Managing Type 2 Diabetes can be challenging, but with the right support and guidance, remission is possible. Sam, a participant in the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission (T2DR) Programme with Xyla, shares her inspiring journey of transformation, highlighting the programme’s impact on her health and lifestyle.
Living with Type 2 Diabetes Before Remission
Sam, a full-time nurse and healthcare manager, was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes in December 2021. Initially, she struggled to find the right support and was overwhelmed by the vast amount of online information available. “I personally needed face-to-face support and would have benefitted from being part of a group of people in the same situation as me,” she recalls.
At the time of her diagnosis, Sam weighed over 16 stone. She joined Slimming World and successfully lost two stone. However, she found it increasingly difficult to maintain control over her diet and lifestyle. Concerned about her health, she turned to her GP for further assistance.
Discovering the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Programme
Sam first learned about the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission (T2DR) Programme from a friend in Selby who had lost five stone through the initiative. Encouraged by this success story, she enquired about the programme at her local GP practice and discovered that it had just launched in Lincolnshire. Her practice nurse, Kate Hocknull, was particularly enthusiastic. “Kate gave me all the support and encouragement I needed at just the right time in my life for me to consider this challenge,” Sam states.
Although there was a short delay between referral and the programme’s commencement, Sam remained motivated. “I was worried that this would affect my motivation, but once I received all my products and monitoring equipment, I was ready,” she explains.
The Total Diet Replacement (TDR) Phase for Type 2 Diabetes Management
Initially, Sam was apprehensive about the Total Diet Replacement (TDR) phase, but she quickly adapted. “I wasn’t hungry, and I realised that I was often thirsty rather than actually needing food. Before, I would put food in my mouth without even thinking about it,” she notes.
During the first two weeks, she experienced some fatigue but soon saw a marked increase in her energy levels. “I wasn’t expecting this on a diet of only 800 calories!” she admits. Sam also appreciated the structured nature of the TDR phase. “I liked knowing exactly what I was having and when. It made things much easier to manage.”
Support and Digital Tools for Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Throughout the programme, Sam received ongoing support from her Health Coach and benefited from additional guidance via the programme’s app. “The weekly support was invaluable, and the app was great for getting quick responses from online coaches. The forums with other participants were also helpful—I picked up tips like adding garlic and herbs to soups to make them tastier.”
Managing Challenges: Travelling While on the Programme
Around week eight, Sam went on a family trip to Spain and faced the challenge of maintaining her diet while travelling. Fortunately, EasyJet provided her with an additional 23kg weight allowance for her programme supplies, classifying them as medical provisions. “By that point, I had settled into the routine and didn’t feel like I was missing out on food because I felt so much better in myself. I had more energy, and my confidence was growing,” she recalls.
To manage the social aspect of dining, she found alternative activities. “I felt a little different about the evening meal, but I took a walk around the harbour while my family ate and met up with them afterwards.”
Health Improvements and Weight Loss
Sam’s results have been remarkable. “I have lost 3.5 stone so far. At the start of the programme, I weighed 15st 2lbs. My HbA1c was 54mmol/mol at the start and is now 38mmol/mol,” she shares. “Choosing to participate in this programme has been the biggest reset to my life.”
Maintaining Long-Term Success
Now in the maintenance phase, Sam continues to monitor her progress. “I weigh myself and check my blood sugar weekly, uploading the results to the app. If I see a weight increase, I review my meals from the past week and adjust accordingly.”
This ongoing awareness has helped her develop a healthier relationship with food. “I have a more flexible approach to slight weight fluctuations, but weekly weighing helps me stay on track.”
Recommendation for Others
Reflecting on her experience, Sam encourages others to explore the programme. “The support and information available are fantastic, and it has genuinely improved my life. I would recommend it to anyone looking to take control of their health.”
For more information, please visit NHS England » NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Programme.