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"Controversial Transformation: Patient Drops 200+ lbs, Mansfield Hospital's Rehab Unit Under Fire"

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"Controversial Transformation: Patient Drops 200+ lbs, Mansfield Hospital's Rehab Unit Under Fire"

"Controversial Transformation: Patient Drops 200+ lbs, Mansfield Hospital's Rehab Unit Under Fire"
Discover heartwarming community stories including coffee, Clydesdales, and inspiring weight loss transformations! 🌟🐴🏥 #MansfieldStrong

Steve McKown

Sep 16, 2025

 
 

Paul and Tammy Kemerling revitalized Mansfield’s downtown by opening Relax, It’s Just Coffee at 105 N. Main St., filling the city’s need for an independent coffee house.

 

Driven by their passion for indie coffee culture, the Kemerlings shaped their café into a welcoming space that draws students, professionals, and artists.

 

Relax now thrives as a community hub, offering locally roasted coffee, tea, and fresh baked goods, while also displaying regional art and hosting live performances.

 

Thanks to Paul’s nonprofit experience, the atmosphere at Relax is inclusive, serving everyone from middle schoolers to seniors.

 

Recent partnerships have included the “Ship & Chat” event with Omni Fiber and participation in the Back Lot Series, both of which further connect locals.

 

With autumn on the horizon, Relax prepares to launch seasonal drinks, reaffirming its place as Mansfield’s gathering spot for all generations.


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A car crashed into the front entrance of the Dollar Tree store on Mansfield Ave. in Shelby, Ohio, on Tuesday afternoon.

 

Captain Randy Washburn of the Shelby Fire Department said the accident happened around 1:50 p.m.

 

The vehicle jumped the curb and drove almost completely through the glass entry doors, causing significant damage.

 

Firefighters were on scene for two hours, carefully working to remove the car after cutting the doors free.

 

They also shut off power to air blowers above the entrance for added safety.

 

No injuries were reported among those in the store or the driver at the time of the incident.

 

The store remains closed while repairs are underway, and local authorities are investigating the crash’s cause.


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Aubrie Hall, Executive Director of NAMI Richland County, officially opened the organization’s new Ontario office with an energetic ribbon-cutting ceremony.

 

The celebration at 2131 Park Avenue West, Suite 200, gathered community members and local leaders, highlighting the growing impact of NAMI’s work in the region.

 

Ontario Service Safety Director Adam Gongwer praised NAMI’s vital crisis training for local officers, while Mansfield City Councilman Aurelio V. Diaz stressed the non-profit’s push for open mental health dialogue.

 

Founded in 2001 by Darlene Reed and Mary Kay Pierce, NAMI Richland County continues to expand free support and education for residents affected by mental illness.

 

Hall thanked the founders, applauded the Leadership Unlimited Class of 2025 for organizing NAMIWalks, and invited the public to join the event in May to champion local mental health.

 

Visitors explored the new space and celebrated NAMI’s dedication to the community.


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The iconic Budweiser Clydesdales brought their legendary charm to the 175th Bellville Street Fair, drawing crowds with their captivating parade through town.

 

Elzy Milling and Trade, Ohio’s oldest continuously operating feed mill, served as the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable event.

 

Donnie Clark, owner of Elzy Milling and Trade, called the moment “timeless,” expressing pride as the majestic horses launched from the historic feed mill.

 

The collaboration came together through efforts by Justin Berry of Mansfield Distributing and Lisa Duckworth from Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development, who wanted the community to experience the Clydesdales up close.

 

Fairgoers cheered as the team visited landmarks like Bellville Elementary School and The River Rock before returning for the crowd-pleasing unhitching ceremony.

 

Clark hopes this unique sight signals more high-profile moments for Elzy Milling, as the Clydesdales continue their celebrated tradition across the country.


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In Mansfield, resident Brandon Gaddy overcame sudden immobility through determination and expert care.

 

Bedridden and frustrated after failed treatments, he found hope at home with family adaptations.

 

Outpatient rehab at OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital changed everything, using tools like the Sit to Stand device in a supportive environment.

 

This non-judgmental approach led to quick progress, unlike previous experiences.

 

Alongside therapy, Gaddy lost over 200 pounds by mid-2025, qualifying for surgery and regaining abilities like driving.

 

The hospital's acclaimed rehab unit, noted for excellence in kidney care and more, inspires local success stories.

 

Amid community expansions like Dani’s Place mental health center, Gaddy's journey highlights holistic recovery.

 

He now pursues joys like walking at his wedding, aligning with National Rehabilitation Awareness Week.

 

His advice: Trust the process and local resources for transformation.


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