By Duke Medicine News and Communications

Durham, N.C. -- Barbara Thompson, professional speaker and author of "Weight Loss Surgery: Finding the Thin Person Hiding Inside You," will speak from 5 p.m. until 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 23 at the Durham Marriott Hotel at the Civic Center in an event that is free and open to the public.

The event is sponsored by Durham Regional Hospital and the Duke University Health System Weight Loss Surgery Center as part of an ongoing educational series.

Thompson's book offers an account of her journey as a patient before and after weight loss surgery. Thompson, who lost 125 pounds in less than a year after having laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, has spoken to audiences throughout the U.S. about her experiences.

"I wrote this book because I could not find a single source that covered everything about weight loss surgery. As a librarian and a woman committed to researching my actions, I wanted to provide a guidebook for future patients," Thompson said. "I suggest to people that they use this book as a guide to preparing themselves for having the surgery and living their lives afterward."

In her presentation, Thompson will outline what weight loss surgery is and who qualifies, insurance rates, emotional issues, success rates, how to safely and effectively have the surgery and how to thrive after surgery.

Seating for the event is limited, and reservations are suggested.

For more information or to reserve a space, call (919) 660-2232.

Additional information about the Duke University Health System Weight Loss Surgery Center can be found at Weight Loss Surgery Center.