A diabetes diagnosis doesn’t mean you have to lose yourself at the table. If you’ve ever reviewed your lab results and felt overwhelmed, ashamed, or confused—this book is for you. In You Can Still Live Well with Diabetes , retired nutritionist and patient advocate Paulette Donald, MPH, CDN, invites you into a calm, clear, real-life “visit” across her desk—the same kind of conversation she’s had with patients for decades—no harsh rules, no guilt, and no fear-based food lists. She understands that food is love—and your culture doesn’t have to be erased to protect your health. Inside, you’ll learn how to: Understand what diabetes really is (without medical overload). - Build a balanced plate that still honors your traditions. - Enjoy the foods you love—with smarter portions, pairings, and timing. - Use your glucometer as a friend (so the numbers guide you, not shame you). - Care for your mind, spirit, and support system because stress affects blood sugar, too. - Create a care plan that fits your real life: family gatherings, holidays, travel, and joy. - Move your body with purpose—without punishment. You’ll also get practical tools to make this doable, including a 3-day sample meal plan, blood sugar tracking, doctor visit prep, and trusted resources. This book isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress—one steady step, one meal, one moment at a time. You can live well with diabetes and still maintain your culture, comfort, and confidence.