<figure class="image-right"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/3c67e083b8101f80549daddc8b7d0ab8.jpg"> </figure> If there's a "red flag" of concern that my son Preston can raise, he will wave that flag with gusto. It was that way during pregnancy and he absolutely continued the trend with his birth. All throughout my pregnancy, my son liked to make people nervous. Maybe there was an amniotic band, maybe his blood proteins were low, maybe his kidneys weren't functioning. Or, maybe everything was fine, and he just wanted to make sure we were all paying attention. <br> <br> Preston is my second child, so I had been "conditioned" a bit by having my daughter Catie, but a mother still worries. When he completely stopped moving a few days before my due date, I knew he was waving another red flag. I called my OB on call at GBMC and he told me to come in for a check. We decided to induce labor. On the monitor, he seemed okay, but his heart rate was dipping periodically and seemed to drop more with each contraction (more red flags). I wound up needing an emergency C-section. The operation went well, except Preston wasn’t crying after he was born. In fact, he was barely breathing and generally unresponsive. My husband Chris and I were panic-stricken. Thankfully, the nurses whisked him up to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) right away. <br> <br> After further examination, Preston was found to be exhibiting some seizure-like movements. Fearing a potential hypoxic brain injury, Dr. Howard Birenbaum acted immediately to treat him with therapeutic hypothermia. So, for 72 hours, we sat by Preston’s bedside while his core temperature was "cooled" to about 33 degrees Celsius (91.4 Fahrenheit). This treatment sounded awful and went against the instinct to keep our baby warm, but almost as soon as his temperature dropped, his condition began to improve. He still needed some breathing assistance, but the seizure movements disappeared, and his heart rate stabilized. After 72 hours, he was "rewarmed" gradually throughout the course of a day and monitored closely to ensure his body could handle the warming process. Chris and I finally got to hold our new baby boy after what seemed like forever! <br> <br> Preston stayed in the NICU for another week after the cooling until his breathing and heart rate stabilized consistently. With our daughter Catie at home also needing our attention, Chris and I did our best to shuttle back and forth to spend as much time with Preston as possible, but we were burning the candle at both ends. Thankfully again, the nurses, physician assistants, respiratory therapists, and Dr. Maria Pane all took turns snuggling him and making sure he was content in the hours we could not be by his side. And when we were by his side, they took care of us, too. I will never forget some of the emotional conversations I had with the nurses during Preston's 10-day stay. In one of the scariest times of my life, they were kind and always cared for us as if we were part of their own family. <br> <br> For the first 2 years of Preston's life, he needed some physical therapy services and needed to wear a helmet (like I mentioned, he likes red flags), but he is now a happy, healthy, and active 3-year-old with no developmental delays at all, thanks entirely to the care he received in GBMC's NICU. Not surprisingly, Preston's favorite color is red. <br> <br> <figure class="image-left"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/c07a75ca79988d1e1783e687b15a8619.jpg"> </figure> We are especially grateful for Dr. Birenbaum, Dr. Pane, Julie Ward, Christie Breidenbaugh, Nancy McAleer, and Corin Mauldin. Even though it's a place you never want to be as a new parent, we have great memories of the GBMC NICU. It's a bright place, and even fun at times, which I think helps babies and their families to heal. <br> <br> Chris and I know that we will never be able to repay the NICU team for all it did to save our son, but as a small gesture of our gratitude, we volunteered to serve as the Chairs of the 2019 Father's Day 5K and 1 Mile Fun Walk. We’re thrilled to be able to give back to this incredibly talented, dedicated, and compassionate group of clinicians! Will you join us in helping to ensure GBMC can continue saving the lives of babies like Preston? <a href="http://gbmc.healthcare/5k/" target="_blank">Register to run or walk today</a>, and please spread the word to others! <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<figure class="image-left"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/d5d8fb3501222748cd385c1bd5753059.jpg" alt=""> <!-- <figcaption>Sara Fogarty, MD - Breast Surgeon at GBMC</figcaption> --> </figure> My pregnancy with our son, Brayden, was textbook. There were no issues, and nothing to be concerned about. When my water broke 7 weeks early, my husband Justin and I had no idea what to expect. Brayden was born at 33 weeks and 3 days, weighing 5lbs 0oz, which was a good weight for being early. <br> <br> We met the first member of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) team, Dr. Sabah Helou, while I was still in Labor & Delivery. I was scared, stressed, and an emotional wreck, but when Dr. Helou came in, he brought an air of calm with him. He explained the situation that we faced in terms that made sense, and answered all our questions before we even asked them. After our conversation, I was still scared, of course, but I knew then and there that we were in the place we needed to be. <br> <br> On June 4, 2018, our son was tired of waiting and it was “go time.” A whole team of NICU nurses and staff surrounded us in the delivery room, all waiting for our little man to make his entrance. Honestly, I don’t remember much about this time, but I know the team put up with my husband's bear hugs! Shortly after I gave birth to Brayden, Justin and I were able to be with him in the NICU. <br> <br> <figure class="image-right"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/9e1e20b80e871c8efb7f2a369c7b92ec.jpg" alt=""> <!-- <figcaption>Sara Fogarty, MD - Breast Surgeon at GBMC</figcaption> --> </figure> Our first nurse was Joe, and he explained everything with such detail and calm that our worries started to lessen. Brayden was labeled as a feeder/grower, had a small heart murmur, jaundice, and needed temperature regulation for a short time. With every twist and turn, the NICU team would tell us what to expect, what to watch out for, and how to handle Brayden’s needs. They always answered what were probably simple and silly questions to them, recognizing that it was all brand new and terrifying to us. They gave us the most helpful tips and tricks to care for our little preemie. <br> <br> Brayden stayed in the NICU for 21 days - a short time compared to some, but still scary and stressful. It was a journey of ups and downs for us, but we knew these professionals were the people we'd choose over and over again. We didn’t think we'd have a baby who needed to be cared for in the NICU; we never expected to be discharged from the hospital without our newborn son (one of the hardest things we've ever faced in our lives). We didn’t know the emotional rollercoaster that was in store for us so early in our son's life. However, we knew instantly that we were in the right place with the right people. The NICU staff, especially all the nurses, are angels - the most caring, attentive, funny, and knowledgeable angels! <br> <br> <figure class="image-left"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/4c960f38408fbed34202b96c58138c2e.jpg" alt=""> <!-- <figcaption>Sara Fogarty, MD - Breast Surgeon at GBMC</figcaption> --> </figure> One of the things that surprised us the most about our experience was the genuine care and love that every single staff member gave, not only to our son, but to us as NICU parents. The number of hugs, shoulders to cry on, and other reassuring gestures we received was amazing. Sure, we didn’t expect to spend time in the NICU, but we walked away with such gratitude and love for the people and place that took care of our most precious gift. <br> <br> The 30th Annual Father's Day 5k took place in 2018 when Brayden was still in the NICU. Justin and I did the 1 Mile walk in Brayden’s honor and we were absolutely floored by the sense of community! All these families and friends had something in common, and you could feel the respect and love they had for the GBMC NICU. We decided right then that this was a Father's Day tradition we’d continue to attend. We can't wait for this year's race because Brayden will be able to join us! Look for us in the red “Brayden's Brigade” shirts! <br> <br> You can help support the team that provides such special care to premature babies and their families. Register now for the <a href="http://gbmc.healthcare/5k/" target="_top">31st Annual GBMC Father’s Day 5K and 1 Mile Fun Walk</a> to benefit the NICU. <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<figure class="image-right"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/ed3652704b384eb5e57c8e1c2cbda92f.jpg" alt="Ethan with mom and dad in GBMC's NICU"> </figure> On October 5, 2017, after years of struggling with infertility, I found out I was pregnant. My husband Charles and I were elated to find out that we would finally be parents. We had no reason to think I wouldn’t have a healthy pregnancy and normal delivery. That changed on April 3, 2018. I walked into GBMC at 29 weeks and 6 days with terrible swelling and a severe headache. I was diagnosed with preeclampsia and HELLP Syndrome, and was told that my son would have to be delivered within 24 hours to save both our lives. I was terrified, wondering how he could survive being so early and weighing only 2lbs at the time, very small for his gestational age. I was immediately informed by my nurses and technicians that our baby was in the best possible hands, and they were right. As soon as I met neonatologist Dr. Sabah Helou, I knew my son would be okay. He sat by my bedside as I was in tears. He explained how everything would work from the moment my son was delivered until the day he would get to come home. He explained that he wouldn’t be coming home for a while and that we had a long road ahead of us. That our baby would need machines to breathe and would need tubes to be fed. We were devastated. There my entire family sat, clueless as to what they could do. I felt helpless, lost, and scared, but Dr. Helou stayed, answered all our questions, and helped us to feel calm. All I could do now was try to stay calm. <br> <br> <blockquote> I’ll never forget all those eyes on me, I could almost feel them. </blockquote> <br> <br> The last thing any mother wants to hear is that they will be leaving the hospital without their newborn. That happy day you’ve been anticipating for so long is put on hold. This was going to be a journey our family never prepared for. But we weren’t alone. On April 4th, 2018, our son Ethan was delivered in a very crowded operating room. I’ll never forget all those eyes on me, I could almost feel them. They belonged to people who were waiting to burst into action to save my son’s life as soon as he took his very first breath. Each person in that room that day was a Godsend and I wish I could thank them all personally. I couldn’t see their faces, only masks and eyes, but to me, they are all angels. <figure class="image-left"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/dacd3d6fc8350e5dd2206b57918c2155.jpg"> <!-- <figcaption>Sara Fogarty, MD - Breast Surgeon at GBMC</figcaption> --> </figure> <br> <br> Ethan was immediately taken to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in an incubator, where he stayed for the next 53 days. Wires, tubes, tests, monitors, alarms, day in and day out. These were the longest days of my entire life. We were told from the very beginning that this journey would be a rollercoaster ride, that there would be ups and downs. We were told there could be complications due to his early arrival, that he would have setbacks. Fortunately, he only got better; each day, he improved, growing healthy and strong. During Ethan’s time there, the nurses and doctors became family to us. Dr. Helou, Dr. Pane, Christie B., Kris, Beverly P., Alexis S., and Dan were my support, my comfort when I needed it most. When no one else I knew could possibly understand what I was going through, they were there for me. They were always patient with me, the terrified new mother of a preemie, and answered my questions day or night. They calmed my every fear and taught me everything I needed to know, the simplest things, from feeding and bathing to kangaroo care (skin-to-skin contact between infant and parent), and so much more. <br> <br> <blockquote> We met so many people I will never forget. </blockquote> <br> <br> Ethan grew his own bonds with the nurses, too. I could see how they calmed him and never made him feel scared, despite all he had to go through right at the start of his life. There was an attachment, a bond that could not be broken. I felt so lucky to have them taking care of my son whenever I had to leave the hospital without him. That was always the hardest part, but I knew he was in great hands. <br> <br> <figure class="image-left"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/d580c5ce3dd31f14c796193bc18d0909.jpg" rotate="90" alt="Maglidt Christmas"> <!-- <figcaption>Sara Fogarty, MD - Breast Surgeon at GBMC</figcaption> --> </figure> We met so many people I will never forget. From the doctors and nurses that we were on a first-name basis with, to the amazing guitarist Chris who would visit our room weekly. These people became my friends, and these are memories I will cherish for a lifetime. The NICU is a scary place, with constant alarms, babies crying, people buzzing by every which way. But it was our home because that’s where our son was. For 53 days, it was my home, and it all became so normal to me. I was almost sad to leave. But the day our son came home was the happiest day of our lives and we will always know who to thank for that. Ethan has grown into such a strong healthy one-year old boy and I thank my lucky stars every day for everything the NICU team did for our family. We will be forever grateful. I’m proud to be a strong preemie mom and to always be a part of something so special, the GBMC NICU family. <br> <br> Please support this extraordinary team that stands by at all hours, ready to save infants’ lives and support their families during the scariest times of their lives. Register now for the <a href="http://gbmc.healthcare/5k/" target="_top">31st Annual GBMC Father’s Day 5K and 1 Mile Fun Walk</a> to benefit the NICU. I never thought my family would need this type of care, but I am so thankful it was here for us. <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Grief was the main driver in both Leigh's and Lorraine’s weight gain. The mother and daughter experienced losses together and both turned to food for relief. For Leigh, it was the loss of her grandmother when she was in second grade. She began sneaking snacks and food became her source of comfort. “That’s just how I dealt with it,” she said. For Lorraine it was the loss of her husband that pushed her over the edge. As adults, both women struggled with obesity and all the side effects that came with it. While both were in fairly good health, with the exception of their weight, they recognized that it would not stay that way if they continued down the path they were on. <br> <br> After her father died in 2010, Leigh went through a four-year period of focused weight-loss attempts. She experimented with various diet and exercise programs, but nothing lasted long-term. Her weight constantly fluctuated and she found herself worn down and exhausted. "I got to the point where I just didn't know what else to do," she said. This was when weight-loss surgery came onto her radar. Leigh had a conversation with a coworker who was considering surgery for herself and it piqued her interest enough to sign up for an <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session" target="_blank">information session</a> with GBMC's <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> (COMP). <br> <br> What surprised her the most was how candid the presenter was about the details of the surgery. This was the first time she had heard factual information about it and she found it incredibly refreshing. After the information session, she decided to schedule a consultation with Dr. Elizabeth Dovec to learn more. "I went in with the thought that it couldn't hurt to get more information and I left that appointment knowing this was exactly what I needed to do," Leigh said. Lorraine, however, was very apprehensive about her daughter getting weight-loss surgery. It seemed extreme to her and she was worried about the potential risks. Despite her mother's concerns, Leigh was confident in her decision and had a sleeve gastrectomy in 2014. <br> </p> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/a6c587407b8e6b4120809cb8f8f29ba6.jpg" alt="Leigh and Lorraine"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/9a94dc3d654e0e8daa029ca0a8b66e98.jpg" alt="Leigh and Lorraine"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/9f8a8df6afa3b19ab5e5cf3978b51fb0.jpg" alt="Leigh and Lorraine"> </div> </div> </div> <br> Lorraine watched as her daughter gained confidence in herself and began to enjoy things like going shopping and attending social events. Seeing the change in Leigh's life made Lorraine realize how unsatisfied she was with her own. She had trouble keeping up with her grandson and even the smallest physical exertion left her exhausted and short of breath. After losing her husband, she "ballooned" and never recovered. "I wanted to be happy again," she said, "and seeing the overall change in Leigh made me realize that this was a really good thing." In 2016, just two years after Leigh, Lorraine underwent gastric bypass surgery. <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/9e35fb234877aae9ff5b797858f82e1a.jpg" alt="Leigh and Lorraine"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/833dfcb9536f88a75f1a1b4a448b5184.jpg" alt="Leigh and Lorraine"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/d9b1fb56e9fba5a7dcf4ef716cb0cdc1.jpg" alt="Leigh and Lorraine"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/4f376c60ecada7d36f65ef829012c70a.jpg" alt="Leigh and Lorraine"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/8c230833caee3062da35f9958df98d4a.jpg" alt="Leigh and Lorraine"> </div> </div> </div> <br> Together, they've lost more than 200 pounds, and they both say their quality of life has dramatically improved. Leigh loves that she no longer has to shop in the "deep, dark corner of the plus size section," Lorraine can now play with her grandson without getting tired, and both women have learned healthier ways to cope with strong emotions. They have gained a whole new support system in their COMP family and it has been "extremely helpful" both before and after surgery. "I love that I can send a message or make a call and get an almost immediate response from a doctor or practitioner," says Leigh. While it isn't always easy, both women believe this was one of the best decisions they've ever made. "It was a Godsend," said Lorraine, "now, life is just grand." <br> <br> If you’re ready to begin your own transformation, or would simply like to know more about weight-loss surgery, <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session" target="_blank">sign up to attend one of our free information sessions</a>! <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Ebony will never forget the day she saw her friend's wedding pictures. She generally avoided being in photographs or tried to hide in the back, but as part of the wedding party, that wasn't an option this time. "I thought that couldn't possibly be me," she said, "I didn't recognize myself." Despite her friend's assurances that she looked beautiful, Ebony felt terrible about her appearance. She had been struggling with her weight for many years, but until that day, she didn't realize how bad it had gotten. <br> <br> Ebony's weight problems began in her 20's when she unexpectedly lost her mother — this combined with depression caused her to turn to food for comfort. A cycle developed of eating for emotional relief, getting discouraged by her weight gain, and then eating more to lessen her discouragement. She wore baggy clothes to hide her body and secluded herself in her home. "I stayed home all the time," she said, "I didn't get involved in anything." Ebony's isolation only worsened her depression. She felt stuck and didn't fully understand the extent of her weight issues. It took seeing those photos to snap her back to reality — she wasn't happy with the trajectory of her life and it was time to make a profound change. <br> <br> Ebony did substantial research on bariatric programs before she landed at GBMC's <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> (COMP). Despite a two-hour commute from her home on the Eastern Shore, she made her first appointment the day after attending an online information session about the program. "I liked that there were meetups and such a supportive Facebook group; I didn't see that in other programs," she said. <br> </p> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/be2ac09426c0fcc456393db8fe8b4844.jpg" alt="Ebony Greene"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/e8295fcc133f201d22be5c4652265ca6.jpg" alt="Ebony Greene"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/616808620808d4d0d973c377b2039e31.jpg" alt="Ebony Greene"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/93930d242c9dfc8882a49741b94071a7.jpg" alt="Ebony Greene"> </div> </div> </div> <br> Since her surgery in 2014, she has lost more than 127 pounds, which she likes referring to as "losing a whole person's worth of weight." Now, Ebony actually gets complimented on her appearance. She uses this opportunity to tell people about her experience, something which often takes people by surprise. "A lot of people can't believe that I used to be overweight," she said. Ebony loves telling people how COMP helped her both mentally and physically. Her depression symptoms have improved significantly, which she attributes to her weight loss. "I'm in a better headspace than I've ever been." She says that losing the weight has helped her explore herself and her interests. She has started coaching a cheerleading team and actually goes out with her friends. "I finally have the courage to do the things that I couldn't before." <br> <br> Ebony is a huge advocate for weight-loss surgery and encourages people who are struggling with obesity to investigate for themselves. She is working towards becoming a nutritionist for bariatric patients to help them develop healthy habits and maintain their new lifestyle. "I truly believe that it changes your life for the better." <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/b7da44716ec2076e0e50df3eb0d85959.jpg" alt="Ebony Greene"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/9689daa11f24df3c07b0bc35d6db0dd4.jpg" alt="Ebony Greene"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/892df866ddfcf66c8bbc63f70e69e507.jpg" alt="Ebony Greene"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/bcab45cc9e1dc2d5313597084aa8735f.jpg" alt="Ebony Greene"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/46190c64f2f1d54cb19af718df2d820f.jpg" alt="Ebony Greene"> </div> </div> </div> <br> If you’re ready to begin your own transformation, or would simply like to know more about weight-loss surgery, please <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session " target="_blank">sign up to attend one of our free information sessions</a>! <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Candi Hamm was teased almost daily — both as a child and as an adult. Her classmates, her coworkers, and even some of her family members made fun of her appearance on a regular basis. No one seemed to believe that she could lose weight and they couldn't understand that she was doing everything she could. "It was like I was living in a nightmare," she said. Throughout the years, Candi tried various weight-loss supplements and did more diet programs than she could count. Whether it was a fad diet or simply trying to maintain healthy habits, she never achieved long-term success. <br> <br> She felt like she was a skinny person trapped in an obese body. Candi desperately wanted to exercise, she desperately wanted to keep up with her friends, and she desperately wanted to live a healthy life, but despite her efforts, it didn't happen. She was constantly in pain and she found herself turning down invitations because she was ashamed of how she looked. At times, she even had to buy maternity clothes just so she could get something to fit. <br> <br> Candi had developed what she referred to as a "toxic relationship" with food. It was always there to comfort her when she needed it...but it was also her biggest problem. "I always overdid it," she said, "it got to the point where I would feel sick after almost every meal." <br> </p> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/cf339a879c676eab8ec18512b367c092.jpg" alt="Candi Hamm"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/392994154343c9478ee7a42760679c38.jpg" alt="Candi Hamm"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/b0c34f602df6a1916f105b1deac52359.jpg" alt="Candi Hamm"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/bf4c390534aa7c4440025765de6296fb.jpg" alt="Candi Hamm"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/3c6de775aa34cb7365f137ae08c6db45.jpg" alt="Candi Hamm"> </div> </div> </div> <br> Her tipping point came when her doctor told her she would have to start taking blood pressure medication. Candi wasn't even 30 at the time. She refused to resign herself to a life filled with pain and extra medications. Candi began researching weight-loss surgery programs. A coworker of hers recommended the <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> (COMP) at GBMC and Candi decided to follow the recommendation. That was the beginning of what she calls her "second chance at life." <br> <br> Candi had gastric sleeve surgery in September 2015. Since then, her life has completely turned around. Within a year, Candi began attending social events again and dancing during concerts. She finally feels beautiful in the clothing she wears. Never before had she fit into brand name clothing — now she buys right off the rack. She has shaken the stereotype that she is lazy or simply doesn't care about herself. <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/36541987c1ca6ce46b9abe70ae695a64.jpg" alt="Candi Hamm"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/05278bf8289fe9bb84f54bea31974fca.jpg" alt="Candi Hamm"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/4576f0acbf95de75c658c9e5aa89136d.jpg" alt="Candi Hamm"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/2eca9e3d2d79ac2828e40de553354386.jpg" alt="Candi Hamm"> </div> </div> </div> <br> In all, Candi has lost more than 150 pounds and is living the active life she always wanted. She enjoys swimming and recently completed two 5K races. "Not only did I get my health back, I gained a whole new family in the COMP support group." The support she has received throughout her journey has made all the difference in the world. Candi now writes a weight-loss blog chronicling her experience and sharing lessons she has learned along the way. She goes by the motto: “She believed she could, so she did.” More than anything, Candi wants to help others who were struggling as much as she was. "I feel proud of myself for the first time in my life. It's the best decision I've ever made." <br> <br> If you’re ready to begin your own transformation, or would simply like to know more about weight-loss surgery, please <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session" target="_blank">sign up to attend one of our free information sessions</a>! <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Jose's wake-up call came during a mandatory health screening at his workplace. Other than the break in his typical schedule, Jose thought this day was going to be like every other, but he couldn't have been more wrong. The screenings were held in the conference room with dozens of people waiting for their turn. When it was time for Jose’s screening, he walked over expecting to hear the typical "you're overweight and you need to get healthy" spiel, and that's what he got...at first. <br> <br> The surprise came when his test numbers got back and the man who was administering the test took him to a corner of the room where no one would overhear. His demeanor had changed completely, and Jose suddenly became anxious. The man looked at him very seriously and said "you're going to have a stroke. I don't know when, but if you don't change, it's going to happen." Taken aback, Jose asked him how he knew this. He responded by saying "I had a stroke six months ago and your numbers are the same as mine were." Jose was shocked. He knew he wasn't in great shape and that he had some health issues, but he never thought that he was at any serious risk. Now he knew he needed to reevaluate his health. <br> </p> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/8a75272faced2f8bdb72985ede832e0b.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/7e37b6e47a3414d8ca5a3894580ceb33.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/887c42891e68f892dc5f331be8d9db9d.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/5a489f0557399b73312fd7e0db0ce99b.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/8b336455ed386e7a8a4402da4553fb06.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> </div> </div> <br> He had been overweight his entire life. Growing up in a large Puerto Rican family, there was always an abundance of food. "There was never a time you'd go hungry," he said, "every event and gathering centered around food." Jose enjoyed the way food made him feel and this environment enabled him to fall into unhealthy eating habits. If something tasted good, he'd eat it, and he never seemed to get full. <br> <br> As a payroll implementation specialist, Jose’s job is fairly stressful, and it wasn't uncommon for him to sit at his desk all day long. Even if he had the chance, he rarely got up to move around because he experienced swelling and cramping in his legs when he walked. Weight-loss surgery first came onto Jose's radar when a coworker of his got the surgery to help with his back problems. While it made sense for his coworker, Jose never thought of it as an option for himself. He believed — as many do — that weight-loss surgery was a cop-out for people who couldn't lose weight on their own. "It felt like cheating to me," he said. Even with this viewpoint, Jose decided that he didn't have anything to lose and started researching weight-loss surgery programs. <br> <br> After looking into GBMC's <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> (COMP), he decided to attend one of the <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session" target="_blank">free information sessions</a>. What he found was that his perception had been completely wrong. "I realized it wasn't a one-off solution," he said, "it takes work and commitment." After doing some additional research, Jose decided that he would benefit from surgery and took the steps he needed to move forward. <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/63600459c667e59f96426bab964cb3bd.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/ccc86dff0802e3d4d32015516bb69c7f.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/a02f94d36f87f345da2216e362401ca1.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/733cb96bdf5979952fdc705a2d462b5c.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/9d09aaf89a5978ee02ee49d8ae2afef3.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> </div> </div> <br> At his heaviest, Jose weighed more than 400 pounds — two years after his surgery, he has lost 130 pounds and feels amazing. "I don't think I've ever been healthier than I am right now. It's been nothing but positive change." He has gone from eating anything in front of him to knowing when he's full and making conscious decisions about what food he eats. Jose is now at work and says that his heart rate is slower on a stressful day than it was when he was calm prior to losing the weight. "I knew it was going to be a big change, but I didn't know how great it was going to be. If you told me I had to do it again, I'd say when and where?" <br> <br> If you’re ready to begin your own transformation, or would simply like to know more about weight-loss surgery, please <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session" target="_blank">sign up to attend one of our free information sessions</a>! <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Hunger was Adrianna's biggest problem. She never seemed to be full, so she just kept eating and eating. While she tried to stay active and be mindful of the food she ate, Adrianna always seemed to have too much. By the time she was 25, she weighed 200 pounds — which was quite heavy for her petite frame — and she had picked up "lots of unhealthy habits," including smoking. <br> <br> She found some success by taking various weight-loss medications and starting a rigorous exercise schedule, but she was only able to keep her weight off for about a year. She became prediabetic, had high cholesterol, and developed knee issues that made it difficult for her to walk. Her weight exacerbated other health issues to the point that she had to stop working. <br> <br> Adrianna was very aware of how overweight she was and began to have serious self-esteem issues. "I was never confident," she said, "I could barely walk with my head up." She found herself avoiding social situations because she was uncomfortable shopping for clothing. "Anytime there was a family event or work party, I just ended up skipping it because I couldn't go shopping to get something to wear." She distinctly remembers a time when she was leaving a busy restaurant and a man she had never met called her dumb and fat in front of her entire family and everyone waiting to be seated. She felt so humiliated and shamed that she couldn't even look at herself in the mirror. <br> </p> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/d5575d789707a92c1e7586f416c06c82.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/182fbd55807f2c301394c5aead7d5a50.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/fb4d9495690f6f4a05b2430c96585ef4.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/f04be39980bf15e193a0b9ed5bcd8ecd.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/c5411f04dd3027bdd673637609af2757.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> </div> </div> <br> Everything came to a head in 2015 when she and her husband learned she was pregnant for the third time. A few months into the pregnancy, she miscarried, and was absolutely devastated. It was her second miscarriage. Knowing that her weight may have been a contributing factor, she decided it was time to make a change that would last. At this point, she weighed 270 pounds. <br> <br> Her mother had undergone weight-loss surgery many years ago, but Adrianna had never seriously considered it for herself. She began looking into programs and found GBMC's <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> (COMP) on social media. After <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/journey_starts_now" target="_blank">learning more</a>, she decided that this was her next step. <br> <br> Now, several years after her successful gastric sleeve surgery, most of Adrianna's health problems are gone. She can keep up with her family and no longer has mobility issues. Her blood pressure and cholesterol are normal, and she is no longer prediabetic. She quit smoking and, thanks to her care team at COMP, is able to recognize and stop eating when she becomes full. <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/b40537ab7672a39b6bf0908050080fe9.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/5dff3d486dc880e449bc2fe406cb4515.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/bb06f15cb660f728a1f241382dfb6eb8.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/08a27f506f51d8d1977a9d5b2c9a75e1.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> </div> </div> <br> On top of her improved health, Adrianna feels confident and beautiful for the first time in her life. "Dressing up is amazing and fun now. I love going to parties and I can actually enjoy myself." She has gone back to work and recently made a career change that she's very excited about. Adrianna has finally taken control of her life and now nothing can hold her back. <br> <br> If you’re ready to begin your own transformation, or would simply like to know more about weight-loss surgery, start your journey today and <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/journey_starts_now">sign up for a free consultation</a>! <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RCnfBF1yQHc?rel=0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <h5 style="text-align: right"> * For closed captioning, click the <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/edd9ba121c174d97705f2b40e511e38b.png" style="width: 20px;"> button in the bottom-right of the video. * </h5> <h4> A Greater Living Special Feature with Don Scott </h4> The Presbyterian Board of Governors Cochlear Implant Center of Excellence at GBMC has touched the lives of people from all walks of life, extending well beyond the Baltimore area. Host Don Scott had the pleasure of sitting down with Mr. Robert Pullo at his office in York, Pennsylvania. A well known banker, philanthropist, entrepreneur, and mentor to his community, Bob suffered from progressive hearing loss since he was a teenager. However, even with the assistance of hearing aides, his problems became progressively worse, eventually forcing him to step aside from the work he cherished so dearly...
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KWGZexoR1Z4" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <h5 style="text-align: right"> * For closed captioning, click the <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/edd9ba121c174d97705f2b40e511e38b.png" style="width: 20px;"> button in the bottom-right of the video. * </h5> Elena Pearlstein and Barbara Kraska, who both underwent cochlear implant surgery at GBMC’s Presbyterian Board of Governors Cochlear Implant Center of Excellence, shared the story of their journeys with Mary Beth Marsden. Elena, who’s now in 6th grade, was diagnosed with hearing loss when she was one after her parents noticed she wasn’t babbling like other babies her age. Her doctor found fluid in her ears, so she had surgery to implant tubes that would drain the fluid. <br> <br> “We thought that would fix the problem,” said her mother. “But three months later, her hearing still hadn’t improved. We took her for another evaluation and I expected to hear that nothing was wrong, but the doctor said she did have hearing loss and needed hearing aids. It hit me like a ton of bricks.” <br> <br> Unfortunately, Elena’s hearing loss continued to progress. About a year ago, her parents noticed she was falling behind in school and becoming socially isolated, so they had her assessed by an educational psychologist who works with children with hearing issues. He raised the idea of getting cochlear implants. Said Elena, “I was excited, but I didn’t know what it would be like. It took some time to get used to the first implant, but now that I have the second one I can hear the notes and words better when I sing.” Added her father, “She has access to so much sound and so many experiences she didn’t before she got her implants.” <br> <br> Barbara Kraska is equally excited about her cochlear implant. “It changed my life for the better very quickly,” she explained. Barbara had been living with progressive hearing loss for several years but was in denial. “When my kids said I should get my hearing tested, I took it personally. Now I wish I’d gotten tested sooner.” <br> <br> Where she once was embarrassed about having to ask people to repeat what they said, didn’t enjoy watching movies because she couldn’t follow what was going on, and started to withdraw from doing things she enjoyed, today Barbara is the happy, social person she was before her hearing loss. “I highly recommend the cochlear implant to people with hearing loss,” she said. “I love going to the movies and out to dinner now. The other night my husband couldn’t hear what a waiter said and he asked me if I heard and I said, ‘Yes I did’ with a big smile.”
<p class="article-body"> Gerri Baum joined her first diet program when she was just 12 years old. Throughout her life, she dealt with the emotional and physical roller coaster of losing weight and then gaining it all back. As a social media manager and consultant, she frequently makes presentations to clients and she found it difficult to find clothes that looked professional and fit her properly. While she didn't doubt her expertise, she felt like she wasn’t taken as seriously as she'd like to be. Her struggle became more poignant when her daughter began walking. She had difficulty keeping up with her rambunctious daughter and Gerri could see that she was taking a backseat in her life. Despite her desire to lose weight, she simply didn't have the tools to make it happen. <br> <br> "I've been on every diet program there is," she said, but nothing ever stuck. With each attempt, she would see short-term success that faded away with the everyday stress of being a working mother. It was difficult to keep up a consistent exercise schedule and the extreme diets she went on were unrealistic and unpleasant. Gerri struggled to maintain regular healthy habits. <br> <br> She hadn't considered weight-loss surgery until she saw a coworker transform before her eyes. Gerri watched as she quickly shed pounds after her surgery. There was a profound shift in her coworker — she was happier, healthier, and completely changed her demeanor. That was when it clicked for Gerri and she decided that surgery was her next step. <br> </p> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/612768ffdb44221a0ee5a19225035486.jpg" alt="Gerri Baum"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/b5b75cd6e76a3120479f7689a4c6eee8.jpg" alt="Gerri Baum"> </div> </div> </div> <br> She was devastated to find out that her insurance wouldn't cover the procedure — but she didn't let that stop her. Determined to take this step for herself, Gerri traveled to Mexico where she could afford a laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (lap-band) surgery without the coverage from her insurance company. While she saw a slight improvement after surgery, Gerri wasn't able to get the support she needed and soon gained back all of the weight she had lost. Ten years later, she was prediabetic and back in the same place she had started. Gerri became depressed and discussed her weight issues with her primary care physician, who suggested she consider the <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> (COMP) at GBMC. <br> <br> After attending an <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session" target="_blank">information session</a>, Gerri made an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth Dovec. During the appointment, they reviewed her medical history in detail, as well as her past and present weight-loss efforts. It was decided that best course of action was a revision surgery that removed her lap-band and created a laparoscopic gastric sleeve. This time, the surgery was covered by insurance and it didn't cost her a penny. <br> <br> This surgery was very successful, and she lost more than 100 pounds. Unfortunately, Gerri also suffered from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and over time, it became apparent that the sleeve was contributing to her discomfort. After discussing this complication with Dr. Dovec, they decided that the best option to relieve her symptoms was a gastric bypass revision surgery. This, too, was successful and Gerri lost even more weight. <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/9796b37fa967c2ac81ad84a74921a74a.jpg" alt="Gerri Baum"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/ce5b9c7884af936796872cc929748559.jpg" alt="Gerri Baum"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/55793c86191de9150163eb341c58e780.jpg" alt="Gerri Baum"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/44641bdfea7d66718422d3342e513351.jpg" alt="Gerri Baum"> </div> </div> <br> </div> She no longer feels held back by her body and she isn’t experiencing GERD symptoms. One of the biggest changes is her new sense of boldness. For the first time in her life, she feels comfortable in her own skin and she’s doing things she never thought she could. Her recent trip to Italy is the perfect example. She walked miles each day exploring sites and “climbed more stairs than [she] cared to count,” but she had a wonderful time with her daughter. She afforded herself the luxury of buying a beautiful Italian dress — something she never would have done when she was heavy. Gerri said she wouldn't have even planned the vacation had she not lost the weight. <br> <br> Her professional life has changed, too. She has a much easier time finding clothes and is more confident while making presentations to her clients. "I don't think I lacked credibility before, but I definitely feel like I'm taken more seriously at work now." Gerri currently weighs less than half of what she did at her heaviest. "I never thought I'd get to the point where I wouldn't need to lose any more weight," she said. "I finally feel free." <br> <br> Interested in taking the first step in your own weight-loss journey? <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session" target="_blank">Register for a free COMP information session today!</a> <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Shawn Johnson was really good at losing weight...for short periods of time. He'd have bursts of motivation, but the pounds always came back. Without fail, Shawn found himself giving in to temptation and watching the number on the scale creep back up. He'd say to himself that he'd change once he got to a certain weight — first it was 350 pounds, then 400, then 450 — but he continually passed these markers without making any modifications to his lifestyle. "I thought to myself that if I kept going in the direction I'm going, I'll end up on <em>My 600-lb Life</em>," he said. <br> <br> Even with this thought, Shawn became discouraged and struggled to maintain healthy habits. His employer often held weight-loss competitions, and these served as his motivation rather than his desire to be healthy. Because he was so overweight, it was easy to shed pounds quickly, and he frequently won the competitions. "I'd win and take all the money and then I'd get lazy again." Once there was no longer a prize to be won, he would stop working out and everything would come back. "I felt like I was just wasting my time," he recalled. <br> <br> </p> <figure class="image-right"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/9951334914b5caeb6ad9fc448160e9c7.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> <figcaption> Shawn, pictured center, at his friend's wedding. </figcaption> </figure> Shawn also found that his weight was disrupting his social life. He and his friends love going to amusement parks, but he had difficulty keeping up with the group. While they never said anything and always went at a pace he could handle, Shawn hated that they had to slow down for him. He was embarrassed that he couldn't walk for long periods of time and that he was often too heavy to ride roller coasters and water slides. "I was the big guy at the parks," he said, and he felt like everyone knew it. <br> <br> Even through all this, Shawn didn't really know how big he was until he saw a photograph of himself at his friend's wedding. Something about that specific picture resonated with him and he finally realized how significant his weight was.He knew that he could no longer live the way he was living and that he needed to make a change that would last. Weight-loss surgery seemed to be the best next step. <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/5659fedfedce10b886ec61c65e3c2885.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/ed376064c50a45068d371f5d7870e391.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/f394c959ef746501c256f4d4ee4b0984.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/d3f1839d2937ff924461bceabc5cfde2.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/f6bf56fa485f9233312dde01d665fa02.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/c2abd451f7cfb33d569b070c3efc6672.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> </div> </div> <br> This wasn't a decision that he took lightly; he researched for more than a year before choosing GBMC's <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> (COMP). A friend had added him to COMP's Facebook support group and Shawn was greatly encouraged by the before and after pictures that he saw, as well as the direct interaction between doctors and patients. In 2016, at age 29, Shawn had the weight-loss surgery that transformed everything about his life. <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/9c0b64728d800e8a53a219c02e796a8e.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/92313a7bbb83484878a77ee7f5babc54.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/a8d9e8838fe23ea83178d889a00ce17a.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/1fb29b620937b4b6a57a7535b1ad786a.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/ac9acc9888a98c2f066eccba1f470c64.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> </div> </div> <br> As of 2018, Shawn has lost 240 pounds and is still losing weight. He's healthier than he's ever been and is doing all the things he wanted to but never could. "I have so much more energy and I'm not embarrassed all the time." Shawn can now go to amusement parks and fit on every ride. He doesn't lose his breath or lag behind and he can actually enjoy himself with his friends. He no longer has to special order his clothes and can simply walk into a store and buy something that fits him. "It's the best decision I've ever made, and I'd make it 1,000 times over. My life has changed in so many ways and I refuse to go back." <br> <br> If you’re ready to begin your own transformation, or would simply like to know more about weight-loss surgery, please <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session" target="_blank">sign up to attend one of our free information sessions</a>! <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Dan Ridgely found ways to manage his stomach issues until 2005, when he experienced such severe bowel pain that his wife rushed him to the emergency room. During emergency surgery, doctors found that he had developed a full bowel blockage and had to remove a section of his colon. Shortly afterwards, Dan was diagnosed with Crohn's disease, a disease that causes chronic inflammation along the digestive tract. While he was diagnosed quickly, it took more than a decade for him to get the right treatment. <br> <br> People with Crohn's regularly deal with diarrhea, fatigue, constipation, and painful abdominal cramps, which can be debilitating. Dan experienced all of these symptoms and they significantly disrupted his life. His fatigue made it difficult get up to go to work and he lost his desire to participate in social events. "I didn't want to go anywhere, and I was in pain all the time," he says. His exhaustion went far beyond normal tiredness and he was having diarrhea six to seven times a day. He always needed to know where the closest bathroom was. <br> <br> Although it's a fairly common condition, the effectiveness of Crohn's treatments can vary from person to person. For Dan, nothing seemed to work and he felt his original gastroenterologist (GI) didn’t listen to his concerns. Eventually, Dan’s body stopped absorbing nutrients and he rapidly lost weight despite eating normally. His primary care doctor confirmed he was malnourished. After several years, Dan and his doctor did find a treatment that worked well enough for him to function again. While his Crohn's was still active, he was able to manage his symptoms and go back to living a semi-normal life. <br> <br> Unfortunately, in 2014, Dan began having difficulty swallowing, which his primary care doctor believed was caused by acid reflux. When reflux treatments proved to be ineffective, he was referred to an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist. To his frustration, the ENT was unable to diagnose an illness and he ended up with another GI doctor. <br> <br> Crohn's disease can affect the entire digestive tract and his new doctor discovered that it had travelled up to his esophagus. Once again, Dan found himself trying treatment after treatment with little success. His continually changing medications severely affected his immune system and even small issues wreaked havoc on his body. In 2017, he contracted viral meningitis, which was only diagnosed after three visits to the emergency department. "I just wanted someone to listen to me; I knew something was wrong." <br> <br> The flare up in his throat coincided with a flare up in his small bowel, and Dan struggled through increasingly frequent episodes that could take up to a week to recover from. There were times when he felt like he couldn’t even get up out of his chair to go to the bathroom — if he said he was having a "good" day, he meant he wasn't in constant, excruciating pain. It got so bad that his gastroenterologist said there was no more that he could do and referred him to Dr. Whitehead at GBMC, a gastroenterologist who has a special interest in inflammatory disease like Crohn’s. <br> <br> Seeing Dr. Whitehead felt like a breath of fresh air. She sat down, listened to him, and worked to find the actual problem. "Dr. Whitehead was incredibly proactive and she found exactly what I needed," says Dan. It turned out that his previous medications hadn't worked because they were treating his colon rather than his small bowel. His symptoms significantly improved once he began taking the proper medication. <br> <br> Despite a more than 30-minute commute, Dan continues to see Dr. Whitehead. Although it isn’t all smooth sailing, Dan finally feels like his doctor cares about him. He points to a time when his wife called the office with a question and Dr. Whitehead personally returned the call to schedule tests the next day. "None of my other doctors would have done that," he says. Crohn's is a chronic disease and Dan still experiences some side effects and symptoms, but Dr. Whitehead is always there and ready to tackle whatever problems arise. Dan has energy that he hasn't felt in years. He no longer scopes out bathrooms everywhere he goes, he isn’t in frequent pain, and his blood tests are coming back normal. "I got my life back," he says. <br> <br> </p> <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Nicki and Shannon have always been close, even for twins. They live within a couple miles of each other, work for the same company (their desks are right next to each other), and share friends. Unfortunately, for most of their adult lives, they also shared their struggle with being overweight. <br> <br> They tried what seemed like every exercise plan and extreme diet they could to lose weight, but nothing worked. Shannon became depressed and developed severe social anxiety. "I would almost never go out because I was worried and embarrassed about what people would think of me," she explained. She found herself eating in response to any strong emotion, which only fueled her anxiety. "I ate all the time, sometimes without even realizing it." Nicki, too, used food to relieve anxiety. Over time, they became concerned that they were on the path to developing diabetes. The disease runs in their family and the sisters worried that their children would be affected if they didn't start to take better care of themselves. "I want to be present with my kids, not worrying about insulin pumps or other medications," said Nicki. <br> <br> The last straw happened for Nicki one morning shortly after arriving to work. She sat down at her desk and heard a ripping sound. She looked down and, to her dismay, saw that her pants had split down the thigh. It was in that moment she decided she wasn't going to live like that anymore. <br> <br> By the time Nicki had reached her breaking point, both she and Shannon were 100 pounds overweight. They began researching bariatric programs in the area and decided that GBMC was the place for them. "We didn't see a lot of support at the other hospitals, so we were surprised to see how responsive the doctors were and how active people were in the Facebook support group," she explained. <br> </p> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/5342b506c110f8de1af248b2dbece924.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/2367fa9a53e3d59ecea69dd1888d2080.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/783dc3b708ad3c3275729caab295babd.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> </div> </div> <br> In May 2015, Nicki had weight-loss surgery and everything about her life changed. In 7 months, she lost 130 pounds and has kept it off. "I have never been happier with myself. I found a new me and I'm not letting her go," she said. <br> <br> Around the same time, Shannon was diagnosed with intracranial hypotension, a brain condition that causes severe headache, nausea, vomiting, neck pain, visual and hearing disturbances, and vertigo. There are very few treatments for this disease and Shannon's symptoms weren't improving. Her doctor told her that substantial weight loss was one of her only options if she wanted to avoid brain surgery. Wanting to prevent this and having seen how successful her sister was, Shannon decided to join the <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> at GBMC. After her weight-loss surgery, she saw a significant decrease in her headaches and she no longer has constant ringing in her ears. "I got my life back," she said. <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/f9e243b5b5071ebdbfeaea38cda67a39.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/f3e082c072f01b725cb941990bc82d80.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/8425edb54a669bdbbf3551b868bf8063.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/fbcf539f9e5ca8aa0eed4c5169daf084.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> </div> </div> <br> On top of her symptom improvement, Shannon found a new confidence that she hadn't thought possible. She is no longer afraid to go to social events and spends time with her friends without feeling embarrassed. She's happier than she's ever been. <br> <br> Both Nicki and Shannon say that getting weight-loss surgery was one of the best decisions they've ever made and encourage anyone who might be considering a similar surgery to sign up for a free information session. <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cUa_qABsAzk" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <p class="article-body"> <strong>A cancer survivor gives back</strong> <br> <br> Six years ago, Beth Nardone was diagnosed with an invasive, aggressive form of breast cancer. She underwent three surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation. Today, she shares her own experience and supports cancer patients and caregivers at GBMC as the co-chair of the Oncology Patient & Family Advisory Council. She talked with Mary Beth Marsden and Don Scott about her diagnosis and treatment and why she feels blessed to be able to give back through the council. <br> <br> “When you’re diagnosed with cancer, you need to make your treatment the priority,” Beth explained. “Because my cancer was aggressive, I needed to start treatment quickly. I was lucky to have the team of doctors I did. They not only treated my cancer, they also have such heart and care so much about you. When I had complications from a medication I was taking to control the cancer, they didn’t give up. They found a way for me to get treatment for the heart-related side effects and continue taking the medication, which was an essential part of my treatment. Because of that commitment and care, I’m here today.” <br> <br> In her role on the council, Beth works with other survivors to make the process of undergoing cancer treatment at GBMC better for those that come after them by advocating for changes big and small and sharing patient and family feedback with GBMC leadership. “Being part of the council is my way of taking something difficult and negative and turning it into something positive,” she said. “In addition to being a survivor, I was also the caregiver for both of my parents, so I understand both sides of the experience. It’s a gift that I can give to help others.” <br> <br> Asked what she wishes the friends and family of cancer survivors knew, Beth explained, “Don’t walk on eggshells. We may want to talk about our fears and a lot of difficult topics that no one really wants to talk about. But it’s helpful when friends and family are open to those conversations.” <br> <br> <strong>Watch the entire series:</strong> <br> <br> <a href="/node/3320">Part 1</a> — Dr. Robert Donegan, MD, Medical Oncology <br> <br> <a href="/node/3473">Part 2</a> — Brandon Costantino, Oncology Support Services at GBMC <br> <br> <a href="/node/3474">Part 3</a> — Barbara Pisano Messing, The Milton J. Dance, Jr. Head & Neck Center, Head & Neck Surgery, and the Johns Hopkins Voice Center located at GBMC <a href="/node/3665">Part 4</a> — Beth Nardone, Co-Chair of the Oncology Patient & Family Advisory Council and Cancer Survivor </p>
