Forever Fit
'Biggest Loser' Michael Ventrella Inspires Elmhurst Hospital Employees
"Biggest Loser" winner shares his weight loss struggle and eventual triumph during weekly walks at the hospital.
Michael Ventrella was told by his doctor that he would likely die within five years if he didn't shed some of his 526 pounds. He was barely 29 years old. "I lost one of my best friends around that time, as well, to a brain aneurysm at the age of 29," Ventrella said. "I suddenly realized my own mortality." So, a year and a half ago, he signed on to NBC's hit TV show, "Biggest Loser," and won by losing half of his body weight. Today, the Bartlett resident is a new man with new habits. Exercise and plenty of activity are on the calendar daily, and he has become a personal trainer. He now eats mainly fish and vegetables, eschewing processed carbohydrates, dairy, meat and sugar. In addition, Ventrella is part of the Elmhurst Memorial Healthcare…
