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Pros and Cons of Natural Sugar Alternatives for People with Diabetes | August 17, 2018

About Shawn’s practice

Shawn has been an emergency room and later an operating room nurse at Fort HealthCare for over 20 years. Currently as the lead diabetes educator, she gets the chance to work with  people on a different stage in their care. “I have always enjoyed working with people, and now I am excited I get to teach. I find it very rewarding to help people learn about their diabetes and how to manage it every day. What many people don’t realize is small adjustments can make such a big impact. When I can help someone feel better, see positive changes and feel more in control of their health, I am pleased that I was able to be a part of their motivation and success.”

Shawn notes that the people she meets with always come away from their time together with something they can do and tools they can use right away. The information that is shared during a diabetes education session can help delay the onset of diabetes-related health complications, and help individuals understand their new lifestyle. “Additionally, working together to reduce a person’s A1C test by just one percentage point can make a big difference. Everyone has the same opportunity to do this when given proper tools and instruction.”

“I also like to try what I advise others to do in their daily life. I think it’s important to see the big picture and understand first hand what it takes to live a modified lifestyle, so I can be honest with my patients and promise there are rewards for their efforts and lifestyle changes.”

Personal Interests

When not seeing patients, Shawn, her husband, and three daughters enjoy being active outdoors, particularly showing horses.