's MOTD 5/21/2006 - Hebranko

[Guest guest]

Hebranko is a featured exerciser on the Sweatin to the Oldies 2 video. He had lost a few hundred pounds at that time.

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's Daily MessageSundayMay 21, 2006

RECUPERATING

I know many of you saw me on Entertainment Tonight and were touched by the story of Brookhaven Rehabilitation Center and Hebranko. I`ve been haunted by my visit to Brookhaven ever since I got home. A week before I arrived, I found out that three of the patients I knew and adored there had passed away. I was told that their bodies just gave up. So I was so sad, even before I arrived.

Hebranko had been in Brookhaven for a long time and had lost 225 pounds. After that, he thought he knew what to do and left Brookhaven without even letting me know. I was so upset but what could I do?

I called often and could hear the sorrow in his voice. Whenever I asked about his weight, it was always an untouchable subject. Later I found out that had regained 120 pounds since leaving Brookhaven.

I called and begged to return. (And I do mean begged.) So when I walked into Brookhaven Friday morning, there he was waiting for me. He has lost 30 pounds since returning and he is slowly losing more weight.

I went to physical therapy with and he was in pain with every move. But he did it and I was so-o-o proud of him.

While I was there, I also taught a "Sit Tight" class for all the other residents. After that, I went from floor to floor visitng all the people who were housebound and unable to come down for my class.

Before I left, I sat down with , Brookhaven`s Director. He told me about an idea he and had. In September, they are going to have an Obesity Awareness Day in New York City. Four streets will be blocked off and obese people, along with their families will be there.

Some will be in wheelchairs, others will be walking. But we`re letting the world know about this. Obesity is a serious problem in our country and the politicians have to help us more than they`re helping us now.

They`ve asked me to help, and, of course, I'll be right there, walking with everyone. I will let you know more information as I get it.

Until then, please keep and all the residents of Brookhaven in your prayers.

Love,