Josh has been a See Yourself Health community member since summer of 2019.  By day, he enjoys crafts (he recently completed a wooden flag) and going on walks with his dog. And three nights a week, Josh inspires other See Yourself Health participants by sharing his own experience learning to live better with diabetes. Let’s dive in! Interview lightly edited for clarity and length.

Josh, what was your experience of living with diabetes before you joined See Yourself Health?

I wasn't taking my diabetes seriously.  I didn’t have an outlet or somewhere to go for advice if I wasn’t feeling well. I didn’t have friends who were diabetic who could give me advice.  Before I joined this program I didn’t have a regimen or a place to go for diabetes management.  

What surprised you most about See Yourself Health?

The mentors! Previously, I was in a face-to-face program where it felt like the leaders were just going through the motions. Here, everybody goes above and beyond and cares about all of us. The leaders are all so personal and make sure that if we have any questions or problems, that we feel comfortable to talk about it. They’re always there for me when I need them.

What changes have you made since joining the program?

One change is going to the gym. Of course, with the virus, the gym was shut down for a couple of months.  But it just reopened and I’m going again. Also, my A1C and blood sugar have come down. My A1C was 9.8 when I started and it is down to 7.1. It was a lot of work, but I did it by setting small weekly intentions, like taking my dog on a slightly longer walk each night or walking to get the mail instead of driving up my driveway. 

Were there any unexpected benefits?

I made great friends in the meetups!  I talk to a couple of them outside the meetups; we’ve exchanged numbers and check in with one another and bounce ideas off each other a few times a week.  We all support each other! 

Are there any particular moments or memories that stand out for you?

I really enjoyed the guest speaker we had a couple of weeks ago.  She just seemed like she had such a hard road before she found her reason why.  Her reason why is how she gets out of bed each morning,  makes it through each day, and overcomes challenges.  When she was sharing her story I felt that I knew her and could relate to her because of my own experiences.  She really inspired me.

It’s clear that finding the “why” is very important to you.  Have you found yours?

I have! I knew about my “why” for a while. It is still a work in progress, but years ago I was in a very depressed state, so my reason why is to share and be open about my story.  You never know who you are going to help or whose day you are going to change. 

What is your outlook for the future?

 Oh, that's a tough one. I just want to maintain a healthy lifestyle as best I can. I want to keep my sugar in check, keep my A1C down, and just really enjoy life.  Remember, it’s tough, you will have good days and bad days. It’s a long road and you aren’t going to be perfect.  Keep working towards what you are trying to accomplish. 

Dancing is a pillar of our program. Would you share your go-to dance move or song? 

Oh boy! I don’t know if I have a favorite dance  but I am a big country music fan.  I really enjoy when we play country at the meetups.  My favorite band is the Dixie Chicks so any song by them!

What would you say to someone who is struggling with their diabetes and doesn’t believe that things can change?

I would say to find a program where you feel safe and un-judged like SYH.  Having people of all different ages and perspectives who are going through the same thing as you helped me tremendously.  They are able to give you input and understand what you are going through. 

Want to know more about our virtual lifestyle change classes? Click the link below!