OH2025 Conference Co-Hosts — Meet Lauren & Yelena

August 8, 2025

Our conferences are always filled with fun, excitement, and lots of support, and our OH2025 Conference co-hosts Lauren Sanchez and Yelena Kibasova play a big part in making that happen. With their signature humor, encouragement, and heart, they are a dynamic duo for sure!

As WLS post-ops, these two inspiring women deeply understand the challenges and triumphs of the weight loss journey. With a combined loss of 350 pounds, they are passionate patient advocates who dedicate their time and energy to uplifting and supporting others on the same path.

Lauren and Yelena will lead you through an unforgettable weekend filled with impactful education, heartfelt connections, motivation, and lots of fun. Don’t miss the chance to join them at OH2025 in Irvine, CA, on October 17 & 18!

About Lauren

Lauren Sanchez began her weight loss journey with Lap-Band surgery in 2008, later revising to RNY in 2014 due to complications from pouch dilation. Through unwavering commitment and perseverance, she has lost a remarkable 200 pounds. As a volunteer Support Group Outreach Coordinator for the conference, Lauren has connected with support groups nationwide, both in person and virtually, sharing her personal story, the value of community, and the life-changing impact of the conference. A proud 11-year attendee, she continues to inspire others with her experience and dedication. Lauren resides in Southern California and loves spending time with her family.

Check Out Lauren's Video Here

I am so excited to be included in this year's upcoming event. ObesityHelp has always exceeded my expectations and is consistently bringing valid speakers and topics to keep us informed and supported. Every event is genuinely better than every year prior. I encourage you all to step out of your comfort zone and experience this event to the fullest! I'm looking forward to the awesome hugs - Lauren

About Yelena

Yelena Kibasova, founder of MoreThanMyWeight.com, is a 16-year post-op bariatric patient and a NASM-certified personal trainer who specializes in coaching individuals through every phase of their weight loss journey. An award-winning writer and dynamic public speaker, Yelena is a passionate advocate for improved access to obesity care. Her inspiring content, educational videos, and supportive community can be found on all social platforms at @morethanmyweight.

Check Out Yelena's Video Here

Why does someone like me—a 17-year-out bariatric patient at maintenance weight—come to the conferences? I have come to remember that I am an individual fighting the disease of obesity. I come to support and inspire those who are just starting the journey. And most of all, I come for the support and understanding of bariatric patients and medical professionals, because, let’s face it, they get it! - Yelena

What ObesityHelp Conference Attendees Are Saying

Lauren Sanchez and Yelena Kibasova truly embody the spirit of warmth and inclusion. Their humor, knowledge, and welcoming energy make everyone feel valued and at ease, and their dynamic teamwork brings a special joy to the conference. They're genuinely the perfect duo to inspire and connect with all attendees. I look forward to seeing them. - Rachelle W.

A weekend I will never forget! Thank you, Yelena and Lauren, for making me feel welcomed and for all of the fun and positivity. - Debbie

Had such an amazing weekend at the 2024 Conference! I cannot wait till next year! Thank you, Lauren Sanchez, Yelena Kibasova, Steve Reyes, and the rest of the team for doing this awesome event! The information and motivation was off the charts! - Summer C.

I want to thank everyone I talked to and met this weekend. I went into hiding the last few years, and I can say being there this weekend has helped me come back. Thank you to all the speakers. You did an amazing job. Huge shout-out to Dr. Reyes, Yelena Kibasova, and Lauren Sanchez for being the MCs. - Justin W.