Meet Miranda: Taking Charge of Your Health with Type 2 Diabetes

Finding out I have type 2 diabetes at the age of 41 was a life-changing catalyst for me. I had been feeling completely drained, zapped of energy, and struggling with sleep apnea for a little over a year. Having a full blood panel after going to the doctor because of an unrelated health concern is what led to my type 2 diabetes diagnosis.

I’ll never forget the phone call from the nurse, informing me that I had high blood sugar and my A1C (average blood glucose level) was an alarming 12.6. At the time, I had no idea what that meant, but when I learned the gravity of the situation, I immediately started making changes to improve my health and quality of life. I completely changed my diet. No more soft drinks, sweets, fast food, fried food or biscuits (my favorite). 

It's been a journey since then. I have become a professional label reader when I go grocery shopping, checking for added sugars and placing items that have more than 1 or 2 grams back on the shelf. I’ve learned how to prick my own finger to check my blood sugar and give myself a shot of my diabetes medication. 

My dad was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes years ago, and I learned recently in a conversation with him that his sister and one of his brothers (my aunt and uncle) also have type 2 diabetes. I figured the genetic factors, plus the extra weight I had gained over the years, probably contributed to my high blood sugar. 

Speaking of those extra pounds, since my diabetes diagnosis, I have lost 20 pounds. I already feel better and have much more energy from day to day. I am also sleeping better. My goal is to lose 50 pounds overall. 

I have had a couple of “cheat days.” On one of those occasions, I ate fried chicken and mac ‘n cheese, and on another I ate pizza. But I never lose focus of my goal, and I keep a positive attitude. Having type 2 diabetes is a whole lifestyle and I plan to continue making strides every day. I also look forward to getting a good report from the doctor when I get my A1C rechecked.

If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes recently, don’t focus on the negative, but view it instead as an opportunity to take charge of your health and have a better, longer life as a result. You can do it!