Antony’s Path to a New Life

Hi, I’m Antony. I’m 38 and currently 180 kg. I’ve struggled with my weight for years, and a spinal injury makes exercise extremely hard. The extra 80–90 kg I carry worsens my back pain, limits movement, and makes sleeping in a bed painful. I also have sleep apnoea, so I rarely get proper rest.

I’ve worked on improving my diet and making lifestyle changes, but despite my best efforts and medical guidance, my body hasn’t responded enough. My doctors recommend gastric bypass surgery as the next step. I’ve been referred for public health funding several times, but have always been denied.

This surgery would mean a real chance to regain my health and reduce the constant pain that affects my daily life. I want to sleep properly, go for walks longer than 15 minutes, spend more time being active with family and friends, and even go skiing again someday. Most of all, I want to live without the physical and emotional weight that holds me back.

The surgery, travel to Auckland, and recovery costs are about $30,000 NZD. It’s far beyond what I can manage alone.

Your support would help me take that step toward a healthier, more independent life. Any donation or share would mean the world to me.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for your kindness.