Success Stories

My journey began in March 2008 when I found myself crawling up the front steps to my house” Debe’s bodyweight was 283 pounds when she arrived at the Wellness Center; she had high blood pressure, cholesterol and painful arthritis. “I decided that this was no way to live and I knew I needed to do something about it, to quote my friend and trainer at the Wellness Center Suzanne…Fitness is a journey, not a destination”

Thus far in Debe’s journey she has lost 130 pounds, lowered her cholesterol over 120 points and feels stronger and healthier than ever before. “My heavy chains have been broken; I have found all the love and support it takes to travel this road to wellness at Roseville Health & Wellness Center

Paul Dugan MD is a well-respected family physician who decided it was time to start taking charge of his own health and wellness. Years of dedicating his life’s work to our community included Director of Medical Education at Sutter Roseville hospital for 19 years, President- Roseville Chamber of Commerce, recognition from State Senate as a leader in the medical profession and founder of the Start a Heart-Save a Heart program to mention a few.

Years of dedicating his life work to his many patients and the Roseville community had taken its toll on Dr. Dugan physically. With the assistance of his trainer Noelle, Dr. Dugan has made impressive gains in his stamina, strength, mental acuity and posture. “I wish I had started working out at the Wellness Center years ago, I have not felt this good in a long time and I am having lots of fun”. Dr. Dugan encourages people to seek out a safe environment such as RHWC to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle. “I encourage everyone, including physicians to take charge of their health and wellness. Life is precious and exercise can save precious lives”

In 2007 Jeff went to his doctor complaining of constant exhaustion and was diagnosed with severe sleep apnea – a potentially dangerous breathing disorder that was wrecking his sleep. The condition is often aggravated by carrying a lot of weight in the neck (some of Jeff’s shirts were size 19) the doctor told Jeff he needed to lose 60 lbs.

“Although skeptical that I could ever lose so much weight, I increased my workouts to 5 days a week and got rid of all the junk food in my house and began eating smaller portions of healthy foods. After 18 months I lost the 60 lbs. 7 inches from my waist and almost 4 inches from my neck. The sleep apnea is gone and my borderline high blood pressure is now normal.” I love the way I feel and I’m enjoying my healthy lifestyle!

Pat is no stranger to the healthcare system, as CEO of Sutter Roseville Medical Center he was well-resourced to attend to his own health concerns. “I would grade my health as poor. I was 30-40 pounds overweight, could not do intense cardio exercise for more than 5-10 minutes and I was ready to make some positive changes”

Pat opted for the 12 week Corporate Wellness Program a comprehensive program that addresses all aspects of health utilizing a dietitian, private trainer, and relaxation therapies.

“The 12-week program has been designed as an excellent web of services with experts in a variety of disciplines with everyone working cohesively to help me be successful in achieving my goals. After just 12 weeks I lost 23 pounds, over 3 inches in my waistline, decreased a medication, lowered my cholesterol and significantly increased stamina and muscle sustainability during exercise. My ability to process and think is much clearer and I find that I am calmer during stressful situations”

Pat is an inspiration to us all and proof that a comprehensive approach to a healthier lifestyle yields great results.

People call me little now; I haven’t heard that in a long time!

This is Dee Dee’s 2nd success with us! She was originally satisfied with her increased endurance and strength gains made by taking classes and working out with Personal Trainer Suzanne Moen. But 25 extra pounds did not want to come off. "I thought I could just increase my exercise, in order to compensate for the foods I didn't want to give up. This was not the case."

Dee Dee looked to Suzanne once again, this time embarking on the Passport to Fitness Program at RHWC which took her outside her comfort zone. Calorie counting, journaling, hydration and accountability kept Dee Dee on track and she actually exceeded her goal!

Her new eating plan—plus exercise helped her take off 25 additional pounds…Dee Dee’s now back to her Driver’s License weight and that’s where she wants to be!

Dee Dee originally joined the gym in 2005 after a broken foot sidelined her for months, bringing with it a sedentary lifestyle and unwanted pounds. (That’s when her weight zoomed to 160.) Although Arruti says she “literally couldn’t do three minutes on the bike” when she first joined, she’s now a veritable workout queen, with a schedule that would make your head spin. (Spin, incidentally, is her Thursday class.) She works with a personal trainer, takes a body conditioning class and walks five miles five days a week.

She does, however, take a break on Sundays.

But it’s all worth it, Arruti says—and the payoff goes beyond looking good. “I’m more energetic,” she says. “I sleep better.”

Dennis Martinez had his share of medical issues upon joining the wellness center. His bodyweight was over 240 pounds; he had double by-pass surgery and two spine surgeries. He was a diabetic- requiring four insulin shots per day, had high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol. He was prescribed 13 daily medications to deal with the multitude of health issues.

"Within months I felt like a new person and my doctors were shocked that I eliminated all my medications, required no insulin, lost 40 + pounds and my blood pressure and cholesterol were within normal limits"

Dennis waist measurement went from a 45 to a 35 and he can spend the 200.00 per month he used to spend on co-pays for medications on something a little more fun. The best news is that Dennis recently celebrated his 54th birthday and is happy to report that he feels healthier today than he ever recalls feeling. We are proud of Dennis and glad we could play a role in his amazing lifestyle change.

This month's feature member has many athletic accomplishments including: Rookie of the Year, five time All-Star and two World Series Championships. "The Roseville Health & Wellness Center has everything I am looking for: a private club atmosphere, upscale amenities, cleanliness and friendly people." After professional baseball Steve stays busy as an investment broker in Roseville, but still makes time to maintain a healthy lifestyle. "The mind and body work so efficiently when both are at their optimum levels, I encourage all professionals to invest in their health."

The saying that "without your health nothing else matters" took on an entirely new meaning for Marilyn Feller when she was diagnosed with two primary cancers; ovarian and uterine in Sept 05. The following year involved surgery followed by 6 months of chemo therapy and 2 months of radiation.

"At my final appointment on May 30th , 2006 I asked the doctor "what advice can you give me now"? The answer was simple yet timeless; exercise, eat right, limit your stress and enjoy your life everyday.

"The Roseville Health & Wellness Center has been a key ingredient for my recovery, not only because of the variety of exercise options available with the classes and personal trainers, but equally as important, the fellowship and caring demonstrated every day by the members and staff"

The wellness center was part of Marilyn's life prior to the diagnosis of cancer, but now has taken on a much larger focus and importance as a principal ingredient for daily living. "Exercise has been fabulous on all levels; peace of mind, sleep enabler, camaraderie, posture, and it has restored my energy level. I am doing something that hopefully prevent cancer from recurring, being active not reactive.

Annette came to RHWC with severe and chronic neck and shoulder pain resulting from a serious car accident in 2003. She was rear-ended by a semi-truck traveling at high speed while traffic had halted. Her car was totaled and it is surprising that her only problems were two cervical disc injuries.

Following the accident Annette, who'd been an avid fitness enthusiast and runner, was no longer able to run and lost interest in athletics and fitness. At the recommendation of her orthopedic physician, Dr. Montessano, Annette began to train with Noelle Ritter, personal trainer at RHWC. Noelle was able to pinpoint the problem areas and recommend specific stretches and strengthening exercises that have greatly restored Annette's range of motion and reduced the chronic pain.

Annette looks forward to her workouts at RHWC and she has taken advantage of many offerings including water exercise, yoga, pilates, cardio classes. She loves that RHWC has a multitude of equipment and options that allows for many different types of workouts.

With the care of a team of physicians, her personal trainer and the supportive staff at RHWC, Annette has regained her old self. Along with the improvement to her neck, she has lost 35 pounds and has a renewed zest for fitness and life!

Following a knee surgery I was unable to perform normal activities. My bodyweight changed from 160lbs to 209lbs and I felt I had lost my body forever. A friend referred me to the Roseville Health & Wellness Center where I began spin, fitball and strength training. Through the support of the Wellness Center's staff and members I successfully achieved my goals of losing weight, improving my knee strength and feeling better. Most recently I completed the San Diego Rock and Roll Marathon all 26.2 miles!!

“You're fat," were the doctor's exact words. With three ruptured and two bulging discs in her spine resulting from a fall at work, Caroline was left unable to move, thereby gaining an excessive amount of weight. Approved for gastric bypass surgery, Caroline refused and was referred to the Roseville Health & Wellness Center.

"I was determined to show the doctor that I could lose the weight." It was the beginning of a long journey that began in late 2002 when she weighed 265 lbs, wore a size 26 pant and a 3X top.

“My journey at RH&WC began with physical therapy in the warm water pool to strengthen my back and decrease my pain”. Caroline eventually was walking up to 2 miles per day and performing exercises to strengthen her body. Caroline's new goal became "exercising independently at the wellness center." By making lifestyle changes Caroline has lost over 120 lbs, eliminated the need for surgeries and exercises three times per week.

When asked why she was successful when most have not been, Caroline's response was that she "I wanted my life back”.

Darlene first visited the Wellness Center with a prescription for physical therapy to treat chronic knee problems. Years passed and after two knee surgeries and three bouts of physical therapy, she was faced with a total knee replacement surgery.

"I started training 10 weeks prior to my surgery with an emphasis on pre-surgical conditioning. After the surgery my surgeon referred to me as his star patient due to the strength I had gained prior to surgery. Both my nurse and physical therapist at the Wellness Center were amazed at how quickly I recovered."

Darlene was able to walk without assistance just 10 days after surgery and was released from physical therapy in six weeks. "I continue to train and make positive gains. The staff in PT and at the Wellness Center have been wonderful and supportive to me. The Wellness Center has improved my quality of life and my husband refers to me as his 'wonder woman'."

At 73 years old and with a history of chronic knee problems and major surgery, Darlene is a prime example of the importance of proper exercise and a healthy lifestyle.

Six years ago, I wanted to change my "Eat, Drink and Be Merry" lifestyle into having control, balance and peace. I began working out at RH&WC and started a new life. I found what I was lacking and started to feel strong, balanced and at peace with myself. Last year I wanted to go further, so I met with a personal trainer at the Wellness Center to discuss a diet program. Over a period of 4 months I lost 20 pounds and have kept it off for 8 months. RH&WC is part of my life and has enabled me to become the person I have always desired to be, inside and out. I cannot imagine my life without exercise and a healthy diet.

Back in September, Ed Barraza decided it was time for a change. Weighing in at 289 lbs. Ed's unhealthy diet of greasy foods and pastries drove him straight to the Wellness Center. Following four spinal surgeries and reconstruction of his right knee, Ed was determined to overcome his limitations. Beginning with aquatic classes Ed's strength and energy began to improve. With the encouragement from the Wellness Center staff and fellow members, Ed began attending spin. Currently at 230 lbs Ed continues to work hard towards reaching his goals of felling and looking better. Congratulations Ed!

Since joining the Roseville Health and Wellness Center I have lost 20 lbs.! After giving birth, my weight was up to 167 lbs. I worked my way down to 140 lbs. wearing a size 8, when I reached a plateau. I joined the Wellness Center and after 1 year I am down to 120 lbs. and wearing a size 2! "I feel great" I workout 4 days a week and never miss the Fit ball class. My work out has become a personal reward. My energy levels are up and I have lowered my cholesterol levels tremendously. Working out is part of my lifestyle now and I love it!

At the age of 50, I had to admit to myself that I was badly overweight, out of shape, and had high blood pressure. My blood pressure was so high that when I donated blood, the blood bank considered refusing to draw a pint. I couldn't bend over to pick up the morning paper. The time had come to stop denying the problem and do something about it.

I started attending Breakfast Burn class at 6:00 am on Tuesday and Thursday. It was not easy at first, but it soon became a pleasure. What I found there is a group of early risers like me, who get the daily fitness routine out of the way first thing in the morning. Roseville Health and Wellness Center creatively works on flexibility and muscle tone, but also keeps us going aerobically. The class was just right for a beginner like me because she let me take it at my own pace. There were tough days, early on, when I would get home at 7:00 am and just sit in a stupor for 15 minutes before I could get ready for work. But after a couple of months, I was ready to add the Spin class on Monday and Wednesday, and the bump from two days per week to four had very positive results in weight loss.

I've lost four inches from my waistline and two inches from my collar. I've lost 15 pounds overall and am on track to lose more. I am in unbelievably better physical condition. Some of us "regulars" in the morning class start and walk/run a mile together. A year ago, I couldn't run two blocks without painful shin splints.

It is great to feel fit again. I couldn't have done it without RHWC and the Breakfast Burn!

Greg was involved in a very serious motor-cross accident resulting in a fractured pelvis and multiple spine injuries. Pasquale X. Montesano, M.D. of the Roseville Health & Wellness Center performed a Global Fusion on L4-S1. Immediately following surgery Greg began physical therapy at SS&PT of the Roseville Health & Wellness Center. After just 5 weeks of P.T. Greg was ready to join the Wellness Center and begin working out independently five days per week.

Following surgery and rehab Greg rates his success at 100% for normal activities and is enjoying golf and basketball with friends. He has gained 37 pounds since his surgery and is in better condition than before the accident stating he is stronger and leaner as a result of the rehab and training program. It has been a pleasure seeing Greg reach his goals.

I have always been very active and dedicated to working out, but all of that drastically changed when I was involved in a very serious automobile accident several years ago. As I suffered from multiple injuries to the cervical and lumbar spine, I became extremely limited in regards to what activities or workouts I could do. In fact, I literally went from running 6 or 7 miles per day to barely being able to stir a pot of boiling pasta! As a result, I started to gain weight, and because of the injuries, I felt that I would never be able to have my old body back.

However, once I began physical therapy at Sacramento Spine & PT in the Wellness Center, not only did I start to feel better, but I also saw very drastic and positive changes happening to my body. In fact, within the first month of therapy/strength training, I dropped 2 pant sizes!!!! This was truly amazing to me, because for the first time in my life, I was actually spending far less time in a gym than I ever was before, but because of the strength training workouts, I was actually able to reshape my body to the same size that I was 15 years ago when I was involved in college athletics, training 3 -4 hours per day!!!! Personally, I am now a fan for life of strength training, because it has given me my old body back without having to spend hours and hours in the gym. Additionally, the benefits of weight training have been so significant for me that I am actually now able to participate in some of the activities that I used to enjoy prior to the injuries, such as horseback riding and snow skiing. For me, that is reason enough to stick with the weight training for life!!!

A heart attack and two heart procedures later, I moved to Roseville in August of 2005 only to skip my rehab and get caught up in the stress of a new job and the move. A still young 47, I got another wake-up call. It was time to pay attention, and prioritize my health. In February 2007 I began light running, barely getting in a block before heart rate at 175 and out of breath. My cardiologist referred me to the Roseville Health and Wellness Center for proper guidance with cardiac rehab. With their tremendous support, and encouragement, I soon joined up with the fitness side. I had a goal of running the 197 mile Hood to Coast relay race August 21st. With some doubt at first, my trainer inspired me to successfully complete my 116 mile contribution to the team race. While determined to strengthen my heart, I lost nearly 20 pounds along the way. In six short months I went from feeling sluggish to proudly reaching a lofty goal. Being part of the RH&WC and working with a Personal Trainer and others, I have finally come to realize fitness is not something to try and fit into your schedule. It is a priority for a healthier life. The enthusiasm and energy at RH&WC encourages me to set further goals; getting stronger, a triathlon (or 2) prior to my 2nd annual Hood to Coast Relay next year. I could not be more grateful for being directed to this unique fitness center.

I am a spin instructor at the Roseville Health & Wellness Center and for the past several years exercise regularly and eat a healthy balanced diet. This was not always the case for me.

I simply didn't exercise regularly, and I ate whatever and whenever I wanted. My favorite late night snack was a burger and fries. As the seasons went by I began to realize my clothes no longer fit. Then as I looked back at pictures I noticed I had really plumped up and didn't ever realize it.

It is not easy for me, my weight will fluctuate quickly if I do not watch what I eat and exercise regularly. I still enjoy the foods I love but all in moderation. I am proof that it can be done, if I can do it so can you!

Connie was at a place in her life many of us can relate with, she was overweight, unhappy with her appearance and had little energy but she changed all that with a visit to the Roseville Health & Wellness Center.

"My successes have been numerous and wonderful, I have lost 20lbs and many inches, I have cut my blood pressure medications in half which really impressed my doctor."

When the scale read 265 lbs., Ken Kessel decided to take charge of his health. Having attempted different diet plans, he rapidly became frustrated with yo-yo dieting and realized without some sort of exercise plan he wouldn't make his goal of losing weight become a reality. Ken incorporated exercise into his new lifestyle, walking 8 miles 2-3 times a week and by doctor's referral enrolled in the aqua classes at the Roseville Health & Wellness Center.

In no time at all, Ken was able to jog-walk and has recently enlisted one of the Wellness Center's super-trainer. Ken is losing weight and adding more strength and endurance every week.

Ken is now 212 pounds and still losing. He is enthusiastic about his new approach to his health and fitness. Great job Ken!

"I was told I may never walk again"

Mike was involved in an unfortunate accident at a construction site where he was a site supervisor. While testing water pressure a test gauge blew off a fire hydrant causing 71,000 pounds of water pressure to hit him in the back. He was rushed to the hospital with no feeling or movement in the lower extremities. A T-11 - L-2 fusion surgery was immediately performed. Mike's outcome was unknown but he was told he might never walk again.

Mike started physical therapy with a great attitude and quickly became a favorite with the staff. He has exceeded the expectations of most and is currently walking with minimal assistance. Mike says he enjoys the friendly staff, thinks the therapist will do anything it takes to get results and he really looks forward to therapy each week. Mike's work ethic, positive attitude and determination to obtain a full recovery have been inspirational to all of us.

Janie Taylor is in the best condition of her life. Just two years ago, she was suffering from migraines, and was troubled with back and neck pain. At the urging of her future training partner, she accepted a one week trial membership and was hooked. Janie credits the center’s welcoming atmosphere, her personal trainer, spin and conditioning teachers, work out partners and friends she has met at RHWC. Janie’s improved body conditioning and core strength are a result of a variety of her program and classes she regularly attends.

"The classes and instructors have taught me the correct body mechanics. If you work out regularly, you will see a difference. Be encouraged, there is hope even with chronic pain." Today, Janie is getting the maximum enjoyment from her efforts. Her migraines and pain are greatly reduced and she has increased energy, and a sculpted physique. It is also the first time in her life she has ever worked out on a consistent basis. Even though she is out of her comfort zone posing for the wall of fame, we know her commitment and results will inspire others.

My 30 year battle with Rheumatoid Arthritis and my limited mobility brought me to the Roseville Health and Wellness Center for the warm water exercise program. It was Personal Trainer Suzanne Moen’s “you can do it” attitude that brought me out of the pool to her fitness 101 class. Suzanne was able to adapt exercises to meet my specific needs and limitations. Now I have lost over 30 pounds and I have a lot more energy. I can lift my one year old grandson with ease and finally feel like a participant…not just an observer!

Graham became a member of the Roseville Health & Wellness Center while he was awaiting a total knee replacement surgery. For seven months Graham worked out three days per week performing cardiovascular, strength and flexibility training.

As a result, following his surgery Graham was able to walk without assistance on the day of the operation. He left the hospital in twenty-six hours, had only two days of home care and retired his cane in one week. Typically, a patient would utilize a cane for ten weeks!

No doubt exercise and a great attitude played a major role in Graham’s quick recovery.

Robin's success has been nothing short of life changing. Robin knew that she had several factors against her: life-long asthma, acute and then chronic shoulder impingement and history of poor family health.

Robin is grateful to Yoga Instructor Lisa for helping her lose weight as well as gain strength and flexibility. She also utilized Noelle Ritter and her knowledge on injury rehabilitation to assist Robin after physical therapy on her shoulder. "The way Robin takes responsibility in her own health continues to impress me. She really wants to understand her body and how she can improve. “ — Noelle Ritter

Robin's smile and energy is contagious, no wonder she has found such a community of friends at the Roseville Health and Wellness Center

When putting up with my chronic joint pain from Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis got to be too much, I joined The Roseville Health and Wellness Center. Joint pain had always been a barrier to exercise in the past for me. I began working with Noelle Ritter who understood my condition and limitations but knew how and when to push me. In a little over a year my blood pressure and heart rate decreased, my upper body strength has increased, and my cardiovascular endurance improved. Noelle taught me how to strengthen my core using the exercise ball and improved my balance and flexibility with the foam roller. I've dropped body fat and inches and best of all, I can fit into those little black pants I love!