To Diabetes,

When I first learned I was at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, I was in denial. I was afraid of being on medication for life. I knew I needed to make changes, but I don’t think I fully understood just how much my everyday choices could impact my health.

When I first was diagnosed, I was a busy mom of three kids. Taking care of myself often came last. My focus was on everyone else, and I wasn’t giving my own health the attention it deserved. That diagnosis became a wake up call. I began making lifestyle changes and eventually lost 40 lbs., and brought my A1C back in the normal range without medication.

Fast forward ten years, and my perspective has changed even more. I want my kids to see that taking care of your health isn’t about restriction or perfection, it’s about making choices that help you feel your best, and protect your future.

Today, I’m not only working to improve my own health, but also showing my family that it’s never too late to make yourself a priority. They are my biggest support system.

Then, I discovered Stelo, and it changed the way I understood my body. Instead of guessing how my food and daily habits affected my glucose, I could actually see. Stelo has taught me that I don’t have to avoid every food that I once feared would spike my glucose. Instead, I’ve learned how to pair foods to balance my meals. Stelo helped me shift my focus from what I couldn’t eat to how can I pair this food with another food for best glucose support.

But, my biggest victory was still ahead of me. My brother needed a kidney, and I wanted to be a donor. However, I was told my brothers path to receiving a kidney was on hold until I could lower my A1C. That gave my commitment to health an incredibly meaningful purpose. With the use of Stelo, I was able to lower my A1C so I could be the best candidate for him.

I no longer see the diagnosis as something to fear. I see it as a wake up call that pushed me to become healthier, more intentional and stronger. Strength isn’t about being perfect or getting it right every day. It’s about being willing to learn and make lifestyle changes where needed and keep showing up for yourself, even when the journey feels overwhelming.

Diabetes, I never expected to say this, but I am grateful for the wake up call.

It led me to a better understanding of my body, a healthier life and the opportunity to give something incredibly meaningful to someone I love. You may have been my wake up call, but you don’t get to write the rest of my story. I do. With gratitude for the lessons.

Norma