To Diabetes,

I have always preached, “Do not pour from an empty cup.” I have always reminded others to take care of themselves, put their oxygen masks on first, and show up as the best versions of themselves. I’ve encouraged, supported, and poured into so many people, helping them prioritize their well-being.

But the truth was, I wasn’t doing the same for myself.

On February 25, 2025, I got off the phone with my doctor and received the news that I had type 2 diabetes. I remember thinking, “Are we surprised?” and “This shouldn’t be a shock.” But even though a part of me knew, hearing those words out loud still made me feel sick.

This wasn’t just a diagnosis. It was something I was going to have to manage for the rest of my life, and that reality felt HEAVY. I was scared. I was anxious. I was overwhelmed. I didn’t know exactly what the next steps would look like, and I had so many questions about what this meant for my life moving forward. But I knew one thing for sure: I was getting in the gym and I was changing today. I couldn’t change the diagnosis, but I could start changing how I showed up for myself. I had spent so much time reminding others that they deserved to feel good, to prioritize their health, and to take care of themselves. Now, it was time to take my own advice. This was the beginning of a journey I didn’t ask for, but one I was determined to face. It was time to stop pouring from an empty cup and start pouring into myself.

Over the last 18 months, I’ve openly shared my journey online, creating space for conversations around GLP-1 medications, my experience using the Dexcom G7 CGM, nutrition, exercise, and the many ways I’ve learned to show up differently for myself. Along the way, I’ve found a community of people I’ve never even met who have shared their own stories, offered encouragement, and reminded me that I’m not alone in this journey. I’ve also been fortunate to have the support of my partner, who is navigating life with type 2 diabetes as well. I’m grateful that being open about my journey has helped create a space where we can learn from one another, share our challenges, celebrate our progress, and remind each other that we don’t have to navigate this alone.

So, I guess if I could say anything to diabetes, it would be this: Thank you.

Thank you for changing the way I take care of myself and reminding me that my health deserves the same love, attention, and care that I’ve spent so much time encouraging others to give themselves. Thank you for bringing a community into my life that I never imagined I would be a part of. For connecting me with people who understand this journey in ways that others may not, and for reminding me that I am never as alone as I may sometimes feel. You’ve made me more empathetic, more understanding, and more compassionate toward others who are navigating their own health journeys. You’ve taught me that everyone has a story, that we never truly know what someone else is carrying, and that sometimes, simply knowing someone understands can make all the difference. Most importantly, you’ve taught me that this diagnosis is a part of my story, but it is not my identity. It does not define me, limit my potential, or determine the kind of life I get to live. Instead, it has challenged me to show up for myself in ways I hadn’t before. To be more intentional. To be more mindful. To prioritize my health. And to keep striving to become the best version of myself, one day at a time. I never would have chosen this journey for myself, but I can be grateful for the growth, the connections, and the perspective it has given me.

So, thank you for the lessons, the community, and the reminder that taking care of myself isn’t selfish. It’s necessary.