Like many people, 53-year-old Bud Jarman of Portsmouth experienced physical changes as he grew older. "I was less active, had gained a few pounds a realized my eyesight wasn't as good as it used to be," said Jarman. He sensed that it might be more than just aging, and his diagnosis proved correct when his symptoms worsened. On August 26, 2002, Jarman was diagnosed as having a heart attack.

Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center doctors placed two stents in his right coronary artery to clear the blockage. The life-changing experience extended beyond correcting his condition. During his stay, he was diagnosed with diabetes. Hospital staff linked him with a nurse who also had diabetes and provided him with techniques to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Jarman took the advice to heart and lost 70 pounds in the last year. The healthier lifestyle also has rubbed off on his wife who has lost 35 pounds.
"I have more energy than ever before, which is important with an 11-month-old granddaughter to entertain," said Jarman.