When Norbert Lieberknecht, a retired army medic, got a call from his pharmacist after a routine blood draw, his life would change forever. The pharmacist informed him that his blood sugar level was 630, a number way beyond the danger zone. He was advised to go to the hospital emergency room immediately. Although he had very few signs of a "problem" this high blood sugar was a "wake up call." His life was in danger!
After testing and time in the hospital he was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. As an army nurse Norbert saw many patients with diabetes who lost their eyesight, or had their limbs amputated. He said he was scared of what his future look like. He wanted to live to see his grandchildren grow up and to grow old with his wife.
The diagnosis of Diabetes led Norbert to the decision to "FIGHT" for his life. This was a difficult road. He had to completely change his eating habits. He was used to eating meat, potatoes, and lots of carbs. He would have to start eating salads, fruits, and vegetables.
Norbert illustrates to us that change isn't easy, but it's better than the alternative. He demonstrates how change is possible when you know what your motivation is. His motivation was to stay alive!
As Norbert shares his healthy journey he talks about the importance of his support team, especially his wife, Dee. She was his lifeline and joined with him in the fight eating healthy, packing his lunches, and keeping him accountable to his new lifestyle. No sneaking a candy bar in front of her!
Norbert's message is that YOU CAN BEAT DIABETES. His lifestyle and mindset shifted when he realized his life depended on it. He felt motivated by the love of his wife. He wanted to ease her mind. According to Norbert our health, doesn't just effect us but it effects our family too.
Norbert is here to warn people of the dangers of unhealthy habits and what we put into our bodies. He says if you have Diabetes try to keep yourself positive with mantras like, "It's not going to beat me, don't give up, don't quit!"
When you are sick with an illness you feel trapped. When you choose life you are given freedom!
Listen as he shares tips to get started whether you have been diagnosed with diabetes or not.
Believe that you can win the FIGHT!
Norbert gives all the thanks and gratitude to his wife for supporting him and changing with him. Change what you eat change your life! Choose life!