Messages from our patients...in their own words
Quality of Care
I was recently diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes which did not come as a shock to me as I have struggled with my weight for the better part of the last decade. Even though I have been overweight for many years I had been fortunate to have had relatively good health, which I used as an excuse to not manage my diet. After my diagnosis I was referred to the Center or Nutrition and Diabetes Management by my Doctor and was able to meet with the Nutritionists and Diabetes Educator. While there was a lot of information to go over the staff took the time to make sure I was getting everything I needed to be successful in the changes that I needed to make. I attribute my success to the quality of care I received, in the 3 weeks since my first visit I have lost 24 pounds as well as having good blood glucose levels. I am now participating in a “Commit to be Fit” program at my work and look forward to continuing to work with the staff at the Center for Nutrition and Diabetes Management.
--Chris H., Hillsborough, NJ
Feeling Empowered
Attending sessions with a nutritionist and a nurse educator at the Center for Nutrition and Diabetes Management has been a most positive experience in helping me to manage my Type 2 diabetes since my diagnosis in February 2007. I have been empowered to learn to deal with living with diabetes because of the care of these two professionals, along with my primary care physician and endocrinologist. The nutritionist has taught me how to keep my blood glucose numbers in the recommended ranges by designing a food plan for me, helping me to select the correct foods for daily meals and snacks as well as stressing the importance of daily exercise. The nurse educator has taught me about glucose monitoring and record keeping, the safe use of my diabetes medications and is readily available to answer any questions or concerns that I may have. I plan to periodically continue my sessions with both the nutritionist and the nurse educator.
--Maryann E., Ringoes, NJ
A Lifelong Journey
In February 1951, I was diagnosed with what then was called juvenile diabetes. As with any chronic disease, it is a shock to suddenly learn that your own body depends on insulin or medication to remain healthy. Of course insulin and/or medication is only the beginning of changes. The Center for Nutrition and Diabetes Management helps me with my low blood sugar management so much. I carry little juice containers wherever I go, especially out in my garden where I tend to get involved in plants and forget to eat!
-- Kathleen Y., Milford, NJ
Joslin Diabetes Center first began awarding medals in 1948 with a 25-year victory medal. Over the years, the program has expanded to include 50 and 75 year medals. The program was the vision of Elliott P. Joslin, MD and served as an incentive for those committed to their diabetes care. His belief was that proper self management was key to minimizing complications that arise from diabetes.
Kathleen Y., of Milford, New Jersey is a client of the Center for Nutrition and Diabetes Management. She is also a recipient of the Joslin 50 year medal. Kathleen, diagnosed at age 6, has lived with diabetes for over 58 years.
Learning About Nutrition
The diet plan and the extensive information on nutrition that I received from the "Why Can't I Lose Weight?" program gave me the confidence and the tools I needed to lose 30 pounds and to continue to lose weight over the long haul.
-- Jeanne D., Lebanon, NJ
Healthy Way of Eating
I was falling down and struggling with my weight and diabetes management. My doctor told me he would have to revise and increase my medications on my next visit if I couldn't get control of my situation. I was not happy with myself. A few days later I came across your flyer advertising the 8 week "Why Can't I Lose Weight?" program. The title fit and I was ready to re-educate myself on nutrition and weight management. This program was the best thing I did for myself. Our instructor, Paula Hazard, was excellent. Her knowledge and love of educating people about their health shows a true dedication.
Encouragement and knowing the right way to teach a sensitive subject was refreshing. Enlightening us on many aspects of nutrition and if there was a topic she was not sure of, the next week she came back with research to clarify it. The instructional materials are a great resource and follow-up to refer back on. I also liked not tagging this program as a DIET! It was nice to know I could eat anything, but in moderation. I learned a healthier, better way of eating. Realizing my pitfalls and trigger points and how to overcome the weaknesses. I have learned a lot through this 8 week program. Now I have to show myself that I can continue to be successful because of what I came away with. Thank you Paula Hazard, you made it easier for me to turn my life and health around!
-- Mary P., Lambertville, NJ
Prompt Attention
The Center for Nutrition and Diabetes Management is the most efficient office I have ever visited. Phone calls are returned promptly and any information I needed was always answered by the office quickly and accurately. There is a caring, friendly attitude- Paula the nutritionist was very helpful also.
It’s a wonderful feeling to be in such competent hands.
-- Zella R., Somerville, NJ