Three women who collectively lost 36 stone came together to organize the UK’s inaugural weight loss festival, which turned out to be a huge success. Donna Musson, 43, Anastasia Morris, 34, and Pamela Phillips, 42, met at an event where they bonded over their individual journeys of undergoing various bariatric surgeries to shed excess weight. Recognizing the lack of opportunities for post-weight loss surgery individuals to connect, they decided to create a space for such gatherings.
Pooling their weight loss of 36 stone, the trio initiated the UK’s first bariatric surgery festival, known as Barifest. The event expanded to embrace individuals on diverse weight loss paths, including those undergoing surgery, weight loss injections, or traditional dieting, fostering a supportive environment for people to come together and have a good time.
After meticulous planning over eight months, the vibrant festival took place at Field Good Bar in Bath over the weekend, attracting 75 participants at various stages of their weight loss transformations. The festival featured a range of activities like arts and crafts, karaoke, fitness sessions, live entertainment, wellness seminars, and ‘boozy bingo.’ Renowned DJ Shortee Blitz, who has worked with artists like Jay-Z and Mariah Carey, headlined the event, with plastic surgeons also present for on-the-spot consultations. Admission was priced at £60 per day.
The festival concluded on a high note, with Donna, Anastasia, and Pamela overwhelmed by the positive response and flooded with inquiries about hosting it again in 2027. Pamela, who lost 9st 7lbs after gastric sleeve surgery in 2023, expressed the significance of creating a supportive community through Barifest, emphasizing the event’s role in combating feelings of isolation and shame commonly experienced post-surgery.
The inspiration for Barifest stemmed from the trio’s chance encounter at a ball, where they connected over their weight loss journeys. Pamela, a wellbeing coordinator, significantly reduced her weight from 20st 8lbs to 11st post-surgery. Anastasia, a logistics administrator from Wales, dropped from 32st to 14st 9lbs following gastric bypass surgery, while Donna achieved a weight loss from 20st 7lbs to 11st 6lbs after gastric sleeve surgery.
Recognizing the isolation felt by individuals on substantial weight loss journeys, the trio envisioned a casual and enjoyable gathering for the weight loss community in the UK, leading to the inception of Barifest. Donna highlighted the inclusivity of the event, catering to individuals at various stages of their weight loss journey with diverse food options.
The organizers are determined to make Barifest an annual affair following its successful debut, with attendees praising the event’s welcoming atmosphere and inclusive facilities. Anastasia emphasized the event’s uplifting nature, where attendees could feel comfortable without fear of judgment, making lasting memories in a supportive environment.