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Testimonials from Participants

CDC-recognized lifestyle change programs are an effective—and fun—way to prevent type 2 diabetes. Hear what real people are saying about their experiences participating in these programs.

Corrine Tiliano, 45, Program Participant

"My kids have never seen me run. And I can now. And I love it"

Suzi Gomez, 53, Program Participant

"I prevent type 2 diabetes so I can keep traveling, taking pictures and enjoying my family the rest of my life"

Cynthia Johnson, 54, Program Participant

"It’s not about how long you live, it’s about how well you live"

	A male program participant smilingBruce Wheeler, 52, Program Participant

"I love having a lifestyle coach. She has given us great information, helped me stay on track and stay positive!"

When my glucose levels and blood pressure started to increase, I knew I had to do something to reduce my risk of developing type 2 diabetes. When I mentioned my concerns to a friend, she told me about this lifestyle change program. I love the support and encouragement I get from the other program participants and the lifestyle coach. I enjoy making lifestyle changes such as cutting back on red meat and sugary drinks. I now keep my bike at work and take lunch-break rides around town to stay active!

  	A female program participant smilingJan Booker, 60, Program Participant

"I’ve worked in medical research my entire adult life but always had a difficult time managing my weight. This program has taught me how to eat healthy and find an exercise routine that works for my schedule."

As a medical librarian in a hospital, I knew I needed to make changes to my lifestyle to stay out of the hospital as a patient—but I had a hard time actually doing it. Then I found this lifestyle change program. I was motivated to join the program to make sure I could play with my grandchildren for many years to come. I enjoy the program because I have met many people who also struggle with diet and exercise. We share healthy recipes and motivate each other to exercise. I now read food labels and ride a stationary bike for an hour a day. I am looking forward to a long, healthy life with my children and grandchildren.

	Tim Efinger testimonials participantTim Enfinger, Online Program Participant

"I’ve tried a lot of different diets and nothing has ever stuck. This seems to be sticking."

I’ve always loved food, and I never paid that much attention to what I ate before. My father had type 2 diabetes, and he passed away... I started noticing tingling in my hands, tingling in my feet, and started thinking I might be getting type 2 diabetes, and I needed to make a change. My favorite thing about the video series [in the online lifestyle change program] was the folks were very similar to me. My coach was awesome, sending me emails telling me I was doing well. If I had a question, she would always respond. I was pretty much your standard couch potato before the program. Now my wife and I go walking every day, sometimes as much as 2½ miles. I feel a lot better, I sleep better, and I’m more confident. 

  	A female program participant smilingPhyllis Perkins, 53, Program Participant

"Having a group of people with the same goals as me really motivated me to jump start healthy lifestyle changes."

After the death of my mother and a diagnosis of prediabetes, I was motivated to make healthy changes in my life to prevent type 2 diabetes. I was overweight and had high cholesterol, high glucose levels, and poor eating habits.I joined a lifestyle change program to take control of my life. During the program, I was surprised at how happy I was making healthy changes and how much I enjoyed learning from others in the group. I am now exercising regularly and learning strategies to cope with my emotional eating habits.

  	A female program participant smilingSuchada Jin-Jin Hantragoon, 55, Program Participant

"All you need to do is give this program a try!"

When a friend mentioned this lifestyle change program to me, it piqued my interest. I had wanted to change my eating and exercise habits for some time, and I jumped at the opportunity to get started. I enjoy hearing different ideas and perspectives from others in the program and am motivated by the enthusiasm I see each week. Now, I am working on a daily routine that involves eating healthy and exercising.

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