Family investment for amazing changes
Attending Wellspring Camps can have an amazing impact on your child’s life, as these families can attest:
Our daughter accepted the fact that she needed help and put in a great deal of effort in the program and it resulted in a positive change of her life. Beth came home and taught us how the program worked, to watch our fat intake and eat more intelligently. We felt Beth benefited from the one-on one counseling in addition to the group interaction that is an important aspect of the Wellspring Program. Beth has maintained the weight and is proud of her achievement.
While the Wellspring Camp was a significant expenditure for our family, as our insurance did not cover any of the tuition, we viewed the camp as an investment into our daughter's future. The results have proven to be worth the money as Beth is maintaining the weight loss and her quality of life has greatly improved. From school work, to athletics, to the joy of clothes shopping with her friends, Beth is much happier now than before attending the camp.
- JC, father of Beth, age 17
Ted is doing fantastic. He lost 25 lbs at camp and has lost another 10 lbs since he's been home. My husband has lost 15 lbs
Ted started middle school this year but no one knows that he used to be heavy; he's had the opportunity to start over in so many ways. Without all the social pressures, his academics are way up; he tested into enriched math. Not that he ever lacked the capability, he lacked the motivation.
He has many new friends and is playing flag football for his school. Someone commented to me recently how his whole demeanor has changed. The summer was life-changing for Ted in such a positive way.
The thought of sending an eleven year old off for 8 weeks 2000 miles away was risky, but we received a gem back! THANK YOU!!!
- MP, mother of Ted, age 15
I wanted to thank you on behalf of myself and my daughter for a life changing experience. At first she was a little hesitant as this would be her first time away from home without family for such a long time. Upon arrival, the counselors were very friendly, warm and welcoming. My daughter's first call home was eagerly anticipated, and when she called I heard the excitement in her voice as she told me of the various activities that she would be doing at camp.
Long story short, Alexis learned how to look at food differently, cook and incorporate activity into her lifestyle. She lost 22 lbs. while away at camp and an additional 4 in the month or so she has been home. Her self esteem has increased tremendously. Our family has changed our way of eating and cooking and we are supportive of her program and all that she learned at Wellspring. The parent workshops were also very helpful. Thank you!
- JK, mother of Alexis, age 16
As a dietitian and a nurse practitioner it was hard to admit that my daughter, Grace, had a weight problem. Acceptance was adopted when I watched her progressively gain weight and unsuccessfully participate in weight loss programs. Beyond the weight problem, I became increasingly concerned about her attitude of helplessness when the weight loss programs failed and she continued to gain weight. My husband and I knew that more drastic measures were needed to help her find healthy coping mechanisms. We researched many weight loss programs and Wellspring was an obvious choice.
The program is based on solid clinical research and has a participatory maintenance program. I knew it would do no good to have our daughter lose weight if she were to just gain it back once she returned from camp. We let Grace decide if she wanted to go to Wellspring, knowing she would have to “buy in” to get the best results. She enthusiastically agreed to go and was excited about all the planned outdoor activities. Leaving her at camp was the hardest thing I have ever done as a parent. When I talked to her 10 days after camp started, I knew we had made the right decision.
She was so excited about the friends she had made and about being around children her age with similar problems. Grace had a great time and lost over 30 pounds at Wellspring. More importantly, however, she has replaced unhealthy coping mechanisms with healthy behaviors. Her self confidence has soared and she has learned that she is in control of her future.
At home, our whole family continues the lifestyle changes taught at Wellspring. We all wear pedometers, count fat grams and calories and are more active. My husband and I, along with Grace, have lost weight and are now in the normal weight ranges for our height.
We are constantly questioned about how we managed to assist Grace, as well as ourselves, achieve weight loss successfully. Bottom line – it is hard work and drastic problems need drastic solutions.
Many families are concerned about the cost of the camp, but the cost is an investment in the life of the child. The benefits of this camp can have lifetime positive effects that are priceless. Grace continues to maintain her weight loss and stays in contact with her camp friends and counselors through the maintenance program. I recommend this program, not only as a parent, but as a medical professional as well.
- GE, mother of Grace, age 14
The Wellspring experience has done wonders for Sarah. When she initially told me she wanted to go to a weight-loss camp, I was concerned because she had been a “home body” and had never been away. Over the last couple of years she had isolated herself from kids her age and had developed an anxiety disorder. While she was nervous before we got to New York, she made the best of it and ended up having a wonderful time. The structure, the friends she made, and the variety of the activities and food provided just what she needed to get back on track.
Sarah lost 13 pounds in four weeks at camp and has lost 10 more in the last month since returning home. She is now has a low-fat obsession and has turned the whole family around. We are all eating very low-fat meals and exercising together. If I had one wish for every overweight teen it would be that each could have the opportunity to attend at least one month at Wellspring Camp. Thank you for putting together a revolutionary program.
- MN, mother of Sarah, age 20
What a marvelous experience Wellspring has been for our daughter - a combination of information, motivation, and self-exploration. She really "worked it" and came home - after four weeks - more than 20 pounds lighter and immeasurably brighter in spirit and outlook.
From her description, it is clear that many of the bright young women who attended were, like herself, already well versed in weight control facts and figures. They knew what they needed - a place where they could deepen their knowledge and put it into action. How wonderful that there IS such a place - and that it's a place of such great natural beauty as well. Now our daughter is conveying the knowledge of her "Healthy Obsession" to her family, and continuing on her journey toward fitness and wholeness. Thank you!
- DL, mother of Demetrius, age 14
What a fabulous experience Samantha had this past summer with you. Right from the start she was so thrilled to be there, learning, exercising and bonding with other young women with similar issues. I imagine that many of the girls that come to Wellspring may have had some self-esteem issues that lead to social isolation - -this was Sam’s case. She told me right away how she was “making a ton of friends”.
On the health front Samantha was bursting to show me everything she learned about how to take care of her body. All the positive momentum she built up at Camp has been maintained thus far. She was anxious to cook for us and share recipes with me. We also had several long walks together!
Sam has lost another 7 pounds since leaving camp! She continues to exercise and eat smart and is JUST SO PROUD OF HERSELF! I think that is the most exciting thing for me to hear.
Sam has learned to manage her eating and exercise. If she slips off the wagon, I know that she will be able to recall all the positives she learned at Wellspring. Most importantly she has learned that she can do it! Thank you all very much.
- TL, mother of Sam, age 14
The Wellspring program has provided our daughter with a life changing focus and perspective, along with the necessary skills to achieve her goals. Her knowledge of the nutritional options, culinary tools and balance of movement and exercise give her an undeniable empowerment that adds to her self confidence and optimism.
The additional and unexpected benefit of Wellspring has resulted in her parents' weight loss and fitness. With new foundculinary comfort, our daughter has taken over shopping, cooking and counseling us on our wellness. We could not be more pleased with this whole experience.
- PG, father of Paige, age 13
Gloria and I can't thank you enough for the input you have had in Holly's life. She has now lost a total of over 70 pounds (20 more since the 51+ she lost at camp last summer). She doesn't cheat and has a wonderful attitude toward life. It is nice to have her "back."
We commend you and brag about the program endlessly to everyone we know. We are your best reps.
- JE and GE, parents of Gloria, age 18
My 11 year old daughter attended Wellsping North Carolina and lost 20 pounds of weight in four weeks! This was astounding to me! I picked her up at the airport and I couldn’t believe my eyes. When I dropped her off at camp, she was a chubby little girl, when I picked her up, she was tall and slim! I could hardly recognize her.
More than her looks, her attitudes about food and eating changed dramatically. I was and am so pleased, that I could just hug all of you guys.
Since coming back home, Motria has lost an additional 10 pounds and even better, I personally, have been on the HOP program and have lost 22 pounds!! Motria’s self esteem has sky rocketed. At school, she is now popular and one of the teachers has now nick-named her “Model”.
All the girls that didn’t want to play with her last year, are now clamouring to play with her this year. She is able to buy nicer clothing, and she looks better in dresses and all clothes!
I don’t know how to thank Wellspring! Had I known how good the program was and how successful Motria was at the program, I would have arranged her to attend the 8 week program.
Dana, mother of Motria, age 14
We received our first e-mail from Courtney yesterday and if anyone ever questions sending their daughter to this camp, refer them to me. My husband and I were so proud of our daughter and the way she expressed her true feelings. It was such an upbeat and positive note that we checked the address to see if it was really from Courtney!
I cannot stop thanking you and your colleagues for providing this opportunity where young women are given a genuine chance at altering life styles & habits that they will carry with them. Whatevertheir directionin the future, this experience will always be available for them to tap into.
- PQ, mother of Courtney, age 15
As I receive phone calls from my daughter Jackie, I believe I hear a stronger person each week. She has pushed through many hurdles and the strength is showing through. The mountain hike and rock climb really created a new passion within her to finish what she has started. Jackie has achieved so much from this camp—life-long friends, experiences she would never have tried and weight loss that has been hard work, as well assuccess and newfound self esteem.
Thanks for keeping the parents so informed. I hope we can learn as much as possible to enable Jackie to continue on this path. Her phone calls and letters have been very positive. The pictures, the internet and the phone calls really helped me still feel connected to my daughter while so far away.
Thanks for the great job, thanks to all the staff; how exciting to see the difference you havemade in their lives!
- RK, mother of Jackie, age 17
Our daughter Lily found this program to be a defining moment for her. She realized that the issue of weight was solely within her control, and has adhered to the healthy obsession program. She is extremely thankful that she learned so much about herself, about the reasons for her weight gain, and about how to keep weight off.
She continues to watch her fats, to get in her steps, and to journal. She even talks of coming back as a counselor. It was a wonderful summer for her. She feels great about herself and about her ability to keep weight off on a long term basis.
- AG, father of Lily, age 15
Kate lost a miraculous 21 pounds at camp and has lost at least another 10 since she left. To support her, I've been doing the program with her and I've lost 10 as well -- not an easy feat considering I used to weigh 350 (had gastricbypass) and had been at a plateau of 185 for about two years. I'm so happy for her and she just looks breathtaking to me.I'm proud of her that she went all-out while she was with you. And more importantly, she is proud of herself for what it took to do your program and be assuccessful as she was. Bravo to your program and my daughter. Both are miraculous.
- AS, mother of Kate, age 16
I noticed the difference in my daughter when she came home; she talked a lot about her new friends, she said the hiking trips were awesome, and the water rafting was an experience she will never forget. The culinary, nutrition, and also her individual BC sessions helped her a lot.
She is more confident in herself and is more conscientious of what she eats. She checks the calories and fat content of everything we buy when we are at the market! She was never the active type, but, to my surprise she joined the powder puff team at school (a flag football team for girls).
Sending her to Wellspring was the best decision I could have made. I wish she could have stayed longer. I am happy to say Lehua has lost a little more weight but mainly maintained what she lost at camp. The aftercare program is a great idea; it keeps her on track with what she eats everyday.
Although my daughter still has a long way to go to reach her ideal weight, I know that with the tools and knowledge that Wellsprings has provided, she will not only reach her goal but at the same time be a healthier person.
- CM, mother of Lehua, age 17
My daughter Jackie sounds like a new person. This program has catapulted Jackie into a new realm. She comes across as a confident young lady with high hopes of reaching the goals she has set for herself. Thanks for the wonderful program and guiding forces that have helped Jackie reach that goal.
- AR, mother of Jackie, age 16
We are very pleased that Olivia has had such a successful summer.Every phone call indicated great satisfaction with her accomplishments and a strong regard for the Wellspring program and its professionals. A happy Olivia is the best recommendation in our eyes to the thoughtfulness and effectivenessof the program. Thank you again to your team. It means the world to us to hear our child so happy, satisfied and proud of her work this summer.
We wish ongoing success to your organization. It is a thoughtful approach and a great service to a growing health problem in the US.
- DM, mother of Olivia, age 16
Our 16 year old sonhad been overweight since he was around 5. His weight just kept creeping up no matter what sports he was participating in at school. We tried differentmethods for weight loss (even bribing him with money!) but nothing worked.
Desperate for an answer, we attended a Lap Band Seminar. Leaving the seminar I felt so sick.I knew that was not an option for him at this point but there had to be something.
I got online and researched weight loss camps. During my research, reading forumsand making phone calls to Wellspring, my husband and I were very impressed. The determining factors for choosing Wellspring for us was the counselor to camper ratio, the fact that the counselors are college students working at the camp to obtain degrees and additional credits, and the curriculum. It was incredible. What a fun summer my son would have! We talked to our son who was all for going but only wanted to attend the four-week session.
While getting his physical for camp our Doctor had written "morbidly obese" on his file. After seeing that written on his file our son was prepared to attend the eight-week camp.
After getting to camp, wegot a call from him every weekend with a weight loss update. We started hearing an enthusiasm and energy in our son's voice that we had never heard. He called one weekend and said "Mom I have a neck!" We both laughed.
Our son spent his summer hiking, surfing, white water rafting, camping and learning about food. They taught him how to count calories, watch fat grams, portion sizes, made him accountable for keeping a food journal and so much more.
The end of camp finally arrived and it was time to go get our son. We cleaned any and all junk food out of our house before we left then flew to NC. When we arrived at the camp I went to the check-in desk and asked where my son was. The young lady told me he was right outside, pointing at a group of kids playing soccer. I looked and didn't see him. I asked again. She again pointed. I don't see him out there, I thought! She had him confused with someone else. So I started walking out where she said he was. I was probably about 10 feet from him before I realized my son was standing in front of me. (You know those movies where two people see each other and they start running toward the other with their arms open? That was us!) My son didn't look like himself! He was healthy and…beautiful! He had a neck! The fat that was crippling and suffocatinghis body was melting away. I couldn't take my eyes off him! His looks had changed so dramatically I just kept staring. Did I mention that I was bawling like a big baby too? My son's weight had always been my biggest heartbreak. Nowhere he was with such an incredible jump start on weight loss—I knew he was going to win this time!
We spent awonderful weekend getting to know the kids our son had made friends with, hearing all about their adventures and attending the family workshop Wellspring offers at the end of the camp. That workshop changed our family's life. We met with the counselors and Dr. Kirshenbaum, who is an incredible man, and met lots of parents that understood exactly what we were going through.We highly encourage you to attend the workshop if you send your child to Wellspring Camp. It will be your tool for success.
It was hard for our son to leave camp, and say goodbye to all of his friends and the counselors. He had gotten really close to several people there. Upon returning home we would like to report thatour son has lost an additional 20 pounds in addition to the 71 pounds he lost at camp! We followed the Wellspring HOP program with a membership to the gym and a trainer. Our son has lost a total of 91 pounds! I have lost 13 pounds, my husband has lost 15 pounds and our oldest son has lost 20 pounds! My whole family made a lifestyle change to ensure our son's success. It is the bestdecision we have ever made as a family. Don't live to eat, eat to live!
- CH, mother of Mason, age 16
I'm happy to report that Drew is continuing to follow the Wellspring program. He is very enthusiastic about continuing to manage his weight.
It wasn't just the weight loss; his whole demeanor appeared to change. To say he was enthusiastic about the low fat diet is an understatement. Once we got home and Drew returned to school, sports and his normal routine, it became apparent that more is going on. He is clearly more comfortable with himself. His positive attitude has carried over into every part of life. The fact that he has been able to take control of his weight and succeeded seems to have made him realize that he can take control of other aspects of his life and he seems to relish the new independence. He is a much happier person.
- JJ, mother of Drew, age 16
Wellspring truly helped Alexis be the 35 lbs. lighter, happier, and healthier child that she is today.
The camp encouraged her and gave her the tools to succeed at tasks (rock climbing, 3 and 4 day hikes, and white water rapids) that only those with the highest esteem can do, and do well. Wellspring is worth every cent my family spent to send Alexis there. After all, what’s worth more than your child’s health and happiness? NOTHING!!!
- EW, mother of Alexis, age 17
Sending our daughter to Wellspring was a big commitment for us financially. After talking with Alex and seeing her progress in learning a healthy lifestyle, I can say that we do not regret our decision for one minute. After all, how do you put a price tag on an investment in your child?
Obviously we are happy about her weight loss, but that is secondary to her becoming more active and fit which allows her to enjoy so much more of her life. She is looking forward to joining sports teams and can think of nothing else other than continuing on in what she has learned thus far. The social benefits appear to be developing as well. She has always become frustrated when things don't go her way, and she tells me her behavioral coach is working with her on that. That's another benefit to better her social skills and enhance her quality of life. Isn't that what it's all about!II am really excited.
I am so happy we found your camp!
Thank You!
- CY, mother of Alex, age 17
I want to first thank you and your Organization for the opportunity and learning experience that was given to Justin at Wellspring. Justin lost a total of 22 pounds while at camp. By the time we arrive at Wellspring, Justin weighed in at 318 pounds. My mother and I attended the wonderful family workshop and learned so much about the program, from statistics to culinary. Justin weighed out on August 11, 2007 at 296 pounds and that was a wonderful day. We knew that he was under 300 pounds and on his way to better quality of life.
As of today Justin weighs 274 pounds. He has lost a total of 44 pounds, 22 of which was lost after he returned home. We are following the program very closely and I have lost 19 pounds. I am trying to lose a total of 60 pounds. We have committed to 30 minutes of exercise per day and weigh-ins are on Saturdays. I have noticed that Justin's confidence is continuously rising and his ability to compete and not give up on physical challenges is amazing. I cannot say enough good things about Wellsprings and their staff for Justin's transformation. He is eating healthfully. When eating out, he knows what questions to ask to receive healthy, low-fat food and he learned how to shop for healthy snack choices and less fatty meats.
I still can’t believe that as we were leaving Wellspring, Justin looked very sad. I told him so and said he looked as though he didn’t want to go home. He looked at me and said, “Mom, I don’t.”
It spoke volumes about the camp and the staff. I also realized that he was leaving an environment that was responsible for actually acting as the catalyst for weight loss- something that we could not accomplish without a fight. I assured him that while we could not make our home look like the wonderful camp that was surrounded by beautiful nature and mountains, we could take the knowledge that we leaned and use to achieve the goal of good health. Thank you.
- SW, mother of Justin, age 15
Wellspring Adventure Camp has made an incredible difference for our son, Nick. We sent Nick to Wellspring Adventure Camp for 8 weeks. He came back a changed young man. He lost 31 lbs. at camp and has lost another 15 lbs. since he came home. Not only has he lost the weight, he has taken back control of his life by learning to manage his stress and emotional eating behaviors. Now he makes appropriate and healthy eating choices, he eats in moderation, and has managed to overcome all of the negative behaviors that consumed him a year ago. He is well on his way to overcoming his eating disorder and we attribute that success to your camp. We are eternally grateful for the remarkable job you have done with our son and the many children that you help worldwide.
- ST, mother of Nick, age 16
I cannot tell you what a differencecamp has made in Jack’s life, in all of our lives. He came back from camp a new young man. He was and remains very proud of himself. He has continued to watch what he eats and encourages us all to eat healthy. He exercises everyday after school. The seniors at his high school have been very impressed with the freshman who is so committed that he works out every afternoon. I really think the therapeutic part of Wellspring is what makes it stand head and shoulders above all others. There are many weight loss camps, but the therapeutic part of Wellspring is what changes lives.
My son is so proud of himself. I will tell you that Jack has lost much more weight. He looks great and seems to have changed his life. He continues to monitor our food. I loved the parents’ weekend and everything about the camp. The staff was remarkable and very well trained. It was just wonderful and truly couldn’t be happier.
- CG, mother of Jack, age 15
"Yummy fresh Bean Sprouts!" Kirsten exclaimed to me last Saturday night. I was shocked as last spring she would have been gagging. Although Kirsten has not lost weight since camp, she is a whole different person about food now. When we shop together and I am amazed at what she now knows about food.
She still is motivated to lose weight, and is committed to eating low fat. I could not be more thrilled. This experience for Kirsten has helped her gain new confidence in herself, set lifelong goals, and make new friends around the country and the world. I know she has been self monitoring and she also talks on-line to her camp friends.
I have told so many people about this and plan to continue. Wellspring was the best choice I have ever made for my daughter. Since Kirsten left for camp I have lost 27 pounds!
- KQ, mother of Kirsten, age 14
Matthew's experience at Wellspring was fantastic. He went to camp with the hope of losing 25 pounds.On his last weight in, he had lost 50 pounds and was absolutely thrilled.However, that isn't the reason Wellspring was sogreat in Matt's eyes. Matthew really enjoyed making new friends. Also, there was always something to do. Surfing, hiking, swimming, and rock climbing are just a few of the things that Matt got to try.
Although we were happy to have Matthew home after eight weeks of camp, we were also nervous that he would slip back intohis old habits. Not only has he continued with the program, he has also helped the rest of the family start living a healthier life. I have already lost 12 pounds by following Matthew's example.
Matthew says that he lost weight, but he gained friends, memories, knowledge, and a healthier and happier way of life. Thank you for helping him do so.
- PH, mother of Matthew, age 17
Joey started camp weighing in at 341, and at his final weigh-in he weighed 288. Since returning home he has lost more weight.Joey has taken charge of his own food experience. His knowledge of foods and nutrition is continuing to grow. He fixes his own lunches and often his own breakfast. He even helps me prepare dinner.
Joey's father and I are thrilled with the changes we see in our son. He is brighter and more cheerful, and he has a sense of happiness and control about him. He has grown in maturity and in how he deals with people as a result of his camp experience.
I know this e-mail is to be about Joey, but I have to say this one thing about myself because I think the camp program reaches the whole family. I have struggled with weight since the age of 3, and I am now 58. Because of the inspiration of my son and his experiences at Wellspring and because of the inspiration I find in the Healthy Obsession Program book, for the first time in my life I have a very peaceful determination and assurance within myself that I will beat this thing once, continuously,and forever.
On behalf of my son, my husband, and myself, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. We are more grateful than you can know.
- BG, mother of Joey, age 17
My daughter struggled with her weight since she was about five years old. It has been so discouraging. We had been to dieticians and doctors and programs for years with no success.
The Wellspring program afforded her a simple, workable program and the support to stick to it. She lost over 30 pounds while at camp, but the better news is that she's lost another 17 pounds in the six weeks she's been home. She came home, not only with the desire to maintain the discipline, but also with the tools to do it.
She sent me a list of foods to purchase before she came home. She has taken over most of the meal planning and shopping lists. She journals everything that she eats, every day. Both of us are extremely happy that she is not feeling deprived or hungry, but rather in control.
She will tell you that camp was one of the hardest things she has ever done, but also that it was one of the most fun and best growing experiences of her life. She made great friends and found an inner strength and resolve that she didn't know she had. Both of us would recommend the experience to any teenager who wants to get control of their weight!
- KC, mother of Kylie, age 15
We want to thank you and all the Wellspring staff for dedicating your life to helping young people return to healthy lifestyle. Going to Wellspring is the most important thing Joe has ever done. He is so happy with the results.
- RL, father of Joe, age 16
The Wellspring camp experience was life changing for our daughter. Lauren learned many critical life skills that will serve her well as she grows into adulthood; namely how to set a goal, work hard towards its realization and most importantly, how to celebrate herself! The change in her self-esteem, outlook and confidence is marvelous to behold. While Lauren will be the first to tell you that camp is tough at times, that being away from home, eating differently and being active were big changes for her, she will also tell you that it is well worth the effort and that it made her a new person.
- DM, father of Lauren, age 20
I cannot begin to tell you the joy I felt when I went to pick up my son from your camp. It was similar to the joy I felt on the day of his birth. He looked amazing. Not only did he lose all that weight, but his skin was clear and his complexion was glowing. He now has more self confidence and is more social than before the weight loss. His behavior has also improved drastically.
Another important thing is that he knows so much more about health and nutrition. He is teaching the whole family what to eat and to follow the same program that he has learned. I myself have lost 10 pounds since he came back. Our entire family is more conscious about what foods we eat. We are all trying to stay below 20 grams of fat per day. In conclusion this was the BEST thing we ever did for our son. Thank you so much for everything.
- SI, mother of Motria, age 14
