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 hasn’t 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
In October 2023, after years of struggling with PCOS and insulin resistance, I received the official diagnosis: type 2 diabetes. Although it wasn’t 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 I’d 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
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 wasn’t 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
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 efforts—combined with the assistance of Ozempic—were paying off in a way that finally aligned with my body’s needs.
Finding What Works
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 balance—rather than restriction—and using Ozempic as a supportive tool, I found an approach that worked for my unique body.
Addressing Stigma
Sharing my journey online has been both empowering and challenging. While I’ve received supportive messages, I’ve also encountered criticism. Some people assume that using Ozempic is “cheating,” 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 doesn’t magically “fix” diabetes or lead to effortless weight loss. It’s 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 it’s worth navigating the negativity that sometimes accompanies being visible online.
A Year of Progress
By October 2024, one year after my diagnosis, my A1C had dropped to 5.9%. While this is still within the prediabetic range, it’s 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, I’m incredibly proud of the progress I’ve made. From learning to manage my blood sugar to embracing new tools and approaches, this journey has been about finding what works for me—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.
Key Takeaways
For anyone navigating type 2 diabetes, here are a few lessons I’ve 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: Don’t 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 it’s unsolicited advice or outright negativity, remember that your journey is yours alone. Share your story if it feels right, but don’t let others dictate how you manage your health.
Looking Ahead
As I move into the next phase of my type 2 diabetes management journey, I’m excited to continue learning and growing. My next A1C check is just around the corner, and I’m optimistic about the progress I’ll see with Mounjaro.
Type 2 diabetes management isn’t always easy, but it’s absolutely worth the effort. By prioritizing balance, embracing the right tools, and maintaining a positive mindset, I’ve been able to achieve milestones I once thought were out of reach.
If you’re on a similar journey, know that you’re not alone. Whether you’re just starting out or have been managing type 2 diabetes for years, there’s 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.
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.
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.
