Pedometers and counting fat grams will be our new way of life. Joe is going to be educating us at the grocery store and also how to prepare the meals. I am having a welcome home party for Joe with his family and he is so excited to show everyone, especially his brother and sister what he has accomplished. He has already set the menu of grilled skinless marinated chicken breast, with portabella mushroom on a low fat whole grain bun with low fat marinara sauce and rice on the side. I have emptied the refrigerator and Joe and I will be going to the store to start a new way of life, with healthy choices.
We want to thank you and all the Wellspring staff for dedicating your lives to helping young people return to healthy lifestyle. Going to Wellspring is the most important thing Joe has ever done. He is so happy with the results. I hope we will be able to talk to you in the future for your advice and guidance in continuing the great work you have provided.
Russel Landis, Oak Lawn, IL
We were not looking for a quick fix to our daughter's weight problem, rather a life changing experience, and at Wellspring we found exactly what we were searching for. It was during the Family Workshop (at the four-week mark) that my husband and I realized this was the best investment we could have ever made for our entire family. Our daughter was overflowing with new energy and information and we were right behind her - eager to learn more along with her. After eight-weeks, and 40 lbs. lighter, she is home and still thriving.
Our entire household has converted to being life long weight controllers, not just our daughter. We have so many things in common, so many things to talk about and do together - it is amazing! Many young girls who are overweight experience depression; Hillary was one of them. While at camp, she felt so much better that she was able to stop taking one of her medications for depression and is almost completely off of the last (tapering down slowly to avoid problems). I believe that this would not have happened so quickly had she not been at Wellspring where she received daily support from the counselors, endless outdoor activities, and one-on-one behavioral sessions.
At this point, all I can say is THANK YOU for everything. She wants to be a part of Wellspring Camp for long time - what an impression!
Kristin Hanson - Battle Creek, MI
Leigh is still so committed to the program and has been continuing to be successful. Today at our Weight Watchers meeting she has lost a total of 46 pounds. We stopped at a roadside market today and bought a 48 lb pumpkin and I made her carry it to the car and she could hardly make it. When she realized that she used to carry that around each and every day she was amazed at how many changes she's made since starting Wellspring.
Cindy Culkin, Englewood, CO
I am extremely happy with Jonathan’s response and results at Wellspring. He lost 24-pounds at camp and has lost another 7-pounds since he came home. All of the kids at school are raving about how great he looks. I convinced the Freshman football coach to allow him to try out for the team (even though he missed the tryouts while at cam). So, Jonathan has football practice everyday, follows his diet religiously and looks and feels great. His behavior problems with ADHD have not recurred, which I think is in part due to his significantly increased exercise, a reduction in calories in his diet and how happy he is with himself. I have told Jonathan’s psychiatrist and psychologist how wonderful the program is and without reservation recommended your camp to any child with similar problems.
I would be happy to do anything I can to help promote your programs to other desperate parents. Oh…and I have lost 7-ppounds since I returned from The Family Workshop. You, Dr. Kirschenbaum, the camp and all of your personnel are wonderful. I can never thank you enough for getting my child turned in the right direction.
Dr. Rebecca Quigg, Hinsdale, IL
I want to personally thank you for the topnotch job you are doing in regard to e-mailing parents as to the goings on, difficulties, and achievements at camp. These e-mails have been extremely helpful in my writing an e-mail to Steven each day. Your continual contact is what has kept me going the past few weeks. I was also extremely happy to receive a picture of Steven's door decorated for his birthday. Today I saw and printed out two pictures of Steven and his roommates. How excited his brother and sister were to see them!
When Steven called for the first time this morning, he sounded so together and sure of himself. He told me all the new foods he has tried and like. He also mentioned all of the sports he has taken part in. He was so proud to tell me that he achieved his goal of becoming an Explorer, and included in that the fact that he would be able to call for a longer period of time next week. Steven proudly stated that he had lost nine pounds during the first weigh in.
Lastly, I asked Steven how he would rate his happiness at Wellspring if ten was the absolute happiest anyone could be. He quickly replied, "A nine Mom!" Needless to say, I was blown away!!! I am so pleased to share this comment with you, and please feel free to pass it on to your staff members who know and work with Steven.
Thank you for all you do for and on behalf of all the children at Wellspring.
Susan Torborg, Greenbay, WI
We are very pleased that Olivia had such a successful summer. Every phone call indicated great satisfaction with her accomplishments and a strong regard for the Wellspring program and its professionals. A happy Olivia is the best recommendation in our eyes to the thoughtfulness and effectiveness of the program. Thank you again to your team. It means the world to us to hear our child so happy, satisfied and proud of her work this summer. We wish ongoing success to your organization. It is a thoughtful approach and a great service to a growing health problem in the US.
Donna Moses, Kenilworth, IL
