Obesity Community Fund

19/10/2026

The bariatric surgery journey is not only a medical journey. It is also an emotional, practical and long-term commitment.

Whether you are still thinking about bariatric surgery, preparing for the process, or already a post-operative patient, being part of a supportive community can make a meaningful difference.

Join us as we discuss the value of community, with insights from patients who have been through the process and understand the journey.

Obesity is a chronic, relapsing disease that requires ongoing support, education, guidance and care. No one should have to walk this road alone.

20 October 19:00
RSVP on our website www.obesitycommunityfund.co.za

Disclaimer: This webinar is for educational and awareness purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance and assessment.

17/10/2026

The bariatric surgery journey is not only a medical journey. It is also an emotional, practical and long-term commitment.

Whether you are still thinking about bariatric surgery, preparing for the process, or already a post-operative patient, being part of a supportive community can make a meaningful difference.

Join us and Merinda Nortje as one of the speakers, as we discuss the value of community, with insights from patients who have been through the process and understand the journey.

Obesity is a chronic, relapsing disease that requires ongoing support, education, guidance and care. No one should have to walk this road alone.

20 October 19:00
RSVP on our website: www.obesitycommunityfund.co.za

Disclaimer: This webinar is for educational and awareness purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance and assessment.

15/10/2026

OCF ON AIR! Have you listened to our interview on 919 FM?

How does the Obesity Community Fund work, and how can you become part of this growing community?

Listen to Mari Lee, Chairperson of the Obesity Community Fund, in conversation with Byron and Doc D on The Feel Good Fix on 919 FM.

The discussion explores why OCF was established, how the community co-funding model works, and how members and supporters can get involved.

Obesity is a chronic, relapsing disease that deserves greater awareness, understanding and access to appropriate care.

We need more awareness. We need more advocacy. We need more people to join the conversation.

Listen to the interview here: https://iono.fm/e/1719926

Become part of the OCF community: www.obesitycommunityfund.co.za

Byron and Doc D spoke to the Chairperson of the Obesity Community Fund, Mari Lee about the organisation, how it came about, what is its purpose, and how you can get involved. If you'd like to join the fund, they allow you to contribute R40 000 to the cause and then you go onto the waiting list for b...

13/10/2026

Obesity is a complex, chronic disease. It is influenced by many factors, including genetics, hormones, metabolism, mental health, environment and access to care.
It is not about blame.
It is not about shame.
It is not about willpower alone.

But taking the next step can start with information, support and the right medical guidance. It is your responsibility.
At the Obesity Community Fund, we believe people living with obesity deserve dignity, understanding and access to care.

Visit our website for more information www.obesitycommunityfund.co.za


The information shared in this post is for educational and awareness purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Individual circumstances, suitability and outcomes may vary. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance and assessment.

09/10/2026

The bariatric surgery journey is not only a medical journey. It is also an emotional, practical and long-term commitment.

Whether you are still thinking about bariatric surgery, preparing for the process, or already a post-operative patient, being part of a supportive community can make a meaningful difference.

Join us as we discuss the value of community, with insights from patients who have been through the process and understand the journey.

Obesity is a chronic, relapsing disease that requires ongoing support, education, guidance and care. No one should have to walk this road alone.

20 October | 19:00
RSVP on our website: www.obesitycommunityfund.co.za

Disclaimer: This webinar is for educational and awareness purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance and assessment.

06/10/2026

A Journey of Hope, Healing & Second Chances 💙 "Same ME...different VERSION"

For most of my life, my weight was a struggle. Six years ago, I lost 50kg through a weightloss program which involved injections, extremely hard work, discipline and determination, only to gain it all back and more. The disappointment was devastating, and despite seeking help from numerous healthcare professionals, I knew I needed a different solution.

By God's grace, that solution came through the incredible generosity of Dr Thinus Smit, the Obesity Community Fund (OCF), and the amazing multidisciplinary team at Zuid-Afrikaans Hospital. They didn't just see a number on a scale. They saw me.

On 26 November 2025, I received life-changing SADI-procedure.
Today, just over 8 months later:
⚖️ Starting Weight: 146kg
⚖️ Surgery Weight: 138kg
⚖️ Current Weight: 92kg
⚖️ Total Lost: 54kg 🎉

But the greatest transformation isn't the weight I've lost. It's the life I've gained. My health. My confidence. My future. ✨

Most importantly, I've gained precious time and experiences with my husband, Charl and my son, Ruan, who have supported me every step of the way. Their love, encouragement, and belief in me carried me through the toughest days🥹🙌🏻 ❤️

To Dr Thinus Smit, the OCF Board, the entire OCF family, the bariatric team, and everyone who has been part of this journey: thank you for giving me a second chance at life. Your impact goes far beyond weight loss. You helped me reclaim my life. 🌷

Forever thankful. Forever grateful. Forever blessed. 💙
Madelein Kleynhans

💙🙏🏻🌷✨💪🏻🎂

01/10/2026

Obesity is a complex disease, which is why treatment often requires more than one healthcare professional.

Depending on the patient's needs, different members of the multidisciplinary team can help address nutrition, medical conditions, movement, behaviour, emotional wellbeing, surgical readiness and long-term follow-up.

At the Obesity Health Centre, we believe that coordinated care gives patients the support they need throughout their journey. Francette Dietitian Nicola Drabble - Bariatric Dietitian South Africa Dr Thinus Smit

Visit www.obesityhealthcentre.co.za for more information.

30/09/2026

Post-operative bariatric patients are an important part of the Obesity Community Fund community.

Your lived experience can help educate, encourage and support others who are still considering their options or preparing for their own journey. Some ways you can become involved by:

• Joining the OCF community
• Sharing your story, with consent
• Helping create awareness that obesity is a disease
• Supporting new members with encouragement and guidance
• Taking part in events, webinars or awareness initiatives
• Volunteering your time or skills
• Helping us reduce stigma through advocacy
• Financial support for members who needs it

What do you gain by becoming involved?

You become part of a community that understands the journey. You can continue learning, stay connected, find purpose in helping others, build confidence in your own story, and play a meaningful role in changing how obesity is understood in South Africa. You also gain ongoing support, guidance and encouragement throughout your post-operative journey — from both healthcare professionals and fellow OCF members who understand the path you are walking.

OCF is built by patients, for patients — and post-operative patients play a valuable role in helping others understand the journey with honesty, dignity and hope.

Visit: www.obesitycommunityfund.co.za for more information.

Disclaimer: Information shared by OCF is for educational and awareness purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance and assessment.

30/09/2026

The non-scale wins are important. Your health is important.

Obesity treatment is about much more than achieving a smaller number on the scale.
It is also about improving health.

Obesity is associated with conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnoea, cardiovascular disease and joint problems. Effective treatment can therefore form an important part of managing your broader health.

The goal is not simply weight loss. The goal is better health. Visit our website for more information. www.obesityhealthcentre.co.za



Disclaimer: The information shared on this page is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Individual circumstances and treatment needs vary. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice relevant to your specific health needs.

28/09/2026