GI & Nutrition
Daniel
Diagnosed at 13,
heart failure and severe sleep apnea

Hard work, a positive attitude and the support and dedication of his family have made a life-changing difference for Daniel. In a little more than a year, the 14-year-old has lost more than one-half his body weight.

When Daniel first came to Texas Children’s at the age of 13, he weighed more than 400 pounds. Now, thanks to diet and lifestyle changes he made with the help of Texas Children’s gastroenterology and nutrition department and the Weigh of Life program, he tips the scales at 197 pounds, about 20 pounds from his ideal weight.

“We’ve come a long way, and Texas Children’s has been right there helping us every step of the way,” said Daniel’s mother, Mary.

Daniel was admitted to Texas Children’s with heart failure and severe sleep apnea. When he was released after more than a month, he was armed with instructions to exercise and a Weigh of Life cookbook, chock-full of kid-friendly, low-fat recipes.

The family took the advice to heart and everyone jumped into the act. Daniel began to work out at a local health club, and his mother immediately began to cook healthier versions of Daniel’s favorite foods that fit into his 1,200-calorie a day diet.

“It’s really neat,” Daniel said. “I eat normal food, just in diet form. My mom learned how to make fake fried chicken that tastes great, and I eat diet candy.”

His mom says it was a real education.

“I grew up in the South, where everything is fried,” Mary says. “I had to learn to cook all over again, but it’s been worth it.”

When Daniel was overweight, Mary says, he had no energy and spent all his time playing video games. Now, he puts in 45 minutes each day on the treadmill, in addition to lifting weights.

“Before, something was always hurting and he really couldn’t get up,” she says. “Now his energy is just through the roof.”

Daniel is applying that energy to his favorite creative pursuits – writing and singing. He’s written 14 poems, a few songs and has ideas for two books. His mother says she is still amazed at the difference in him.

“Daniel is a walking, talking miracle,” she said.

Dr. William Klish, who has followed Daniel since he came to Texas Children’s, agrees.

“Daniel is a real success story,” he says. “Not everyone could have done this, but Daniel and his family are very dedicated. They have worked hard at changing their eating and exercise habits, and it has paid off for them.”