Rebecca Paciorek's Story

What were the steps leading up to your diagnosis?

I have the craziest type 2 diabetes story. I've always had polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) so I knew that I was predisposed to getting it (and my dad also has type 2). Of course, my doctor said losing weight would help for the PCOS and lower my risk of type 2.

I started going to Weight Watchers and followed the points system diet religiously. I walked, drank water, watched the portions and wrote everything down. I gained two pounds the first week.

The second week, I gained another pound. The third week I gained 3/4 of a pound and gave up.

I took the food diary to my doctor and insisted they run tests on me. What was the point in giving up all the "yummy" foods like brownies and chips and doing all the exercise to GAIN weight?

They found out I have type 2 diabetes and the points I chose on Weight Watchers were all my favorite carb foods.

Who has been there for you? How?

My husband and son have been very supportive. My husband has the exact opposite food requirements as he has gout, but he (usually) never complains when I spring new veggie sides on him or when I spend the extra money to buy fresh produce.

What lifestyle changes have you needed to make?

In addition to taking the time to get the right mixture of medications, I have completely revamped my eating habits. I keep fresh vegetables and either ranch/sour cream dip in my refrigerator at all times.

When everyone else grabs the chips or pretzels, I grab my veggies. I also volunteer to bring those and cheese and pepperoni everywhere I go.

I also bought a spiralizer to eat zucchini pasta instead of noodles so I can still have the garlic bread and not feel guilty. I drink almost a gallon of water a day and have joined a gym. I exercise in some way almost every day.

What accomplishment are you proud of?

I'm proud of having the willpower to make the right choices for my health even when I'm surrounded by treat temptation.

What's your advice to someone else living with Type 2 Diabetes?

Don't give up. If you have a bad day of eating, just start over tomorrow. If there's a birthday, have a piece of cake — just make it very small.

When invited to a gathering, always offer to take a treat that you know you can eat without guilt.

Is there anything else we should know?

It's really important to know your body and know when to ask for help. I had to demand the blood tests and I was right to do so.