John Barnes and Dr. Samer Mattar team to improve nation's health
CARMEL, Ind., May 15 /PRNewswire/ -- CEO and co-owner of Panther Racing, John Barnes, will discuss his weight loss journey with over 400 current and former patients of Clarian Bariatrics at a special recognition event in the East Chalet at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Friday, May 15.
Barnes fueled his competitive spirit on the race track, but was struggling to keep up in his personal life. A severe diabetic weighing 350 pounds, he was frustrated by his limited mobility and how easily he was exhausted.
On numerous medications to regulate high blood pressure and taking insulin shots six times a day, Barnes was fatigued getting out of bed and walking small distances. Worst of all, his lack of energy was preventing him from spending time with his three-year-old grandson and made it difficult to keep up in the fast-paced world of IndyCar racing.
"I'm the kind of person, when I make up my mind to do something, I don't second guess it," he said. "When I saw what was happening to me physically and emotionally, and I saw the capabilities of myself dwindling, I knew something needed to be done."
After many discussions with friends and family, Barnes met with the staff at Clarian Bariatrics and underwent weight loss surgery in early 2008. Now he is enjoying life and feels "15 to 20 years younger."
"I always tell people that you can turn your eyes to look at something," he said. "But you have to turn your feet to make it happen."
Initially Barnes was impressed with the warm welcome from the Clarian Bariatrics staff and the comprehensive nature of the program, which includes cooking classes, support groups and long-term follow up.
The event, "Victories at the Track," is one example of the many ways Clarian Bariatrics keeps patients connected. Attendees will have the
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