When Bonnie Heming looks ahead to this summer’s family gathering, she sees something different than she did a year ago.

Every year, Bonnie’s family comes together in western Pennsylvania to celebrate her father’s birthday. This year is especially meaningful as he turns 97. The celebration centers around a pool, laughter and time spent with family members of all ages. While everyone enjoyed the festivities last summer, Bonnie remembers feeling like she was watching from the sidelines.

“I couldn't walk around at that party last year at this time,” Bonnie said. “I had to stay in one spot while everyone was at the pool. I know I was missing out. It was at that time I decided to make a change.”

That decision led Bonnie to WellSpan’s Medical Weight Management program, where she began treatment with Zepbound in July 2025 under the guidance of Tara Cooke, advanced practice professional with WellSpan Bariatrics and Medical Weight Management in York.

A year later, Bonnie has lost 57 pounds, improved her mobility and regained confidence in doing the things that matter most to her. While the number on the scale reflects significant progress, Bonnie measures success differently.

“This summer, I told myself I'm going to get in that pool,” she said. “I was excited to enjoy the party and be part of everything.”

For Bonnie, the motivation to seek help was deeply personal.

Two years ago, her daughter welcomed twins, Emma and George, into the family. Like many grandparents and great-grandparents, Bonnie wanted to help in every way she could. But she found herself concerned about her mobility and stability while caring for the newborns.

“I wanted to help with the babies, but I was worried about my balance when I was holding them,” Bonnie said. “I wanted to be a helper but I didn’t trust myself.”

Today, Emma and George are energetic 2-year-olds, and Bonnie is enjoying a very different experience.

“Losing weight has brought me to a whole new level,” she said. “I can walk so much better, push strollers, push swings and spend more time with them. Family events are much more enjoyable now.”

According to Cooke, stories like Bonnie’s highlight an important goal of medical weight management.

“Successful weight management is about much more than the number on the scale,” she said. “It’s about improving overall health, increasing mobility and helping people participate more fully in the activities that matter most to them. For many patients, the biggest victories happen outside the clinic, when they’re able to spend more time with family, travel, enjoy hobbies and regain confidence in everyday life.”

Before entering the program, Bonnie had participated in multiple weight-loss programs over the years. She was also managing heart and lung conditions and knew she needed additional support to make lasting changes.

“My health was failing and I knew I needed help and guidance,” she said. “I could not do this without having someone help me through the weight-loss process.”

She credits the WellSpan team with providing the structure, education and encouragement needed to stay on track.

“Every time I go in for an appointment, there is information they give me that keeps me on track,” Bonnie said. “I keep a notebook with all the handouts and I refer to it. They provide clear tips and next steps. Through the portal (MyWellSpan) I keep in touch with the team to ask any questions I may have along the way.”

Cooke says that ongoing support is a key component of long-term success.

“Weight management is a journey, not a quick fix,” she said. “Our team partners with patients to provide the tools, education and support needed to build sustainable habits and achieve long-term success. We celebrate progress at every stage and help patients navigate challenges along the way.”

In addition to spending more time with family, Bonnie has begun enjoying activities she once thought might no longer be possible. She has scheduled several trips with her daughter, including bus tours that involve considerable walking. She is also spending more time outdoors tending flower gardens and enjoying everyday activities that had become increasingly difficult.

“At age 77, I still have some health issues that come with aging,” Bonnie said. “But I've been able to improve my outlook and I feel so much better about myself. I have more energy and I'm enjoying life more.”

As she marks one year in the program, Bonnie hopes her story encourages others who may be considering taking the first step.

“I know you reach a stage in your life where you say, ‘Why even bother?’” she said. “But it doesn't matter what your circumstances are or your age. You can do it.”

She also encourages people to focus on progress rather than perfection.

“If you make a mistake and eat something you shouldn't, remember that tomorrow is another day,” Bonnie said. “Always look forward. Don't concentrate on looking back. If you take it one step at a time, it can be done.”

As Bonnie prepares for this year's family celebration, she isn't thinking about pounds lost. She's thinking about moments gained, moments spent walking around the party, playing with Emma and George, and stepping into the pool alongside the people she loves.

To learn more about WellSpan’s weight management services, visit here.