Thalassemia: Lessons in Perseverance and Compassion

By Laurice Levine As I reflect on my life with transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia (thal), it is easy to become overwhelmed. In short, thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder where the body is unable to produce hemoglobin, which causes severe anemia and endless complications. In 1973, when I was diagnosed at 14 months of age, my parents … Read more>>

From “Fat Kid” to Mindful Eater: My Journey with Food

By Sheryl Brehm All of my childhood memories have to do with being the “fat kid.” It started at two years old when I learned the word “chubby.” I didn’t know what it meant, but I remember not liking the laughing that came with it.  In summer camp, I remember waddling up to the stage … Read more>>

My Weight, My Heart, My Health

By Marina Stock This is my second weight loss journey. Twenty years ago I lost more than 100 pounds in 13 months with a slimming club. I even won an award! I also started running, beginning with the Race for Life, a 5K run, and working up to the Cardiff Marathon (42K). I stopped running … Read more>>