John Bissonnette
"After I began losing weight, people didn't even recognize me! I weighed 540 pounds. and am now approaching my goal weight. I keep pictures of myself at my old weight as reminders - even my old driver's license. Now, I'm a totally different person. I'm running and going to the gym, and I no longer suffer from sleep apnea and high blood pressure. I'm back at school, studying to be a physical therapy assistant. And, except for a few foods, I can truly eat what I want. Dr. Donald Czerniach is a lifesaver! He's my hero, because for me, it was either do or die. He and the entire Weight Center team gave me the tools to make good health decisions and taught me that this is a lifelong commitment. Life is exhilarating!"
Wiley O'Connor
"After trying so many different diets, I was mentally exhausted. I had high cholesterol and sleep apnea. I became motivated because I wanted my son to have a healthy mom! But I didn't have the tools to lose weight and keep it off on my own. That's why I can't say enough about Dr. John Kelly, Dr. Mitch Gitkind and all of the Weight Center team members who understand what an effect this can have on you physically and mentally. The UMass Memorial program is a complete and caring one and just as good, if not better, than any program in Boston. Now my weight is in a normal range, my cholesterol is normal, and I discovered I had a petite frame. I have never felt better in my life!"
Ardith Tennant
"As a mom working full time and getting an MBA, I lacked sleep and exercise. I would diet, but the weight came back. With high blood pressure, cholesterol and sleep apnea, my health was deteriorating and I needed a permanent lifestyle change. The Weight Center offered continuous support from its team of doctors, nurses, nutritionists and exercise experts, so I entered the program upon graduating and had surgery on April 9, 2009. I was a size 24. Now I feel fabulous. I'm a size 8, and the pounds are still dropping. A rewarding new job, regular gym workouts with my supportive husband, the love of my family, and healthy eating are a part of my new lifestyle. Thanks, Weight Center, for helping to make the transition a successful one."
Mary Ballotte
"I've been overweight all my life. Before going to the Weight Center, I was 340 pounds. I had high blood pressure and with a history of diabetes in my family, I knew I needed to change my situation. Today I am 185 pounds - my high school weight! I eat well and exercise to keep a normal weight because I've learned how to make healthy choices. Losing all that weight is a huge accomplishment for me, and the Weight Center professionals have been so supportive in helping me reach my goals. I am overjoyed to discover that even at age 53, life can begin anew. Thank you for creating an atmosphere of healing - medical excellence combined with compassion and kindness - at UMass Memorial Medical Center."