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The Walk e-News Article

Picture of By: TREO Foundation

By: TREO Foundation

BariNation is The Virtual Walk’s Top Fundraising Team in 2025!

We recently asked April Williams, President and CEO, and Christine Mason, COO, of BariNation to share their experience with us as team captains of The Virtual #WalkforTREO!

Congratulations to you both and the entire BariNation community for being named the 2025 Fundraising Champions for The Virtual #WalkforTREO! As a token of appreciation, you will receive a special plaque recognizing your team’s achievement.

How does it feel to see your team’s hard work and spirit recognized in such a big way?

-It feels incredible! BariNation is all about showing up for one another, and seeing our community’s energy, generosity, and heart recognized on a national level is such an honor. Our members rally around purpose, not just progress, and leading as both The Walk’s National Sponsor and the top fundraising team shows what’s possible when the bariatric community comes together with passion and pride.

BariNation not only led the way as this year’s top fundraising virtual team but also served as The Walk’s National Sponsor this fall. How did it feel to support TREO Foundation in both roles, helping make the event possible on a national level while also rallying your own online community as participants?

-It felt like the perfect reflection of who BariNation is. We deeply believe in collaboration and in lifting others, so sponsoring The Walk and mobilizing our members to participate felt like a full-circle moment. Our community spans the country, so being able to unite virtually for a cause that supports bariatric education, advocacy, and connection was truly special. It reminded us that, together, we can do things we never thought possible, just as our individual bariatric journeys have. The podcast episodes we recorded with Dr. Majid really gave context to the importance of TREO Foundation fundraising to support research and the impact that will have on treating the disease of obesity in the long term. Her compassion in discussing weight recurrence and destigmatizing it away from personal failure and understanding the disease components and treatment options really resonated for our viewers, listeners and community members.

We were so honored to connect with the practices, medical systems and providers who organized the in person walks. BariNation is on a mission to support patients taking steps to treat their metabolic disease at any stage in their journey.  We hope our involvement can positively impact the lives of everyone battling the disease of obesity without shame through support and education.

How did your team come together for the Virtual Walk, and what are some memorable moments or stories that stood out during the event weekend?

-Our members turned The Walk into a weekend-long celebration. We had people walking in their neighborhoods, hiking with friends, joining live from their treadmills at home, and even participating in the walk on international vacations. One of our favorite moments was seeing photos flood in from across the country, everyone wearing their BariNation and The Walk gear, smiling, and sharing why the bariatric community matters so much to them. It wasn’t just a walk; it was a visible reminder that no one walks this journey alone
 
What strategies or approaches worked best for your team when it came to motivating members to donate and spread the word?
 
-We focused on storytelling and connection. Instead of just asking for donations, we shared why The Walk matters, how TREO’s work impacts real lives, and how a simple act can make a big difference. When people feel part of something bigger than themselves, motivation comes naturally. Hearing directly from Dr. Majid on the BariNation  podcast and in the posts shared on social media allowed us to engage with our community in an authentic way and allowed them to engage with The Walk in ways that fit their movement programs and financial contributions
 
Looking ahead, what message would you like to share with others in the bariatric community or anyone considering joining The Virtual #WalkforTREO next year?


-Do it, and bring your friends! Every action matters, and when we team up, we amplify our impact. The Walk is so much more than a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of community, courage, and hope. Whether you’re pre-op, post-op, or just someone who believes in health equity and education, your presence makes an impact. You don’t have to walk fast or far, just show up, move your body, and connect. That’s where the magic happens.

How can our readers learn more about BariNation, and how can they get involved?

-If you are a provider, share the BariNation Podcast and Support Community with your patients at their pre- and post-op appointments. The disease of obesity is isolating, but they can fight back with the community. Visit us at www.barination.com and learn more about the topics we cover, support opportunities, practice involvement and educational programs.

If you are a patient, we have over 270 podcast episodes on every topic related to the bariatric journey, hosted by 3 bariatric patients, featuring others on the journey and many medical and clinical providers.  It’s available on all audio podcast platforms and YouTube. We would love to connect with you in our private online space, the BariNation Support Community. Sometimes, you just want to talk with other patients and learn from experts. With over 70 virtual support groups, classes, and meetups a month, you can find the support and education you have been looking for. See what it’s all about at https://barination.mn.co.  We can also be found on Instagram @bari.nation and YouTube Shorts.

This feature was provided for being the Top Fundraising Team of The Virtual #WalkforTREO. TREO Foundation thanks BariNation and all of the teams and participants who supported The Virtual Walk this year!