Meet Jeff Bartel, Lead Clinical Development Coordinator with FUJIFILM Healthcare, whose health journey over the past two years has taken him further than he ever imagined.
After leaving the Air Force nearly 20 years ago, Jeff gradually fell out of the habit of exercising. Over time, his weight climbed to 324 pounds, and he developed Type 2 diabetes. He made several attempts to get healthier, but injuries, setbacks, and old habits made it difficult to stick with it.
In July 2024, Jeff decided it was time to try again. With support from his healthcare team, GLP-1, changes to his eating habits, and a commitment to getting stronger, he began making steady progress.
Today, Jeff is 75 pounds lighter, no longer has diabetes, and has discovered something he never expected—a love for running!
"If you had told me a few years ago that I would enjoy running, I probably would have laughed at you!"
His first 5K was a wake-up call, but instead of letting it discourage him, he used it as motivation. In May 2025, he completed his first half marathon in 3 hours and 21 minutes. More recently, he finished another in 2 hours and 44 minutes—a 37-minute improvement! He now runs regularly with a local running group and continues signing up for new challenges like his recent six 5K's in six hours!
A special shout-out to fellow FUJIFILM colleagues Mike Smith and Ken Kipler. Jeff credits both with being important sources of inspiration and support throughout his journey. Their willingness to share their experiences, answer questions, and offer guidance significantly fueled Jeff's transformation.
And while losing 75 pounds is an incredible accomplishment, Jeff says the biggest changes go beyond the scale. He has more energy, feels more outgoing, and brings greater confidence and positivity into his life as a husband and father.
When asked what he's most proud of, Jeff puts it simply:
"It's what I did today that makes a difference. If I am a little better today than I was yesterday, that is the accomplishment. I am not in a competition with anybody but myself."
Jeff, congratulations on everything you've accomplished! Your consistency, determination, and willingness to keep showing up truly inspires us.
Onward and Upward,
Your friends at The Suitcase of Courage