Catrina Raiford weight loss

Catrina Raiford, 38, tipped the scales at 955lbs and was bed-bound for five years, until she had her home bulldozed to free her from her bed after suffering breathing difficulties.

She had always had problems with her weight, following years of sexual abuse as a child, Catrina found comfort in sweet, sugary snacks and secret eating.

By the age of 12, Catrina was so big that her mother had to start making her clothes as shops did not stock sizes large enough to fit her.

Aged 14, and weighing 448lbs, Catrina was admitted to a psychiatric home for eight months to help her deal with her overeating.

Feeling unable to discuss the abuse with anyone, even this did not help and she continued to gain weight.

Soon she did not leave her home and would spend her days eating and avoiding people.

In 2013, Catrina embarked on a strict diet and had gastric bypass surgery to lose more than 500lbs, reaching 448lbs in 2014, her same weight when she was 14 years old. But it was Catrina’s resiliance after the surgery that keeps her going. She’s not only doing it for the weight loss, but a successful weight loss surgery involves a complete lifestyle change to avoid bruising, gallstones or even greater  weight gain. But now she’s given her first interview.

“The horrific experience of having rescue workers tear down the wall in my home was not only significant because the workers were there to save my life, it was symbolic of me breaking away from my past. The demolition of that wall was the beginning of me breaking away from being a prisoner in my own home, me breaking away from obesity related medical conditions, breaking away from immobility, and breaking away from the death grip that the fat had held on my life for so many years. After leaving the hospital I was admitted to a weight loss facility, underwent weight loss surgery, improved my diet and began to exercise…

…regularly. Since that time, I have lost over 500 pounds. After my weight loss, I was able to attend college, I work, have regained my ability to walk, and I am able to independently support and take care of myself. I have made significant progress toward my weight loss goal and improved my health, but yet find myself faced with another obstacle.”

Catrina said: ”I love running around, going to the gym three or four times a week and keeping fit. I’m so much happier now and feel so confident. I was in bed for so long that now I’ve lost the weight I just want to be free.

Here’s Catrina’s update on here GoFundMe page as of October 20, 2015:

“I sprung my ankle about a month and on top of that got cellulites and was hospitalized for a week. I’m doing better now but doctor want me to take it easy. My goal is to lose 60 more pounds and the meet with my Surgeons again. Thanks everyone for helping me reach my goal to get the funds for my surgery. You guys can follow me on IG (misstrina911) for the latest updates. #team1day #watch4me #blessed”