For years, I struggled with my weight. It affected every part of my life—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I tried every diet, every quick fix, every “miracle” plan. And while some brought short-term results, nothing ever lasted, because deep down, I was still carrying shame, frustration, and exhaustion.

Then, something shifted. I stopped chasing numbers on a scale and started seeking healing—real healing. That journey led me to Blackrock WeightCare, where I finally felt heard and supported. Mr. Robb has been incredible – professional, compassionate, and genuinely invested in my health. But as great as the clinic has been, I also know that this transformation wasn’t just physical.

God met me in my weakness. He didn’t wait for me to “get it all together”—He came alongside me in the mess. And in the process of learning to take care of my body, I learned to see myself the way He sees me: worthy, loved, and capable.

This last weekend, I did something I never imagined I could do: I completed a 5.8km river swim.

That sentence still doesn’t feel real. The woman who once avoided mirrors and sat on the sidelines of life just swam nearly 6 kilometers—and I’m now doing triathlons. This isn’t just about fitness. This is about faith. About resilience. About choosing to believe that with God, nothing is impossible.

There were so many moments I wanted to give up, but I kept reminding myself of this verse:
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

And He did. He gave me the strength to show up, to keep going, to believe that change was possible.

This journey hasn’t been perfect or easy, but it’s been worth every step, every stroke, every prayer. If you’re in the middle of your own struggle—whether it’s with your weight, your health, or just believing in yourself again—please know this: God sees you. He hasn’t given up on you. And there is hope.

I wouldn’t go anywhere else for support than Blackrock WeightCare. They’ve been a huge part of my story, and I’m beyond grateful.

Here’s to more growth, more healing, and more finish lines—with Jesus leading the way.

The post More Than Weight Loss: Claire’s Journey to Healing and Hope appeared first on Blackrock WeightCare.

In Ireland, if you have private health insurance and you meet the general criteria in international guidelines to qualify for weight loss/metabolic/bariatric surgery, then the chances are your health insurance will cover the cost of surgery.

This seems to be a hidden secret! Many patients with health insurance continue to seek out surgery overseas rather than using the insurance they have often paid for over many years. Call us at Blackrock WeightCare and we will check your insurance coverage for you.

Requirements:

To qualify for weight loss surgery your surgeon will need to demonstrate to your insurer the following:

1. You have a BMI over 40,
2. Or have a BMI over 35 and have a serious health condition such as Type 2 Diabetes, Sleep Apnoea, or High Blood Pressure.
3. You have tried non-surgical weight loss methods for at least six months – but have failed to achieve or maintain that weight loss.

Qualifying for weight loss surgery – often the most successful treatment for obesity – is simple, and in many circumstances, your insurance will pay for it! Sure, all patients have to go through a process of evaluation by our multidisciplinary team but we
make this straightforward. We are focused on giving you the best treatment for obesity – surgery. Check your BMI with our BMI Calculator HERE.

Any patient can call or email their health insurance policy number to check their coverage for the following procedure codes:

• 181 for Gastric Bypass
• 183 for Gastric Sleeve

Are you thinking of bariatric surgery? Have it at home in Ireland. Contact us for an appointment.

Your Health. We Care.

The post Does my private health insurance cover bariatric surgery? appeared first on Blackrock WeightCare.