Building Awareness… One Story at a Time

Building Awareness… One Story at a Time

Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

While Type 1 diabetes cannot yet be prevented, Type 2 diabetes is often manageable — and in many cases, preventable. A healthy diet, consistent physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight can make a tremendous difference. Even small changes, like swapping sugary drinks for water or taking daily walks, can improve overall blood sugar control.

For those already living with diabetes, management means more than just medication. It’s a daily balancing act of monitoring blood sugar, staying active, planning meals, and maintaining emotional well-being. Thankfully, advances in medical technology — such as continuous glucose monitors and insulin pumps — have made living with diabetes easier and more precise than ever before.

I know firsthand how challenging diabetes can be — because I’ve lived it. There was a time when my health was spiraling out of control. I was constantly tired, overweight, and sick more often than not. I stopped caring about how I looked or felt, and before long, I slipped into a deep depression.

The turning point came when my husband sat me down for an honest, heartfelt conversation about how my health was affecting not only me but our whole family. I could barely keep up with our kids, often losing my breath after just a few minutes of play. Hospital visits became a regular part of my life, and I could see the worry written all over my family’s faces.

That talk was what I like to call my “come to Jesus’ moment.” Something inside me finally clicked. I started moving my body every day, following a strict but realistic diet, and — surprisingly — began to enjoy both. Within two months, I had lost 45 pounds and dropped from a size 14/16 to a size eight.

Soon after, I joined the Ashland Area YMCA and fell in love with group fitness classes. I kept pushing myself, and over time, I became stronger — both physically and mentally. Eventually, I began teaching group fitness and even doing personal training. One of the greatest rewards of that journey was being able to come off all my medications — including insulin and blood pressure meds. It felt like I’d been given a whole new lease on life.

What many people don’t realize is that when one family member struggles with their health, it impacts everyone around them. For me, that was the motivation I needed to make lasting, positive changes. It wasn’t easy, but it was absolutely worth it.

Throughout November, you’ll likely see blue circles — the international symbol for diabetes awareness — on social media, in community centers, and at local events. Organizations across the country host screenings, workshops, and walks to raise funds and awareness. World Diabetes Day, observed on November 14, marks the birthday of Dr. Frederick Banting, one of the scientists who discovered insulin — a lifesaving breakthrough that continues to give hope to millions.

These events remind us that awareness is about more than numbers or science — it’s about empathy. It’s about checking in with a loved one who’s managing diabetes, learning the signs of low or high blood sugar, or simply offering support to someone navigating a tough diagnosis.

Diabetes Awareness Month is also a time to listen. Every person living with diabetes has a story to tell — of challenges, persistence, and hope. Sharing those stories helps others understand that diabetes doesn’t define a person; it’s simply one part of their journey.

Do you have diabetes? If so, I would love to hear your story.  Send me a short description at editor@ashlandbeacon.com and let me know how diabetes has affected your life and what you have done to help reclaim it.  Your voice could help someone else feel less alone — and that’s what awareness is truly about.