Latest news with #Lexi
SBS Australia
2 days ago
- Business
- SBS Australia
Lexi's genetic condition keeps her obese. But her family can't afford life-changing medication
Lexi's genetic disorder, which keeps her constantly hungry, has rendered her bariatric surgery ineffective. So she's hoping weight-loss drugs could help her. Source: SBS / Colin Cosier for Dateline Watch Dateline's documentary 'Born Big' on 3 June at 9.30pm on SBS or SBS On Demand. By her 12th birthday, Lexi weighed 116kg — almost three times the average weight of an American girl her age. By the time she turned 13, she had 80 per cent of her stomach removed through bariatric surgery. She initially lost 29kg . But nine months after the operation, she regained some weight, and her intense hunger returned. Lexi has MC4R gene deficiency. It disrupts the brain's ability to regulate appetite, resulting in weight gain and a constant feeling of insatiable hunger. Nearly three years after her surgery, Lexi, now 15, is exploring alternative options. "I'd like to be a size where I can go out and play sports again, like I used to when I was younger," she says. She was recently prescribed Wegovy, a weight-loss medication approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of obesity in people aged 12 and older. Wegovy belongs to the new class of injectable medications, originally used for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes but now FDA-approved for long-term weight management. These drugs — primarily semaglutide (Wegovy and Ozempic) and tirzepatide (marketed under the brand names Mounjaro and Zepbound) — mimic GLP-1 hormones that regulate blood sugar and appetite, helping patients feel fuller for longer. They have been popularised by celebrities and on social media. According to a 2024 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association , prescriptions of these drugs for teens and young adults in the United States increased by 600 per cent between 2020 and 2023 — with the overwhelming majority being teenage girls. One in five children and adolescents in the US are affected by obesity. In January 2023, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the largest professional association of paediatricians in the US, updated its guidelines for treating children with obesity — for the first time in 15 years. It now recommends early medical interventions such as surgery and weight-loss drugs, in addition to lifestyle and behaviour changes. Dr Fatima Cody Stanford, an obesity medicine physician and an associate professor at Harvard Medical School, says there's been "a noticeable shift in recent years in how obesity and obesity medications are discussed within the paediatric and broader medical fields". "There is growing recognition of obesity as a complex, chronic disease rather than a simple consequence of lifestyle choices," she says. "The increasing visibility and acceptance of pharmacological treatments as legitimate components of obesity management reflect this change, although stigma still exists and must be continually addressed." However, she says irreversible treatment such as bariatric surgery and indefinite use of medication at age 12 "must be approached with caution". It's important to balance the potential benefits of anti-obesity drugs against the unknown long-term effects, she says. "I advise families to consider the improvement in quality of life and reduction in obesity-related health risks as significant benefits," she says. "However, the psychological and emotional aspects, such as body image, potential dependence on medication, and identity formation, should be openly discussed." Lexi's mum Brandy was initially against injectable GLP-1 drugs. "I wanted her to be a little older," she says. Now, looking back, she says she would have started with medication rather than surgery for Lexi. "Surgery is final ... there's no reversing it," she says, adding that she believes bariatric surgery remains an essential option if other treatments fall short. Bariatric surgery usually leads to substantial weight loss, but Lexi's MC4R deficiency made her procedure far less effective. "The conversation is changing," Brandy says. "I remember the first weight loss hospital we went to, they literally just gave us a portion plate and sent us home." Now, "the availability and the options for people, it's great, [and] it needs to keep going." In April, Lexi was prescribed Wegovy. But the family has been locked in a battle with their insurance provider to secure even partial coverage for the medication's cost. Despite more weight-loss drugs hitting the market, many people in the US still can't afford them. A month's supply of Wegovy, for example, can cost approximately US$1,350 ($2,100) — that's over US$16,000 ($25,000) each year. Medicare, the federal health insurance, is prohibited from covering weight-loss drugs by law. Most private health plans don't cover them either, primarily, due to their high cost. Bariatric surgery, on the other hand, is covered by insurance companies. In April, the Trump administration rejected a Biden-era proposal to expand Medicare coverage of anti-obesity drugs such as Wegovy. However, GLP-1 drugs have become a target of a new executive order, signed by US President Donald Trump in May, aimed at lowering prescription drug prices, which are notoriously high in the US compared to other developed nations. In the meantime, Lexi has seen some progress with an oral appetite suppressant, Qsymia, to help regulate her hunger. She's lost weight and had her obesity reduced from class 3 to class 2. But the journey has been mentally draining, she says. "You just feel kind of defeated because , you're like, ' what am I supposed to do when my options run out?" Watch now
Newsweek
4 days ago
- Sport
- Newsweek
Justin Thomas' Perfect Advice for Lexi Thompson at US Women's Open
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Several years have passed, but Justin Thomas certainly hasn't forgotten his only official tournament experience at Erin Hills Golf Course. With LPGA Tour stars now playing there in the U.S. Women's Open, Thomas had in store some advice for whoever wanted to take it. "Hit it as far as you can and high," Thomas summed it up. His opinion was mainly aimed at none other than the 'semi-retired' Lexi Thompson, who, despite being only 30 years old, is making her 19th consecutive start in this event. Thomas' advice for her was simple: Stay true to your style. "I was actually talking to Curtis Thompson a little, he's caddieing for Lexi, and he texted me a couple weeks ago asking about it. He said the same thing, like 'any advice', and I'm like just, 'tell Lexi to be Lexi'. Like just send a driver," he said. The two-time major champion explained that his opinion is based on the unique characteristics of Erin Hills. "They're big fairways, it was very un-U.S. Open like, in my opinion, the golf course, just with how the fairways were so big and some of the greens were big. But it just was, you know, it was a totally different look and setup." "I felt like, if you put a driver in your hand, if you drove the ball well and further, at least for the tees and kind of distances were setup on some holes, you would have a huge advantage." "So somebody like Lexi who is on the longer side of her competitors, it could be a big advantage. So I would look for a longer hitter or a girl that could put a little more height under their irons to probably be successful." Justin Thomas of the United States speaks to the media prior to the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Country Club on May 13, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Justin Thomas of the United States speaks to the media prior to the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Country Club on May 13, 2025 in Charlotte, North his performance at the 2017 US Open, Thomas's opinion on how to play Erin Hills is more than valid. The 16-time PGA Tour winner finished ninth with a score of 8-under, carding rounds of 73, 69, 63, and 75. In fact, his third-round 63 in 2017 is still the course record at Erin Hills. Lexi Thompson played in her first US Women's Open at age 12 in 2007. Since then, she has qualified every season, made the cut 14 times, and finished in the top 10 five times. Her best result was in 2019, when she finished tied for second place. Thompson announced midway through last season that 2024 would be her final year as a 'full-time professional golfer'. However, she has made five starts in 2025, including the US Women's Open, with three cuts made and two top-15 finishes. More Golf: Jack Nicklaus Picks Side on PGA Tour Players Controversy Skipping Media
Yahoo
4 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Teen having stroke saved by friend on Snapchat
AKRON, Ohio (WJW) — A Portage County family says their teenager's Snapchat helped save her life. Eighteen-year-old Lexy Eddy was at work after school when she began feeling off and losing strength down one side of her body. Elon Musk is leaving the Trump administration after criticizing president's 'big beautiful bill' 'A big woof of just lightheadedness rushed right over me, and immediately I felt numb on my left side,' she said. The athletic and normally healthy teen admits she shrugged it off even as the symptoms intensified. 'I would take a drink of water and all the water came out of my mouth,' she said, 'Then I fell onto the floor and my coworker picked me up and put me in the chair and that's when I started snap chatting.' Her friends on Snapchat immediately became concerned. 'They were like, 'Lexi, you look like you're having a stroke, why does your face look like that? '' she said. Cleveland Clinic updates new co-pay policy after backlash She fell again, and her co-workers called 911. She was rushed to a local hospital in Portage County first. They realized she was having a stroke and quickly transferred her to the Cleveland Clinic Akron General Hospital, where the stroke team was waiting and confirmed the diagnosis. 'Honestly, I feel like my mind couldn't comprehend anything,' Lexi said. Her parents, Melissa and Brian Eddy, were contacted and immediately raced to the hospital. 'I asked her to squeeze my hand, and there was nothing there, so then at that point, I was like this is not good,' Melissa said. 'But the stroke team was there, and as scary as that was, it was also a relief because we knew that they all knew their jobs. They were all on it.' Fortunately, Lexi got to the hospital fast enough that doctors could treat her with the medication TPA instead of a more complicated procedure. Ex-Cleveland officer sentenced for shooting in school parking lot 'This medication breaks down the blood clot and restores blood flow to the brain, and this medication must be given only within 4.5 hours from the start of the symptoms,' said Cleveland Clinic Neurologist specializing in strokes, Dr. Yousef Mohammad. Snapchat enabled 'snappy' care and a quick turnaround. 'She was almost back to normal after medication,' Dr. Mohammad said. 'I was scared that I wasn't gonna be able to feel that hand again, so it was a big relief for me,' added Lexi. Tests showed the stroke was caused by a small hole in her heart, a patent foramen ovale or PFO. Dr. Mohammad said the condition affects about 25% of the population. Often, people are fine, but Lexi will need surgery to repair the hole in June. After that, her prognosis is great. 'Once we close it her risk of having another stroke is very low,' Dr. Mohammad said. The stroke occurred in March, right after Lexi's 18th birthday. On Thursday, she will graduate from high school and is looking forward to attending Kent State University. 'Last wish come true': Bringing the zoo to a veteran in Massillon Both she and her parents shared their story with Fox 8 News to raise awareness. They hope everyone will learn and watch for the following stroke symptoms, and if they see them, seek help immediately. They said it could make the difference between life and death. Stroke symptoms: Numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body. Confusion, trouble speaking or understanding. Trouble seeing, difficulty walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination. Severe headache 'The doctor said that 25% of people were born with what Lexi has going on with her heart, so I guess speaking to another parent. I would say if there's an issue, or a doctor said it's not a big deal, just take a second look at it because she's only 18, she had a stroke,' said Brian Eddy. 'Like a lot of people don't expect it, but it can happen, and when you see the symptoms, I bet you have to react fast,' Lexi added. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Daily Record
5 days ago
- General
- Daily Record
North Lanarkshire school awarded prestigious Silver Reading Schools Award
The recognition for Alexander Peden Primary in Harthill celebrates their commitment to fostering a vibrant reading culture throughout their school community. A North Lanarkshire school has announced they have been awarded the prestigious Silver Reading Schools Award by the Scottish Book Trust. The recognition for Alexander Peden Primary in Harthill celebrates their commitment to fostering a vibrant reading culture throughout their school community. Lyndsay McIndewar, the school's acting principal teacher, said: 'I am delighted with this achievement, it illustrates the commitment from everyone fostering a love of reading within our school community. 'Through the dedication of our teachers, the enthusiasm from our pupils, and the support from our families, we have built a vibrant reading culture that inspires learning and imagination. 'A special thank you has to go to our children within our Reading Pupil Focus Group for their leadership and passion for reading that encouraged them to create amazing activities for every class, and we couldn't have achieved this without them.' Staff and pupils at the school have worked tirelessly over the past year to boost enthusiasm for reading, with initiatives ranging from book clubs and paired reading sessions to creative literacy events. Their efforts have now been recognised at a national level. Pupils at Alexander Peden were just as excited about the recognition. 'Helping to organise the book café was such an exciting time. I loved seeing everyone enjoy the books and the atmosphere that we created,' said P6 pupil Lexi. 'It made me feel proud to be part of the Reading Pupil Focus Group.' Primary seven pupil Amy added: 'We started doing Reading Superstars every week to celebrate how much effort pupils put into their reading. 'It's really rewarding seeing who gets a certificate, and it makes everyone want to read even more!' As one enthusiastic Primary 2 pupil, Miller, put it: 'The Reading Pupil Focus Group has helped me get better at reading and now I enjoy it. I like picking new books from Miss Mac!' The Silver Award marks an important step towards the school's aim of achieving Gold status in the future. Staff are already planning more activities to build on the momentum, including community reading. This achievement reflects the school's dedication to literacy and the collective effort of their entire community.
Daily Mail
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Boy Meets World star Will Friedle shocks fans announcing he's going to be a grandfather
Will Friedle from Boy Meets World has shocked fans with his announcement that a bundle of joy is on the way. But it's not a baby for him and his wife Susan Martens, rather his step-daughter Lexi's baby. Lexi, 35, is expecting her first child, making the former child actor a grandfather at 48. He revealed the happy news on his podcast Pod Meets World with co-podcast hosts Danielle Fishel and Rider Strong and, on that day, former Boy Meets World director and stage manager Lynn McCracken. 'I'm about to be a grandfather, actually,' Will said during the episode. 'Yeah, my stepdaughter's about to have my first grandchild, so I'm very happy. I'm 'bout to be a poppy!' Danielle said, 'It's going to be fun, I can't wait,' while Will added, 'It's gonna be great. I can't either.' Fans reacted with shock that will is old enough to be a grandfather. One fan wrote, 'Excuse me. GRANDPA? omg am I that old already, while another said, 'didn't know he had kids. 'Gah he's going to be a hot paw paw,' a third person wrote, while another summed up what everyone is thinking, 'Oh so thanks for making me feel old.' Finally, someone wrote, 'We are Friedle and his wife Susan got married in September 2016. Lexi was 21 when the couple began dating. On a recent episode of the podcast, Will admitted he doesn't acknowledge Mother's Day with his wife. 'Wait, did I have to get stuff for every month? I don't get stuff for Sue on Mother's Day, am I supposed to?' he said, after Fishel and Strong told him he should honor his wife on the holiday. 'Do you say Happy Mother's Day?' Rider asked, with Friedle responding, 'Probably not. I don't know!' Fans commented about how hard it was to to believe Will was old enough to be a grandpa Other fans seemed to have been launched into a full-blown identity crisis Mostly, the comments were shocked in believing their own age 'Wow,' Strong replied, and Fishel said, 'Will! Did you not say Happy Mother's Day today? Do you celebrate the holiday for her at all?' 'I say it to my mom,' Friedle repeated, and Strong told him that he 'should acknowledge' his wife on the day. After witnessing his co-hosts shock, the podcaster tried to redeem himself, by pointing out that Martens' daughter is older, which caused Fishel to exclaim. 'It doesn't matter, she's still a mother.' Friedle then just admitted, 'I know, I never think about it, I guess.' In February, the former Boy Meets World stars chatted with one of their own: Matiland Ward, who played Rachel McGuire on the sitcom. Maitland has since made a career for herself as a pornographic actress. During the episode, which dropped February 23, Danielle, 43, bluntly asked 48-year-old Maitland, who now pursues a career as an adult film star, 'So jumping ahead to around the time, let's say 2022, and we start our podcast, Pod Meets World. Maybe a more broad general question for you is, Do you hate us?' 'No, I do not hate you. I think that you hate me, because you wouldn't speak to me on Girl Meets World and that's hurtful,' Maitland said. The former co-stars also began discussing why their relationship fell out, due to a Facebook miscommunication and also their lack of a friendship during their time on set. They also argued over Maitland talking badly about them in public. Maitland brought up a visit she made to the Girl Meets World set and accused Danielle of ignoring her - after she thought they were friends. 'You had an attitude about it. There was some beef between us, and I didn't get it. I didn't know if you thought I was trying to steal attention... I was genuinely confused why we wouldn't be good,' Maitland said. Danielle apologized to her, explaining that she didn't have an issue with her and was overwhelmed with a lot of feelings while on set. However, Maitland disagreed, saying, 'You didn't like the fact that I was getting a lot of attention at that time and going off in my own space and taking away that attention.'
