Diabetes Prevention is Possible

Larry

This story is modified from Larry’s original story that appeared in PRIDE News, Summer 2007 issue

Years ago if you had asked me what my chances were of getting diabetes, I would have said, “None.” That, of course, was before I saw a newspaper advertisement about the Diabetes Prevention Program at the University of Pittsburgh. The advertisement included information about the risk factors for diabetes. To my surprise and chagrin, I had most of them!

Calling the Diabetes Prevention Program was one of the best decisions I ever made. I found out that not only was I at risk for diabetes, but my blood glucose level classified me as having pre-diabetes. The lifestyle intervention group included altering eating habits, increasing physical activity, and losing 7 percent body weight.

My first thought was, “Oh no, I’m gonna have to exercise.” I had been hoping that I would only have to pop a pill in the morning and then go about my day as usual. As it turned out, I was lucky. The behavior changes presented in the lifestyle group proved to be the most effective method of preventing diabetes.

As part of the program I had the opportunity to learn about nutrition, portion sizes, reading food labels, and physical activity. As an adult, I thought I already knew about these things. I was wrong! I learned that if I had continued with my “old” diet and low level of physical activity, then I may have developed diabetes.

It is funny how one’s attitude toward healthy eating and exercising can change. I started the program with reluctance, but now I don’t feel right about missing one day of exercise. I’m presently involved in competitive weightlifting. Recently, I earned second place when I competed in the World Dead Lifting Championship. In addition, I hold the current Pennsylvania state record for dead lifting.

I have the opportunity to show my appreciation and give back to the community. I was a guest on a WQED–TV program, “Diabetes: Epidemic of Our Time.”

If I had not made that telephone call years ago, who knows where I would be today. Maybe I would have been lucky and avoided developing diabetes. Looking back, I’m glad I didn’t take that risk. There is still a lot I want to accomplish, and thanks to the Diabetes Prevention Program, I will get the chance.

By Larry Pusateri, Diabetes Prevention Program Participant