I have been a type II diabetic for the past twenty years. In August of 2018, my body started to show signs of my blood sugars being out of control for way too long and I could no longer ignore my diabetes. My visit to the doctor confirmed what I already knew. My fasting blood sugars were in the 300 range and my hemoglobin A1C was an 11.6. Finding medicine to help me was difficult. My body would not tolerate the medicine that would bring my numbers down quickly, the “Cadillac” drugs that have very few side effects were way too expensive, and I REFUSED to take insulin. My doctor prescribed a medicine that was less expensive and would work, but it was much less effective and would not bring my numbers down quickly. I would have to do my part with diet and exercise. I joined a gym, hired a personal trainer and got serious about controlling my diabetes.

I have been on this journey for a year. I work out 3-4 times a week on my own and once a week with an awesome and supportive personal trainer. Yes, the personal trainer is very expensive, but I decided I would rather invest in myself and give money to the gym versus a doctor’s office or the pharmacy. I am not on a specific diet but I have made a lifestyle change concerning food. 90% of the times I eat healthy. You still must live your life and sometimes you just have to eat the cake (or whatever it is you want to eat) and not worry about it. Moderation is key.

This journey has not been easy. It has taken a lot of time and effort, dedication, self-control, support and sacrifice. As of today, I’ve lost 32 pounds, my fasting blood sugars are under 100, my hemoglobin A1C is now a 5.7 and I am no longer on a daily diabetes medication. I still have a long way to go and this journey is not a sprint, it’s a marathon. Just because I’m no longer on medicine, doesn’t mean I no longer live with diabetes. By taking control of my health, I’ve taken control on how diabetes effects how I live. I encourage anyone who lives with diabetes to take whatever steps necessary to keep in under control. I know it’s not easy, but it can be done. If you must start with small lifestyle changes, that’s fine. Just start.