Taking control of type 2 diabetes

4 years later: 60 lbs. lighter (with better brows) ; )

For years, I watched my A1C levels creep up, year after year. My doctor would gently remind me that I was in the "pre-diabetic" range, but I was hoping I would never actually BECOME diabetic. I was in a bit of denial beacuse my sister was diagnosed with Type 1 as a pre-teen, and both parents were diagnosed with Type 2 many years ago. I thought maybe I had gotten lucky and avoided it. But eventually, it was my turn, and I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes as well.

The first treatment my doctor prescribed was Metformin, and I was hopeful that would be all I needed. But almost immediately, my body rejected it. I experienced relentless nausea, stomach pain, and an overwhelming brain fog that made even the simplest tasks feel impossible. I tried to push through, but it became clear that Metformin wasn’t the right fit for me.

Next, my doctor suggested Rybelsus, an oral GLP-1 medication. I hoped that this could be the solution, but it turned out to be even worse than the Metformin. For 3 months, I felt constantly sick, exhausted, and so drained of energy that I was practically bedridden. My doctor and I agreed that it was time to try something else.

That's when I started Tirzepatide, and everything began to change.

It’s been almost a year since I made the switch, and not only have I lost 60 pounds, but I also feel like I finally have control over my blood sugar and my body. My daily glucose is consistently at a normal level, and the weight loss is helping improve my overall health. But, what I’ve learned along the way is that Tirzepatide is not a magic fix—it’s a tool, and for it to work effectively, I still have to do my part.

I’ve discovered that proper nutrition, exercise, and hydration are essential. If I neglect these, my body reminds me quickly. Poor eating choices, dehydration, or skipping workouts can bring back digestive issues, headaches, and the same sluggishness I battled before. It’s a balancing act, but one that’s worth the effort.

I still sometimes struggle with feeling "guilty" about taking a GLP-1. Some people see it as an easy way out, but that’s far from the truth. I still have to put in the work—the only difference is that now my body is actually responding. I’m not ashamed to admit that in the past I’d tried some pretty drastic measures to lose weight, and they all failed. It didn’t matter how little I ate or how much I exercised, I was stuck and convinced that nothing would make a difference.

Competing in pageantry improved my confidence in many ways, but if I’m totally honest, it did the opposite for my body image. I was constantly worried that people would think I was just "lazy" and that I wasn't trying, which was far from the truth. I pushed myself hard, but my body refused to cooperate.  I recently learned what could be the reason why that was happening, which I'll talk more about in the next week or so.

Taking control of type 2 diabetes hasn't been easy, but I finally feel like I’m on the right path. I can't wait to share more about my health journey to help others who may be dealing with similar challenges. Moral of the story: Remember to be kind, for people are fighting battles you may know nothing about.