Navy Veteran loses weight and gains control of his diabetes

Navy Veteran Giovanni “Johnny” Onorato, 62, was scheduled for knee replacement surgery at the Baltimore VA Medical Center when he received a rude awakening. His surgeon, Dr. Sumon Nandi, told him that the procedure was canceled because his weight and blood sugar were too high.

“We know that patients with uncontrolled diabetes, those with a hemoglobin A1C greater than 8, have a much higher risk of getting an infection after a joint replacement,” said Nandi. “A joint replacement infection is to be avoided at all costs, as it requires repeat surgery and can even result in death.” 

“My A1C had hit 8.5 and I weighed 255 pounds,” recalled Onorato. “I was mad. I was mad that the surgery got canceled, but mostly I was mad at myself.”  

Taking control

Undaunted and determined to have the much-needed operation, Onorato decided to take control of his health, lose weight and reduce his blood sugar. At his request, Dr. Nandi’s team connected him with VA Licensed Dietitian Kerri Kimbrell-Silva.

Together they created a nutrition plan and Kimbrell-Silva provided him with handouts about portion control, meal planning and plating foods. “He himself is an inspiration,” said Kimbrell-Silva, noting that Onorato would often find information on his own and share it with her.

Due to his sore knee, Onorato couldn’t do weight-bearing exercise, but Kimbrell-Silva was able to recommend alternatives. “For individuals with limited mobility, the focus is on building strength, improving flexibility and increasing cardio health without straining joints,” she shared. Chair exercises, water aerobics and modified versions of traditional exercises can help Veterans with limited mobility reach their weight-loss goals.

‘I’m not done yet’

In a little over a year, Onorato reversed his diabetes, reducing his A1C to normal levels, and lost 56 pounds. “I went from size 44 pants to a size 38, which was what I was wearing five years ago,” he said. “I’m not done yet. I haven’t yet reached my goal weight, which is 185 pounds.”

His knee surgery is scheduled soon. “Patients like Veteran Onorato are shining examples of what can be achieved with dedication and persistence, the same qualities that make us proud of our Veterans every day,” said Nandi.

For Onorato, being healthy makes a huge difference in his quality of life. “I look totally different now,” he said. “I tell anyone who asks, ‘Work the plan and the plan will work.’”