Chris Deal witnessed the active roles his co-workers played in the lives of their children and wanted to be able to do the same when his family began to expand.
As the director of creative services for Oklahoma State University football, Deal works with coaches and staff around the Cowboy program.
“I had never really been around kids,” Deal said. “But I would see the coaches rolling around and playing with their kids after practice or at the football facility. And I wanted to be that dad. I wanted to be the active dad that goes to their games and can still get down and help them with batting practice.”
In 2017, Deal needed surgery after he broke several bones in his foot. The procedure required him to rely on a knee roller for mobility purposes. The experience was also turning point.
“I had always felt healthy and active being in college football,” Deal said. “But not being able to move around, I felt I needed a lifestyle change.”
After doing his research, Deal opted for the surgical weight loss program at Bailey Bariatrics. The procedure helped him lose nearly 200 pounds.
Deal praised the Bailey Bariatrics staff for their efforts throughout his process.
“When they heard my situation, they were unbelievable,” he said, noting David Steward, the program director, championed for him. “From my very first visit with Bailey, I had a sense I’m in the right place.”
Deal went into greater detail about the impact of the Bailey Bariatrics program.
“Their hospitality, their interest in you and not rushing me in the process,” he said. “The support groups and dietitians, they still are like family to me. When you are there, you realize this is where you should be because these people care about me.”
Following the steps of the program has enabled Deal to realize one of his goals, now as the dad of a young boy.
“Every morning we play football in the house,” Deal said with a smile. “We run around the house and tackle each other. We play football in the morning and basketball or baseball in the evening. There’s nothing like him coming up, grabbing my hand and saying, ‘Let’s go play, dad.’ That’s a dream come true. There’s not a price tag or replacement for that time.”
To learn more about Bailey Bariatrics’ free seminars, click here.