Channel 6 News caught up with Marsha Smoot of Bellevue who shares her story about how Bariatric surgery not only changed her life, but saved it.

Going for a walk, spending time with her daughter, just about everything is now easier for Marsha. When Channel 6 News interviewed her last year before Bariatric surgery, activity meant playing cards.

"I had an unhealthy love affair with food and it was affecting my health to the point of being extremely dangerous."

Now, after losing 140 pounds, the sleep apnea machine and other necessities for diabetes and asthma are no longer needed. "I knew that I'd feel better, I would never have dreamt so many health issues would be resolved, just unbelievable."

Then there's the emotional change. At a family wedding, Smoot felt so bad about herself she just wanted to disappear. "I actually left early."

The operation at Creighton University Medical Center gave Smoot a second chance and gave daughter Christa her mom back. "I'm just glad she got the surgery."

Reminders of Marsha's old life are never far away. She has a copy of the story we did a year ago and watches it every once in a while for a reason.

"I save that just to remind myself, you don't want to go back there. This was a tool to get you where you are today and from here on out it's up to me."

Marsha says she has no regrets and has not had one complication. She truly feels the operation saved her life.

Bariatrics is the branch of medicine that deals with the causes, prevention and treatment of obesity.

Marsha's not saying the surgery is right for everyone. She says it really is an individual decision, but does suggest people with serious health issues at least consider it as an option. Talk to your doctor first.