Amanda Vories’ weight-loss transformation began with an innocent invitation from a friend to participate in a 5k run. Figuring that she could walk the distance rather than jog it, she agreed. But less than a mile in, she was done. The healthy decisions that followed were covered in a blog post from Grand View Surgical Associates, Sellersville.

Amanda looped her husband, Benton, into her wellness journey; they were 287 pounds and 380 pounds, respectively.

Among other healthy worries for Benton, his ongoing sleep apnea was a concern. And he developed onsite type 2 diabetes.

“I was too young for this,” the then 20-year-old remembers thinking.

The couple attended a Grand View Health information session. There, they met Dr. Michael Fishman, bariatric surgeon. Pleased with his holistic approach, the Vories scheduled a twin surgery date in April 2017.

One year later, they had dropped a combined 306 pounds.

Benton’s insulin has been rendered unnecessary. And Amanda can walk well beyond a mile.

In fact, she and her husband have participated in seven races.

“For us, success after surgery is more than the number on the scale,” says Amanda, who also picked up a second job at the YMCA of Bucks County, Quakertown, to stay fit. “It’s about doing better and feeling healthier.”

More on this story is at Grand View Surgical Associates.