Phylis P Diabetes Support Makes a Difference

I am grateful to RWJBarnabas Health and the Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention for having the program.

“I recently completed the second year of the Prevent T2 Diabetes Prevention Program presented by the Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention at the Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center. I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity of the second year maintenance. The program stresses, health, well-being, self awareness and provides feedback, accountability and wonderful support.

Through the sessions and the exceptional teaching and guidance of Deanna Schweighardt, RDN, CDCES, a certified diabetes educator, our group was given the knowledge and tools to reach the goals of developing and maintaining a healthier life style. Deanna was well prepared, supportive and caring throughout. She is skilled in her approach to requiring accountability and addressing individual needs.

Maintaining a food and exercise log was ok with me… that is until I had to send it to Deanna at the appointed times! Initially, this was not something I wanted to do, but understood the requirement. I also realized how much I needed to be accountable, as my weight loss did not begin in earnest until I had to email my weight and exercise minutes to Deanna. She always returned the logs in a timely manner with suggestions and encouragement.

Staying on course will not be easy, but I know it is doable and know the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. My lab numbers after the first year on the program were greatly improved.

Deanna’s ability to develop a caring and cohesive group via a remote format and keeping us engaged for two years is quite a feat! I am grateful to RWJBarnabas Health and the Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention for having the program; Dr. Manisha Grover, my primary care physician, for directing me to the program; and especially to Deanna, for the life changing experience.”