When I realized something was wrong, I weighed 320 pounds.

I felt sluggish, lacked energy and wanted to sleep all the time. I knew I had to get healthier; I had a family to support. But I’d get on the treadmill for 15 minutes and I’d just be beat. I think I had a hard time accepting the weight gain because I had been a Division I college baseball player, and lean and healthy most of my life. 

Kevin Pantalone’s son happened to play on a basketball team I was coaching. When I found out Kevin was a DO specializing in diabetes at Cleveland Clinic, I told him about my health concerns. By then, in addition to fatigue, I was getting headaches and had pain in my feet. He suggested I make an appointment to see him. After some testing, he confirmed a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes, explaining my body wasn’t producing enough insulin, and the insulin I was making was not working properly to control my blood sugar level. 

Dr. Pantalone suggested a combination of better food selection, serving size reduction, and exercise. Things anyone can do. In addition, he recommended a few new diabetes medications. In less than two years, I lost 80 pounds. It was pretty much like taking an 80-pound bag of concrete, putting it on your shoulder, and walking around all day. Imagine how much better you’re going to feel when you’re finally able to take it off. 

I had to put the work in, but I’m a new person because of Dr. Pantalone and Cleveland Clinic. 

 

Dan Boozer works in construction.