E-newsletter for Patients - April 2008

Spotlight on Success

Betsy Snell - Hummelstown, Pennsylvania

Diabetes may be a part of Betsy’s life, but it no longer controls her life. It wasn’t always this way.

When Betsy was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in August 1988, she experienced the typical symptoms, including weight loss. She lost more than eight pounds in a single week. Upon learning her diagnosis, she remembers feeling both angry and sad. "I thought everything about my life from that point forward would have to be planned, particularly my meals," she recalls.

Becoming educated about diabetes and having a flexible insulin regimen are two things that changed her outlook on life, so much that she changed careers. Formerly an accountant, Betsy became a registered nurse and a diabetes educator. She has spent the majority of her 20 years with diabetes trying to help others manage their disease better. It’s also motivated her to take better care of herself so she can be a positive role model to others. She exercises six days a week, checks her blood sugar 6-8 times a day and tries to eat healthy, even though it is difficult. "Trying to eat healthy is an ongoing challenge," she says. "I enjoy food, and the older I get, the harder it is to maintain my weight."

Today, Betsy has additional motivation that helps her stay on the "right path". She recently got married and wants to have a long and happy relationship. "It’s important for me to stay healthy for my husband," she says.

Betsy believes we all have a purpose in life, and it’s much easier to fulfill that purpose if we are feeling well. "My passion is to help others with diabetes live well to fulfill their purpose -- living well, meaning emotionally, physically and spiritually." says Betsy, who is actively involved in her church. "Be educated," she says to those who are struggling. "Knowledge and wisdom are keys to living well."