Finding Phenomenal Support
Kimberly Glover
Feb, 2023
Physicians: Jessica Heckman RD, CDCES, CPT
A resident of Granger, Indiana, Kimberly Glover knew about her family’s history of diabetes, but never expected that she would be diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in her twenties.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 10 people has diabetes and more and more children are being diagnosed with it. Type 2 diabetes makes up most of these diagnoses.
Over the years, Kimberly struggled to keep her blood sugar within the normal range. As a result, Kimberly developed diabetic retinopathy, an eye disease that can lead to vision loss.
When her eye doctor noticed swelling in her left eye, Kimberly was referred to Diabetes and Nutrition located at the Center for Outpatient Services in St. Joseph to get help managing her blood sugar levels. Although she lived 45 minutes away, Kimberly was desperate to get her A1C level to a normal range, under seven.
The A1c test, also known as the hemoglobin A1C or HbA1c test, is a blood test to determine how well a person with diabetes is managing their blood sugar levels or whether they have diabetes.
Working with diabetes educator Jessica Heckman RD, CDCES, CPT, Kimberly’s A1C level dropped from 8.1 to 6.6 over five months. She learned stress and certain food choices played a large role in her high A1C levels. Most importantly, Kimberly received the support and tools she needed to make small lifestyle changes to regulate her diabetes.
“I have clarity and understanding about managing my diabetes that I didn’t have before,” said Kimberly. “Little changes in my life have made a major impact in controlling my diabetes.”
Kimberly adjusted her lifestyle by eating less bread, not snacking throughout the day, and getting exercise by going to the gym or using the stairs at work instead of the elevator.
Kimberly also began using an insulin pump, a small device inserted under the skin of the abdomen and can be worn on a belt or placed in a pocket. The pump allows insulin to continuously flow into the body, 24 hours a day. Kimberly no longer needs to measure her insulin or check her blood sugar because the device does it for her.
“Going from insulin injections to using the pump was a game changer,” said Kimberly.
“I learned how to not let diabetes control my life, but how to control the diabetes.”
At 51, Kimberly is taking charge of her diabetes, sharing her journey with others, and encouraging people with diabetes to know that they can control their A1C levels.
“I have a phenomenal support system that allows me to stay on top of my diabetes. It is invaluable,” said Kimberly.
Kimberly now has a renewed boost in confidence and is currently pursuing a second master’s in special education administration. She is a special education instructional facilitator and an individualized education program coach for Benton Harbor Area Schools, and enjoys reading, spending time with family and doing a variety of different crafts such as making gift baskets, drawing, painting, and decorating.
Some people with Type 2 Diabetes may be able to control their blood sugar with lifestyle changes. However, many people also require medication and/or insulin to assist in controlling their blood sugar. To learn more about controlling diabetes, click here or call 269.556.2868