The Medical Weight Loss Team at Midwest Weight Control
At Midwest Weight Control, we understand that people become overweight for a variety of biological, cultural, and emotional reasons. Therefore, we put the expertise of an experienced, caring, and highly skilled medical weight loss team at your fingertips.
Kathy Bedford, M.A., Founder and President
Kathy Bedford has worked in medical weight management for 20 years and is the founder and president of Midwest Weight Control. Prior to establishing her own clinics, Kathy consulted with and trained over 200 independent medical weight management programs nationwide. Kathy is passionate about the work her clinics do and the positive impact weight loss has on people’s lives. “I believe that an excellent medical weight loss clinic will combine compassion, flexibility, medical expertise and excellent customer support, not just while a person is losing weight, but during the years to come afterwards. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is a lifelong voyage. We’re here for you during and after the weight loss process.” In addition to her work at Midwest Weight Control, Kathy also runs two other businesses, cares for her family in Maple Grove, and is an artist.
Grace Khouri, M.D., Medical Director

Grace Khouri, M.D., has been practicing medicine in several medical specialties for 25 years. Dr. Khouri received her education at the University of Minnesota. She has extensive experience in a variety of medical settings, enabling her to evaluate and deliver excellent medical care to all patients. At Midwest Weight Control, Dr. Khouri and her medical team will thoroughly evaluate each patient to determine the best treatment approach for individual weight loss needs. They will provide appropriate medical monitoring throughout the program to ensure a safe and healthy outcome.
As Medical Director, Dr. Khouri oversees the medical weight loss team and ensures that the medical care that is provided is state of the art. “At Midwest Weight Control, we understand the struggle that many of us face to control our weight. It is often emotional, and for many, a lifelong journey. For every person who goes through our program, their success is a personal triumph!”
Kathy Thompson, M.S., FNP-C
Kathy Thompson is a licensed and certified family nurse practitioner with a Masters of Science Nursing. Kathy has enjoyed a life long nursing career in helping people with behavior modification through effective teaching skills, demonstration of healthy lifestyle choices and motivational techniques. As an exercise specialist with the American College of Sports Medicine, she helps patients embark on a comprehensive, holistic and successful weight loss journey. Kathy says “It is so rewarding to be able to develop close, caring and therapeutic relationships with my patients and celebrate with them as they become healthier, have more energy and just feel better, inside and out!”
Patty Lucas-Hadaway, LPN, Program Director, Maple Grove
For 25 years, Patty’s career has focused on weight management. She was formerly the director of New Day Weight Management. Her core belief is that successful, long-term weight management incorporates a multi-disciplinary approach. Long-term success is significantly higher when weight loss and management programs include nutrition, fitness and behavior modification components. Patty works with her patients at Midwest Weight Control to set realistic goals. She encourages them to keep an open mind while learning new behaviors. She is passionate about weight management and preventative healthcare. Patty believes that a successful weight management program can be a life-changing event.
Jodi Lesteberg, Program Director
I have been in the weight loss industry for 7 years and know the trials and tribulations our clients go through. It’s important to me and my team that we understand all the aspects of weight loss. The task of losing weight is much more than just food and exercise, emotions and stress play a big part in this journey. It is a pleasure to represent such an impressive and effective program that understands the importance of all the aspects of weight loss. I feel fortunate every day to have a career that provides the gift of changing lives.
Deb Spotts, MSW
Deb is a highly motivating, passionate lifestyle coach with many years of experience in weight management and healthy living. With her Bachelor’s degree in Dietetics, a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work, and years of experience as a Certified Personal Trainer, Deb recognizes the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach to long-term weight loss success. Deb will compassionately guide you through the complexities of your personal weight loss journey to a healthier, happier you!
Erin Sorenson RD, LD, CDE: Dietitian
Erin received her B.S. degree in Dietetics and Food & Nutrition from Minnesota State University, Mankato and completed a one year internship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. After two years of specialized work in diabetes education and counseling, Erin became a Certified Diabetes Educator. In addition, she also has three years of experience working with medical weight management and loves working with people one-on-one and in group settings. Erin has a real passion for helping people succeed and improving their quality of life.