March 2024 Newsletter

Diabetes…Now What? 

Hello! I'm Leanna, owner of an independent pharmacy, Yellowstone Pharmacy of Forsyth, and the founder of Sugarbeat Enterprise. I'm excited to kick off this newsletter where we'll dive into the highs, lows, and everything in between of living with diabetes. So, grab a cup of coffee or your favorite blood sugar-friendly snack, and let's get real about this diabetes rollercoaster!

Living with diabetes is an ongoing journey that demands resilience, determination, and constant adaptation. As I reflect on my 13-year journey with Type 1 diabetes, I am compelled to share my story to shed light on living with a diabetes diagnosis. More importantly, I want to highlight the positive impact lifestyle changes can have on preventing and managing this condition.

Day One with Diabetes

How did I feel when I was first diagnosed with diabetes? Shock, sadness, worry, resentment – a whirlwind of emotions hit me at 25, just as I was about to graduate from pharmacy school. Brushing off warning signs like frequent urination, increased thirst, and muscle cramps. I attributed these symptoms to stress, and denial was my initial coping mechanism. It took a self-administered blood sugar check in the pharmacy's back room to gain some insight.  It was in that moment, with a blood sugar reading of 311 mg/dl that my denial had to be put aside and the proposed truth brought to light - Type 1 diabetes.

Fear followed – the unknowns of the future, the challenges ahead, and the impact on my relationships overwhelmed me. Resentment crept in – why now, why me? Diabetes felt like an inconvenient burden that would alter my life irreversibly.

13 Years Later

Living with diabetes has become a part of my daily life, shaping my decisions and priorities. Managing this condition involves over 300 daily choices, but it has also become a catalyst for positive change.

Finding the Good in Living with Diabetes:

1. Family and Career:  I've been married for 13 years, with three children. Diabetes is now a part of our family, fostering healthy habits and awareness. My career has flourished from pharmacist to Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, pharmacy manager, and business owner.

2. Self-awareness: Diabetes has heightened my self-awareness, allowing me to understand the correlation between my food intake, physical activity, and medication needs.

3. Empathy and Compassion: Despite the stigma surrounding diabetes, it has made me more empathetic and compassionate. It's not my fault, or anyone else's, when diagnosed with diabetes.

4. Resilience: Diabetes has instilled resilience, grit, and guts. It taught me to get back on course when knocked down and out.

The Power of Lifestyle Changes

While living with diabetes is undeniably challenging, lifestyle changes play a pivotal role in preventing and managing this condition. Here are actionable tips for diabetes prevention:

1.Healthy Eating: Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive carbohydrate intake.

2. Regular Physical Activity: Incorporate at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking or cycling. Include strength training exercises at least twice a week.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieve and maintain a healthy weight to reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

4. Regular Monitoring:Keep track of your blood sugar levels regularly, especially if you have risk factors for diabetes. Early detection can lead to proactive management.

5. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Limit sugary drinks, as they can contribute to weight gain and increased blood sugar levels.

6. Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Chronic stress can impact blood sugar levels.

A Call to Action

My hope is that by sharing my journey, we can re-evaluate our beliefs about diabetes. Let's approach challenges with a new perspective, responding in a proactive way. Words matter - we are not defined by our condition, but rather, we are individuals living with diabetes. Let's strive for a future where the word "Diabetes" is associated with a belief of not just surviving, but THRIVING.

Join us in exploring the multifaceted aspects of diabetes in my upcoming newsletters. Together, we can create a supportive and informed community for those living with diabetes or supporting loved ones on this journey.

Let's inspire change, one positive decision at a time.