On behalf of almost a quarter million TOPS members who are affected by  the consequences and complications of obesity, it is my honor to make this presentation. For thirty-eight years, our nonprofit, weight-loss self-support organization, has quietly partnered with the research community in the study of obesity and associated health consequences. Each year, our members proudly donate funds which now total almost seven million dollars to aid in investigating causes and safe, effective treatments to control and hopefully, someday, to cure, obesity. Our partnership over the years with the Medical College of Wisconsin has been most fruitful and Dr. Ahmed Kissebah’s landmark research in the field of obesity continues to be rewarding, as does his sage advice to TOPS.

Read the complete story in your February issue of TOPS News (inside cover, look for the picture!)

The TOPS award recognizes singular achievement or contribution to research in the field of obesity.  This award is made possible through an annual grant from the Take Off Pounds Sensibly Foundation.  Recipients receive a $5,000 cash prize, a recognition plaque, and a travel grant to the annual scientific meeting.