Danbury Man with Genetic Condition Sheds Over 100 Pounds

DANBURY, CT — While growing up in Danbury, Brian Miguel was diagnosed with Prader-Willi Syndrome, a complex genetic condition that affects many parts of the body. In addition to intellectual disability and short stature, hormonal symptoms include constant hunger. His insatiable appetite led to obesity and other health issues that confined him to a wheelchair. Then his life was transformed when a team at Ability Beyond guided him through an incredible weight loss of 106 lbs. in two years. Today, Miguel, age 51, is self-confident and walking independently.

Miguel’s inspiring journey started when he moved to one of Ability Beyond's residential homes in Brookfield in 2017. It is a licensed Intermediate Care Facility with six clients of varying skill levels. Ability Beyond supports individuals with developmental disabilities with programs in Connecticut and New York, ranging from supportive residential living to meaningful employment and educational and social opportunities.

"Moving into NPR was a difficult transition for Brian, as it is for many of the people we serve, who are living independently for the first time," said Jane Davis, president and CEO of Ability Beyond. "But with the compassionate care, help and support of the staff members, Brian began to feel at home."

The team members at NPR that developed a comprehensive plan to put Brian on the path to wellness included:

• A nutritionist who developed an 800 calorie menu and provided strategies for Miguel and staff to meet his nutritional needs as well as promote weight loss.
• A physical therapist who worked with Miguel on progressive exercise and mobility training through an active and progressive home exercise program consisting of both cardio and strength training. The therapy runs about 1 hour per day.
• A behavior clinician worked with Miguel to develop healthy coping strategies.

"The specialists developed the plan, but day-to-day implementation is administered by the seven person staff onsite," said Davis. "Brian completely relies on the team to maintain his weight. All meals are prepared and plated by staff, as Brian's disability does not allow him to participate, and access to food is limited and monitored."

Davis notes the dietician allows Miguel to make suggestions to his meals and allows changes suggested by Miguel if appropriate to his needs. The staff led by Tim Plyler is very creative when it comes to planning meals to ensure food is appetizing and satisfying. Miguel’s favorite foods are pizza and hamburgers.

Thanks to his weight loss, Miguel's blood pressure is well-controlled, he no longer needs a bipap machine for oxygen at night and his gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, symptoms have disappeared. Miguel no longer has chest pain or shortness of breath and no longer needs medications to control his blood pressure or GERD.

Miguel's daily activities through participation in Ability Beyond programs include Theater Group, attending church services with his mother, a vigorous daily physical therapy regime, helping around the house, and playing games on his iPad.

"Brian is truly a different person now. He is independent, happy and motivated," Davis said. "Losing a large amount of weight and maintaining a healthy weight is challenging for anyone, but for people with underlying physical and cognitive conditions it takes a team to succeed. Everyone is so proud of how far Brian has come."

Ability Beyond is a 501{c} (3) organization headquartered in Chappaqua, NY, and Bethel.