Patient Stories & Photos
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Our bariatric surgeons use a range of treatments to help you reach weight loss goals and optimize your health. To learn more, call 310-206-0367.
Patient Stories, Before and After Photos - UCLA
Bariatric Surgery Testimonials
The UCLA Center for Obesity and Metabolic Health Program in Los Angeles, CA. provides advanced surgical and nonsurgical options for sustained weight loss and a better quality of life for you and your family. We take great pride in being able to share a few of our patients' weight loss surgery stories with you.
*Weight loss results can vary depending on the individual. There is no guarantee of specific results. Read disclaimer
![Jennifer's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Jennifer-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=WJesjGJ7)
Jennifer's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I am grateful to the care I received at UCLA Medical Center.
View Jennifer's Story
![Kalista Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Kalista-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=javy6MnR)
Kallista's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I am forever grateful for my experience at UCLA.
View Kallista's Story
![Daniel's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Daniel-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=ZF01mZ0x)
Daniel's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I am so thankful to Dr. Chen and the staff at COMET.
View Daniel's Story
![Courtney's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Courtney-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=GA9oqCg5)
Courtney's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
This was a life changing experience and I would not change it for the world.
View Courtney's Story
![Kristen's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Lap Band Revision](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Kristen-Lap-Band-Revision.jpg?itok=nVKIDD_1)
Kristen's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Lap Band Revision*
Gastric Sleeve Revision from Lap Band
I have more energy than I've had my entire life!
View Kristen's Story
![Sandra - Before and After Gastric Sleeve Surgery at UCLA](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/45/sandra-before-and-after-gastric-sleeve.jpg?f=50f11ce3&itok=PFW1kTZN)
Sandra's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
The Best Decision of my life.
View Sandra's Story
![Elven's Story - Gastric Sleeve, Before and After Photos](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/69/elven-before-after-gastric-sleeve.jpg?f=60d86860&itok=O8_VQoyQ)
Elven's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
Dr. Chen is #1 in the world.
View Elven's Story
![Lorena's Story - Before and After Gastric Sleeve Surgery at UCLA](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/8c/lorena-before-after-gastric-sleeve.png?f=fcea1189&itok=-MDe34rf)
Lorena's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
My experience with Dr. Chen and his team were excellent.
View Lorena's Story
![Joanna's Story - Before and After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/19/joanna-before-after-gastric-bypass.jpg?f=e3e67e9b&itok=STT9tSs_)
Joanna's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Bypass*
I truly believe that these doctors, surgeons, nurses, dietitians, etc. are the absolute best in the world.
View Joanna's Story
![Anthony's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Anthony-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=3KAojXvg)
Anthony's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
The only regret I have is that I did not have surgery sooner.
View Anthony's Story
![Michael's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Michael-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=GDX-FPpv)
Michael's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I strongly recommend UCLA and Dr. Dutson and his team of outstanding professionals.
View Michael's Story
![Armen's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Armen-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=9lD5z-9D)
Armen's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
This is an amazing team of highly qualified specialists.
View Armen's Story
![Samuel's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Samuel-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=seknHbsb)
Samuel's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I know the surgery was one of the best decisions of my life.
View Samuel's Story
![Tara's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Tara-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=Txnxa05r)
Tara's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
The process itself was effortless and I recovered really quickly from the surgery.
View Tara's Story
![Charlotte's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Charlotte-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=bt8MfXc_)
Charlotte's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I’ve lost 100 lbs and gained many years of life.
View Charlotte's Story
![Jose's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Jose-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=r-jgR17o)
Jose's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I wholeheartedly recommend UCLA COMET if you are ready to change your life!
View Jose's Story
![Elizabeth's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Elizabeth-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=grxOTKLv)
Elizabeth's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
Having my surgery at UCLA was one of the BEST decisions I’ve ever made.
View Elizabeth's Story
![Frank's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Frank-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=bPmJYw2q)
Frank's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
It was the best decision I have ever made.
View Frank's Story
![Allison's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Allison-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=wXAOIFlS)
Allison's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
Dr. Chen is amazing.
View Allison's Story
![Lolita's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Lolita-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=d81oMe3Q)
Lolita's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
This surgery opened doors that I never would have dreamed.
View Lolita's Story
![Trinette's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Trinette-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=4y8IVHnH)
Trinette's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
After surgery I feel this is the best decision of my life.
View Trinette's Story
![Elsa's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Elsa-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=c5ydS6PA)
Elsa's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I feel good and I am very satisfied.
View Elsa's Story
![Rubina's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Rubina-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=sTiN55D9)
Rubina's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
After surgery I feel like a million dollars.
View Rubina's Story
![Rebecca's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Rebecca-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=tbjf7OQQ)
Rebecca's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
It was the right decision for me and I have recommended the bariatric surgery to others.
View Rebecca's Story
![Maria's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Maria-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=ECY7KqSc)
Maria's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
Dr. Chen helped me so much, I will be grateful for the rest of my life.
View Maria's Story
![Jean's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Jean-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=X5103MGw)
Jean's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I am forever grateful for the care and experience I received thru this program.
View Jean's Story
![Lori's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Lori-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=ArVat3s3)
Lori's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
Having bariatric surgery has changed my life.
View Lori's Story
![Danielle's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Danielle-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=nLgMIC5I)
Danielle's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
Thank you Dr. Chen and staff for your amazing support and passion for your patients!
View Danielle's Story
![Margarita's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Margarita-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=yq5Nhw8g)
Margarita's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
After surgery I felt so good, I wondered if I had actually had the surgery.
View Margarita's Story
![Jackie's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Jackie-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=GXVwe3u-)
Jackie's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I highly recommend bariatric surgery and UCLA to anyone who is looking for an opportunity to change their life and get healthy.
View Jackie's Story
![Michaele's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Michaele-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=AsjF4EYk)
Michaele's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I am forever grateful for having the surgery and regaining my life.
View Michaele's Story
![Rogelio's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Rogelio-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=N2mj2ucW)
Rogelio's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I had the best experience ever with the staff at UCLA.
View Rogelio's Story
![Julie & Patrick's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Julie-Patrick-Gastric-Bypass-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=WqZwn3Iw)
Julie & Patrick's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Gastric Sleeve*
Julie's Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass & Patrick's Sleeve Gastrectomy
UCLA was amazing every step of the way.
View Julie and Patrick's Story
![Sheena's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Sheena-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=P7Mj4nm0)
Sheena's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
If I had to do it all over again, I would do it in a heartbeat.
View Sheena's Story
![Sarah's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Sarah-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=r_5wfo_h)
Sarah's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I truly feel like I got another chance at life!
View Sarah's Story
![Neil's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Neil-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=cD0pK79s)
Neil's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
This has been biggest change I have ever experienced, and it has impacted every aspect of my life.
View Neil's Story
![Derrick's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Derrick-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=ow688d4-)
Derrick's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
Derrick Update: Total weight loss so far of 120 pounds! I am ecstatic with my results!
View Derrick's Updated Story
![Therese's Story - Bariatric Surgery](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Therese-Bariatric-Surgery.jpg?itok=K8b0uf5L)
Therese's Story - Bariatric Surgery*
Bariatric Surgery
I'm honored and grateful for Dr. Chen and UCLA staff.
View Therese's Story
![James' Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/James-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=HEnF4FEj)
James' Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
Thank you Dr. Chen.
View James' Story
![Jeremy's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Jeremy-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=JFnR_og6)
Jeremy's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I feel great, and my only regret is not having made this change sooner in my life.
View Jeremy's Story
![Robert's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Robert-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=hfYP25tU)
Robert's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I highly recommend Gastric Surgery for those who want to change their lifestyle to reflect a healthy, vibrant, energetic way of life.
View Robert's Story
![Olga's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Olga-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=qTMgmoM9)
Olga's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
After surgery, I felt that I had my life back.
View Olga's Story
![Mervilyn's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Mervilyn-Gastric-Bypass.jpg?itok=hqK7Fj-t)
Mervilyn's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass*
I have not been happier with my life.
View Mervilyn's Story
![Maria's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve Surgery](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Marias-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=eSdx1X7R)
Maria's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I would recommend weight loss surgery to anyone who has struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.
View Maria's Story
![Monica's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Monica-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=GG-Vjp0I)
Monica's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I battled with being overweight since I was 10 years old. I was always teased, I became withdrawn, and so food and chocolate became a great comfort for me at a very young age.
View Monica's Story
![Angelika's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Angelika-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=CXSy9tLG)
Angelika's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
These are competent people who want the very best for their patients.
View Angelika's Story
![Deb's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Deb-Gastric-Bypass.jpg?itok=UGnGa4ys)
Deb's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass*
This surgery has completely changed my life.
View Deb's Story
![Lynne's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Lynne-Gastric-Bypass.jpg?itok=7sGxa3gj)
Lynne's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass*
I can say having this surgery was the best decision of my life.
View Lynne's Story
![Krystyn's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Krystyn-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=8gNbIpXg)
Krystyn's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
The Gastric Sleeve was the tool I needed to turn my weight loss failures into a weight loss success story.
View Krystyn's Story
![Laura's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Laura-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=ckmMTvMY)
Laura's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I will be eternally grateful. Dr. Yijun Chen at UCLA and everyone involved with the program helped me save my life.
View Laura's Story
![Judy's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Judy-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=e-W22kUU)
Judy's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I am so glad I fought for this and came to UCLA for my care, and I wish I had been able to do this earlier.
View Judy's Story
![Merwin's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Merwin-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=BaOHIsYz)
Merwin's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
A few months ago, I went to Six Flags Magic Mountain and was overjoyed that I could get on the Superman ride without any trouble!
View Merwin's Story
![Martha's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Martha-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=E6u43ZJd)
Martha's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I sought bariatric surgery because of my diabetes and my high blood pressure issues. My primary care doctor suggested the surgery to me, but I was scared.
View Martha's Story
![Randall's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Randall-Gastric-Bypass.jpg?itok=TixllNMW)
Randall's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass*
My battle with weight has been a long one. As a boy growing up it was hard going to school being teased by kids calling me fat.
View Randall's Story
![Michelle Boskin's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Michelle-Gastric-Bypass.jpg?itok=1W4OphET)
Michelle Boskin's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass*
Before my RNY on 10/22/12 I was killing myself with food. After surgery I am a whole new person.
View Michelle's Story
![Gina's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Gina-Gastric-Bypass.jpg?itok=2dYpERnb)
Gina's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass*
Since the surgery and my weight loss, I've noticed little changes in the way people respond to me, like opening a door for me.
View Gina's Story
![Denise's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Denise-Gastric-Bypass.jpg?itok=GbTj-3LW)
Denise's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass*
I am so happy that I’ve done this. I did this for myself but, in the end, it’s been the best thing for my family.
View Denise's Story
![Cari's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Cari-Gastric-Bypass.jpg?itok=s24ciF-e)
Cari's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass*
My health has gotten so amazing with the weight loss.
View Cari's Story
![Janet's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_004000_160/public/images/Janet-Gastric-Bypass.jpg?itok=mdLO2P8x)
Janet's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass*
My bariatric surgery was the best thing I have ever done for myself.
View Janet's Story
![Jamie's Pictures - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Jamie-Gastric-Sleeve.jpg?itok=EXRHr8z1)
Jamie's Pictures - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
Total Lost: 78 pounds.
View Jamie's Photos
![Heather's Pictures - Bariatric Surgery](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_006000_240/public/images/Heather-Bariatric-Surgery.jpg?itok=0TcAP3Dv)
Heather's Pictures - Bariatric Surgery*
Bariatric Surgery
Total Lost: 106 pounds.
View Heather's Photos
Brianna's Patient Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
This is the best decision I've ever made and I am eternally grateful to the UCLA team.
View Patient Story
Female Patient Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I wish that I would have done this years ago.
View Patient Story
Ashley's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I’m happy I went through with it.
View Ashley's Story
Hector's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
Surgery changed everything and it feels good.
View Hector's Story
Martha's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
Since my surgery I have lost more than 68 pounds.
View Martha's Story
C.M.'s Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
My life is so much better! More energy, more quality time spent with family and friends.
View C.M.'s Story
Virgina's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass*
Since my surgery, I’ve gone on hikes, I’ve gone to the beach, I’ve gone kayaking, and all that makes me really happy.
View Virgina's Story
Chuck's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass*
Before the surgery, I probably wouldn’t have been able to do something like this because of my self-image. A lot of things have changed for the better.
View Chuck's Story
Michelle's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*
I am excited to be living again.
View Michelle's Story