Growth Beyond Obstacles

As I sit here, just seven days away from a life-changing moment, I’m overwhelmed with a mix of emotions—excitement, exhaustion, and sheer determination. For the past three weeks, I’ve been navigating the pre-surgery liquid diet, and for the last seven days, I’ve been surviving on nothing but clear liquids. Simultaneously, I’m also putting the finishing touches on my capstone project, the final milestone of my bachelor’s degree.

It’s been a challenging journey, but every obstacle has reinforced one thing: I’m stronger than I give myself credit for.

The Clear Liquid Diet: A Mental and Physical Test

If you’ve never been on a clear liquid diet, let me paint a picture for you: it’s the ultimate test of self-control. For the past week, my menu has consisted of broth, sugar-free gelatin, water, tea, and popsicles. That’s it. No solid food, no protein shakes, not even full liquid soups. Every time I walk by a coffee shop, smell someone cooking dinner, or scroll past a TikTok recipe, I feel a pang of longing.

But I’ve made it this far, and I refuse to give up now.

What makes this phase particularly challenging is not just the physical hunger—it’s the mental game. Food is so much more than sustenance; it’s comfort, culture, and connection. Going without it has forced me to confront my relationship with eating. I’ve had to remind myself repeatedly: This sacrifice is temporary. The benefits will last a lifetime.

Why the Clear Liquid Diet Matters

The clear liquid diet isn’t just a formality—it’s a crucial step in preparing for surgery. By sticking to this strict regimen, I’m helping reduce the size of my liver and minimizing risks during surgery. Understanding the “why” behind this phase has been my anchor. When the cravings hit hard or my energy feels depleted, I remind myself that I’m setting myself up for a smoother procedure and better recovery.

Each sip of broth is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable future.

Balancing Surgery Prep with My Capstone Project

Adding to the challenge is the fact that I’m also in the final stages of my bachelor’s degree. This week, I’m wrapping up my capstone project—a culmination of years of hard work, late-night study sessions, and moments of self-doubt.

Finishing a degree is stressful enough on its own, but doing so while on a clear liquid diet and preparing for surgery has taken “multitasking” to a new level. There have been moments where I’ve felt stretched so thin that I wondered if I’d make it through. My mind would wander during research, and hunger made it difficult to focus.

But I’ve learned to pace myself. Here’s what’s helped me:

• Creating a Schedule: I mapped out every task, breaking it down into manageable chunks. Knowing exactly what to tackle each day has kept me from feeling overwhelmed.

• Taking Breaks: Whenever I hit a mental wall, I allowed myself 15–20 minutes to reset. Whether it’s taking a short walk, listening to calming music, or sipping on tea, these breaks have been crucial for maintaining my focus.

• Asking for Support: I’ve leaned on my friends, family, and professors more than ever. Their encouragement has reminded me that I’m not in this alone.

The sense of accomplishment I feel from nearing the end of my degree is a testament to resilience. It’s a reminder that I can tackle hard things, even when they feel impossible.

Navigating Emotional Highs and Lows

Let’s be honest—this process hasn’t been all smooth sailing. There have been moments when I’ve broken down, questioning why I decided to take on so much at once. Between the demands of the clear liquid diet, the pressure of finishing my capstone, and the anticipation of surgery, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

But in those moments, I’ve found strength in reflection. I think about how far I’ve come in this journey—losing now 105 pounds naturally, managing my health conditions, and making the choice to prioritize my well-being. Every step has been a building block leading to this moment.

I’ve also leaned into gratitude. I’m grateful for the support system I have, for the opportunity to pursue a healthier future, and for the privilege of education. Whenever the weight of everything feels too heavy, shifting my focus to what I’m thankful for has been a grounding force.

Lessons from This Week

1. Discomfort is Temporary. Whether it’s hunger pangs, stress over deadlines, or nerves about surgery, I remind myself that these feelings won’t last forever. The rewards on the other side are worth every moment of discomfort.

2. Focus on the Goal. When the going gets tough, I visualize the life I’m working toward—a healthier, happier version of myself. This vision keeps me motivated when I’m tempted to give up.

3. Celebrate Small Wins. Every time I finish another page of my capstone, drink enough fluids for the day, or make it through without succumbing to cravings, I celebrate. These small victories add up.

4. It’s Okay to Feel All the Emotions. This week has been a rollercoaster, and I’ve allowed myself to feel everything—joy, frustration, anxiety, and hope. Bottling it up doesn’t help, but acknowledging and processing these emotions does.

Looking Ahead to Surgery

In seven days, I’ll be undergoing bariatric surgery—a step I’ve been working toward for over three years. This procedure isn’t a shortcut or an easy way out; it’s a tool to help me sustain the progress I’ve already made and overcome the hurdles of PCOS and other health challenges.

As I approach this milestone, I feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. I know this surgery will change my life, but it’s also a reminder of how much effort and commitment this journey requires.

I’ve prepared myself mentally and physically for what’s to come, and I’m ready to embrace the next chapter.

A Message to Anyone Facing Challenges

If you’re reading this and going through your own tough season, know this: you are capable of more than you think. Whether you’re juggling health challenges, pursuing education, or chasing a dream, the key is to keep going.

Remember that setbacks and struggles are part of the journey. They don’t define you—they shape you. Lean on your support system, celebrate your progress, and never lose sight of why you started.

Closing Thoughts

This week is one for the books. Between the clear liquid diet, preparing for surgery, and completing my capstone project, I’ve faced some of the toughest challenges yet. But as I approach the finish line of one journey and the starting line of another, I feel a deep sense of pride.

Seven days from now, I’ll be in the operating room, taking the next step toward a healthier future. And by the end of this week, I’ll officially complete my bachelor’s degree—a dream that once felt out of reach.

The road hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth every step. Here’s to the strength it takes to keep going, no matter how hard it gets.

One week to go. Let’s do this.

Until Next Time,

Kaylee Ann