I am grateful to RWJBarnabas Health and the Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention for having the program.
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“I recently completed the second year of the Prevent T2 Diabetes Prevention Program presented by the Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention at the Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center. I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity of the second year maintenance. The program stresses, health, well-being, self awareness and provides feedback, accountability and wonderful support.
Through the sessions and the exceptional teaching and guidance of Deanna Schweighardt, RDN, CDCES, a certified diabetes educator, our group was given the knowledge and tools to reach the goals of developing and maintaining a healthier life style. Deanna was well prepared, supportive and caring throughout. She is skilled in her approach to requiring accountability and addressing individual needs.
Maintaining a food and exercise log was ok with me… that is until I had to send it to Deanna at the appointed times! Initially, this was not something I wanted to do, but understood the requirement. I also realized how much I needed to be accountable, as my weight loss did not begin in earnest until I had to email my weight and exercise minutes to Deanna. She always returned the logs in a timely manner with suggestions and encouragement.
Staying on course will not be easy, but I know it is doable and know the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. My lab numbers after the first year on the program were greatly improved.
Deanna’s ability to develop a caring and cohesive group via a remote format and keeping us engaged for two years is quite a feat! I am grateful to RWJBarnabas Health and the Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention for having the program; Dr. Manisha Grover, my primary care physician, for directing me to the program; and especially to Deanna, for the life changing experience.”