understanding the risks and the life-long commitment associated with bariatric surgery.

About the OAC
The OAC is a nonprofit National charity dedicated to helping those affected by obesity. The OAC was formed to bring together individuals struggling with weight issues and provide educational resources and advocacy tools.