Manuel
Manuel was not surprised when he found out he had diabetes since his father and two of his brothers had already been diagnosed with the disease. When the doctor asked him if he would rather take medications or attend a diabetes education program, Manuel says the decision was easy.
It was, perhaps, harder for Manuel to control his eating since he and his family have been in the restaurant business their entire lives. But despite that potential barrier, he started losing weight after attending classes.
Manuel's family was initially concerned by his weight loss, but with the knowledge he gained through CBHEC's Diabetes Education program, he was able to explain to them that losing weight is a good thing – it’s how he’s been able to control his diabetes.
Manuel says, “Educate yourself about the disease; it is not the end of the world. You will survive and it will not be easy. Make it a priority and be consistent.”