The Virginian-Pilot, November 17, 2008
ROBYN ARCHULETA, a 50-year-old executive assistant, was reaching her 50-year milestone in 2008 and wanted to do something to improve her health. The Virginia Beach woman turned to Tidewater Bariatrics for help, and she dropped 100 pounds in eight months.
What was your breaking point?
In November 2007, my physical therapist who helped me after knee surgery shared information about Tidewater Bariatrics and Dr. Margaret Gaglione. I knew that in 2008 I would turn 50 years old, and I needed to do something to improve my health. I registered for a free informational meeting at Tidewater Bariatrics and signed up to begin the program on Dec. 6, 2007.
What was your physical condition at the time and what were your goals?
At the time of my physical with Dr. Gaglione, my height was 5 feet 6 inches, and my weight was 329 pounds. My blood pressure was extremely high, so I knew I needed to lose weight – and quickly.
How did you achieve your goal?
I started on Dec. 7, 2007, with the Decision Free weight-loss program under the medical supervision of Dr. Gaglione and her staff. This weight management program of meal replacements, physical activity, classes and doctor supervision was exactly what I needed. Through the wonderful expertise, concern and compassion of Dr. Gaglione and her staff, on Aug. 7, 2008, I reached a very big goal – 100 pounds lost, in just eight months! I know that the support and prayers of my family, friends, class members and co-workers also played a very big part in reaching my goal.
What did you learn about yourself along the way?
I learned that “mindless eating” and snacking were my biggest problems and that I could learn a new lifestyle. I also learned that I was able to use the information from Dr. Gaglione and her staff when I was out of the country for work for five weeks. I was able to live in a hotel for five weeks and still lose weight! This was the best indicator that the program works!
How do you continue to keep yourself motivated?
I know that I feel so much better now, and my health is better. Looking at “before” photos also keeps me motivated. I also know that my health is important to my family, and my family is important to me.
Your best advice for others?
If you have not been successful in the past with weight loss, I strongly urge you to see Dr. Gaglione at Tidewater Bariatrics. Dr. Gaglione and her staff will work with you every step of the way. You will receive medical feedback, encouragement, and classroom instruction - all wonderful tools to help you in your journey to better health. Their program is not a diet – it is learning a new lifestyle.
meet the motivator
Dr. Margaret Gaglione, internist
and bariatrician
medical director of Tidewater Bariatrics
1413 Kempsville Road, Chesapeake
(757) 644-6819
What part did you play?
Our practice provided the medical support and education for Robyn. While we provided the road map, Robyn did the great work with superb compliance with her dietary and physical activity prescription.
With the help of our health educators, clinic nurses and the support the others in her weight-loss class, Robyn has lost a tremendous amount of weight, dramatically improved her health - but most importantly has learned the skills that will help her to maintain her weight loss.
Always
Consult Your Physician before beginning any Diet or Exercise Program.
