When Charles Finlay first visited the PCOM Hassman Family Medicine Center in April 2025, he only intended to refill his blood pressure medication. What he didn’t expect was that the visit would set him on a path that would transform his health—and his life.
“I went in for something simple,” said Finlay, 63, of Roxborough, Pennsylvania. “But the care team at PCOM saw the bigger picture. They caught what I couldn't see for myself.”
During that appointment, Finlay saw Joan Grzybowski, DO '87, an assistant professor of Family Medicine, who referred him to Julia Lees, PharmD, BCACP, an assistant professor and ambulatory care clinical pharmacist, for additional care. Testing confirmed that Finlay had Type 2 diabetes mellitus, prompting him to work closely with PCOM providers to manage the condition.
After his diagnosis, Grzybowski prescribed a GLP-1 medication to help regulate Finlay's blood glucose. Finlay met with Lees in clinic for medication education, assistance with injection technique and comprehensive counseling regarding pharmacological and lifestyle recommendations. At the time, he weighed 276.8 pounds. Determined to make a change, Finlay began following a healthier diet and, a few months later, incorporated regular exercise into his routine.
By November, he had lost more than 20% of his body weight, bringing him down to 215 pounds — and his glucose levels had dramatically improved below the range classification of pre-diabetes.
“I can't even begin to describe the difference,” Finlay said. “I used to avoid photos, get winded walking up the stairs, and tie my shoes sitting down. Now, I have energy. I can move. I feel like I got my life back.”
He credits much of his success to his wife, Debbie, who inspired him to take control of his health. “She's very active, and she made sure we were eating healthy—a lot of broccoli, salmon, real food. She keeps me going,” he said.
Lees attributes Finlay's success to a blend of effective medical treatment, strong personal motivation and patient-centered care.
“Charles took the initiative,” she said. “We guided, monitored, and encouraged him—but he did the hard work and deserves every bit of praise.”
She added that what Finlay accomplished is one of the most challenging hurdles patients face, noting that many go their entire lives without fully recognizing the importance of their health. “His success motivates me every day — in my work with patients and in teaching our students.”
“This is exactly what we prioritize at PCOM,” Lees said. “Whole-person health and educating the next generation of healthcare professionals with standards of clinical excellence.”
Now retired from a long career in computer and cybersecurity, Finlay enjoys spending time on his favorite hobby—amateur radio—and living life at a new pace. His goal is to reach 185 pounds and maintain his health long-term.
“I just want to stay healthy so I can be around for a long time,” he said with a smile. “Thanks to the doctors at PCOM, I'm finally on the right track.”
Established in 1899, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has trained thousands of highly competent, caring physicians, health practitioners and behavioral scientists who practice a “whole person” approach to care—treating people, not just symptoms. PCOM, a private, not-for-profit accredited institution of higher education, operates three campuses (PCOM, PCOM Georgia and PCOM South Georgia) and offers doctoral degrees in clinical psychology, educational psychology, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and school psychology. The college also offers graduate degrees in applied behavior analysis, applied positive psychology, biomedical sciences, forensic medicine, medical laboratory science, mental health counseling, physician assistant studies, and school psychology. PCOM students learn the importance of health promotion, research, education and service to the community. Through its community-based Healthcare Centers, PCOM provides care to medically underserved populations. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 215-871-6100.
For general media inquiries, please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at 215-871-6300 or communications@pcom.edu. Visit our media relations page to view contact information for public relations personnel.
Gabrielle DePietro
Associate Director, News and Media Relations
Office of Marketing and Communications
Email: gabrielde2@pcom.edu
Office: 215-871-6304
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