DPP Success
February 16 2025
I am a 73-year old man who has always had trouble asking for help, even if urgently and objectively needed. So it was with some significant emotional trepidation that I signed up for the Diabetes Prevention Program last April. To be completely honest, I didn't even know what diabetes was. But I was convinced that I had to lose some weight, rebuild my physical stamina and break old (and deeply ingrained) lifestyle habits and patterns. So on the advice of my physician, I enlisted.
In general, my experience was very positive. The twice-a-month sessions were enough to keep me focused, but were not overly burdensome. The written materials were clear and helpful. Darien was an excellent (and gentle) moderator and conductor and her supporting cast of experts (nutritionist, physical therapist and nurse/diabetes patient among others) were very helpful and supportive. As a result, I learned a lot.
But perhaps the most important part, for me, was the DPP's creation of what is lately referred to in the modern zeitgeist as a "permission structure". Knowing that every two weeks I was going to be weighed, queried about my level of physical activity and (to some extent, at least) be held publicly accountable for my own actions/inactions was enough to engage me to dig in, challenge myself and change my old patterns.
And, frankly, to my absolute astonishment, it worked.
I lost almost 30 pounds over the six months of the program, dramatically reduced my carbohydrate intake and more than tripled my level of physical activity. Perhaps most surprisingly, since the program ended, I have kept the weight off, pretty much maintained my new eating habits and now get irritated when I miss my gym schedule.
Life is definitely better.
Will miracles never cease?
Patient Story is from a participant in the Midwest Medical Center Diabetes Prevention Program, which is open to the public. Find out more at www.MMCGalena.org/DPP