Video - Vision is Vital: Challenging Falsely Acquired Thoughts

• Deciphering between the truths of others can cloud our ability to see our own reality.
• Holding onto the things that weigh us down can create debilitating physical FAT and emotional Falsely Acquired Thoughts (F.A.T.) Change the brain, change the body, and find out how to fight F.A.T. for real. Presented by Merrill Littleberry, LCSW, LCDC, CCM, CI-CPT, a licensed psychotherapist and understands the debilitating effects of emotional and physical weight.

Video - YOUR CHAIR IS KILLING YOU. Get up! Non-exercise Activity Thermogenesis - the N.E.A.T. Energy of Life

HERE is one of my favorite speakers at the #YWM2014 event. HANDS, BUTT down.

• Get up! Non-exercise Activity Thermogenesis - the N.E.A.T. Energy of Life

• Streamed live on Sep 27, 2014

  Everything that we do throughout the day uses up our metabolic energy. Dr. Levine explains all the components of your daily energy expense, or N.E.A.T., and the science of how you can make this energy loss part of your strategy to improve health.

 

The results of the anti-Beth campaign

It is funny how people are.  When a thing happens and people say things like, "Don't worry, we will always have your back" and how you sort of know they don't mean it.  It is interesting how they will find ways to weasel out of your existence, quietly, so that you do not notice.  

One year ago I attended a weight loss related event and a thing happened.  Friends and businesses alike, sent me all kinds of messages of support:  WE HAVE YOUR BACK AND WE STAND BEHIND YOU GO DO ALL THE THINGS AS YOU ALWAYS DID!  

Edited to add - I also find it curious that these people are always willing to privately hoo-rah me - but never stand up in public after I've supported them for years and years.  I guarantee private emails will follow this.   

And then they were gone.  Crickets, guys.   This coming from the woman who had no less than 30 lbs of free PLEASEWRITEABOUTOUR protein in her house at any given moment - NADA.  I have 6,000 members in a support group and I take Walmart vitamins.  Is selling out --- worth my sanity?  

Meh.

So, if you're responsible for the Anti-Beth-PR-Campaign because of what I DID on year ago?  (If you don't know, don't ask.)  GO YOU.  Be proud of what you did.  Pat yourself on the back. 

You may have noticed by the slowing-to-a-stall blogging that I lost my mojo.  It was partly due to this, and ironically enough (... and I have said this before)  I am doing "better than ever" in terms of my weight loss surgery life -- which is WHAT MY BLOG IS ABOUT.  

I just ain't got time for fake people.  I got old, guys.  I got teenagers up in here and it's all drama, all the TIME, and who needs adults with drama?  No more.  No thank you.  All done.  I realized a year ago that it just wasn't worth it - and I gave up a lot of things.  I dropped 1,000 people on my Facebook feed and just let go.  I rarely see anything anymore and it is calm.  I tell people it's puppies, babies, puppies and occasional food.

The only problem with this is -- when you no longer are a part of the drama -- you don't get invited to the stuff.   Apparently to get invited To The Things, you need to Be Dramatic.  

Well shit, go me.  And no, I'm not willing to go back.  I kind of like it quiet and calm.   

 

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Chef Graham Elliot to Inspire at #OH2014 Conference

Chef Graham Elliot to Inspire at #OH2014 Conference (via PRWeb)

MasterChef Judge to Deliver Keynote at ObesityHelp’s 2014 National Conference With the support of his family, and his friend and surgeon, Dr. Vivek Prachand, Graham had the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) in July 2013 at the University of Chicago

Each year, ObesityHelp.com brings together hundreds of conference attendees that are navigating their weight loss surgery journey with a common goal of weight loss, improved health and wellness. There is always a very special connection among the attendees, one where individuals can look around the room and know that others right there beside them understand the stigma of obesity and also understand what it is like to make that big decision to have weight loss surgery.

Whether they are a pre-op, post-op, or a weight loss surgery veteran…someone, somewhere at the conference has been in those shoes and is sure to understand. The ObesityHelp team is proud to say that attendees walk away from the ObesityHelp Conference inspired, motivated, educated and supported!

With this very special connection in mind, it is an honor that the featured keynote speaker is someone that also understands and connects to the community in that very special way.

Please join the conference this August and welcome, Graham Elliot, as the Featured Keynote Speaker.

Graham Elliot is a critically acclaimed chef, television personality, and one of the most recognized faces cooking in America today. He is the two Michelin starred chef and owner of Graham Elliot Bistro and Primary Food & Drink. Graham is a judge on FOX's MasterChef and MasterChef Junior, and the Culinary Director of the Lollapalooza music festival.

At one point, Graham weighed almost 400 pounds and knew he needed help. Graham made the decision to have weight loss surgery in order to regain his health for himself and his family. Graham is married to Allie and has three children, Mylo, Conrad and Jedediah. With the support of his family, and his friend and surgeon, Dr. Vivek Prachand, Graham had the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) in July 2013 at the University of Chicago Medical Center and has lost 150 pounds since his surgery.

One of Graham’s biggest goals was to start running. Graham ran his first 5k in Chicago on November 30th, 2013. Inspired by fellow MasterChef judges Chef Gordon Ramsey and Chef Joe Bastianich, his next goal is to run the 2014 Chicago Marathon with his wife and biggest supporter, Allie.

The ObesityHelp National Conference will be held on August 15th and 16th at the Manhattan Beach Marriott. To learn more about the conference or to purchase tickets, please visit http://events.obesityhelp.com.

About ObesityHelp 
Founded in 1998, ObesityHelp was one of the very first online social networking communities and continues to be the premier weight loss surgery community offering resources for weight loss surgery patients and those seeking weight loss solutions for the morbidly obese. We provide a comprehensive program of support and education as well as tools and assistance in locating whatever resources it takes to overcome this life threatening condition. We have an active community that communicates online 24/7 through our website at http://www.obesityhelp.com.

Smashing records, that's what we do.

This is totally a press release from the OAC because James writes them so fancy!

3-7-0.

Just wait until next year, guys.

-Beth

OBESITY ACTION COALITION’S 2^ND ANNUAL YOUR WEIGHT MATTERS NATIONAL CONVENTION BREAKS ATTENDANCE RECORDS AND EDUCATES AND INVIGORATES MORE THAN 370 INDIVIDUALS SEEKING EVIDENCE-BASED WEIGHT MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

Tampa, Fla. â€“ More than 370 individuals from 32 states throughout the nation attended the Obesity Action Coalition’s 2^nd Annual Your Weight Matters National Convention, Rise to the Challenge, in Phoenix earlier this month. Education, advocacy and support, the core principles of the OAC’s mission, were fully represented during this year’s Convention, tagged “YWM2013” across social media.

The hundreds in attendance were treated to three days of evidence-based information on a variety of topics, such as food addiction, weight bias, self-perception and many more. Led by thought-leaders in the healthcare field, each educational session was presented by one of 37 distinguished experts dedicated to helping individuals gain a better understanding of how their weight impacts their health. In addition to the world-class education, YWM2013 offered attendees a busy Exhibit Hall with 30 exhibitors all showcasing products and services geared toward those affected by excess weight and obesity.

“The education at this year’s Convention was truly unbelievable. As a speaker, I was able to see first-hand how this Convention changed lives. It brought individuals to a new level of awareness. It broke down topics that are often avoided; however, frequently questioned by those affected by the disease of obesity. What makes Convention so special is that it creates a safe and welcoming environment that is free from judgment. In doing so, it allows individuals to feel comfortable and absorb all that Convention has to offer. Being a part of YWM2013 was simply an amazing experience,” said Robert Kushner, MD, Convention Program Agenda Co-Chair.

The OAC is thankful for all those who volunteered their time in both planning YWM2013 and helping onsite. Countless hours were dedicated to ensuring all attendees received an experience like nothing else out there in the way of education and support.

“Last year’s Inaugural Convention in Dallas was amazing. Being in my home state of Texas, it felt surreal to see so many individuals all in one place wanting to learn more about their weight. I honestly thought it was going to be difficult to top the Inaugural Convention; however, YWM2013 did just that – and more. YWM2013 connected people, and when I say ‘connected,’ I am not just talking about attendee-to-attendee. It gave us, the OAC Board of Directors, staff and others, the opportunity to engage with the attendees, learn more about them and their needs, and most of all – help them rise to their own personal challenges,” said Lloyd Stegemann, MD, FASMBS, Convention Program Agenda Co-Chair.

The tremendous success of YWM2013 would not have been possible without the generous support of this year’s sponsors. The OAC would like to thank the 2013 National Sponsors for their generous support: Platinum – Eisai; Gold – Allergan and Vivus, Inc.; Silver – Covidien; Bronze – AmeriWell Bariatrics, Bari Life Bariatric Supplements, Bariatric Advantage, Celebrate Vitamins, Ethicon Endo-Surgery, and Geisinger.

The OAC is excited to announce that the 3^rd Annual Your Weight Matters National Convention will take place in Orlando, Fla., at the Renaissance Orlando at Sea World, September 25-28, 2014. Information on next year’s Convention will be located at www.YWMConvention.com. 

The OAC is a National nonprofit charity dedicated to helping individuals affected by obesity. The OAC was formed to bring together individuals struggling with weight issues and provide educational resources and advocacy tools.

Understanding and Managing Food #Addiction (and SUGAR!) Livestream Video Via Obesity Action Coalition (OAC)

• Absolutely worth the watch if you like good brain food.

• Dr. Nicole Avena is a research neuroscientist and expert in the fields of nutrition, diet and addiction. She received a Ph.D. in Neuroscience and Psychology from Princeton University, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship in molecular biology at The Rockefeller University in New York City. She has published over 50 scholarly journal articles, as well as several book chapters and a book, on topics related to food, addiction, obesity and eating disorders. She also edited the book, Animal Models of Eating Disorders (2012) and has a popular book of food and addiction coming out in 2014 (Ten Speed Press). Her research achievements have been honored by awards from several groups including the New York Academy of Sciences, the American Psychological Association, the National Institute on Drug Abuse, and her research has been funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Eating Disorders Association. She also maintains a blog, Food Junkie, with Psychology Today.

• http://www.facebook.com/DrNicoleAvena

#YWM2013 Photoshow

• Photos from #YWM2013
• Your Weight Matters Convention 
• Costume Party Beach Movie Theme - hence MM in shark, uh, mess
• Team Bariatric Bad Girls 
• #BBGC Raises Nearly SEVEN THOUSAND DOLLARS for the Walk From Obesity National Event for the SECOND YEAR in a ROW! GO TEAM BBGC! 
• Two years of National Walks = $14,000!
• Thanks to everyone who donated - you're all eligible for prizes!
• See you in September 2014 in ORLANDO, FLORIDA!

 

Again, Because We Can.

 

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Save. The. Date.

Bariatric Advantage Ultra Multi Formula with Iron

Photos galore! #Portland #fitbloggin

Photo slideshow from Portland, Oregon and fitbloggin' 2013

Full size photos here.

Sitting on the floor at fitbloggin listening to a session about healthy communities. I am thinking this would be the opportune time for a balance ball chair.

A dilemma-monade #fitbloggin #procrastination

It's 94 degrees in my bedroom right now where I should be packing my suitcase in anticipation for my flight out to fitbloggin' 2013 tomorrow morning.  However instead of packing I am playing the "until the very last minute" game because -

• It is 94 degrees in my bedroom
• And I am avoiding all things boob sweat.  (I am currently sweating, sitting still.)

There is also this one thing --  I weighed in at 183 pounds last summer to fall.

fitbloggin' 2012

I now weigh 144 pounds and that is a visible size difference.  

2013

The thing is -- I've been wearing the same clothing regardless of its fit -- which means I probably look a mess quite often in a size 12-14 on a size 8 body.  I likely rock the plumbers crack.  #thumbsup

 

I could use some clothes that fit, but I would rather not until I know I am settled into a size that I am staying in unless I find super-inexpensive deals.  I bought clothing prior to the last set of events I attended - and they're too big now.  

As someone who is pretty much stuck-at-home since I do not drive due to my seizures, I don't shop much at all, and rarely shop online either.  Also:  with five other people in the house, you don't just SHOP for clothes, you have to consider everyone, and we have a list seven miles long of "needs, wants and like-to-haves..." and my stuff sometimes gets bumped.  That's just the long way of saying I can't just run out and shop.  I do not have that luxury.  If I were an employed adult with a dependable weekly paycheck, who could drive myself to the mall?  I suppose I might consider it more often, but I know I'd likely end up spending on the kids first because that's what parents do.  School's out this week.  #brainimplodes  #sendababypool #sendairconditioning #help 

Do you like how I am avoiding?  

It is working.  

I am still sitting here.  

The suitcase is empty.  

I will also mention that it is empty because I did not get a sponsor for this event.  In the spirit of being honest:  I did not try very hard to gain a sponsor.  I did not ask much.  I was quite disheartened after the last event I attended and sort of gave up.   I promised myself that I would not attend another blog conference (...or otherwise) after paying out of pocket in full for the last one that went completely belly-up on me and my entire support group.  I swore I would never do it again, until this time.

I suppose I should attempt to put some poorly fitted clothes in a suitcase now that the sun has moved a bit.   (Still. trying. to. waste. time. here.)

 

However, I've had two good experiences with fitbloggin'.    (A post from last year.)

I am off to Portland, Oregon in the wee hours tomorrow for fitbloggin' 2013 - which is my third trip to fitbloggin' - because they sort of rock.  I went in 2010, 2012 and now this year.  I will be live-blogging a session sponsored by #soyjoy about snacking!  *shrug*  

I like snacking.  

Many blog-friends will also be there!  Check out the list!  WLS bloggers in attendance:

• http://www.meltingmama.net
• http://www.bariatricfoodie.com
• http://www.theworldaccordingtoeggface.com
• http://www.beautyandthebypass.com  <-- Speaking!
• And more!

 Watch the blogs - and

• Facebook streams for photos and coverage!  
• #fitbloggin2013 

 

 

Ending TOMORROW - Nominations are open! #OAC #YWM2013

Via OAC -  Nominations END tomorrow!

We are proud to open the nomination process for the OAC’s 2013 Annual Awards that will be presented on Saturday evening, August 17, at the 2^nd Annual Your Weight Matters National Convention in Phoenix, AZ.

Last year, the OAC unveiled its Annual Awards Program as a way to honor outstanding OAC members and volunteers for their tireless efforts to advance the cause of obesity and help individuals affected through education, advocacy and support. Our members truly drive the successes of the OAC, and we are excited to celebrate the individuals that have made a direct impact in furthering the goals and mission of the OAC.

During this year’s awards ceremony held in conjunction with the 2013 National Convention in Phoenix, we will present seven awards in key areas of focus for the OAC. A complete list of the awards to be presented may be found to the right. Of the seven awards, four are open to the membership to submit nominations. The remaining award recipients will be selected by the Annual Awards Program Review Committee.

If you know someone who is deserving of one or more of the OAC’s awards, we encourage you to submit a nomination using the below links. Self-nominations are also welcomed and accepted.

 

Supporting the #WalkFromObesity for the OAC and ASMBS Foundation with the #BBGC

Deadline to Submit Your Nomination: Friday, July 19

 

Candidates for the below awards are nominated by the OAC membership and will be submitted for final review by the OAC Annual Awards Program Review Committee. Self-nominations are accepted. The description, qualifications and criteria for review are available once you click the link provided for the respective award. 

 

#YWM2012 Awards Night with Michelle Vicari

 

• The deadline to submit a nomination is Friday, July 19. 

We hope you submit a nomination for the OAC’s Annual Awards and invite you to join us in Phoenix for the presentation. Here are the details of this year’s Awards Ceremony:

Saturday, August 17
7:00 pm – Arizona Grand Ballroom – Conference Center at Arizona Grand

Arizona Grand Resort & Spa
8000 South Arizona Grand
Phoenix, AZ 85044
Plated Sit-down Dinner

Tickets to the 2^nd Annual OAC Awards Dinner are included in Full Convention Registration and can also be purchased separately. To learn more about registering for the Convention and this event, please visit the official Convention Web site at www.YWMConvention.com.

• To view the recipients of the 2012 OAC Annual Awards, please CLICK HERE.

Protein Water Video Review

Before you even suggest it, this vendor had already packed up and left when Michelle and I tried this product with the CEO of a vitamin company. We tried his personal samples. We were not breaking anyone's Code Of Conduct. KTHANKS.

• Check out Spartos Protein Water on Facebook
• Spartos Protein Water
• Watch our review again, don't forget to SUBSCRIBE!

Win An All-Expenses Paid Trip To #YWM2013 - JOIN US!

From the OAC -

YOU ARE INVITED to join us for the 2nd Annual Your Weight Matters National Convention, taking place this year in Phoenix, AZ, August 15 – 18 at the beautiful Arizona Grand Resort & Spa!

“Rise to the Challenge” with the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) in Phoenix, where you can learn from the country’s leading experts and arm yourself with the knowledge to better manage your weight and your health!

The Your Weight Matters National Convention is the largest National meeting dedicated to providing evidence-based strategies for individuals impacted by excess weight and obesity, proudly brought to you OAC. As a National non-profit organization, the OAC is dedicated to helping the millions of Americans impacted by excess weight and obesity through education, advocacy and support.

The OAC’s National Convention is a 3-day educational event designed to bring together all individuals who struggle or are concerned with weight-related issues. The entire weekend is dedicated to presenting a comprehensive agenda, comprised of diverse topics that are designed to help any individual who has ever had a concern about their weight. We bring-in the country’s leading experts on weight and health and give you the RIGHT tools to be successful in your lifelong journey with weight.

Would you join us?   Please do.  

• Learn more here!
• Register now!

The OAC invites you to “Rise to the Challenge” and have the opportunity to win an all-expenses paid trip to the 2013 Convention in Phoenix.

Caesar demands - asks...

• If you refer 10 or more registrants to the 2013 Your Weight Matters National Convention, you will be entered-in to a Grand Prize drawing for an all-expenses paid trip to the Convention! The individual whose name is drawn will receive airfare, three-nights hotel stay and a Full Event Registration. Participants must recruit a minimum of 10 registrants to be eligible to enter the raffle for the Grand Prize.  

• All individuals who refer at least one registrant will be entered-in to a Runner-up drawing for a complimentary Full Convention Registration and a free OAC Membership (or renewal). You will receive one entry into the Runner-up drawing for each registrant who indicates that you referred them to Convention.  

• SO DO IT ALREADY.   Here is the form -  Download Convention_Recruitment_Contest_2013

• GET ENTERED!  GET THERE.  We want to see you!  

(If you have not watched this - DO - embed the words inside your brain - that little dance - can you?  Would you?)

Have you already registered for #YWM2013?  (GO YOU!)  

• If you HAVE?  

• Please please please shoot the OAC a quick email to [email protected] and provide the name of the individual that recruited you to attend.  Because, they get a shot at winning the trip - and that's super-helpful.  The more the better.  

• Spread the love.  And see you at #YWM2013!  

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Obesity Help Announces Keynote Speaker for 2013 National Conference

For Many, Affordable Care Act Won't Cover Bariatric Surgery

Obesity Help Announces Keynote Speaker for 2013 National Conference

This pleases MM.  Very much so.  I might have suggested Dr. Sharma.  Thanks, OH for taking the suggestions from the community.  We like change.

______________________________

Obesity Help -

ObesityHelp, the leading weight loss surgery support community, announced today that Dr. Arya Sharma, world-renowned thought leader on obesity prevention and management will be the ObesityHelp 2013 National Conference Keynote Speaker.” The two day conference takes place in Anaheim, California.

On Saturday, October 5, 2013, Dr. Sharma will present his keynote “Moving Beyond Diet and Exercise”. Dr. Sharma told ObesityHelp, “As anyone battling obesity is well aware, the age-old mantra “Eat-Less-Move-More” (ELMM) is about as effective for weight management as watching a comedy show is for treating depression.”

During his keynote presentation, Dr. Sharma will discuss the many complex causes of weight gain and the many barriers to weight management including, time, stress, genetics, metabolism, sleep, trauma, mental health, medications and many others, to reveal why ELMM approaches to obesity management are so ineffective.

For agenda updates or to purchase tickets visit http://events.obesityhelp.com.

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Obesity Help National Conference 2013

Obesity Help National Conference 2013

Wait up OH.

I thought we did the tenth a few years ago?  Talk to me.

Irvine, CA. (March 23, 2013) – Obesity Help -

ObesityHelp is excited to announce the 10th Annual ObesityHelp National Conference at the Crowne Plaza in Anaheim, California on October 4th and 5th, 2013. The ObesityHelp National Conference is a celebration of health and wellness for those navigating their weight loss surgery journey.  You’ll walk away inspired, motivated and with a larger support system than you started with. You will be part of change, gain knowledge from experienced professionals, and witness (or have your own) non-scale victories right at the conference.

OAC - Your Weight Matters Magazine - Online - and saving a piece of history

I received my issue, issues (two, because we have two memberships!) of Your Weight Matters Magazine from the Obesity Action Coalition today.  I got a little bit excited because the recap of the National YWM Convention was in there, and yes, that's me up there, OAC Advocate of the Year.  This is my digital-clipping of said event!  

It's all online -  get into it -  to view a full PDF version of this issue, please click here.

Obesity and the Immune System
by Stephanie F. Deivert, RD, LDN, and Mildred K. Fleetwood, PhD
Volume 8/Issue 2 – Winter 2013 

“Why am I struggling with my weight? I am doing everything right!”
by Walter Medlin, MD, FACS
Volume 8/Issue 2 – Winter 2013 

2013 – Time to Make Some Noise!
by Chris Gallagher, OAC Policy Consultant
Volume 8/Issue 2 – Winter 2013 

Dear Doctor – I’ve had bariatric surgery. Will I ever get to normal weight?
by Lloyd Stegemann, MD
Volume 8/Issue 2 – Winter 2013 

YWM 2012 – A Look back…
Volume 8/Issue 2 – Winter 2013 

Kid’s Corner – Winter Fitness Fun
by Sarah Muntel, RD
Volume 8/Issue 2 – Winter 2013 

Deciphering What Really Works for Treating Childhood Obesity
by Eliza Kingsford, MA, LPC
Volume 8/Issue 2 – Winter 2013 

Obesity and Heartburn: What is the link?
by Nancy Kushner, MSN, RN, and Robert Kushner, MD
Volume 8/Issue 2 – Winter 2013 

Zumba!
by Audrey Turner
Volume 8/Issue 2 – Winter 2013 

Set a SMART Resolution for 2013
by Marie A. Spano, MS, RD, CSCS, CSSD
Volume 8/Issue 2 – Winter 2013

Greek Yogurt – What’s the craze all about?
by Pam Helmlinger, RD, LDN
Volume 8/Issue 2 – Winter 2013

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Coca-Cola + OBESITY + Bad PR.

Weight gain - calories - two crackers a day!

OAC's Inaugural Convention Provides Ground-breaking Education to Hundreds of Individuals Concerned with Weight and Health

Obesity Action Coalition’s Your Weight Matters National Convention â€œExplore. Discover. Empower.” Provides Ground-breaking Education to Hundreds of Individuals Concerned with Weight and Health

Tampa, Fla. â€“ In late October, Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) members from more than 34 states gathered in Dallas, Texas, for a ground-breaking health and weight educational convention. 

The Convention provided attendees direct access to the country’s leading experts and thought-leaders in weight and health. The Convention included 18 educational sessions, led by the country’s leading experts, on diverse topics, designed to arm attendees with the most current information on excess weight, bariatric surgery, health, nutrition, exercise and more.

In addition to educational sessions, on Friday and Saturday, attendees were also given the opportunity to participate in a Lunch with the Experts session. This session allowed attendees to sit one-on-one with an expert and have an in-depth conversation about the topic of their choice. The Convention also featured a special Advocacy Training session, focused on training the OAC’s next set of advocates. A total of 68 attendees learned from experts in healthcare policy on how to advocate for access to treatment, awareness and more.

The evenings of the Convention were filled with social events to allow attendees the opportunity to connect with one another.  On Friday night, the OAC hosted a Halloween-themed costume party in conjunction with its OAC State of the Association address. On Saturday evening, the OAC hosted the 1^st OAC Annual Awards Dinner honoring six members for their outstanding service in areas such as
advocacy, weight bias and membership recruitment. The Convention wrapped on Sunday morning with the Dallas Walk from Obesity. The Dallas Walk raised more than $24,000 to increase awareness, prevention, education and advocacy in obesity and offered more than 250 walkers a host of activities from face-painting to a silent auction.

“The OAC wanted to create a warm and welcoming environment where attendees felt comfortable to be themselves, learn from experts and unite with each other. This was definitely accomplished and so much more, and we are excited to welcome so many to the OAC family through our Convention,” said Joe Nadglowski, OAC President and CEO.

The Convention’s success was due in large part to the OAC National Board of Directors and Convention Planning Committee for their dedication to excellence. In addition, the Convention would not have been possible without the generous support of its National Sponsors: Gold â€“ Eisai, and Vivus, Inc.; and Bronze â€“Bariatric Advantage, Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Geisinger, and Methodist Weight Management Institute. The OAC is also grateful for the support of the 19 exhibitors who participated in the Convention.

The OAC has already begun planning the 2013 Your Weight Matters National Convention and a formal announcement will take place in December. For more information on the Your Weight Matters National Convention, please visit www.YWMConvention.com.

The OAC is a National nonprofit charity dedicated to helping individuals affected by obesity. The OAC was formed to bring together individuals struggling with weight issues and provide educational resources and advocacy tools.

• Join the OAC on Facebook

Obesity Action Coalition Honors Extraordinary Members at 1st Annual OAC Awards Dinner

Obesity Action Coalition Honors Extraordinary Members at 1st Annual OAC Awards Dinner

On October 27, during the Your Weight Matters Inaugural Convention, the OAC recognized some of our outstanding members at the 1st Annual OAC Awards Dinner. The OAC presented six members with the following OAC awards based on their service and dedication to the OAC:

Advocate of the Year

This award is given to the OAC Member who has lead the charge in taking on and engaging others in advocacy initiatives. This individual is a tireless advocate advancing the cause of fighting obesity and representing individuals affected.

The recipient of the OAC Advocate of the Year award was Beth Sheldon-Badore, of Plymouth, MA. Beth is a long-time member and supporter of the OAC, and she continuously advocates for those affected by obesity.

 

OAC President Joe Naglowski and I with my award

 

Community Leader of the Year

This award is given to an individual who continually works in their community to advance the cause of fighting obesity. The recipient is an individual who actively engages their community or with their constituency in spreading awareness of obesity and encourages others to get involved in activities that further the mission of the OAC.

The recipient of the Community Leader of the Year award was Tammy Beaumont, BSN, RN, BC, CBN, of Dallas, TX. Tammy, a long-time OAC member, is extremely involved in fighting obesity in her community through the OAC as well as the Walk from Obesity.

Outstanding Membership Recruitment by an OAC Member

This award is designated for the individual OAC member who is an active membership recruiter in the OAC. The individual is a regular membership promoter and continually encourages membership in the OAC.

The recipient of the Outstanding Membership Recruitment by an OAC Member award was Michelle Vicari, from Temecula, CA. Michelle continuously works to raise awareness of the OAC, as the positive impact of membership in our organization.

Outstanding Membership Recruitment by a Physician

This award is given to the Sponsored Membership Program participant (physician) that recruited the highest number of new members in the OAC in the 12 months prior to the Convention month.

The recipient of the Outstanding Membership Recruitment by a Physician award was Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians. Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians is a leader in the OAC’s Sponsored Membership Program. Through the Sponsored Membership Program, they purchase memberships in the OAC for each of their patients. To date, they joined 268 members in the OAC during 2012!

Bias Buster of the Year

The OAC’s Bias Buster of the Year is awarded to the individual who has lead the charge to put the OAC on path to effect change in mindsets, policies and public perception of weight bias. This individual is both proactive and reactive in responding to weight bias issues and is an example to others on how to get involved as a Bias Buster.

The recipient of the OAC’s Bias Buster of the Year was Rebecca Puhl, PhD from New Haven, CT. Rebecca is a member of the OAC’s Board of Directors and is the leading expert on weight bias. She is also the current chair of the OAC’s Weight Bias Committee. Her profound knowledge on weight bias allows the OAC to tackle a variety of bias issues ranging from entertainment to healthcare and more.

Member of the Year
This is the OAC’s highest honor and is awarded to an OAC member who goes above and beyond to help the OAC in its efforts to achieve its mission and goals. This individual is an exemplary OAC member and continually represents the OAC in impacting the obesity epidemic.

The recipient of the OAC Member of the Year award was Ted Kyle, RPh, MBA, of Pittsburgh, PA. Ted sits on the OAC’s Board of Directors and is also a member of several OAC committees. His extensive knowledge in the field of obesity has continually assisted the OAC in advocacy efforts, combating weight bias, developing educational resources and more.

The OAC National Board of Directors and staff congratulate these individuals and recognize them for their continued support and dedication to the OAC, our mission and goals.

• Via - Obesity Action Coalition
• Join the OAC - http://www.obesityaction.org/get-involved/membership/join-the-oac

Thank you!

Michelle Vicari and I were honored to receive awards at the Obesity Action Coalition's Inaugural Event last weekend.

I received the OAC's Award for Advocate of the Year -- and Michelle for Membership Recruitment.

Thank you OAC, and thanks to those who nominated us!

 

Hello Internet, I am stranded in Texas. #OACConference #hurricanesandy

This one time in Texas... I got stranded because of a little hurricane.   I live in MASSACHUSETTS.

I left my house to attend the Obesity Action Coalition last Wednesday morning -- and unknown to me, there was a hurricane coming in.  I am now trapped in the Dallas area until the planes can fly again.  Whelp. 

Luckily and thank goodness, I was saved AT THE TICKET COUNTER by a friend who lives here in the local Dallas-area, otherwise I would have been left in a puddle in tears AND SLEEPING ON A COT IN THE AIRPORT FOR FOUR DAYS.*

And, if you know Beth, she does not do very well without...

#1 - showering.  #2 - sleeping.  #3 - monies for coffee. 

*See also - no RX epilepsy medication. Very, very, BAD.  I had enough medication for a few days in case of emergency, but not HURRICALYPSE!

I almost lost my expletive deleted at the counter, and I was saved.  I also have my emergency supply of medication filled. 

*Thank you.  Because.  Really,  I would be on the floor in the airport for the majority of a week.