GuideStone’s own Donna Chenowith had a wake-up call when she was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. Through an annual health screening hosted by GuideStone, Donna learned that her blood sugar levels were higher than normal. Later confirmed by her doctor, Donna was diagnosed with diabetes. She was devastated by the news.
According to the American Diabetes Association, “Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and many more are unaware they are at high risk.”
Having diabetes is scary. But Donna faced her fears to manage her blood glucose levels. At the time, she didn’t have a firm understanding of diabetes. Donna researched her new illness and set a goal to make a lifestyle change.
One of the most effective ways to keep diabetes under control is to live a healthy lifestyle. For Donna that meant healthy eating and regular exercise. “Working for an employer that encourages healthier eating and exercise has made a huge difference in focusing on my goals,” said Donna. She changed her diet by cutting out fried foods, fast food and reducing her sugar intake. And she increased her physical activity. “At first I walked 30 minutes, then 45 minutes and gradually an hour a day. I lost 60 pounds in 8 months.”
Donna wasn’t focused on losing weight, “the results just happened.” She felt better and no longer needed her diabetes medication. Her lifestyle changes protected her body against complications, such as eyesight, kidney disease, hypertension and heart disease.
Diabetes is a daily battle and there is no cure for diabetes. But Donna is not discouraged. She remains motivated to live a healthy lifestyle. And she is continually encouraged by GuideStone’s wellness program.