Sue Ann went to the doctor. While the doctor addressed the issue at hand, he also did a bunch of tests. Sue Ann was in the 225-pound weight range and not surprisingly when the test results came back her blood sugar value was very high. The doctor started her on metformin right away and went through some trial and error to get the right dose and combination of mediation for her condition. She started out losing about 10 pounds every 6 weeks.

Before she knew it, she was down 30 pounds. She met with a dietitian to learn the best healthy eating strategies.  She now journals her food intake and plans her meals. She met with the RDPCN family nurse to learn more about her blood sugar and how her lifestyle choices affect it, to plan her exercise activities and for overall support and motivation. Sue Ann states she often loses motivation at about 3 months into any lifestyle intervention but this time she has the drive and support to keep going.

Sue Ann has made great progress. Sue Ann has a deteriorating spine syndrome so losing weight has really decreased her back issues. She feels so much better, more energetic and more confident. She has gone from a size 18 to a size 10 and lost 3 inches off her top, her waist and her hips. Her blood sugar is now in the normal range. She has a plan and is willing to put in the hard work to accomplish her plan. Her doctor says she likely will be able to come off her medications next year- another motivating factor. Sue Ann is very thankful to all the team members that have helped her make these positive changes!

To learn more about the RDPCN programs, visit www.reddeerpcn.com

Getting My Blood Glucose Back in the Normal Range Gave Me Tears of Joy

Red Deer Regional Health Foundation Board modifies this year’s event.

On the recommendation of Alberta Health Services, the Foundation Board of Directors has decided to modify this year’s Festival of Trees. The event will be revised, while still raising funds to provide critical equipment for the operating room at the Red Deer Regional Hospital.

The public will be welcomed to participate in the Tree Room and Silent Auction virtually and in person, however Candy Cane Lane, Mistletoe Magic, Festival of Wines, Preview Dinner and the Gift Shop will not be taking place.

“The health and safety of our guests, sponsors, volunteers and staff is our number one priority,” said Dustin Eckstrand, Foundation Board Chair. “However, we still need support to enhance healthcare in Central Alberta so we hope the community will help us fund equipment for the operating room at our hospital despite these changes.”

The public can also support Festival of Trees by purchasing tickets for the Christmas Jingle Cash Lottery. The top prize is $25,000 cash plus an early bird prize of $5,000. Tickets start at $10 and are available online at https://www.reddeerfestivaloftrees.ca/jingle

We thank everyone for their understanding and are grateful to our sponsors and volunteers for their support. We look forward to providing a safe celebration that features some of our traditional festivities.