Colleen Darney’s battle with weight loss had gone on for years. Though she initially had success with programs like Weight Watchers, maintaining the results was always a struggle. When the pandemic hit in 2020, her routine drastically changed, leading to weight gain. After several frustrating attempts to lose weight, Colleen knew she needed a long-term solution.“I was sick of trying the same thing over and over again,” Colleen admits. That’s when she turned to GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program. The team provided her with the resources and support to prepare her for surgery, guiding her every step of the way.Since her surgery in March 2023, Colleen’s life has improved dramatically. “I feel so much better; I only wish I had done this sooner!” With the support of the GBMC COMP team, she’s back to running, her joints feel better, and she’s sleeping more soundly. More importantly, Colleen can now participate fully in life without worrying about her size.The GBMC COMP team is here to help you achieve your health goals and regain control of your life. Visit gbmc.org/weightloss to learn more and take the first step today.
As a nurse and active individual, Emily Whitaker had always enjoyed the social aspects of food, using it to cope with stress and emotions. But as she looked ahead to having children and staying active with them, Emily knew she needed help. She turned to GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program, where she found a comfortable and supportive environment that has already made a huge difference in her life.“From the very beginning, COMP has been a very comfortable and supportive environment for me,” Emily shares. Just two weeks after her surgery in December 2023, she feels more energetic and alert. She’s already lost 25 pounds and is excited for the future, with her confidence and attitude toward herself improving every day.Emily’s story is just beginning, and with the continued support of the GBMC COMP team, she knows she’s on the right path. If you’re ready to start your own journey toward a healthier future, the GBMC COMP team is here for you. Visit gbmc.org/weightloss to learn more and take the next step.
When Jared Conway decided to undergo bariatric surgery in August 2023, he knew GBMC was the right choice after researching similar programs. What stood out to him was the level of support the COMP team provided, which went beyond the typical care he saw at other hospitals.“Even though my experiences were primarily virtual, I received all of the information needed and always felt like this is a family, and I was not just a patient,” Jared explains. The GBMC COMP team’s commitment to providing personalized care before, during, and after the procedure made all the difference in his journey.Having struggled with his weight for years, Jared found bariatric surgery to be the tool he needed to achieve his health goals. His relationship with food has also transformed for the better. Now, he’s able to enjoy life in ways that were once unimaginable.I can march with my groups again as a drummer, fly comfortably, ride rollercoasters, and move without pain.”If you’re ready to experience the same level of care and support, the GBMC COMP team is here for you. Learn more about your options and schedule a consultation by visiting gbmc.org/weightloss.
Katelyn Barley’s decision to undergo bariatric surgery in November 2022 came after years of contemplation. Since as early as 2016, she had considered the procedure but was scared to admit that she needed it. When her OB/GYN suggested the surgery again in 2022, the timing felt right as Katelyn looked ahead to getting married and starting a family.From her very first interaction with GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP), Katelyn knew she was in the right hands. The team provided guidance every step of the way, ensuring she felt supported and confident in her decision. “I have lost 150 lbs, and I do not know how I was even functioning before surgery,” she shares. Katelyn prior to surgeryA large part of Katelyn’s success can be attributed to the expertise and compassionate care of the GBMC COMP team. The support she received made her feel less alone in her journey, and the guidance on managing her relationship with food has been transformative. “Food no longer controls my life—I had no idea how addicted I was to food until I gained this tool.”Katelyn's life has completely changed, and she’s now more active and confident about her future. If you’re ready to take control of your health, the GBMC COMP team is here to help. Visit gbmc.org/weightloss to learn more and schedule a consultation.
GBMC's philosophy is cancer survivorship begins at diagnosis.At GBMC, the Survivorship Program helps patients and families redefine “normal life” and find their way through the emotional and physical aspects of cancer."It is important to recognize the effect a diagnosis has on the entirety of a person's life," Walter Benton, Executive Director of Oncology Services at the Sandra and Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute, said. "At GBMC, we come to survivorship care, not only with a broad appreciation for the entire patient experience but also a personalized and caring approach to its application."Former patients of the Cancer Institute agreed:"I never felt alone during my treatment," Charlene Harven said."There was always someone available to answer my questions," Rose Hart said."It wasn't just me and my doctor going through this. It was a team and I always felt like they were pulling for me," Chris Coladonato said."I have been a grateful patient for 13 years," Jim Walter Sr. said. "When my grandson, David, was diagnosed, I was grateful to be his support person." David Walter added, "Knowing Grandpop received such excellent care took some anxiety out for me. I’m glad we could go through this together."We celebrate surviving cancer each year at GBMC's Cancer Survivorship Celebration. We spend time together each June creating a community of patients, family, friends and providers, and celebrating survivorship. At GBMC, we're more than just healthcare providers. We're your team.At GBMC, we face cancer together.
Miranda, Pre-SurgeryBefore undergoing bariatric surgery at GBMC's Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP), Miranda was struggling. She felt stuck, unhappy with her appearance, and lacked the motivation to engage in activities she once enjoyed. "I was in a rut before my surgery, never wanting to do anything and hating the way I looked," she recalls. But her life has transformed in ways she never imagined, thanks to bariatric surgery and support from the COMP team. Miranda's decision to pursue surgery was heavily influenced by her father's success with the same procedure. Seeing his improved health and vitality provided the encouragement she needed to take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle. The process began with thorough consultations and pre-surgical classes at COMP, designed to prepare patients both physically and mentally for the journey ahead. The surgery marked a turning point in Miranda's life. The physical changes were immediate and noticeable, but the most profound impact was on her self-confidence. "Because of the surgery, I have gained so much confidence and really learned my self-worth," she shares. This newfound confidence allowed Miranda to envision a future in which she can pursue her passions and dreams without the limitations that once held her back. One of the most significant changes in Miranda's life post-surgery was her ability to go after her dream job. Before the surgery, physical limitations and a lack of self-confidence made this seem out of reach. The support and care she received from the COMP team played a crucial role in this transformation, providing her with the tools and encouragement needed to succeed.Dr. Costinett and MirandaThe journey wasn't without its challenges. Adjusting to a new lifestyle and adhering to post-surgical guidelines required determination and perseverance. However, the COMP team's continuous support made a significant difference. Regular follow-ups, nutritional guidance, and access to a community of fellow patients provided Miranda with a strong support network. This comprehensive approach ensured that she was not alone in her journey, making the process more manageable. For those considering bariatric surgery, Miranda offers this advice: "Put yourself first - make your decision based on you and you, alone. And keep in mind that many of the obstacles you face are in your own head. My only regret is I didn’t do this sooner!" Interested in learning more about how GBMC's Comprehensive Obesity Management Program can help you achieve your health goals? Visit gbmc.org/weightloss to schedule a consultation and start your journey towards a healthier, more confident you.
<!-- body.g .image-left { max-width: 300px; } --> Samantha’s journey with weight and health issues reached a turning point when she decided to undergo bariatric surgery at GBMC's Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP). For years, Samantha struggled with weight-related pain and health conditions, including diabetes and high blood sugar. "I was sick and tired of carrying around so much weight and the pain that it caused my body," she recalls. Out of desperation, she researched effective ways to lose weight and keep it off long term, which led her to bariatric surgery. Samantha Pre-Surgery The transformation Samantha experienced post-surgery has been nothing short of miraculous. In just seven months, she lost an astounding 162 pounds through gastric bypass. Activities that were once a challenge are now sources of joy and empowerment. "I can do many things now I couldn't before, such as hiking, taking my dog for long walks, lifting weights at the gym, fitting in restaurant booths, and tying my shoes comfortably." Remarkably, the weight loss has also enabled her to reverse her diabetes and maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Samantha Post-Surgery A significant aspect of Samantha's successful journey is the support and care provided by the GBMC COMP team. She emphasizes the accessibility and compassion of the staff, stating, "The GBMC COMP team is caring and easy to reach. I owe the amazing people at GBMC my life and I am so grateful every day." For those considering bariatric surgery, Samantha's experience underscores the importance of finding a dedicated and supportive medical team. Her journey highlights the profound positive changes that can come from such a procedure, not only in terms of physical health but also in overall quality of life and emotional well-being. GBMC's COMP offers a comprehensive approach to weight loss, providing patients with the tools, support, and medical expertise needed to achieve and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Samantha's story is a powerful reminder of the potential for transformation and the new lease on life that bariatric surgery can offer. Start your journey now!
Knowing more about your risk for cancer can help reduce anxiety and prepare for the future.At the Harvey Institute for Human Genetics at GBMC, genetic counseling can assess your risk of a hereditary cancer condition, allow for discussion of genetic testing options and provide counseling on how to manage your health moving forward. This information can be useful to an entire family."For many, knowledge is power," Jennifer Billiet, MGC, Clinical Genetics counselor at the Harvey Institute for Human Genetics at GBMC HealthCare, said. "We want to empower patients with as much information as possible so they can make informed decisions about their health.""It was so helpful just to know," patient Dara Friedman-Wheeler said. "Having the information from the tests and my sessions with Jennifer has allowed me to navigate my health care with more confidence."We're more than just healthcare providers. We're your team. At GBMC, we face cancer, together.
<div> <p paraid="498300624" paraeid="{b74c3535-0e20-4dd7-a2f4-e06b2578ad50}{166}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">It was a nice surprise. As she was moving in, one of Linda Kaufman’s new neighbors called out in recognition. It wasn’t Linda whom the woman recognized, it was her dog, Hannah. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1459958055" paraeid="{b74c3535-0e20-4dd7-a2f4-e06b2578ad50}{188}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Linda and her late husband, Buddy, were longtime volunteers at GBMC – Linda served for 15 years; Buddy started soon after she did – but Hannah was the star. With Buddy holding the leash, the petite pup, a Schnauzer mix, was a popular visitor with patients across the hospital, especially in the Lois Harvey Miller Infusion Center. For several years leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hannah and Buddy brightened even the most challenging of days for thousands of patients. It’s a time Linda looks back on with pride. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="128056881" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{7}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Much of Linda’s volunteer time was dedicated to helping patients and the loved ones waiting for them in the General Operating Room (GOR). She was there every Friday morning, 7:30 to 11:30 a.m., signing patients in and supporting their family members. </span> </p> <p paraid="128056881" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{7}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“You could tell the doctors appreciated the volunteers,” she recalled. “They always thanked us.” </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="2008217723" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{41}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">When she and Buddy were both in the GOR, she remembers retired surgeon Dr. John Saunders exclaiming, “The Kaufmans are here together!”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="761812238" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{61}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Among her many tasks was writing down for the surgeon a brief description of what the waiting family member was wearing and where they were seated, enabling the surgeon to find them quickly to give a post-operative report. This did more than save time. When they needed it most, it gave the family member a sense of connection to the busy surgeon, who often had multiple procedures in any given day. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1431602611" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{86}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">And when someone needed help finding their way from one part of GBMC to another, Linda was ready to help. </span> </p> <p paraid="1431602611" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{86}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“I always took them, rather than give directions. I knew all the shortcuts,” she beamed. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1173325134" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{94}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">With the opening of the Louis and Phyllis Friedman Building last fall and the Sandra R. Berman Pavilion now under construction, Linda is a little less confident of her inner GBMC compass. Yet, she and Buddy will become permanently connected to GBMC when the Berman Pavilion opens. In gratitude for their gift to the Berman Pavilion capital campaign, the new Integrative Wellness Palliative Medicine Center will include the Linda and Buddy Kaufman Wellness Center. The multi-purpose room will host support groups, yoga classes and countless other programs that will help patients and survivors living with cancer. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1646513901" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{114}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Linda’s experience as a cancer patient at GBMC inspired her to give. She credits </span><span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun" data-ccp-charstyle-defn="{"ObjectId":"d3125f03-0a6d-4ced-b4cb-84c032011012|33","ClassId":1073872969,"Properties":[469775450,"normaltextrun",201340122,"1",134233614,"true",469778129,"normaltextrun",335572020,"1",469778324,"Default Paragraph Font"]}">Gary I. Cohen,</span><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun"> </span><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun">MD, FACP, FASCO, </span></span><span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">with saving her life when he arranged for her participation in a clinical trial.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="422955646" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{132}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">In recent years, GBMC’s embrace of Integrative Wellness Palliative Medicine, which was added to the Sandra and Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute by Herman and Walter Samuelson Medical Director </span><span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun">Paul Celano, MD, FACP, FASCO,</span><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun"> </span><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun">sparked her interest. </span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="2011910766" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{152}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“I believe in mind-body therapies that work alongside medical treatments,” Linda explained. “This feels like a natural fit to me.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1590463685" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{168}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">The room will celebrate a couple who devoted much of their lives to serving others. After their children, Steven and Amy, were grown and Buddy sold his business, Equipment Leasing, they both became active volunteers. In addition to her work at GBMC, Linda volunteered with Jewish Family Services (JFS) Mitzvah Mobility. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1960008825" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{212}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">In 1990, the family took on more personal volunteer work when they founded the Steven Kaufman AIDS Outreach Project through JFS. When Steven died from AIDS, they turned that tragic loss into support for patients, caregivers, parents, partners, and anyone in the community who had been touched by AIDS. They facilitated meetings and shared information in schools about AIDS treatment and prevention for 10 years, determined to remove the stigma that prevented Steven from speaking up when he was diagnosed in the early ‘80s. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="475868593" paraeid="{58055c68-cf2b-42ff-b4f7-72b13c72a677}{29}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Now that she has retired from volunteering, Linda is glad to know the couple’s legacy at GBMC will live on, not only in the new home of the Berman Cancer Institute, but in the hearts of grateful patients across the region.</span> </p> </div>
<div> <p paraid="364619836" paraeid="{1dfc4806-1f16-417a-a555-c811554f14c4}{162}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]" data-ccp-parastyle-defn="{"ObjectId":"2b710191-210c-456a-b900-5baf232126d5|34","ClassId":1073872969,"Properties":[469775450,"[Basic Paragraph]",201340122,"2",134233614,"true",469778129,"BasicParagraph",335572020,"99",201342448,"3",469777841,"Minion Pro",469777842,"Minion Pro",469777843,"新細明體",469777844,"Minion Pro",469769226,"Minion Pro,新細明體",335551500,"0",335559740,"288",201341983,"0",335559739,"0",469778324,"Normal"]}">It </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">wasn’t</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]"> the most important thing, but Anne Nester </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">Pidcock</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">, PhD, was thrilled when she could do a half handstand against the wall with ease. Anne’s true goal is to align her body, </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">mind</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]"> and spirit. After dealing with two unrelated cancer diagnoses in less than three months, she felt she was reclaiming control of her life. Part of her approach: taking the empowering pose before each surgery and major procedure. </span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":0,"335559740":288}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="498369298" paraeid="{1dfc4806-1f16-417a-a555-c811554f14c4}{180}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">In fall 2022, a routine mammogram found stage 1 breast cancer. Her primary care physician, friends, and colleagues all recommended GBMC’s Lauren </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">Schnaper</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">, MD, FACS, and the team at the Sandra and Malcolm Berman Comprehensive Breast Care Center. </span></span> </p> <p paraid="498369298" paraeid="{1dfc4806-1f16-417a-a555-c811554f14c4}{180}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">At Anne’s first visit to the Breast Care Center, “Dr. </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">Schnaper</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]"> spent </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">90 minutes</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]"> with me and my husband.” Anne recalled with gratitude “the care, the knowledge, the kindness Dr. </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">Schnaper</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]"> and everyone showed me from that moment.” </span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":0,"335559740":288}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="234425240" paraeid="{1dfc4806-1f16-417a-a555-c811554f14c4}{202}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">Anne is no stranger to GBMC; </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">she’s</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]"> been an active volunteer since 2012, serving on the Volunteer Auxiliary Board, checking patients in at the welcome desk in the Virginia Sherwood Surgical Center, acting as a “patient” in the Simulation Innovation and Learning Center, and sorting donations and staffing sales at the Nearly New Sale</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">. </span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":0,"335559740":288}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1161427472" paraeid="{1dfc4806-1f16-417a-a555-c811554f14c4}{212}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">As a patient, she is grateful for GBMC’s multidisciplinary team approach to cancer treatment. A career in psychology has shown Anne the importance of including the patient in their care</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">. </span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":0,"335559740":288}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1588486536" paraeid="{1dfc4806-1f16-417a-a555-c811554f14c4}{222}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">And then, a scan done to prepare for radiation therapy post-lumpectomy found a mass in the large lobe of her left lung. Radiation oncologist </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">Kruti</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]"> N. Patel, MD, called Anne with the “stunning” news that she had stage 3 lung cancer. </span></span> </p> <p paraid="1588486536" paraeid="{1dfc4806-1f16-417a-a555-c811554f14c4}{222}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">“I never inhaled anything,” Anne said. “I walked six and a half miles the day before the diagnosis and had no symptoms.” </span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":0,"335559740":288}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1523040168" paraeid="{1dfc4806-1f16-417a-a555-c811554f14c4}{236}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">An October lumpectomy was followed by a January lobectomy. After the second procedure, thoracic surgeon Jennifer L. Sullivan, MD, FACS, assured Anne her cancer could be treated. A year out, tests have confirmed this is still the case. Medical oncologist and hematologist Robert B. Donegan, MD, ordered genetic testing and found a mutant gene that has been correlated with developing cancer in non-smokers. Multiple radiation treatments and four cycles of chemotherapy, including oral chemotherapy, have been successful</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">. </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]"> </span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":0,"335559740":288}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1007714969" paraeid="{1dfc4806-1f16-417a-a555-c811554f14c4}{242}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">Throughout treatments, Anne </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">participated</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]"> in yoga practices, meditation, and massage, as much as she was able. </span></span> </p> <p paraid="1007714969" paraeid="{1dfc4806-1f16-417a-a555-c811554f14c4}{242}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">“This is something I can do,” she said. “I can prepare myself and make myself stronger. As my yoga instructors have taught me, ‘no matter what, show up on the mat.’ </span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":0,"335559740":288}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="470208483" paraeid="{1dfc4806-1f16-417a-a555-c811554f14c4}{252}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">“As I take a deep breath, I acknowledge what a gift it is to breathe freely without worry or anxiety.”</span></span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1661539974" paraeid="{6eb3df96-8e97-413c-b0e0-adadab6e8009}{7}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">Returning to volunteer work at Nearly New recently gave Anne a sense of normalcy and a welcome distraction. The combination of keeping busy and taking time out to re-focus has been valuable</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">.</span></span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1024279039" paraeid="{6eb3df96-8e97-413c-b0e0-adadab6e8009}{17}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">The mind-body-spiritual alignment Anne has worked toward is a goal supported by the Integrative and Palliative Medicine (IPM) program of the Sandra and Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute. IPM provides cancer patients with an </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">additional</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]"> multi-dimensional layer of support, delivered in partnership with the patient’s primary oncology team, to help them manage life as a cancer patient and as a cancer survivor.</span></span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1157339859" paraeid="{6eb3df96-8e97-413c-b0e0-adadab6e8009}{27}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">The IPM team provides patients with the therapies and practices that have helped Anne along the way as she has </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">sought</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]"> to minimize the use of pain medications and rebuild her strength</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">. </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="[Basic Paragraph]">Massage Therapist Becky Burke is “very experienced with oncology patients,” Anne said. “She knows what would work well during treatment and how to relieve and prevent pain.”</span></span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1153595255" paraeid="{6eb3df96-8e97-413c-b0e0-adadab6e8009}{37}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US">Volunteering – time spent in the service of others – has brought Anne a sense of wellbeing. </span> </p> <p paraid="1153595255" paraeid="{6eb3df96-8e97-413c-b0e0-adadab6e8009}{37}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US">“When my world was turned upside down, practicing yoga and breathing exercises gave me the stability and inner strength to move forward with courage, faith and grace.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":278}"> </span> </p> </div>
<div> <p paraid="2087817814" paraeid="{5570bf4b-bdbe-4362-8122-3d30bb675678}{168}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US"></span><span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Brooke DiManno knew something was wrong when the tech running her sonogram asked her to wait. This was Brooke’s third pregnancy, and she had enough experience with the routine tests and OB-GYN visits for this to set off an internal alarm. Even then, she couldn’t have imagined the journey that lay ahead of her. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> </div> <div> <p paraid="1208184577" paraeid="{5570bf4b-bdbe-4362-8122-3d30bb675678}{212}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Spoiler: She and her now 10-year-old daughter, Drew, are fine. They’re doing beautifully, in fact. But remembering everything they went through as a family can still bring quiet tears.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1312584982" paraeid="{5570bf4b-bdbe-4362-8122-3d30bb675678}{252}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">The sonogram showed a healthy pregnancy, but also spotted a large mass in her right ovary. Within a day or two, Brooke and her husband, Derek, were sitting across from (now retired) gynecologic cncologist Francis “Bing” Grumbine, MD.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1690005942" paraeid="{cf31a037-6740-40cd-a94c-6074d8a5c47a}{13}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“He was amazing,” she recalled. “He settled my worries and answered all my questions.” </span> </p> <p paraid="1690005942" paraeid="{cf31a037-6740-40cd-a94c-6074d8a5c47a}{13}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Of course, she had a lot of questions. Dr. Grumbine explained the importance of the first trimester for the baby’s development and recommended postponing surgery until her pregnancy reached 14 weeks. </span> </p> <p paraid="1690005942" paraeid="{cf31a037-6740-40cd-a94c-6074d8a5c47a}{13}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“Dr. Grumbine was caring for me and my baby,” Brooke said. Dr. Grumbine removed Brooke’s right ovary in September, and she went on to deliver a perfect, healthy baby the following March. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1736321511" paraeid="{cf31a037-6740-40cd-a94c-6074d8a5c47a}{67}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“I knew I was in good hands,” she said calmly. “The doctors and staff at GBMC guided me through so well.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1342324638" paraeid="{cf31a037-6740-40cd-a94c-6074d8a5c47a}{73}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Brooke, Derek and their two oldest daughters, Tessa and Reese, welcomed baby Drew home and for a time were immersed in all the usual delight and disruption that comes with a new baby. When Drew was eight weeks old, Brooke returned to Dr. Grumbine’s office for a follow-up CT scan. Alarmingly, the scan showed a new mass in her left ovary and the team went into action. Brooke was scheduled for a full hysterectomy and chemotherapy. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1134944895" paraeid="{cf31a037-6740-40cd-a94c-6074d8a5c47a}{113}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">After surgery, according to Brooke, “I was assured the surgeons got everything they could see, and chemotherapy would take care of anything surgery couldn’t.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="241487192" paraeid="{cf31a037-6740-40cd-a94c-6074d8a5c47a}{151}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">It’s true what they say about friends in need and, indeed, the DiManno family are blessed with many supportive friends. Parents and in-laws came to stay, and neighbors sent over meals and even helped care for the girls. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="843414057" paraeid="{cf31a037-6740-40cd-a94c-6074d8a5c47a}{171}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">At GBMC, Dr. Paul Celano, FACP, FASCO, Medical Director of the Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute, signed onto Brooke’s team and “got me on the right concoction of medicine.” </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="504761023" paraeid="{cf31a037-6740-40cd-a94c-6074d8a5c47a}{183}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“He was just incredible at giving me guidance and confidence. He’d say, ‘we need to kill all of those fast-growing cells.’ </span><span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Through the whole experience, I felt that the doctors put their patients first. They checked and double- and triple-checked in every way so the treatment would be successful.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1660742305" paraeid="{cf31a037-6740-40cd-a94c-6074d8a5c47a}{219}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Though her chemotherapy regimen was pretty intense – seven hours per day, Monday to Friday in the weeks she received treatment, from July until early that November – Brooke decided every side effect was proof cancer cells were under attack. And the cancer was losing. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="286773028" paraeid="{cf080f3c-0944-46a2-ba57-01eccb6c8a20}{12}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">She told herself, and her children, </span><span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“My hair will fall out; I’m going to feel and look sicker, but actually, I’m getting well.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1473303396" paraeid="{cf080f3c-0944-46a2-ba57-01eccb6c8a20}{48}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“We’re going to push through with love,” she promised. </span><span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“I held that posture through the whole thing, and it got me through.” </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1958927926" paraeid="{cf080f3c-0944-46a2-ba57-01eccb6c8a20}{68}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">In fact, the whole family made it through with flying colors. Drew was thriving almost from the start and, when she looks back on that difficult time, Brooke finds, “In the end, we landed in a stronger place with everything, our marriage, our faith, our family, friends and children. </span><span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">I’m grateful for that period.” </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1869413124" paraeid="{cf080f3c-0944-46a2-ba57-01eccb6c8a20}{102}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">When she returned every three months, then every six, Dr. Grumbine “stayed steady, confident,” Brooke said. “He was this rock for me.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="720799001" paraeid="{cf080f3c-0944-46a2-ba57-01eccb6c8a20}{108}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">And now, after 10 years cancer-free, when someone in her circle of friends and family learns of someone who’s been diagnosed with cancer, they often send them to talk with Brooke. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1055188234" paraeid="{cf080f3c-0944-46a2-ba57-01eccb6c8a20}{128}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“You’re going to walk through the unknown,” she tells them. “Listen to your doctors, listen to your heart, listen to God, and you’ll make it through.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1162516451" paraeid="{cf080f3c-0944-46a2-ba57-01eccb6c8a20}{134}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">And one more thing: “Ask for help.”</span> </p> </div>
<!-- blockquote { padding: 12.5px 25px; margin: 25px 0 25px; font-size: 1.5em; border-left: 5px solid #eee; font-style: italic; } --> It’s almost like Sara Brown can’t stop smiling. You can hear it in her voice as she talks about her husband of 18 years, her two young adult stepchildren, her favorite pastime, and her health. “I’m me again,” she said, “and it is such an incredible feeling!” To fully grasp her joy, you have to understand how far she’s come. "I've always been a bit on the heavy side, and it got so much worse as I got older and became less active." An avid bowler (more on that later), she struggled with her fluctuating weight for years, trying diet after diet that just never stuck. Eventually, she faced mobility challenges, humiliating limitations due to her size, and constant, debilitating pain from a herniated disc and sciatica. “I couldn’t sit cross-legged on the floor with my dogs or fly in a plane without a seatbelt extender.” Despite the daily pain, difficulty moving, and isolation, Sara was very hesitant to consider weight loss surgery. In fact, she sat on the fence about it for 10 years. “I knew people who had successful surgeries, but I also knew some who had complications. That uncertainty scared me enough to keep me from pursuing surgery,” she said, “even though I was miserable.” She finally reached her tipping point on January 1, 2022, thinking to herself, “I’m not living like this anymore – I have to take control of my life.” So that’s exactly what she did. Sara reached out to GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP) and began taking the required presurgical classes. “The classes were easily accessible and so helpful! I also joined COMP’s private Facebook group, where I met my ‘surgery twin,’ Ashley,” she said. Sara and Ashley had the same sleeve gastrectomy procedure on the same day in May 2022, only one hour apart, and with the same surgeon, Dr. Timothee Friesen. In addition to the outstanding support she received from the COMP team, Sara found it beneficial to talk with others, including Ashley, who were going through the same process. To this day, the “surgery twins” still check in with each other every week and exercise together a few times per month. For Sara, the best part of weight loss surgery is not being in pain anymore. Her pain completely vanished shortly after the procedure, which has profoundly improved her life. One of the most challenging parts, though, was not being able to excel in her favorite hobby for 18 months postoperatively. “I’ve been a tenpin bowler for 20 years – I even met my husband at a bowling alley,” she said. What started out as just a fun activity to do with friends became more and more a part of Sara’s life over time. She planned to take six months off from bowling while she healed from surgery. What she did not anticipate was the year it took for her to re-learn the sport with her new body. “It didn’t occur to me that my balance and movements would be so different after losing weight. I really had to work at adjusting all my mechanics, which was quite frustrating at times,” she conceded. But Sara applied the same “no turning back” attitude to bowling that she used to prepare for and recover from surgery and is thrilled to report she’s back in the game, throwing the ball much more consistently. She now bowls on a league three days a week, sometimes traveling out of state to compete. This would have been virtually impossible to do before losing weight. When asked what she’d share with someone who’s considering weight loss surgery, Sara said, “Put yourself first - make your decision based on you and you, alone. And keep in mind that many of the obstacles you face are in your own head. My only regret is I didn’t do this sooner!” Interested in learning more about weight loss surgery and how it could improve your health? The GBMC COMP team will gladly answer your questions! Schedule a video consultation appointment today by visiting www.gbmc.org/weightloss.
“He was afraid I wouldn’t make it to the end of the year,” Elaine Smith says of her husband Tim, as she recounts a heart-to-heart conversation they had in 2022. That was her turning point. “He had his mind on retirement, looking forward to traveling, going on adventures, and golfing together. And he was terrified I wouldn’t be there for it.” By the time this conversation occurred, Elaine had already spent decades trying to maintain a healthy weight. She tried every diet program and exercise regimen she came across. She saw temporary improvement at times, but the weight always came back – often worse than before – and each time with crushing disappointment. Elaine was also suffering from high blood pressure, high cholesterol, pre-diabetes, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), dry eye, and significant joint pain due to her weight. Equally upsetting was the loss of confidence and sense of isolation she felt. “My family and friends have always encouraged and supported me, but before surgery, I stayed in the safety of my home as much as possible. It was physically challenging for me to go out in public, not to mention embarrassing,” she explains. “There were times when I had difficulty just getting out of a chair.” When Tim came to Elaine, so genuinely concerned for her health and their future, she knew she had to take action to save her own life. “I scheduled a virtual consultation with Dr. Timothee Friesen shortly afterward and the wheels were set in motion,” she says. Like all patients of GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP), Elaine took part in six months of pre-surgical classes, during which she received nutritional and emotional support from the team of clinicians. Some of the support was in a group setting, and some was one-on-one with a dietitian. She learned what to expect leading up to, during, and following surgery. “I followed that patient binder to the letter!” On June 20, 2023, Elaine had the surgery she worked so hard for, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. She and her team at COMP couldn’t be happier with the results. Since the procedure, Elaine’s blood pressure, cholesterol, GERD, and knee pain have improved. Her blood sugar levels are now within normal range, her dry eye symptoms have disappeared, and she has shed an impressive 117 pounds. But she is quick to point out that it isn’t all about the numbers on the scale. More exciting to her are the real-life victories like fitting comfortably in her seat on a plane; she recently even sat in an emergency exit row because she felt able to be of assistance if needed. A year ago, she couldn’t walk on the beach with Tim while on vacation in South Carolina. They went back six months after her surgery and walked 3.25 miles on the same beach. She is now eager to dress up, go out, and reconnect with people. “I am so proud of myself for this accomplishment,” Elaine shares. “Weight loss surgery is not easy by any means. But it was absolutely worth it to be where I am now, healthy, walking tall and looking forward to the future.” Are you ready to take the next step in your own weight loss journey? GBMC’s COMP team is here and ready to help! Visit www.gbmc.org/weightloss to learn more and get started by making an appointment for a video consultation with a member of the team.
A torn meniscus in his knee with extensive rehabilitation in January. A hospitalized mother, seriously ill with sepsis in February (she has thankfully recovered). A painful kidney stone that required emergency intervention in August. It’s fair to say Neal Cook had a heck of a 2023. Although much of the year was full of doubt and struggle, it also included one of his best decisions ever – having weight loss surgery in April with Dr. Shauna Costinett of GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP). It’s a decision he wishes he had made sooner. “I weighed over 300 pounds,” Neal remembers. Like so many people, he tried nearly everything to lose weight, from fad diets to weight loss medication. “I would see results for a little while, but the programs I did were expensive and unsustainable,” he says. A dedicated employee in a local Wegman’s produce department, Neal found it more and more difficult to be on his feet throughout his shift. When his primary care physician encouraged him to consider a more permanent weight loss solution in September 2022, he replied, “I’m ready.” The very next day, he scheduled a video consultation with COMP. He was serious about adhering to the diet and support regimen all COMP patients attend for six months prior to surgery. It was challenging, but he stuck with the pre-surgical program while recovering from knee surgery. And he continued to work toward his goal of weight loss surgery while his mom was hospitalized, despite the stress of being her primary caretaker and the continual worry about her condition. With the COMP team’s assistance, making the changes to his diet in the months leading up to surgery wasn’t as difficult as he expected. His dietitian, Madison, was extremely helpful as he learned to eat nutritiously instead of emotionally. When April arrived, Neal’s knee had healed, and his mother had recovered from her illness. His commitment to his own health finally paid off and he had a successful sleeve gastrectomy at GBMC. In a sleeve gastrectomy, most of the stomach is removed. The small portion of stomach that remains in the body looks like a long tube, or sleeve. It’s about the size of a banana and holds approximately 1/10th of what it could hold before. This means the patient feels full after eating significantly less food. A few months after his weight loss surgery, Neal came back to GBMC when he experienced severe symptoms from a kidney stone. “I contacted Dr. Costinett right away, just to make sure my pain wasn’t related to the sleeve gastrectomy,” he notes. “Thankfully it wasn’t, but she still came to see me in the Emergency Department, which says a lot about her compassion for people, and about how dedicated the COMP team is to their patients.” Neal is grateful to have had surgery, which has enabled him to care for his mother more easily, pursue more workouts with friends (and walks with his dog!), and to remain free of pain while at work. He feels so strongly about the benefits of weight loss surgery that he recently attended a “Meet & Greet” event held by the COMP team and shared some of his experience with others who are considering surgery themselves or supporting a loved one through it. “I really do wish I had done this sooner,” he says. “My quality of life is just so much better than I could have imagined.” If you are considering weight loss surgery and have questions, GBMC’s COMP team is happy to speak with you! Visit www.gbmc.org/weightloss to learn more about the available procedures and to make a video consultation appointment today!
In a twist that sounds straight out of a movie, Consuella Craig recently found herself in the spotlight for reasons beyond her remarkable weight loss journey. After undergoing a significant weight loss surgery at GBMC HealthCare in February 2022, Craig's new chapter took an unexpected turn toward heroism. On January 30, 2024, Craig was on her way to the University of Maryland St. Joseph’s Medical Center with her pregnant daughter. But fate had other plans, and Craig ended up delivering her granddaughter, Keilaiah, right there in the car, proving that sometimes life throws you into the deep end without warning. “There was no time to think, I just jumped into action to keep my daughter and granddaughter safe until help arrived,” Craig said. Reflecting on the link between her bariatric surgery and her heroic act, she highlighted how her improved health and mobility played a crucial role in her ability to manage the situation. "Two years ago, I couldn't have imagined doing something like this," she said. "This surgery gave me a second shot at life and look where we are now!” The day after her unexpected adventure, Craig was back at GBMC, not for medical reasons, but to celebrate her successful weight loss journey with a photo shoot. She credits her surgery, performed by Shauna Costinett, MD, FACS, with not only enhancing her quality of life but also enabling her to be there for her family in ways she never thought possible. “It’s funny, one of my inspirations for moving forward with surgical weight loss was my granddaughter, Keilani. I wanted to be able to spend quality time with her and be a good role model for her. In a way, she helped motivate me to reach for a new life, which included being able to help her little sister into the world.” Craig's life post-surgery is a testament to the positive changes that can come from such medical interventions. Freed from the need for a CPAP machine for sleep apnea and blood pressure medication, her energy levels have skyrocketed. Craig, who works as an assistant principal, now enjoys an active lifestyle, participating in sports and running, showing the benefits of her surgery extend far beyond weight loss. Craig is not just celebrating her health; she's enjoying every moment with her family, including her granddaughters, Keilaiah and Keilani. Like so many successful weight loss patients, Craig’s story is about gaining a fuller, more vibrant life and the ability to face whatever comes with courage and resilience.
