The COVID pandemic was a tough, scary time for Kathleen. She decided to stay in isolation to avoid getting sick, but her own health declined for different reasons.
“During COVID, I gained 100 pounds,” she explained. “When the pandemic was over, I finally went to see my primary physician, Dr. Elizabeth Kayode, because I couldn’t walk more than 50 feet without getting bad backaches and sore knees. Dr. Kayode referred me to the Advocate Sherman Hospital Cardiometabolic Clinic.”
The clinic, a member of the Cardiometabolic Center Alliance, provides a personalized comprehensive approach for each patient and brings together a multidisciplinary team of experts – primary care specialist, cardiologists, nutritionists, pharmacist, nurse navigator and other health care professionals – to prevent, diagnose and treat cardiometabolic diseases. The goal is to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, manage metabolic disorders and ultimately, improve the overall health outcomes of our patients.
“What impressed me most is that right off the bat, they said they could help me. I was skeptical because I’ve tried every diet there is and without success. And no one at the clinic judged me for being overweight. They spoke to me respectfully and treated me with genuine concern.”
The team, led by Dr. Ramon Gonzalez, created a plan to help Kathleen lose weight and regain her health. They adjusted the medications she was taking, and she met with a dietician who came up with a meal plan.
“My nutritionist, Bob Carrara, was very helpful; he was funny, kind, and most importantly, he listened to me. He started by asking what I was currently eating – it was all unhealthy – and we went back and forth about what I like, and he kept tweaking the plan until we came up with something that fit in my life,” said Kathleen. “Now I’m not constantly thinking about what I’m going to eat next. I know what my next meal will be, and I can use my time in other ways.”
Since Kathleen couldn’t walk very far without pain, the team suggested swimming as a good exercise for her.
“I’d never thought of swimming as an exercise option. I love swimming. There’s a therapy pool in the community that’s open to the public, and I go there to walk and swim. It’s helped me become more active when I thought my mobility was limited.”
Since she began visiting the clinic in March 2024, Kathleen has lost more than 100 pounds. But the benefits go beyond weight loss.
“My blood sugar is down; my depression and anxiety are under control. I have an eye condition that’s also improved. I can do things I couldn’t before, like take a walk or even wear a seatbelt in a car,” shared Kathleen. “And I owe it all to the people at the clinic. They opened my world. Every aspect of my life has been addressed. I’ve never experienced anything like this; it’s just fabulous.”
Kathleen admits her journey has had its challenges, but with the support of her care team, she has the confidence to succeed.
“It’s not easy, but it’s easier knowing I have these people that care about me. I truly believe they do. I feel like I have a huge support system behind me, and they keep me accountable. Every time I go in, I get weighed, and they’ll know if I’m not following the program.”
How you can help
At Advocate Sherman’s Cardiometabolic Clinic, patients are met with more than just medical care; they’re embraced by a model of support that considers the full picture of health. Supported by philanthropy, the clinic relies on the generosity of donors to help people like Kathleen.
“Put simply, the Clinic’s team gave me my life back. I wish I knew all their names so I could recognize all of them,” she said. “Every aspect of the program is wonderful. I can’t think of anything wrong with it. It’s perfect for me – and it’s working.”
Philanthropy makes this comprehensive care possible for patients who might otherwise not have the financial means for proper treatment. Charitable gifts help ensure that monthly health coaching, behavior health services, nutritional counseling, life-changing medications and long-term support are accessible for patients who need them most.
When donors invest in this transformative care model, they’re not only helping manage chronic conditions but also giving patients the chance to reclaim their lives with dignity, hope, and confidence. Together, we can continue building a future where everyone has access to the tools and support needed to thrive.
Please consider making a gift to support the clinic today.