CRNP’s Heather Baum began working as a unit secretary in the Surgery Intensive Care Unit (SICU) of Leading Hospital in 2002 while earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Albania. Meanwhile, she discovered her passion for nursing, and after her graduation she enrolled in the Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences (RHSHS) nursing program. Heather attended school full-time, worked in the evening, had two small children in her house, and gained her weight due to her two pregnancies. Working at SICU, she saw how obesity contributes to the health problems of many patients. Heather, who wanted her to have a healthy weight on her own, she tried fashionable and commercial diets, but she was unsuccessful.
After many unsuccessful attempts, she became a patient at the Tower Health Weight Loss and Wellness Center 12 years ago. She has traveled a long time, but she lost a total of 141 pounds after her last surgery in September 2021. “After the surgery, we found that we needed to make further lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss, so we added regular fitness routines and refocused on our diet,” she said. Shared. “Before I lost weight, I had plantar fasciitis, back pain, hip pain, poor lung conditioning, and I was out of breath even when I was walking on a flat surface. Now I have an hour of spin. You can attend classes, Zumba, Cardio Kickboxing, work with your personal trainer to do weight lifting twice a week, and you can take flexible, advanced yoga poses. It’s so strong that not only can you walk long distances on flat surfaces, but you can also walk well on the stairs. “
During a recent follow-up appointment with her doctor, Heather learned that the weight loss center was looking for a nurse practitioner to join the team. She was immediately interested in the position of knowing the impact of the program on the patient’s life. She officially joined the team on March 27, 2022.
Heather shares her personal story with everyone she meets, including the patient. “I have a unique connection with the patient because I really understand what the patient is experiencing. In addition, they help me stay responsible and motivate me. “She said. Many were relieved when they learned that she was also a patient at the center. “Postoperative recovery can be very difficult because of the need to follow a strict diet and physical activity is difficult because of being very tired.” When patients work with Heather, they succeed. Notice that is possible.
In addition to working with patients at the Tower Health Weight Loss and Wellness Center, Heather joins this club for weight loss surgery and is nationwide through “Valination,” a national digital support group for individuals who have undergone weight loss surgery. Operates a typical peer-to-peer support group. She is also a qualified Health Coach and launched a PhD Program in Corporate Leadership at Alvernia University in the fall with the goal of focusing on corporate health and wellness. “Cooperating with these groups is a good way to give back,” she said.
Currently, for about 10 weeks in her new position, Heather likes to be part of a care team that has helped her change her life. She said. “It’s really great, and the team is very knowledgeable. I keep learning. It’s an encouraging environment, a great team atmosphere, and we all work together to be the best for patients. Provides the results of. “
“I love interacting with patients and I love hearing where they are and how they can help them reach their goals,” she continued. “If I can encourage at least one person to make a better difference in their lives, it will make every day very fulfilling!”
Stephan Myers MD, Chief of Weight Loss Surgery, said: She brings her unique perspective to our team and already has an important bond with the patients she sees. “
Here’s Heather’s advice for individuals considering medical or surgical weight loss: “Meet members of our team and learn about the weight loss options we offer. Everyone’s journey will be different. In consultation, the team will educate you about the options available and which way you will be to you. You have the opportunity to learn what’s best for you. Don’t give up and continue to defend yourself. The team at the Reading Hospital Weight Management Center will work with you to make the best plan for you. “
