It’s been 3 years since we last visited Riley Ickes, one of the first teen patients to undergo bariatric surgery at Akron Children’s. At the time, Riley was attending high school online, happily shopping for new clothes, because she was down 63 pounds, and juggling a new exercise routine with an after-school job at Wal-Mart. […]
Join Michaela on her journey to weight-loss success
Childhood obesity is a growing problem in this country. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the prevalence of obesity is nearly 14% among 2 to 5 year olds, 18% among 6 to 11 year olds and more than 20% in 12 to 19 year olds. Akron Children’s Healthy Active Living program is […]
What is BMI and why is it important?
BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It is a measurement of a person’s weight divided by the square of their height which is used to estimate how much body fat someone has. Physicians check BMI at routine well visits to track a child’s growth pattern over time. According to Dr. Marnie Walston, pediatrician, and medical director […]
How parents can help curb a widening obesity epidemic
It’s no secret childhood obesity is a growing problem in this country. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the prevalence of obesity is nearly 14% among 2 to 5 year olds, 18% among 6 to 11 year olds and more than 20% in 12 to 19 year olds. Childhood obesity numbers continue […]
Teen embraces new life following bariatric surgery
Following bariatric surgery in September, 16-year-old Riley Ickes has lost 63 pounds, is on steady progress to reach her post-surgery weight goal, and is enjoying life in ways she has not in years. “For one thing, I love shopping for clothes now,” Riley said. “But I am just going to the thrift store, because I […]
