CHI - St. Joseph's Health - MN

B efore and after John, 44, and Paulette, 46, were married, they both struggled with their weight. Wanting to be healthier, they each met with several physicians and dietitians in multiple cities but walked away feeling discouraged. "I didn't feel comfortable at all," John says. "I felt judged and more like a number than a person." "My primary care provider referred us to Dr. Smith," says Paulette. "We felt welcome as soon as we arrived at CHI St. Joseph's Health. They took a personal interest in our cases and in us. We never once felt judged." A LOT TO LOSE, MORE TO GAIN Paulette, a licensed practical nurse working in Staples, suffered years of joint pain associated with her weight. Determined to make a change for the better—and with John by her side every step of the way—Paulette dieted for six months and completed nutrition education and lifestyle modification at CHI St. Joseph's Health Lifestyles Exercise Attitudes Relationships Nutrition (LEARN) program. Paulette then took a leap of faith and had weight-loss surgery. "CHI St. Joseph's Health equipped me with the tools necessary to lose weight and become healthier—tools I didn't even know I needed," Paulette says. "Not only was the surgery and dietary training through the LEARN program integral to my healing process, but the counseling I received helped me focus on my mind, body, and spirit." More than two years passed before John decided he, too, would benefit from the same surgery. "I was on the fence for a long time because I had suffered a stroke when I was 31," John says. "I was terrified of losing function that I had worked so hard to regain after the stroke, but I knew this surgery and program would play a big part in improving my overall health—not just now but in the future, too." Putting into practice the skills and healthy lifestyle changes they gained in the LEARN program, John and Paulette are leading healthy, happy lives. "I think it was helpful for John to see me go through it and to complete the dietary training with me," Paulette says. "Neither of us can imagine taking on such a feat individually. We needed each other through this process, and we've come out stronger because of it." To start your weight-loss journey with our compassionate team at CHI St. Joseph's Health Weight Management Center, call 218.237.5757 to register for a free, informational class near you. Paulette and John Hlatky wanted to improve their numbers on the scale, but they didn't want to be treated like a number. CHI St. Joseph's Health Weight Management Program's compassionate care team supported both of them in their journey to better health. A LEARNing Experience "CHI St. Joseph's Health provided us with the tools and support we needed to succeed, and they can dothe same for you." PAULETTE HLATKY CHI St. Joseph's Health Weight Management Team Paulette and John Hlatky CHI St. Joseph's Health | www.CHISJH.org 8

• Cover