Hi there and :welcome: . . . hope you will come and join us in our regular Dieting with Diabetes chat thread . . . here's a link to the current version . . . http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=157504

Hello everyone :)

PERSONAL INFORMATION: My name is Aimee. I am 26 y/o. I live in Western New York in a smalelr town right on Lake Erie with my husband, 4 kitties and a crazy parakeet (who happens to be in love with the cats lol). I am very spiritual and trying to find a good balance of mind, body and soul for myself. I have struggled with depression and panic attacks where I think I might be agoraphobic. I am currently on prozac for it so I am hoping that will help.

DIABETES INFORMATION: I just found out I was diabetic so this is all so new to me. On Jan 10th I went to the ER and they said they felt I was diabetic my blood sugar was over 300. The ER put me on metformin 500mg twice a day. I saw my doctor on jan 27th who confirmed I was diabetic. She upped my metformin to a pill and a half twice a day. Then I saw her again on Feb 3 and she had the results of my A1c which was 11% eek. So she decided I needed to go on insulin. Hopefully only for three months and then see.

So since then I am taking Novolog 70/30 20 units in the morning & 10 at night plus still on metformin though she lowered my dosage back down to 500mg.

Since getting on the insulin my daily blood sugar has been great and within the range she told me. So yay.

It has been really difficult for me so far and overwhelming experience. I went to go eat yesterday after getting home and was like ugh no I have to test & take insulin first. And i am a huge baby with pain and needles are so scary lol so it has been rough to get my mind to say ok you can poke yourself. It doesn't even hurt. It took me like a week to be able to test myself right. I had alot of trouble getting enough blood at first eh. I am getting better though and getting alot more used to it all.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: I am 5'7" I am saying I weight 211 right now lol. On the third at my doctors they said I weighed 218 (shoes on) but then on the 6th at a different doctor I only weighed 211 (shoes off). At home it says I weight 210.5 (shoes off). My shoes must weight 7lbs lmao.

My goal right now is to work out a good meal plan and really figure out what I can eat. And to keep up with walking. My goal for now is to get down to 165 and then go from there.

The doctor told me to have 1600 calories and 200 carbs a day. I am a huge carb addict so it is tough lol. But I am counting carbs and calories everyday. Trying to plan out my meals for the week ahead of time and keeping track on sparkpeople.com.

I have a walking video by Leslie Sansone that I am using. Eh well I have only done it three times so far but I am going to keep at it and try to walk everyday 30 mins for now and then work my way up to 60.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS: I want to be healthy and happy. I would love to be off the insulin. I want to lose weight. I want to have a baby so badly and I know I need to get myself healthy and it will help.

Hi Folks.

My name is Denise and I have been posting in the chat thread for about a month now. I really enjoy hearing how people are doing.

PERSONAL INFORMATION: Tell us about yourself, your family, your pets, your hobbies, your occupation, your most (and least) favourite books/movies/TV programs/music; – just about anything that helps us know the real ‘you’.

I turn 55 today and am a native of Oakland, CA. I have been living in Minneapolis MN for 10 years. I live with my SO of 4 years and am retired from careers as a scienist, entrepenuer and executive. I currently work part time as a disabilty advocate. Work I truly love! My SO and I are big jazz fans and are planning a 40's style wedding for 2009.

I enjoy movies. all kinds of arts events, musuems, theater etc. Being in nature is a big draw for me. I love the tv show 24 and anything espionage.

DIABETES INFORMATION: What Type; when diagnosed; what medications; any complications you’ve experienced.

Diagnosed as Type 2 around 2 years ago. Don' t currently take any medications or have any complications.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: Height/Weight Statistics. How much you hope to lose and in what timeframe. Formal or informal diet and exercise regimens. Things that work for you. Things you tried, that didn’t.

High weight of 470. Currently in the 440s. Was 5'10+" but have shrunk to 5'8+" Am hoping to lose around 50 pounds per year and have lost around 25 in the last 6 months. I do pretty well with food. I counted carbs for a few years but am trying a more intuitive approach to eating since my blood sugars and A1C have been in range for awhile.

Exercise is my nemisis. I have severe arthritis and asthma and have a difficult time motivating my self to do anything. I used to really enjoy the gym and outdoor sports but it has become all to painful in the last few years.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS: Anything you’d like to share with the group.

I had planned to go to law school next year but have decided I don't want to spend that much time away from my dear Mark. Would like to grow in my knowledge and abilities as an advocate and continue to improve my health.

"I wish I had taken the doctor more seriously."
--VermontChick

I completely agree with this. I'm glad I found this... Here we go...

Personal Info: My name is Monique, 25; I’m single and a social service provider. I live in Southern California and working towards grad school.

Diabetes Info: I was diagnosed as pre-diabetic about two years ago and did not pay much attention. The doctor told me if I lost even 10 pounds that would take me out of the danger zone, but I didn't do that. I went in on Tuesday (4.2) for blood work because I knew I needed a check up. I also knew deep down that I was diabetic. I had to pee more often, really tired and thirsty all the time! By the next day I got a phone call from a nurse giving me the news. My mother, father and sister are diabetic along with extended family. I am feeling very overwhelmed at this moment and while a part of me just wants to get it together the other part wants to cry. I haven't told my family yet, only friends. I know I can't sit here and blame anyone else except myself but I also know there is no use in throwing a pity party. I have to just take care of myself. I know my life is changed forever and I suppose this is the biggest reality check I could have asked for.

Medications: When I was diagnosis pre-diabetic I was placed on Metaformin 1000mg but took myself off of it because I was kicked off my parents insurance. I see my doctor again on Thursday and will find out then what she is putting me on.

Diet/Exercise: I currently do not have a regular exercise regime. This has been my biggest down fall. I do plan to join the YMCA next week. I would like to work out 4-5 times a week for an hour, half cardio and half free weights. Since finding out yesterday, I feel like I have no idea what to eat. I don’t know how many carbs I can or can not have, I don’t know how much sugar I’m looking for, frankly I’m lost. I plan to go see a dietian on Monday so I can get the low down.

Aspirations: I would love to lose the weight, be off of any medication and have steady blood sugars. I would also love to learn to cook better and live with my diabetes happily instead of letting it define me.

PERSONAL INFORMATION: My name is Lyna, I am 27 years old from Ohio. I am engaged to a wonderful and supportive man, I have 2 cute dogs (Golden Retriever and a Siberian Husky). I do want other types of pets but my fiance said no more =(

I was a student till I fell ill. I'm a fast learner but I like to know about useless things hehe. I love to cook and bake. I play loads of video games. I love listening to music, I do watch some TV now and then, my favorite shows are "Family Guy", "House MD", "Futurama", "South Park", "Fringe", "CSI: Miami" and "Dexter". I also watch a lot of anime (Japanese animation). My favorite movie genre is comedy. I love to read sci-fi fantasy books! I'm a loyal and reliable friend so some people do tend to use me so therefore I have a trust issue. I'm super shy till you get to know me, it's like I'm two different people. I love to make people laugh and make them feel wanted. I used to volunteer as a reader for mentally challenged children and they were my inspiration and joy.

DIABETES INFORMATION: I was diagnosed 9 years ago with type 2 diabetes at age 18. I've been on Glucophage, Glyburide, Humulin R and Humulin N. With Glucophage I felt fatigue so I had to stop and I went on Glyburide. Earlier this year, I was so sick that I couldn't even walk down the stairs and I slept 18 hours a day from exhaustion. =( But I've been getting better with treatment so now I have the energy to be myself again maybe even better than before!

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: I'm 5'2 and I'm at 217lbs, I hope to lose another 97lbs in the next 2 years. I've been on Optifast but that wasn't the right program for me, I need to eat food, 3 shakes a day was super hard but I did lose a lot of weight when I was able to stick to it. In the end, I had to say bye, it cost way too much and it was way too hard for me to do it. It was $600 for them to test my blood and give me a physical, weekly visits was $150 plus the cost of the shakes, which was about $12.50 a day so that was $237.50 a week.

What I am doing now: My exercise is consisted of running, jogging, walking (in that order, I start out strong and it slow fades lol) I follow a video from p90x for stretching for about an hour, I also do push ups & sit ups. I hope to start swimming soon. When I hit 170, I would like to do aerobics.

I'm not sure what I would call my diet but I have 4-6 tiny meals a day usually with lean meat (chicken or beef), fish, tofu, light cheese, there's always veggies with my meals and if I want something sweet, I'll have some sugar-free jello (they have protein and are low in calories which is awesome!) I keep my carb intake at 20-25grams a day and I don't eat over 1200 calories a day, my average is 990 cals. I know it sounds low but I am honestly full. I will add fruit to my diet soon. I have the luxury of having so much free time so I cook all my meals. That's a workout itself, cooking for me 4-6 times a day and then cooking 3 times a day for my fiance. Kind to think of it, my days are really busy with exercising and cooking.


SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVEMENTS: I hope to get healthy so I can have the energy to return to school. I like so many things that I don't know what to do, so I hope I can find my one true passion so that I can work on it. I want to get back into volunteering too. One day, I want to get married and have children but not anytime soon.

PERSONAL INFORMATION:

My name is Karla, I'm 47, a mom to 3 boys and one girl, and owned by 3 cats. My dh is a minister/busdriver/emt and I am self-employed (party-plan) very part time plus I'm the one in charge of keeping all the balls in the air. Busy? Yeah, that's me.
I love my NLT Bible and read lots of non-fiction with a few light Christian romance books thrown in occasionally. Not a huge TV watcher - Without a Trace, NCIS and CSI: NY are about all I watch and those not regularly. Like rom/com movies and any that make me LOL. For years I listened to mostly Vineyard Worship and a few others like that, but recently I've developed a liking for Emmylou Harris and others like her. Who knows why.

DIABETES INFORMATION:

Gestational Diabetes w/son #2 and didn't want to find out with #3 and #4, so I always timed my OB/GYN visits for early am, fasting 10 hrs or so beforehand. Talk about denial. (it worked)
Diagnosed pre-diabetic w/ A1c 4.7 because insulin levels were through the roof in July 2008. Metformin 500mg. per day. Due to severe asthma was put on steroids for several months in spring 2009. A1c shot to 6.3. Asthma got better, got off steroids, fasting bg dropped to 87-105, A1c currently 5.6. Official diagnosis: steroid-induced diabetes. So long as I stay off the steroids (and I intend to!), I remain pre-diabetic. Reality is though, unless I change my lifestyle, I will be full-blown type 2 soon.
Other health-related issues: anatomical defect in left kidney so have struggled with chronic kidney infections all my life, have had injury-related neuropathy in my legs for 12 years that comes and goes, mild hypertensive (hctz/cozaar treated). My latest lab test showed slightly decreased kidney function which is my wake-up call. On the good side - my total cholesterol is 143!

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN:

I have only truly dieted twice in my life and both ended dramatically. The first time was with friends and we all decided to break the diet together. On the way to pizza we were in a horrible car accident and the diet went out the window. The second time I tried Atkins and ended up in the hospital with a raging kidney infection. Turns out severly restricted carb diets are NOT compatible with kidney issues.
I find myself thinking about diabetes, food, eating, the whole thing constantly, but doing next to nothing about it. I can't continue this way. I must act NOW.
I walk regularly and volunteer in a food ministry which is physically demanding, but I really need to add some focused exercise so when school gets back in session I'm going to join the gym that's less than a mile away and start swimming.

Height/Weight Statistics.

My long-term goal is 172. While still overweight, that was when I last felt healthy, some 20 years ago. I don't think I could maintain lower than that. I would like to reach that by Sept., 2011 (my 50th birthday).
My first goal is 250 by Jan. 2010. I'm 5'6" and 277 currently. Highest known weight was 282.


SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS:

Someday I hope to live and work in India, but must be healthy first. Shooting for 2018 when youngest child graduates hs. :carrot:

Colorado Dude
 

PERSONAL INFORMATION: Howdy, all. You may call me Z. I am 37, divorced, no kids, and currently live with my parents. Four years ago, I quit my job as an IT security analyst due to poor health and unmanageable stress. For about a year, I just became a couch potato and relished my new stress free life. I had saved up a sizable nest egg since all I did was work, eat, and sleep. Things changed when my parents were having some financial difficulty so I decided to move-in to help out. Both my parents are disabled and my dad is diabetic (type 2). I soon found out I had a new full-time job helping my parents out around the house, managing their rental properties, driving them to/from appointments, and anything else that needed doing. Things have greatly improved on the home front and even during these tough economic times, we are prospering. This summer, our beloved 15 year old cat, Philo, was eaten by foxes. :( He is sorely missed. Philo was a great mouser. Curiously, Lucy (our 1 1/2 year old American bulldog) has not tolerated the presence of any animals in our yard since Philo's death. She will chase off anything that sets foot in our backyard. We also have a very lovable cocker spaniel named Daisy. She is 8 years old. I am still a computer geek and serve as my family's IT support. I often make house calls for my sister and an uncle. My younger cousin, Nicos, and I will occasionally head to the local computer gaming center for an all night lock-in, where we will game for 12+ hours at a time. I read a lot of online forums, but only register with a few. The TV shows I regularly watch are all recorded on the Dish DVR so I can skip the commercials. I like crime dramas and anything to do with military history. I rarely go to the movie theater and will instead wait for the dvd/blue-ray release. Futbol (a.k.a. soccer) is near and dear to me. I love watching international matches and have season tickets for the Colorado Rapids. Besides technical manuals, the books I read are mainly military/tech thrillers, fantasy/science fiction, or military non-fiction.

DIABETES INFORMATION: I was diagnosed type 2 on 08/27/09. I was prescribed metformin (500mg) and began taking it on 08/31/09, one pill a day with my breakfast. Due to harsh side effects, I stopped taking my metformin as of yesterday. I was having severe diarrhea and became extremely concerned when I saw one of my potassium tablets floating in the toilet bowl. I will follow up with my dietitian and doctor about my metformin use on Tuesday, after the Labor Day weekend.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: I am 5'5". As of Tuesday, 09/01/09, my weight was 285 lbs and my BMI was 46. My dietitian weighs me at my weekly appointments. She asked that I don't weigh myself for awhile. I am on a highly restricted diet called Omnifast. All my meals are from protein packets. I drink a minimum of a gallon of water each day and take the following daily supplements: potassium chloride (3x), multivitamin (1x), calcium with vitamin D (1000mg, 1x), and omega-3 fish oil (1000mg, 2x). The day I started my diet I also started exercising. I take a 3 mile long walk every day. My doctor wants me to stay with my weight management center for at least 6 months. His desire is to see me at 200 lbs. I would be ecstatic with 200, but my dietitian would like to see me in one-derland. I see her again tomorrow and will find out what realistic goal I can set. Even though I am on a fasting diet, my weight loss plan spans months. I have never tried any form of structured diet before and "lived to eat", as opposed to "eat to live". The big D has changed my lifestyle. All for the better, I hope.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS: I hope to lose enough weight to be able to safely play soccer again and snowboard. The last time I played soccer was in 2001 with an adult coed indoor recreational team. Those days ended when I broke my left ankle during a match. I put away my snowboard in 2004 when I could no longer physically last an entire day on the slopes. My weight was just too much for my ankles to bear while boarding. What I have achieved so far with my new diet and exercise routine is an increased sense of energy and stamina. Not too long ago, walking to the mailbox was exhausting for me. This past week, on Friday, 09/04/09, I went to a pulmonary center and was told that I do not, and may never of had, asthma. For the past several years, I have been prescribed and treated for asthma. This may not count as an achievement, but it is a milestone nonetheless. :carrot:

PERSONAL INFORMATION:
Well my name is Laura and I reside in Burlington Ontario. I have 6 cats and two dogs not to mention all of the foster kittens I take in though out the year =) I love my fur babies =)
I am a foster parent and take very difficult teenagers on a long term basis thus my life is a bit stressful to say the least. But I love it. Presently I have two 14 year olds .. one girl and one boy.
I volunteer at the Royal Botanical Gardens Auxilery planting and caring for annual plants that we sell at our spring sale. I really enjoy this and encourage the kids to help out when they can.
I have been married for almost 20 years ... oh wow how time flies. My hubby works in the automotive industry.
I also have been diagnosed with PCO and PMDD which have not been treated as I am 45 and a smoker. So I am hormonally challenged also lol which puts me in at a higher risk of developing all those other nasty issues that will remain unnamed =) I battle with insomnia and rarely go to sleep before 3am and then Im up at 7 am ... so evening munchies are an issue that I have pretty much eliminated.

DIABETES INFORMATION:
I am a newly diagnosed type 2 diabetic so new that I have yet to meet with my dietician =) All I got was a phone call telling me and to pick up my glucometer at the pharmacy. I am trying to deal with making changes to my eating habits but I really have no clue what I am doing. That's a bit of a lie cuz being overweight all of my life .. I know I need to lose weight .. Ive always had to lose weight =) Right now I am just monitoring my BS levels and I have to say they appear to be pretty good. I don't eat alot of sweets with the exception of the sugar I use in my coffee .. 3 x 3 extra large Timmies ... I was contacted just before Christmas so I had a few issues over the holidays but I have cut my coffee back from 12 cups to one cup a day. Carbs and quick foods are my issue. I hate to cook so the quicker the meal the better.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN:
I am 5' 8" tall and weigh 260 lbs as of yesterday =) I am always on the go but like my husband says "driving from point A to point B is not exercise" I must admit I find it hard to find time for me and when I do .. its on the computer or at the gardens. I did enjoy going to Curves and I think with the kids I have now that might be an option for me. I need to lose at least 80 lbs or more. I realized it took years to put it on and it will take years to take it off. Right now I am feeling very lost as to what to eat and not eat to maintain a healthy BS level and lose weight.
I have been on many diets in my life time .. I have done Optifast .. which I loved and lost a ton of weight on .. I don't think I am your typical over weight person .. I don't like food .. I don't like the texture of alot of foods I eat so the Optifast was wonderful. I might look into do that program again and following it to completion. McMaster Medical Center has a bariatric program that I would like to look into as it offers a wide array of diet counselling as well as surgery options. I don't think surgery is the way I would like to go but to have options would be nice =) Even to have a fat friendly doctor would be lovely =) My doctor seems to think that if I were to quit smoking while dieting that I would do well ... ummmmm Im not worried about myself just how to get rid of the bodies of those around me if I were to do both at one time =)
I also attended the Diet Center which was also great .. low carbs .. lots of protine ... and I lost 35 lbs in 3 months. I have to admit that I did have to time my 6 small meals a day so as to avoid getting really grumpy =)

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS:
I know I will lose weight .. I have to ... I really hope to develop a support system that is nonjudgemental who will help me pick myself up when I dont think I can keep going. Or give me a kick in the butt when I need it. I just want to be healthy and enjoy my life again.

In a nutshell thats me

PERSONAL INFORMATION: I’m a Paralegal, 41 years old, married w/ 2 children. I enjoy scrapbooking, travel, and digital graphics. I design websites in my spare time as well as graphics for business cards, signs, etc.

DIABETES INFORMATION: I was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes 8 years ago. I was so scared back then because my grandmother has just passed away from complications of this disease. I went strictly by the book and lost 35 pounds. Things in life happened causing me to gain that weight back. In the meantime I stopped eating the way I should. I’m currently on Metformin 500mg X 2.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: I'm 5'7. 194lbs. I’m back on to eating healthy as my dietitian 8 years ago told me to eat.
I’m also walking at the least 3 times a day. I hate exercise so I really don’t see it getting any better than my 3 mile Walk with Leslie so far I have lost 9 pounds. I wanna lose 50 more pounds.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVEMENTS: I wanna lose the excess weight and eat healthy for life. I also have back problems and it seems they got worse as I gained my weight. I want to be rid of the back pain.

PERSONAL INFORMATION: Hi, my name's Katlyn, I'm 18 and I love trying new things! I am the youngest of three girls, and neither of my sisters have diabetes (Both have horrible diet habits though). I have five cats, a puppy, two aquatic frogs, and a few fish. I'm a freshman in college, and in March I will be spending my spring break in Edinburgh Scotland! I've got the travel bug :P I love reading and writing, I'm an English major. I also love music and art and nature. I can walk for hours without getting tired! I love exploring :D

DIABETES INFORMATION:I was diagnosed in October2009 with type 2 diabetes, and promptly placed on metformin and sent to educational classes at the local hospital. Before my diagnosis, I had a horrible doctor who told my mother that she could go see another doctor (yet still wanted to keep me as a patient.) We switched doctors within a year, but also within that year I started coming home from school, sitting down on the couch and promptly waking up a few hours later by my mother frantically calling my cellphone because I hadn't called her to let her know I had gotten home from school. We began testing my sugars then (My mom has type 2), and when I would wake up my bg was around 450mg/dl.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN:I'm currently 5'3 and weigh 204lbs. My goal for 2011 is to get down to 185lbs, a loss of 19lbs. If I go lower than that, then great, but if I don't, I'll still be happy. I just eat what I want to eat, taking in mind to keep the portions of carbs lower than what I used to eat. As for exercise I walk daily, and I hope to add in some dance classes, or videos seeing as how I'm split between college and home currently. I'm horrible at measuring my food and recording my carbs, so If I know I've been a bit to free with them, I make sure to be active within the next few hours.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS:A special hope of mine is that I'll be successful in my goal of getting off of my Metformin. So far I've been able to lower my A1C every time It has been recorded.(Whoo!) When I was diagnosed my A1C was at 9.7, and two visits ago I was down to 7.1. I know that it is a balancing game, but so far I feel I have been able to work to managing my diabetes! :)

PERSONAL INFORMATION: Hey! Name's Alexis. I live in Louisville, Kentucky. I'm 19 and a sophomore in college, without a major sadly. I'm an artist and a musician- I play cello. I'm also a photographer and a gamer. I love to learn new languages! I speak decent Mandarin Chinese and am learning Japanese. I spent my entire summer in Beijing!

DIABETES INFORMATION: I was diagnosed with Type One Diabetes four days after my 18th birthday, ( which would make the day i found out 9-15-09) Yeah... that kind of sucked. I found out by going into DKA, o'course. I'm now using an Animas insulin pump and it is great.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: 5'11"/315 lbs. My diet is diabetic and vegetarian friendly. I want to try and get down to 240 lbs. as a starting goal. With my height, I'm sure that will look alright for a beginning goal.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS: to open my own photography studio one day, and to over the rest of my life healthily with as few diabetic complications as possible.

Hi I am very new to this name is Shirley but iI like Violet .Only 3 days ago I got the news that I am type 2 . I went through this scare 5 years ago that proved to be nothing (maybe pre dia ?) I live in Nth Qld Australia . Mother of 5 and grandma of 3 Iam hoping to learn lots of stuff from you ladies as at yet I have no dia medication and have to see the nutritionilist in Feb.
Am a single woman that likes craft movies and reading .. Would like to travelore but not until after I have lost enough weight to stop snoring .Last couple of trips I did skinny people stopped talking and dozed off only to start snoring Funny hows that work ?

Introduction - PampGal
 

I'll introduce myself on this thread - I've been on and off the 3C site for three years.

I'm a 54yo engineer in Houston for a gas pipeline company - a sedentary but low-stress job. I'm been married to a wonderful guy for 31 years (usually low stress). I have 3 beautiful daughters - at the start of the year all three were married. However, 2 of the SILs were caught cheating so 2 daughters moved in with us and brought along their 3 dogs and a cat. One DGS is living with us and my DGD is about 3 hours away (they are both 3 1/2 - born 1 week apart).

I love to cross stitch but little hands around, currently non-existant. I've taken up reading before bed again and find it far more peaceful than DH's late nite news shows. I'll be putting away the Christmas music on my MP3 player (greatest invention in the 21st century!) next week. Despite being born and raised in TX, I can't stand country/western music (my apologies to those that do) - more oldies for me. DH and I love action flix and go to the movie theater about 6-8 times a year. I meet with 4 other high school friends from far flung locations at least once a year (I'm the heaviest) - such fun!

About 2 years ago my blood work came back worse than normal - more tests and the dr called it pre-diabetic Type II. That really scared me but in typical fashion, I spent a year trying to ignore it although dr tested A1C every 6 months. However, in 2010 my resolution was to be healthier. I was so disappointed with my May A1C reading of 6.9! We upped my ER Metformin from 1000mg/day to 1500mg/day. My November A1C reading was down to 6.4 - I was excited! :cheer3: Somewhere along the way in 2010, I've lost over 10 pounds! Only side-effects I've had: tongue "blisters" when I eat excessive sweets (like Christmas) and brief (< 2 hours) localized numbness in either foot occassionally.

2 years ago, I weighed my heaviest 232 lbs; now I'm down to 209 lbs and I'm 5'4". For the last year, I've working on increasing fiber intake, and limiting some of my carbs. The carbs will be more of a focus for 2011. I've always put off consistent exercise "until tomorrow"; however, with a 3yo running around the house, I usually fall into bed exhaused. :faint:

Goal 1: Get the 2 daughters on their own feet and doing well. I'm watchign DGS while 1 daughter goes to college. They both work so we're not totally supporting them.
Goal 2: Lose about 15 pounds in 2011 and keep that A1C number down.
Goal 3: Do something more fun than read. :rolleyes:

I probably won't post much, but know that I'm checking in from time to time. I appreciate all your input and information I've already gleaned from the fellow Type II's. :coolsnow:

Hi all!


I have been struggling with weight loss my whole life it seems and the past couple years have just gotten worse. I gained 20 lbs in a couple months just over a year ago and I have felt awful. Hair falling out, exhausted all the time, nails and skin dry as can be, moodiness, depression - I can make a list a mile long. Every year I have asked that my thyroid be tested and every year I was either denied or tested incorrectly and told I was "borderline:. Well, finally this year things spiraled down hill fast and I researched and researched, found another Dr and was finally without a doubt diagnosed with hypothyroidism, a pretty severe case for me. Along with that diagnosis I was told because my thyroid was ignored for so long I now have diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

For years I tried losing weight with no success, obviously, or I wouldn't be here. Almost a month ago I was put on synthroid, was told to walk about 3 miles a day at least 4-5 times a week ( which I had been doing anyway), and to eat no more than 1200 calories a day. Seems those of us who have hypothyroid automatically burn 500 or so calories less a day than the average person.

Been doing this for almost a month now and am down 9 pounds. I think a lot has to do with the synthroid but its a combination of all 3 ( synthroid, walking and calorie control).

I get my blood re-taken in a month and am hoping for better news.

Anyway, glad to be here.

PERSONAL INFORMATION: Hi my name is Marilyn. I'm married and have a 25 year old son. I have a dog, cat, and seven horses. I like to read, sing, play farmville on facebook. I like to listen to gospel music mostly, but I do listen to all kinds of other music as long as it is fast and up beat. I really like doing line dancing.

DIABETES INFORMATION: I have type 2 diabetes. I've had it for more than 4 years. I really don't remember when I was diagnosed. I take 2 glucovance 5/500 tab twice a day. I was on byetta but i stopped myself but i think i need to get back on it. The only problem I have is my right ankle swells and i have to wear some very expense support hoses. And I think I suffer from depression.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: I'm 5'2"/276.8. I hope to lose 120 pounds. I don't have a time frame. I don't have an exercise regimen i'm just trying to getting moving, and stay focus. I started out at 280.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS: My special hopes are to be able to go in a store and not have to buy a size that has a 2 in it. I sick of having to purchase clothing that says 2(_). I don't even want to buy a size 12 one day. I would like to be able to not have to buy clothing that hides my body. I want to get rid of these ugly but necessary support hoses that they don't really make for my skin color (beige) is just not the end thing, and they look horrible with sandles and capri and dresses. My achievement is I haven't totally lost my mind yet. I can't believe I'm doing this but I need someone to talk to. This condition is really making me mad and depressed.

Personal Information: Hi Everyone! I am 51 years old, happily single/divorced and the mother of two sons. I have two adorable grandsons. I am a competetive pool player and I love to fish and camp.

Diabetes Information: I was diagnosed with T2 on August 28, 2011. First A1C was 13.6 I started on metformin and glypizide. I was having too many lows so the glypizide was stopped and I started on Januvia. My second A1C was 5.9. I feel much more comfortable without the lows.

Diet Excercise Routine: I have lost at least 40 pounds.I try to limit carbs and to choose carbs with more fiber. (baked potato instead of mashed). I try to eat small portions of meat and carbs and large portions of green and leafy veggies. I try to excercise every day. My favorite are low impact aerobic tapes that I recorded myself. I enjoy Gilad and his sister Ada. I try to lift weights at least twice per week.

Hopes/aspirations: I would like to prevent complications. I would also like to lose about 50 more pounds but I am really believing that the weight will take care of itself if I just try to make the right choices each day. It is really nice to be able to have this forum

PERSONAL INFORMATION: Hi, all! I'm Dea. I've been lurking here at 3FC for a few weeks now, and I thought this might be the best starting point for me. I'm 34 years old living in Tennessee. I'm a middle school teacher, so while I have no kids of my own I do have 105 kiddos keeping me busy on a daily basis.

DIABETES INFORMATION: I was diagnosed Type II in June of 2008. My mother, who has been diabetic for 25 years, took the diagnosis harder than me. Given my family history and weight gain the last 10 years, it really wasn't a shock to me. I am currently managing my diabetes through diet and exercise. My first A1C was 6.8; my most recent was 5.7. I actually had lab work done today, so I'm hoping for an even lower number as I've worked hard the last 4 months…losing 25 lbs in the process. Yay, me!

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: I discovered back in December that I lost 5 lbs without trying, so that motivated me to get myself in gear and really put forth an effort to lose more. I'm also hypothyroid, and for the last 10 years I've felt the weight loss possibility an impossibility. I joined Weight Watchers, bought myself an elliptical machine, and mustered as much discipline and strength I could in order to turn this effort into a successful one. I have a ways to go before I reach my goal, but I'm feeling extremely motivated at the moment. I've changed my eating habits considerably, and my exercise regimen has improved, as well. I try to walk with a coworker a few times a week, and I do interval training on my elliptical 5 days a week. It's a slow process, but I'm in it for the long haul.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVEMENTS: I love traveling but would like to be in better shape so I can do so comfortably…both physically and in the fit of my clothes. Most of all, I, of course, want to be healthy. I want to avoid meds/insulin dependency as long as I can. I.Can.Do.This.

PERSONAL INFORMATION: Hi! Im Crystal! Im 26 years old and engaged to the sweetest guy ever. We have 2 "Kids" Jack a 2 year old 17 pound tabby, and Trixie a 2 1/2 year old tuxedo rescue! :) I work as a printroom operator for a fulfillment company so its not super stressfull but it does have its days. Im sadly a big tv junkie. Shows like Deadliest Catch, Axe Men, Dog The Bounty Hunter, really get me lol. I also love to read though. Kim Harrison is one of my favorite authors just to list 1 out of way to many to even mention. Im a horror movie fan too. Oh and as for animals..my kids of course i love...but if i could keep a penguin in a freezer i would totaly have one they are awesome!

DIABETES INFORMATION: About a year ago my doctor said that i was pre diabetic and to get on the ball with exercise...needless to say i havent been back (yes i know stupid) mainly because hes rude...i mean any doctor who just looks at you and says "YOUR FAT AND YOU NEED TO QUIT SMOKING" is discouraging in my book. So im looking for a new doctor now. I have checked my bs frequently with a free meter i received and ordered test strips for. This morning (as an example) the meter read 284, now this afternoon (i havent eaten anything and only had half a soda) it is 151 so yea red flag is up and waving.
DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: Ive tried counting calories and got frustrated, ive tried slim fast and just got annoyed, ive tried those super fun diet pills...what a waste of time. The only thing i got results from was a stomach virus i had for a week when i lost 10 pounds! I just signed up for Weight Watchers though so im kind of excited about the fact that there is structure which i need to actually motivate myself.
SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS: My special hope...probably sounds silly...but my special hope is to be healthy. Ive lived a fairly unhealthy lifestyle and its time to kick some old habbits and turn this life around. I would love to eventually take some college courses for programming and or graphic design as i am a bit of a computer nerd. And the biggest thing of all. I want to look fantastic October 27, 2012 when i marry the love of my life :)

Welcome Chase!

You can find my introduction on this thread if you care to look.

I don't think your goals are silly at all! Getting healthy is the best goal of all.

Having a compassionate Doctor it the most important thing. My Doc is so kind and supportive that it has made it much easier for me to make some lifestyle changes.

I also love Dog the Bounty Hunter and deadliest catch. I also love the food network. Ironically, it doesn't make me hungry. Go figure!

I wish you good luck on your journey and I look forward to your presence here.

Hello Bunnypaws.

I just wanted to say hello. It will be nice to have another poster on the diabetes thread. I find this site to be really helpful. Ideas, accountability, and just having others who understand what you are going through.

Good for you on the changes that you have made so far!

I hope you enjoy hanging out with us.

Rie

PERSONAL INFORMATION: My name is Kim. I am a 46 year old mother of 5, and married to the most supportive husband for 23 years. I am very home/family orientated, and homeschool our children. Not much of a TV person, but love to read, and have a wide range of books I read.

DIABETES INFORMATION: Was diagnosed with Type2 diabetes about 2 years ago, soon followed by high blood pressure and high cholesterol. have a family history, so it came as no surprise. Dutifully took the tons of medication prescribed, and tried to ignore my failing health, but the meds, and unhealthy life style was making me feel worse then before I was diagnosed. My quality of life was horrible. I was sick and tired of feeling sick and tired, and I finally decided to take control of my health. Educated myself, and stopped taking all meds except for blood pressure meds. I would not advise anyone to do this, but it was the path I chose in my frustration. Surprisingly I had my doc's support. I am now controlling my BS through exercise and diet alone better then when I was taking the metformin!




DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: I am 5'5" and weigh 193 as of this morning. When I started this journey in April of this year I was 205lbs, so that gives me a 12 lb loss so far. My goal weight is 140 lbs by Christmas. I exercise usually 5-6 days a week. 30-45 minutes of walking on the treadmill, and upper body strength training 3 days a week. I follow Dr. Bernstein's "diabetic diet" for both weight loss, and to control my BS.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS: I must say my family is my inspiration. I still have young children, and I was feeling so ill all the time all I wanted to do was lay on the couch. All I want to achieve is to have my life back, and it is happening. I have more energy, I feel 10 times better, and I am actually participating in life again.
I have no one to blame but myself for the years of unhealthy eating, and now I have chosen to take that control and decide how I am going to live. Every day I chose! I can have a piece of cake if I chose, but I chose not to. ;-)

Hello Agape.

I didn't see your post right away so I am responding a couple days later. This is a great place for support and accountability. It sounds like you are already making great progress on controlling your blood sugar.

Feel free to join us on the diabetes june chat. There are some really good and knowledgeable people on there. Looking forward to reading your posts.

Hello...my name is Sheri, and I've been here at 3FC before, but it has been a long time. I am feeling I need some support!
PERSONAL INFORMATION: I am a 57 year old mother of two amazing, grown boys who love their Mom and Dad. I am happily married to the man who has made my life a blessing. I teach high school English, and a slew of other electives, and programs in a very small school. To say that I am under stress and that I am overworked is an understatement, but I still love my job.

I am an avid gardener and have a big, crazy, wild garden that just keeps getting bigger. I especially like native plants, drought tolerant plants, butterfly and hummer gardening, and all sorts of veggies. I also enjoy travel, reading, hiking and home renovation; I have two that need it!
DIABETES INFORMATION: I was DX'd with type II two years ago, although, I had an idea for about a year that I might be sliding into it. I had myself tested, and, sure enough...Type II, first AIC was 7.9, fasting blood sugar was 119. I am on one tablet of Metformin, 500 mg. per day and have been experiencing very good control with my AIC's running between 5.6 and 6.4. I feel better than I have felt in years, and so I have probably been pre-diabetic for a long time. I still play around with denial though, and I am still at the anger part of the grieving process about having this disease. I had never expected getting old for me to include a chronic illness, but being overweight, what did I expect? Weight loss is a demoralizing battle for me that yo-yo's me emotionally and physically.
DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: I am 5'3 and have lost one pound, so now I weigh 203. I want to weigh 150 pounds by next summer. I hope to reward myself with a lifelong dream of a vacation in Provence, France...my avatar will stay as the sunflowers until I reach my goal. I have done every diet under the sun, but Adtkins has worked the best and been the easiest for me, so, I am going to go on a gentle Adtkins, counting carbs and eating lots of veggies. I wear down on Atdkins because of the carb restriction if I try to stay on induction too long. So a month maybe to jumpstart my weight loss is all I will do and then go on to about 15-20 carbs per meal. I am much better at weight loss if I intensify my exercise, so that is my plan...to really kick butt at exercise. Today I will take my little dog (welsh corgi named Gizmo) for the three mile walk loop.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS: Well, I said that I want to go to Provence...I just love all things French. I want to hike a 14'er in Colorado again (there are 54 mountains above 14,000 feet in Colorado), but I am worried about my diabetic feet and possible blisters and foot injuries. I don't know a lot about that yet. I want to move into a semi-retired job over the next few years. I am thinking about teaching online at the college level. And, I want to fit into, and stay in a size 8 sometime within the next couple of years!

I look forward to talking to all of you, and supporting you in your weight loss journey and as you work at conquering this disease, diabetes.
Sheri

Wow, this is such a long thread....but here goes.

[
PERSONAL INFORMATION: Tell us about yourself, your family, your pets, your hobbies, your occupation, your most (and least) favourite books/movies/TV programs/music; – just about anything that helps us know the real ‘you’.

My name is Carol. I'm 65, married, 2 step-children and 1 grandson. I am down to 1 dog, after having had 5 dogs throughout my marriage. I retired in July 2010 and am basically enjoying doing whatever I want, but I'm fighting health problems right and left.

DIABETES INFORMATION: What Type; when diagnosed; what medications; any complications you’ve experienced.

I was diagnosed Type II in 2008 when hospitalized with heart bypass surgery. So I had to handle recovering from surgery and dealing with a disease I knew nothing about. I do not consider myself to be in control. Bread is my downfall. But I am working on it.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: Height/Weight Statistics. How much you hope to lose and in what timeframe. Formal or informal diet and exercise regimens. Things that work for you. Things you tried, that didn’t.

I am 5'3. Since my heart surgery I went from 217 to 197, maintaining, but not losing any more. After a recent surgery I lost an additional 15 lbs, bringing me to 182, the lowest I've been in years. Since the first of 2011 I have been exercising 5 hours a week faithfully. Treadmill and elliptical with some weight training thrown in here and there. I would like to eventually get off my diabetes and blood pressure meds. My blood pressure has dropped dramatically since my weight loss, but not enough to get off the meds completely. With this recent surgery, I have had to stop my exercising, but I do plan on getting back to it gradually.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS: Anything you’d like to share with the group.

As I mentioned before, I would like to someday get off my diabetes and blood pressure meds. I don't know how much weight I want to lose. I'm thinking 160 or 150 might be a good weight for me, but I want to go to whatever weight gets me off those meds. Also, I want to quit having these health problems. My grandson will be 3 in August. I would like to live long enough so that he will remember me. I think that probably would be when he's around 7-10 years old. So far I have already out-lived every member of my immediate family, so I'm on borrowed time, genetically. The best bet for me would be to follow the Dean Ornish diet, but I don't think I could ever be that regimented. I can just do the best I can, as we all know, we never know when our time will be up.

Carol

Welcome slmn! This is a great group. Ease on over to the July chat and hang out with us!

Rie

PERSONAL INFORMATION: Tell us about yourself, your family, your pets, your hobbies, your occupation, your most (and least) favourite books/movies/TV programs/music; – just about anything that helps us know the real ‘you’. Hi! My name is Lynn, my hubby is Andy. Our pets are 3 wonderful Maine Coon kitties and a baby that the feral cat we feed gifted us with this spring, so as DH says, we have 3 1/4 cats! For 30+ years I was a travel agent, owned a large agency for 23 years until last year when I closed it down and moved my business home as a private concierge business that I tend to part time, I work fulltime as a personal/executive assistant to one of my former clients. Love it! No two days are ever the same!

DIABETES INFORMATION: What Type; when diagnosed; what medications; any complications you’ve experienced. I was diagnosed over 10 years ago as a borderline diabetic, I managed to keep it under control with diet for 7 years or so, then I fell off the wagon. It was a combination of medications to help my rheumatoid arthritis and stopping smoking. At any rate I packed on 50# and am now determined to get rid of it.

I take 1000mg glucophage twice daily and victoza once a day. In addition I take a lot of supplements: alpha lipoic acid sustain has helped with neuropathy, cinnamon, milk thistle, evening primrose oil....and many others.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: Height/Weight Statistics. How much you hope to lose and in what timeframe. Formal or informal diet and exercise regimens. Things that work for you. Things you tried, that didn’t. I was at 240, now at 230 and am 5'7" tall. It needs to be gone my November 1 for my boss' wedding! Hubby needs to lose about the same so we joined the Bariatric center here in town on August 1. they only weigh once per week, I had lost 10.5#! I know it is nearly all water but that's okay with me, it was encouraging! LOL! I'm back on my low carb program to get my sugar numbers back down.
SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS: Anything you’d like to share with the group. I/we just need to get healthy, the weight loss will be a side benefit!

Welcome! I look forward to geting to know you!

Hi! I've been poking around for awhile so I suppose formal introductions are in order:
Personal Information- My name is Rebecca, and I'm 30 years old. I'm getting married in a few months and live with my fiance' and our puppy. I work as a trainer in adult education and enjoy cake decorating and travelling as hobbies. (I know i know, the sugar! Luckily I don't eat it, I work with it as an artform.)
Diabetes Information- Diagnosed at age 17 with type 2 with 9.7 A1C. Uncontrolled until I figured it out in my mid-20s. I take 1000 mg Metformin twice per day and would love to get that dosage lowered. Am also on lisinopril. Have lost 70 pounds. A1C is 6.8. Not perfect, but I'm looking for progress, not perfection. Hoping to have a healthy pregnancy in the next few years.
Diet and Exercise- Follow a low GI diet, and exercise 5 times per week for an hour. I love Zumba and pilates right now. The other days I walk/jog.
Special Hopes- As healthy and uncomplicated a pregnancy as possible in the next two years and to be healthy for my children and new hubby. :)

Hi everybody!

PERSONAL INFORMATION:
I'm a 21 year old, who is currently studying her butt off for exams (five days till the first one. Yikes). Im doing a combined law/psychology degree in Australia, and the weather has just turned lovely. So its very difficult to be inside with the textbooks.

I really love to read. Give me a book instead of television anyday. (In fact, the only time when I watch tv is when I am around at my parents house). I know that this makes me sound pretty nerdy, but its just something which I grew up into. Im also a pretty sociable person, so my second favourite thing to do in the world is to sit down with friends over coffee. (Being at uni gives me time to enjoy these things regularly too - except for the four weeks of the year when we actually work. Obsessing a bit over this? Yes, I am)

DIABETES INFORMATION: I was diagnosed with T1DM when I was around twelve years old. It was on the day of the melbourne cup (the biggest horse race in Australia - we actually get a public holiday for it) and I picked the winning horse. Of course, I couldn't enjoy the prize (a big bag of lollies). Its carried on much the same ever since. I started pump therapy around 15, and aside from a brief period of teenage rebellion have been on it ever since. I am ashamed to say however that for a period of around 6 years (14 - 20) I did neglect my diabetes, coming up with some shocking HbA1Cs. However this past nine months I've really made an effort to get back on track, which I have done. Although, this has also entailed the weight gain (as to be expected).


DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: At the moment, I'm 5'5 and 150. (converting this is still a bit tricky for me, I use google all the time). I've managed to loose a bit in the past couple of months (down from about 160), but ideally want to be hanging around the 130 mark. I recently discovered how much I love exercise. I used to be very athletic when I was younger, but that eventually gave way to study. Getting back into it has been fun. I'm currently doing 30 DS, and have just started C25K as well. Good times ahead.
In terms of diet, I tend to eat (very) low carb. This is mostly personal choice, and the fact that I've been doing it for so long it is expected of me, but I do have a fear that if I suddenly dive into a bowl of pasta and have a slice of bread I'll gain 15 pounds overnight. Dramatic, but true. My one weakness: Milk coffee + Lindt 85% chocolate. I have it every day, but in very small quantity as my treat.

SPECIAL HOPES: I'd love to be able to lose those twenty or so pounds, and be able to do it while maintaining the diabetes control. I find that I can do one or another, but haven't ever been able to manage both as an adult.

Oh - and I forgot to add down the bottom that I've been lurking on this forum for ages, and am very much looking forward to meeting everyone here officially!

PERSONAL INFORMATION:
My name is Julz. I'm 39 years old. I live in California. I'm single and I have a chiweenie (half dachshund/half chihuahua) named Lucy. During my free time I enjoy photography, crafts, cooking, baking, and traveling. I work in the corporate world doing project manage work. It's not where I want to be but it's income and I'm employed. For that, I'm thankful. One of my favorite books is Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. I have many others and I try to be an avid reader but sometimes life just gets too busy. Right now I'm reading a book called "The Zen of Eating". I love movies. Chick flicks are probably my favorite but I love a good adventure, mystery, drama, period flick, etc. Tivo is my friend and browsing the internet is quite enjoyable as well. I love to read other people's blogs (as well as write my own). Usually they are quite inspirational. I enjoy music, particularly pop, Christian, classical, Broadway. Pretty much enjoy every style except maybe head banging/heavy metal and rap.

DIABETES INFORMATION:
I have Type 2 Diabetes. I was diagnosed in Oct 2010. I've been pre-diabetic for years and out of my stubbornness and difficulty breaking bad habits I never lost enough weight and didn't listen to my doctors. I was in denial for about a year. This past fall I attended a Diabetes Education class at my doctor's office and that helped me come to terms better with the condition. I still get angry and sad that I have this diagnosis and sometimes remain in denial but I'm in a better mind frame than I was a year ago. I'm taking metformin. I was just changed over from Glipizide so I'm only taking it once a day right now but once I stop getting stomach aches from it I should take it twice a day. I haven't had any major complications other than thirst and peeing more often.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN:
I'm about 253 right now on a 5'3" frame. My new year thought is to lose 50 pounds throughout the year. That's about 1 pound a week with a 2 lb leeway from Jan 1 to Dec 31, 2012. I think that's a healthy loss. I need to be really realistic with my weight loss because in the past my habits have been to give up if I don't see immediate results. It's a day at a time right now trying to change poor eating habits. I've tried commercial diets in the past but due to my own weaknesses I never succeeded at any of them. I've always gained weight when I did diet programs (rebellion?). What is wrong with me that I can't find success in weightless? Sometimes I wonder!

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS:
I am hopeful to gain the courage to tell my family and friends that I am diabetic. In my mind, I am hesitant because I feel like there is a social stigma that goes with it. Though, I think that stigma is a result of having an overly critical mother (but that's another story). I'd like to be more athletic. Having run 3 half marathons about 6 years ago, I'd like to get back to a healthier me both physically and mentally so I can feel that good again. I'd like to fall in love again and get married. I'd love to be a mom but as I"m about to turn 40 this coming summer and now with diabetes I'm just not sure if I'm physically able. My biggest achievement in 2011 was doing a 365 photography project where I took a photo of my life everyday for one year. I'm really proud of myself for doing it. It's made me a healthier person and a better photographer.

PERSONAL INFORMATION: Hello! My name is Kimberly and I am 30 years old,i have 2 beautiful girls and a supportive husband. I love all lifetime movies and twilight.

DIABETES INFORMATION: Gestational with both pregnancy's, Insulin with second. I also kept the diabetes after my second child. At this time I am diet controlled. I am allergic to artificial sweeteners so it makes dieting a little harder.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: Height/Weight Statistics. I weight 144 I am 5'1 with a small frame. My goal is to lose 30 pounds by June 2012. Since I start tomorrow the plan is 1200 cal diet with 100 gm carbs, exercising 4 times a week X 1 hour.

I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone!!

Hi Everyone, My name is Sally, and I am from Ontario Canada. I have Been Type 2 now going on to my second year. The first year was just a frustrating, day to day battle with food, and myself. There are still those days that I just throw my hands up in the air and say give me that, and eat it. I am normally sorry later, but I am quick to adjust as soon as my body and diabetes tries to put me to sleep and I feel very bad. Those are far and few between now. I have been managing it well according to my doctor, but fighting some of the other things that come with it. Liver and kidney numbers were off, until I got the food and meds under control. Doing well now. My last visit to the doctor showed everything down and where it should be. I am 5'3 I think maybe 5'4 I am never really sure. I tip the scales at 215, and that needs to change. I have a hard time with exercise as I have permanent plantar fasciitis and arthritis in both knees and shoulder. Sounds like excuses, but pain is something it is hard to exercise through and not be able to walk afterwards. I do still try though, hoping it will all just go away someday....a girl can dream. I have a good sense of humour about it all, and plan to smile my way through it all.
I work at home, running a home daycare, after years of the corporate management thing. I like this better. I am 54, I think, not a really important thing to me. I am a Mom of twins (35 now), married to the most wonderful man in the world, supports me in EVERY thing I do. And even joins in. I guess that is it....the rest as with the above is just stuff.
Hope to get to know you all, get support and give when I can.
Excuse all typing errors and spelling.

PERSONAL INFORMATION: Tell us about yourself, your family, your pets, your hobbies, your occupation, your most (and least) favourite books/movies/TV programs/music; – just about anything that helps us know the real ‘you’.
Hi, I'm married, have 1 teenage daughter, 2 dogs, 1 cat, 1 rabbit, 1 hamster, 13 finches, 15 chickens, 1 rooster and 8 ducks. Yeah, it's an Animal House around here, lol. My hobbies are scrapbooking and shopping. :D I'm addicted to GSN and 1970-1980's games shows, especially Match Game! I listen to everything from Opera to Metal, including rap!

DIABETES INFORMATION: What Type; when diagnosed; what medications; any complications you’ve experienced.
I was diagnosed Nov 2010 with Type II, with an A1C of 8.4, weighing in around 310# :barf: I'm on metformin, 500mg, 3 times daily. The only real complication I've had, and it's more a symptom, is extreme fatigue.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: Height/Weight Statistics. How much you hope to lose and in what timeframe. Formal or informal diet and exercise regimens. Things that work for you. Things you tried, that didn’t.
When I'm a good girl, I'm on a low GI diet, keep my carbs to around 45gr per meal, and 15gr per snack. I try to get in 30 minutes of exercise daily, aerobic dance and walking. But I'm not always a "good girl" so I've been on a plateau for over a year now: stuck at 245# :mad: If I don't have 5-6 small meals a day, I overeat, gain weight, and feel generally gross.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS: Anything you’d like to share with the group.
I'm a yo-yo dieter. So it's not the first time I've lost 65#. It is however the first time I've kept it off. I'm bound and determined to get in to ONEDERLAND (I love that term, btw) and a healthy weight for me. I'm also never going to let my diabetes control me again!

PERSONAL INFORMATION: I'm 25 yrs old I got married 2 (almost 3) years ago. I graduated with a Bachelors in Political Science from Cal State Long Beach and my husband is 2 years away from getting his Bachelors in Computer Science. I love to draw with pastels and I prefer using my fingers that just the pastel. My husband loves to program and play computer games in his spare time. We don't have pets and I work as a legal assistant while my husband is a full-time college student and a part time programmer. We just finished watching Drop Dead Diva, Glee and Breaking Bad. Now, we're watching Star Trek from the beginning my husband has me hooked on it now but he also likes Star Wars so, we watch both lol. I listen to a lot of latin rock and my husband likes daft punk. I used to host a weekly radio show for a local non profit called Association of Professionals and Students and my husband used to be their webmaster.

DIABETES INFORMATION: My husband has Type 2 Diabetes and was diagnosed November 2010 when he was 25. He takes Metmorfin and another drug (i forgot the name) Luckily he hasn't had any complications with it.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: My husband is about 5'9" and is top heavy. We've tried working out and eating healthier and in the first few months he lost ~20 lbs. He's never been on a formal diet only eating healthier and excersizing. We try not to eat after 6pm but its been difficult because he has night classes and when we work out its at night so we end up eating afterwards which isn't good.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS: My hope is that I can be a stronger support for my husband. Having diabetes has affected the both of us and it pains me when he says that he worries that he'll die young because of the disease. I know that if I take better care of him by cooking healthier meals and being his gym buddy he'll live a long and healthy life. I aspire to be a lawyer and am presently working on my application process, if all goes well I'll start law school next fall. My husband's dream is to graduate, get his masters and work for Google, and I'm cheering him every step of the way. We have much to live and accomplish and I want to be a better support for him, my hope is that here I can learn that and be there for him when he needs me :)

PERSONAL INFORMATION: Tell us about yourself, your family, your pets, your hobbies, your occupation, your most (and least) favourite books/movies/TV programs/music; – just about anything that helps us know the real ‘you’.
Married Mother of 5, 2 girls 3 boys, 19,14,13,11,8. We have one Shih-poo a sixth child :) I don't really have any hobbies. I used to be a SAHM bu recently had to return to work. I love going to church, studying my Bible and gospel music. Don't watch tv much but will watch it if someone turns it on. Law & Order SVU, and most Lifetime Movies is what catch my attention

DIABETES INFORMATION: What Type; when diagnosed; what medications; any complications you’ve experienced.
I was just diagnosed on 5/14 with Type II, with an A1C of 10.4, weighing in at 188. I started taking metformin, 1000mg, 2 times daily, this past Monday. The symptoms that I have noticed thus far are gas and extreme fatigue about 1 hour after I take the medicine.

DIET / EXERCISE REGIMEN: Height/Weight Statistics. How much you hope to lose and in what timeframe. Formal or informal diet and exercise regimens. Things that work for you. Things you tried, that didn’t. I am currently at 185 as of today, my goal is to see 150 then 140-136 is my ultimate goal. I don't have a time frame in mind. I lost 30lbs in 2010 just eating right and walking 3 miles 6 days a week. Now I don't eat like I'm supposed to though I try. Some days I start out well but by the end of the day I have flopped. I don't get any exercise in other than housework and bending and lifting at work.

SPECIAL HOPES / ASPIRATIONS / ACHIEVMENTS: Anything you’d like to share with the group.
I just want to see my children all grow up and have families of their own.