My Journey with Type 2 Diabetes // Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosis and Management
Living with Type 2 Diabetes
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Type 2 diabetes has been a transformative part of my life since my diagnosis in October 2023. It marked the start of a new chapter in my journey toward better health and understanding my body. While the road hasnβt always been smooth, each step has been a testament to the resilience and dedication it takes for successful type 2 diabetes management. Here’s my year in review, from the initial diagnosis to discovering the tools and mindset that have helped me along the way.
The Diagnosis
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In October 2023, after years of struggling with PCOS and insulin resistance, I received the official diagnosis: type 2 diabetes. Although it wasnβt entirely unexpected, hearing the words still stung. My A1C was at 6.9%, confirming I was in the diabetic range. It was a tough pill to swallow, especially since Iβd spent years battling cycles of dieting, weight loss, and regain.
Before my diagnosis, my mental health had often taken precedence over physical health. Every attempt to focus on the latter seemed to come at the expense of the former. By 2023, I had worked through some personal challenges and felt ready to take on my health holistically. But by then, type 2 diabetes had entered the chat.
Taking Action
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Armed with the knowledge of my diagnosis, I set out to make meaningful changes. I began seeing a nutritionist, taking classes, and using a glucose monitor to track my blood sugar. Through consistent effort, I saw progress even through the holiday season, lowering my A1C from 6.9% to 6.6% by December 2023.
Despite these wins, the journey wasnβt without its frustrations. In April 2024, after months of diligent effort, my A1C ticked up slightly to 6.7%. While my nutritionist assured me that my hard work was making a difference, it felt eerily similar to the discouragement of dieting days past when the scale refused to budge.
Introducing Ozempic
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At this point, my doctor suggested adding Ozempic to my routine. Initially, I was hesitant. I had heard mixed reviews and was determined to manage type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes alone. However, after careful consideration, I decided to give it a try.
Starting Ozempic in late April 2024, I worked my way up from 0.25 mg to 1 mg. By July 2024, my A1C had dropped to 6.3%, moving me out of the diabetic range into prediabetes. This milestone was monumental. For the first time, I felt that my effortsβcombined with the assistance of Ozempicβwere paying off in a way that finally aligned with my bodyβs needs.
Finding What Works
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One of the most significant shifts in my journey was redefining how I measured success. Instead of focusing on weight loss, I prioritized metrics like blood sugar levels and A1C. With PCOS and insulin resistance, traditional diets had never been sustainable or effective for me. By focusing on balanceβrather than restrictionβand using Ozempic as a supportive tool, I found an approach that worked for my unique body.
Addressing Stigma
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Sharing my journey online has been both empowering and challenging. While Iβve received supportive messages, Iβve also encountered criticism. Some people assume that using Ozempic is βcheating,β while others suggest that fat people can never win, regardless of their actions.
The truth is, managing type 2 diabetes is hard work, regardless of the tools you use. Ozempic doesnβt magically βfixβ diabetes or lead to effortless weight loss. Itβs a tool that, when combined with consistent effort, helps improve outcomes.
For those who are skeptical, I share my journey not to seek validation but to provide insight and encouragement. If my experience helps someone feel less alone or inspires them to explore their options, then itβs worth navigating the negativity that sometimes accompanies being visible online.
A Year of Progress
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By October 2024, one year after my diagnosis, my A1C had dropped to 5.9%. While this is still within the prediabetic range, itβs a significant improvement from where I started. I recently transitioned to Mounjaro and am eager to see how it further supports my type 2 diabetes management.
Reflecting on the past year, Iβm incredibly proud of the progress Iβve made. From learning to manage my blood sugar to embracing new tools and approaches, this journey has been about finding what works for meβnot just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.
Key Takeaways
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For anyone navigating type 2 diabetes, here are a few lessons Iβve learned along the way:
- Progress Over Perfection: Managing type 2 diabetes is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate small wins, like improving your A1C or finding a meal plan that works for you.
- Focus on What Matters: Shift your attention from societal pressures like weight loss to metrics that truly impact your health, like blood sugar levels and A1C.
- Advocate for Yourself: Donβt be afraid to explore tools like Ozempic or Mounjaro if they align with your health goals. Consult your doctor and make informed decisions based on your unique needs.
- Ignore the Noise: Whether itβs unsolicited advice or outright negativity, remember that your journey is yours alone. Share your story if it feels right, but donβt let others dictate how you manage your health.
Looking Ahead
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As I move into the next phase of my type 2 diabetes management journey, Iβm excited to continue learning and growing. My next A1C check is just around the corner, and Iβm optimistic about the progress Iβll see with Mounjaro.
Type 2 diabetes management isnβt always easy, but itβs absolutely worth the effort. By prioritizing balance, embracing the right tools, and maintaining a positive mindset, Iβve been able to achieve milestones I once thought were out of reach.
If youβre on a similar journey, know that youβre not alone. Whether youβre just starting out or have been managing type 2 diabetes for years, thereβs always hope and potential for progress.
Feel free to reach out with questions or share your own experiences. Together, we can support each other in navigating the challenges and celebrating the victories that come with managing type 2 diabetes.
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I hope you enjoyed this blog all about my journey with type 2 diabetes! If you are looking for more health related content please check out these other blogs posts:
Until next time,
XO Victoria
FlyForAGinger is a blog about plus size fashion, experiences with health issues like psoriasis and PCOS, and promotes body positivity with a focus on cultivating plus size community.Β
FlyForAGinger was created by Victoria Voos, the creator behind it all. Learn more about her HERE and see where she has been featured in other publications like The New York Times HERE.
