THE BRENNER FIT TEAM
Joseph A. Skelton, M.D.
Assistant Professor, Pediatrics
Brenner FIT Program, Pediatrics
Dr. Joseph Skelton, a member of the pediatric gastroenterology team at Brenner Children’s Hospital, heads the obesity and weight management program, helping children overcome obesity and paving the way to healthier lifestyles. Dr. Skelton consults with other pediatric specialists at Brenner Children’s Hospital to treat children with high cholesterol, insulin resistance, sleep apnea and other obesity-related diseases.
In addition to the Brenner FIT Program, Dr. Skelton is working with pediatric surgeons to offer the state’s only Adolescent Bariatric Surgery Program, to open in summer of 2008. This program is considered for morbidly obese teens who, despite the family’s best efforts, are not improving their weight or their health.
Education:
Postgraduate – M.D. University of Tennessee – Memphis 1999
Residency Medical College of Wisconsin 1999 – 2002
Fellowship Medical College of Wisconsin 2003 – 2006
Board Certification American Board of Pediatrics
Joanne Gonwa, R.N., B.S.N., C.P.N
Case Manager
Brenner FIT Program, Pediatrics
Joanne Gonwa, R.N., B.S.N.,C.P.N., is certified in both pediatric nursing and case management. Ms. Gonwa is currently pursuing her Masters of Public Health degree from UNC.
As a mother of three grown children, Joanne considers parenting a great privilege and is a passionate advocate for children and families. Joanne loves to move and is an avid exerciser enjoying aerobics, spinning, and tandem cycling.
Stacy L. Kolbash, M.S., R.D., L.DN., C.D.E.
Registered Dietitian / Certified Diabetes Educator
Brenner FIT Program, Pediatrics
Stacy Kolbash, MS, RD, LDN, CDE interests include pediatric and adult weight
management, DM prevention and education, community nutrition, and public health education. Ms. Kolbash received both her undergraduate (B.S. in Dietetics) and graduate (M.S. in Food and Nutrition) degrees from Ohio University. She is passionate about children, nutrition, and improving the lives and health of our community.
Stacy’s personal interests include any outdoor activities, such as hiking, running with her dog, biking, camping, as well as watching collegiate sports (especially ACC basketball) and spending time with family and friends. She likes to support the Slow Food Movement, local retailers, farmers, and farmer’s markets.
Dara Garner-Edwards, M.S.W.,L.C.S.W.
Family Counselor
Brenner FIT Program, Pediatrics
Dara Garner-Edwards, MSW, LCSW is the Family Counselor for the Brenner FIT team. As a native of North Carolina, she enjoys the beach almost as much as the mountains of our state. Dara is also a working mother of two (and what mother isn't working!?). Her primary focus at home is keeping up with her children and spouse. Dara's undergraduate degree in Psychology and her Masters degree in Social Work are both from UNC-Chapel Hill. She is looking forward to meeting you and working together regarding the health of your family.
Sherry Frino, PT
Physical Therapist
Brenner FIT Program, Pediatrics
As the physical therapist for the Brenner FIT program, Sherry is enthusiastic about encouraging movement and play in our daily lives. To stay active, Sherry enjoys distance running and work outside in her yard. At home, her active preschooler and interest in photography keep her busy. Sherry received her BA in Physical Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Go Heels!) and her BS in Physical Therapy from Winston Salem State University (Go Rams!) She is looking forward to meeting your family and helping you in physical activity.
Katie Boles, R.D., L.DN.
Registered Dietitian
As a Registered Dietitian with the Brenner FIT Program, Katie’s interests include diabetes education, community nutrition, and breastfeeding promotion & support. Katie received her Bachelor of Science degree at Appalachian State University and completed her dietetic internship through Meredith College in Raleigh, N.C. She loves to dance, scrapbook, and spend time with her friends and family. Katie is also a huge fan of the Appalachian State football team (Go Mountaineers!) and tries to attend as many games as she can! Katie is looking forward to meeting your family and is excited about helping you meet your nutrition goals.