Last March, 67-year-old Jim Moore wasn't feeling well. He was shaky and frequently felt hungry, although when he ate something it didn't make him feel any better. His energy level was very low. He sometimes felt weak and dizzy and even had blurred vision at times. Virginia, his wife of 43 years, noticed that his color was not right. He looked pale and grayish. So, Jim went to see his doctor.

While the couple didn't even suspect diabetes, Jim was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. "I was so scared . . . it was frightening," says Virginia. 

Jim's doctor prescribed medication, gave him a diet and explained about testing his blood sugar, then sent him to Parkland Health Center's Diabetic Care Center.

The Diabetic Care Center's professionals specialize in support and education to help patients make crucial lifestyle changes. This in turn helps them manage their diabetes and delay or prevent related complications.

First, the couple met with registered dietitian Jeania Byerly who thoroughly explained Jim's new dietary needs. She also gave them a guide book that helps Virginia plan their meals. "This book has been a blessing for me," says Virginia. The couple also met with registered nurse Kathryn Lewis, nurse coordinator of the Diabetic Care Center. "Kathryn really helped me out a lot. She was a rock. I could call her today and she would help me."

Next, the Moores attended classes that helped them learn to manage his diabetes and the lifestyle changes that are necessary. They were required to make up menu plans and then have them evaluated by registered dietitian Shelley Hartmann. They also learned about the importance of exercise. Jim says that while eating properly is the most important lifestyle change, he feels that exercise comes next in importance.

The Moores have followed their doctor's advice and the professionals at the Diabetic Care Center and Jim is feeling much better. He has lost 50 pounds, has much more energy and his knees and back are feeling much better. Now Jim can rake the leaves or mow the grass without stopping until the job is finished. Before, he had to stop as many as 20 times to rest. Virginia has lost 20 pounds and has more energy too. "I eat more than I did before, but it is healthy."

"Go to the doctor and ask to be tested," says Jim. "And if you are diagnosed, accept it. Don't look back, look forward." Jim points out that denying that you have this disease and not taking care of yourself can lead to other problems and some very serious health consequences. "It takes a lot to absorb all this information and know what to do. Learn as much as you can. I will continue to learn," says Virginia.

"You should have seen him at our daughter's wedding," says Virginia. "He danced to his heart's content."

"I didn't think I could ever do that," says Jim. "Before, I wouldn't have lasted through the evening."