Corky's Y Story | Diabetes Prevention Program Participant

My name is Corky Bartelt and I was diagnosed pre-diabetic in May 2015.  I had been to the doctor for a check-up and when she got the results of my blood work, I got the phone call with the news of the diagnosis.  I became really alarmed witht the result.  My blood sugar was at 134 and my A1C was at 6.3.  Diabetes is very prevalent in my family and the thought of me becoming diabetic really scared me. 

My doctor told me about a program that was offered through the Y called the Diabetes Prevention Program.  I contacted the Y and attended an informational meeting in July.  I learned that I qualified for the program because of my pre-diabetic diagnosis and that the condition could be reversed if I followed the program.  After attending the meeting, I left really believing that I could change my life around and beat diabetes through this program.  The life coach that presented the program was very informative and supportive and I knew this was a program for me. 

I signed up and on September 29, 2015, my journey began with 11 other people.  I attended weekly meetings with weigh-ins every week.  I learned how to track my food and exercising and to get through the ups and downs of the weight loss journey with an awesome instructor and director of the program.  I learned that 2 of the goals of the class is to lose 7% of my body weight and exercise 150 minutes per week.  I was bound and determined to do both! 

On November 19, 2015, I had  follow up appointment with my doctor to check my blood sugar and A1C.  After weighting in 14 lbs. less than my last appointment in May (9 lbs since I started the class on Sept 29th) the blood was drawn.  I received a call from the nurse with the results of my blood work and I couldn’t believe it!  My blood sugar went from 134 to 106 and my A1C went from 6.3 to 6.0 and I was no longer in the pre-diabetic range!!!  Even though my blood sugar is still considered borderline, I couldn’t believe the change!

With the class, a 4 month membership to the Y is included.  I was given a tour, showed how to use the weight machines, treadmills and bikes by very helpful and informative Y staff.  I couldn’t have asked to be treated any better.  Everyone has been so supportive and it really means a lot to me.

This journey is not over.  I still have a ways to go, but I know I can do it with the support of the other class members, the instructor and the director of the program.  I am proud to say that I have lost 7% of my body weight (down 14 lbs.) and I exercise and average of 25+ hours a week.  This hasn’t been an easy task to accomplish, but with the tools and support of this program, it is possible to reach your goals and develop a healthy life style.  Plain and simple, it is what you are willing to put forth to reach your goals.  I plan on being around for a very long time and I’m not sharing my life with DIABETES!!!

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Your story of connection, health and well-being, pursuing a passion, learning a new skill, or reaching a goal might inspire someone to reach out to the Y and change their life. Please share with us how much you love the Y and how we have made an impact on your life. Email your story to Kim Laws, stop by the Welcome Center desk or call 920.921.3330.