Silena

I am in my 60’s and have tried so many different diet plans in the past.  Even though I experienced some success, the results were short-lived and I found myself frustrated after every failed attempt.  When I enrolled in ConnectCare3’s Chronic Disease Management program, I was looking for help with implementing changes that I could sustain long-term.

I started working with a health coach, and a few weeks later a registered dietitian joined my support team.  We communicated by telephone or video chat regularly, but the support didn’t stop there.  My health coach and dietitian would often share information with me via email about different health and wellness topics that supported my individualized goals and gradual lifestyle changes.

My ultimate goal was to experience weight loss as a way to manage my blood sugars. I knew that prediabetes and body weight were affected by my eating habits and exercise routine. My dietitian and health coach helped me to understand how nutrition and exercise impact weight and blood sugar. I never knew how much exercise could improve my health. I also learned that meals can be simple and still be healthy. Using my past experiences and newfound knowledge, I was able to achieve the following after just seven months of gradual changes:

• Loss of 21 pounds
• Improved skin
• Back pain resolved
• Increased strength and fitness level
• Clearer mind and sharper memory
• Increased energy
• Lower fasting blood sugar
• Lower hemoglobin A1C level

Gone are the days of brain fog and feeling sluggish after an unhealthy meal. I feel so accomplished after committing to regular exercise.  I now know how to properly fuel my body, and I’m enjoying increased energy and sharper memory.  It’s so nice to hear people affirming the changes they’ve noticed as a result of the hard work I’ve put into improving my health.

The support from ConnectCare3’s Chronic Disease Management and Prevention Program didn’t stop at healthy lifestyle practices, as my coach and dietitian’s support also helped me to optimally manage other aspects of my healthcare. They encouraged me to prepare for visits with my physicians prior to the appointment by making a note of all the topics I wanted to discuss.  I also grew more comfortable and confident in vocalizing my concerns and advocating for myself at various appointments.  For example, my doctor prescribed a new medication that caused unpleasant side effects. The side effects, in fact, were limiting my ability to exercise. I told my doctor about the side effects and I suspect because I’ve been so diligent in focusing on nutrition and exercise, he was agreeable to me stopping the medication and re-evaluating me in a few months. This exemplifies the importance of playing an active role in your own healthcare.  Effective communication is imperative and non-negotiable. I’m also eager to see how the next few months progress, for my goal is to continue to avoid taking that medication and managing my health through ideal healthy living habits and routines.

As a result of my healthy changes and with the support of my husband, family, friends and ConnectCare3, I’ve lost 21 pounds and feel confident about maintaining this new lifestyle. I plan on sticking with this for the rest of my life.

If I were to share words of inspiration to others I would encourage them never to give up. You’re bound to experience frustrating challenges, but despite the obstacles never lose sight of how far you’ve come and where you want to go on your journey to better health.