Diabetes runs in my family, and I was on a fast track to being a diabetic myself until I decided to take charge of my life.
Diabetes runs in my family, and I was on a fast track to being a diabetic myself until I decided to take charge of my life.
The most effective action I took was to join the Prevent T2 Diabetes Prevention Program offered by The Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention at Saint Barnabas Medical Center. Through this program, I have achieved and continue to achieve phenomenal results. When I first began Prevent T2, I was not feeling well and was not able to do any exercise.
I am now able to ride the exercise bike for 30 to 40 minutes most days of the week and log about 200 minutes of exercise per week! Since I began this life-changing program, I have lost about 95 pounds, my glucose and A1C are lower, and I am no longer pre-diabetic. Prevent T2 is not a fad diet, but a lifestyle change to a healthier way of eating.
It incorporates real-life situations and opens the discussion for real-life solutions. I always feel comfortable attending the meetings, whether in person or over the phone, with its hands-on approach, slideshows, handouts, and group discussions.
I really love keeping a food log and tracking my minutes of activity. It is a great way to see my progress, where I need to improve, and where my strengths are. It was and continues to be hard work, and I attribute a big part of my success to the unwavering guidance of Deanna Schweighardt, RDN,CDE, Dietitian and Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, who truly cares about my wellbeing. She is very supportive, and I can go to her at any time with any questions or concerns for guidance.
I have completed the year-long program, but I am continuing with the monthly maintenance follow-up meetings to continue my journey. I look forward to each meeting. I always learn something new by interacting with the group and Deanna. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to make a healthy change in their lives. I did it - so can you!
Thank you Deanna and Jennifer Meyers MS, RD, BC-ADM, CDCES, CPT, Dietitian and Diabetes Care and Education Specialists, for being such great facilitators and making such a profound impact on me with your caring, guidance and support.
For more information, please visit the Diabetes Prevention Program at the Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center.