Tell Us Your Story!

Healthy Utah invites you to share your wellness success story. By doing so, we are able to educate our members of the importance of making healthy changes for life. They will be a resource and inspiration to help others improve their health. Download a Success Story Form (Word document).

Lori's Story, April 2008

In May of 2007 my sister told me that she had been diagnosed with Diabetes. She said that since we both previously had gestational diabetes with our last pregnancies, her doctor had suggested that I be tested for diabetes as well. I went to my doctor and was given an Hba1c which was a 10. A normal Hba1c is a 6. My blood sugar was running an average of 285. Normal would be under 120. I was tired and overweight at 144 pounds for my 5 foot 1 inch frame.Before my diagnoses, my husband thought that I was narcoleptic because every time I sat down, I fell asleep.

Lori

I immediately began a regiment of diet and exercise. I cut out all candy, cakes, and sugar cereals. I started eating more fish, brown rice, whole wheat bread, and vegetables. I also began walking after lunch and doing a 45 minute exercise video which included weights and aerobics after dinner. The weight began to come off, but better yet, my blood sugars started coming down. I was still extremely tired, but I was determined not to be placed on insulin.

During the fall, I learned about the healthy Utah website. I signed up and applied for several of the rebates. I knew that I wanted to maintain my diet and exercise and I figured that the extra incentive wouldn't hurt. I was right! I participated in the 5 a day program and began eating five different servings of vegetables each day. ( A habit that I have continued since the program ended.) Then I signed up for the “maintain, don't gain” incentive over the holidays. It was a lifesaver. There were many parties and holiday activities and some days I didn't feel like exercising. I knew that I would have to report at the end of the program and so I exercised
even when it was a difficult day. Christmas Eve and Christmas were extremely hard, but I did it. I actually lost 7 pounds between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

I credit the healthy Utah program for helping me stay on track. Right now I am signed up for the “healthy weight in 2008” program. I know that by continuing to participate in these programs, I will be able to keep my goal of daily exercise and diet, thus keeping my blood sugar at an average level. When I returned to my doctor for my follow up HBa1c, he was pleased and surprised to see that I had lost 31 pounds and that my Hba1c level was 5.9. He just kept looking at me with a shocked stare and asking, “How did you do it?' Then he said, “I've never had a patient lower their blood sugar that quickly.” I attribute diet, exercise and the healthy Utah programs for helping me attain my goals. I intend to continue using the programs as I move forward at controlling my weight and blood sugar.

Thanks Healthy Utah!

Sincerely,

Lori