Today changes everything.In this special episode of the BariNation Podcast, we officially announce the launch of the BariNation Foundation, a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting people fighting the chronic disease of obesity.Founded by patients, built by patients, and guided by experts, the BariNation Foundation exists to bring knowledge, community, and hope together, without barriers.In this episode, April Williams is joined by co-founders Jason Smith and Natalie Tierney, along with Melanie Lindell, Christine Mason, and Lori Dustin, to share:✔ Why BariNation transitioned into a nonprofit✔ What 501(c)(3) status means for patients✔ How this expands access to lifelong obesity care✔ Why patient voice must remain central in obesity treatment✔ The future of bariatric surgery, GLP-1 medications, and metabolic care✔ How you can become a Foundational DonorOur MissionThe BariNation Foundation exists to bring knowledge, community, and hope together to support people fighting the disease of obesity.We are treatment-agnostic and committed to supporting individuals pursuing:Bariatric surgeryGLP-1 medicationsMedical obesity treatmentLifestyle-based treatmentLong-term metabolic careOur VisionA future where there are no barriers to accessing lifelong obesity care and support, financial, educational, technological, or systemic.Our ValuesPeople FirstScience Over StigmaCommunity as CareAccess Without BarriersPartnership & IntegrityHope with HonestyWhy This MattersMore than 100 million Americans live with obesity.Hundreds of thousands undergo bariatric surgery each year.Millions are navigating GLP-1 medications and metabolic treatment.And too many are doing it alone.The BariNation Foundation is building a bridge between:PatientsCliniciansResearchersIndustryAnd real-world lived experienceSupport the MissionAs a 501(c)(3), donations are tax-deductible where state law allows.Become a Foundational Donor and help eliminate barriers to obesity care.🔗 https://barination.givecloud.co/fundraising/forms/8NDR96EKEvery deductible dollar goes directly toward:Podcast educationCommunity support groupsAdvocacyFree educational resourcesPatient access initiativesThank you for watching, sharing, and supporting the BariNation Podcast and now, the BariNation Foundation. We could not do this without your support and we are deeply grateful for you.⏱ Timestamps00:00 – The Big Announcement05:00 – Why Nonprofit Status Matters10:00 – Patient Voice at ASMBS15:00 – Expanding Support Beyond Bariatric Surgery20:00 – Sustainability & Financial Stewardship30:00 – Our Mission, Vision & Values35:00 – How to Support the Foundation