Madison Reporter

Jim Breitzman, a grandfather from Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, faced significant health challenges that hindered his ability to spend time with his granddaughter, Lainey Steen. His journey began in 2020 when he moved closer to his daughter's family but struggled with knee pain due to his weight of over 400 pounds.

Seeking relief, Breitzman consulted UW Health and discovered that knee replacement surgery was necessary. However, Dr. Erin Davis, medical director of the Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis Program at UW Health, informed him that he needed to lose around 170 pounds to qualify for the procedure.

"The program is designed to help people who wouldn't be a candidate for hip and knee replacement surgery," said Dr. Davis. The multidisciplinary team included doctors, dietitians, nurse practitioners, physical therapists, and mental health professionals who collaborated on a tailored weight loss plan for Breitzman.

"Each member of the program has an area of expertise," Davis explained. "Weight loss is not easy; for some people, it is a lifelong struggle."

Breitzman's determination led him to reduce his weight to approximately 265 pounds by 2024. He met regularly with the osteoarthritis program team every six to eight weeks for guidance on exercises and dietary changes.

Anne Bachhuber coordinated care as a nurse practitioner alongside Emma Gellerstedt, a dietitian, and Cassie Raduka, a physical therapist. They provided incremental recommendations on exercises and diet adjustments.

Raduka noted Breitzman's focus on building strength at the local YMCA: "We worked on walking on uneven surfaces so he can get to the playground... now we are working on getting up and down from the floor so he can play with his granddaughter."

Breitzman's motivation stemmed from wanting more active involvement in Lainey's life. "Lainey’s basically what’s driven me through this two-year process," he said.

With successful knee replacement surgery behind him, Breitzman now enjoys activities like playing Marble Run or dolls with Lainey without pain. Looking ahead, he hopes to purchase a bike this summer reminiscent of his youth spent riding around town.