Education that saves lives

Maria Parsell, 69, is a beacon of community spirit. She always puts others first — sometimes, she admits, at the expense of her own well-being. Throughout her diverse career, from serving as a police officer to caring for Alzheimer’s patients, her focus has always been on those around her.

But in 2020, during a routine wellness check, her doctor’s words struck a chord: her blood sugar levels had climbed to a prediabetic range. If she didn’t change her lifestyle and eating habits, she’d soon develop diabetes.

For Parsell, this wasn’t just an abstract threat either; it was personal. She has friends and family battling diabetes, including a nephew who faced severe health consequences as a result, and the ultimatum felt all too real.

“It’s heartbreaking to see those you love face troubles with their health,” she said. “And the saddest part is knowing it all could have been prevented.”

A program that prevents and manages diabetes

Determined to make the necessary lifestyle changes and take control of her own health, Parsell embarked on a health and wellness journey to reverse the negative prognosis. Yet, despite her initial efforts, the road was complicated, and she struggled to lose weight and navigate the complexities of a diabetic diet.

Then, her friend and neighbor Joan Burns introduced her to the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes program. Not entirely sure what to expect, Parsell signed up, unaware it would be a transformative experience.

The program, developed with information and insights from the American Diabetes Association’s Standards of Care, was more than just a series of lectures — it was an eye-opening experience that introduced her to a supportive community and equipped her with practical tools she needed to improve her blood sugar levels and avoid a diabetes diagnosis.

The statewide program covers essential topics like dietary management, self-care practices and physical activity, aiming to help individuals manage their blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. In Brazos County, where Parsell lives, the program is led by Flora Williams, AgriLife Extension agent within the Family and Community Health unit.

“We want to show people how to take control of their health and still enjoy life,” Williams emphasized. “A person with a prediabetic prognosis or a diabetes diagnosis might feel overwhelmed and suddenly restricted in their diet, but we show participants that they can still lead full, healthy lives and that food and carbs aren’t the enemy.”

A supportive community backed by the best research

Every Friday in August, Parsell and Burns attended engaging sessions filled with expert insights and hands-on demonstrations that opened Parsell’s mind to simple changes she’d been overlooking. Parsell felt a profound realization when Williams illustrated just how easy it is to misjudge portion sizes.

“I was blown away by how little I knew about my own eating habits,” she said.

The program also fosters a sense of camaraderie among participants. Sharing struggles along with successes becomes a source of strength and solidarity, with classes serving as mini support groups. The Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes sessions also provide a platform for sharing ideas, such as new recipes and exercises.

For Parsell, these shared stories and goals made the experience even more meaningful.

“I was the only person in the class who wasn’t officially diagnosed with diabetes, and I learned so much about how to take care of myself by listening to them,” she said.

With the newfound knowledge and determination to improve her health, Parsell returned her blood sugar levels to normal, successfully preventing the onset of diabetes.

She remains dedicated to her health, not only for her own well-being but also to be there for her family and community. She remains actively involved as president of her apartment building’s resident association and volunteers at its food pantry. She’s looking forward to her next visit from her daughter and grandchildren, who live in Alaska.

“I’m not perfect,” she acknowledges. “Sometimes I slip up, but I know now that I can always get back on track.”

A brighter, healthier future without diabetes

Parsell is already considering re-enrolling in the program, eager to learn more. She’s also interested in participating in some of AgriLife Extension’s gardening programs and courses. She grows a small herb and vegetable garden on her balcony that she uses in her cooking and for making mint tea.

“Maria Parsell’s journey is a testament to what we’re trying to achieve with our AgriLife Extension programs directed toward health and wellness,” said Heidi Fowler, AgriLife Extension program specialist in the Texas A&M Department of Nutrition. “Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes is just one part of our broader mission to educate and empower Texans to lead healthy lives within their communities.”

AgriLife Extension agents across the state are dedicated to helping Texans like Parsell regain control of their health and wellness. Additional diabetes management programs, including Cooking Well with Diabetes and Health Talk Express, complement this mission.

For Parsell, the program was beyond educational — it was life-changing.

“It’s so crucial for people to be proactive about their health,” she reflected. “Participating in this diabetes management program was my way of doing that, and I’d recommend it to anyone wanting to make healthier nutritional and lifestyle choices.”