How I became a professional wellness coach?
In 1976, I am working as a dietician in a small hospital. My main job is to ensure all our diabetic patients get the correct foods. I also teach patients how to follow their diets at home. I love teaching the out-patient group classes because they have real life challenges.
Eventually I start a family. I am so blessed to be able to stay home with my babies. Unbeknown to me, this creates a problem for my career.
When I return to work, I am told my education is outdated. I need to complete a graduate’s degree before I can work as a dietitian. I consider many options. Since there is a nursing shortage, I return to school to become a registered nurse. I know by combining my nutritional background with my nursing knowledge, I can help many people. I believe this is a perfect fit for becoming a diabetes educator.
For 9 years I apply for training positions. I discover there are many nurses wanting to become an educator. It is considered a good job for nurses because there is no 24 hour care required. I am willing to do volunteer work to gain experience. In fact, for three summers I volunteer as medical staff at a diabetes camp. But to qualify for the exam, I need a paid position. I totally give up on my dream.
One day my nursing supervisor calls me to tell me about an advertised position. At first, I say no, but she encourages me to apply. She knows me well and knows this is what I want to do.
My interview is with a type 1 diabetic. She recognizes my passion and offers me a job. I feel I am finally on my way to becoming a certified diabetes educator.
After completing my training and passing the national exam, I discover the obesity crisis has dire consequences for young people. What do you say to parents of a 4 year old diagnosed with type 2 diabetes requiring insulin to survive? Do you say, although this is type 2 it cannot be reversed? Do you tell them how this condition progresses more quickly in children than in adults? Do you tell them the damage done by uncontrolled blood sugars sets their child up for a heart attack within 10 years? How do you motivate them to make lifestyle changes for their whole family?
Type 2 diabetes in children is a serious disease. If you wait until your child is diagnosed, it is too late. Parents need to be educated about the real dangers of obesity in children. Working with this young people changed my life.
I am dedicated to helping parents protect the health of their children.
I have a sincere concern for the obesity issues facing our world. The CDC predicts by 2020 two out of every five American adults will have diabetes or prediabetes. I have a unique understanding of young people from my history of working with thousands of teens. There is so much we can do to prevent or delay this diagnose by supporting parents in raising healthy children.
Check out my blog and my Facebook page at Kids At Risk for Diabetes. Let’s see if we make a good fit!
My Programs
At this time I have an introductory 30 day E-course. This course has simple suggestions for making many changes in your life and your children’s lives. If you enjoy my 30 day course, it will lead you into a 60 day course with more in depth information on how to avoid getting chronic diseases by making conscious lifestyle changes.
Let’s see if we can work together. Schedule a 30 minute consultation with me at Calendly.com/jstelting
I no longer work with Type 1 diabetes.
I have an introductory program for gestational diabetics. I am also willing to provide phone & email support for gestational diabetes and coordinate care with your OB provider.
Type 2 diabetes need to be in good control before conception to prevent birth defects. I can assist these individuals through weekly phone consults and email correspondence.
For Type 2 adults I offer private phone services. I can coordinate information with your medical care team as needed.