Community voices
Taking charge of health—her way: Monica’s wins with Stelo
Published: Mar. 27, 2025
6 min read
The content in this article should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding your individual health needs.
Meet Monica, a member of the Stelo community who is determined to take control of her health—in her own way. For Monica, food has always been more than just fuel; it’s been a passion, a career, and a way to connect with others. As a food blogger and project manager in Seattle, she’s built her life around exploring and sharing great meals. But in 2022, everything changed when she was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The news was a shock, and like many, she faced a period of grief and uncertainty. Determined to take charge of her health, Monica embraced a new approach that included exercise, mindful eating, and eventually, Stelo. Let’s learn more about Monica’s inspiring journey.
The diagnosis that changed everything
Monica’s journey with diabetes began unexpectedly. During the pandemic, her annual check-up didn’t happen as usual. Then, in 2022, a visit to her doctor revealed something life-changing: she had type 2 diabetes. The news was a shock, but rather than dwell on what-ifs, she sprang into action. The very next day, she started making changes to her food choices and developed an exercise routine. With a great healthcare team by her side, Monica had initially relied on medication to stabilize her glucose. But her goal was always clear: to manage her diabetes solely through lifestyle changes.
That’s where Stelo came in. When Monica initially expressed interest in a glucose biosensor that tracked her levels 24/7, she was told she didn’t need one because her A1C was in a healthy range. Yet, as a food blogger, she wanted insights into how different foods affected her.
“Stelo makes it possible for me to continue doing something I love. I know when I need to take a walk, when I need to avoid certain foods, and I can see the impacts of my decisions in real time."
Making decisions in the moment
For Monica, managing diabetes isn’t just about avoiding certain foods, it’s about understanding how her body responds and making informed choices.
“I knew my A1C was good, but that’s a number I only get every three months. Stelo helps me see what’s happening hour by hour.”
One of the biggest surprises was that some foods she had heard worked for others weren’t always the best choices for her. For example, she discovered that oatmeal tends to spike her glucose, but a slice of sourdough doesn’t. With knowledge like this, she’s been experimenting in the kitchen, creating recipes with ingredients like pumpkin purée and almond flour to find delicious, Monica-friendly alternatives.
Walking, Muay Thai, and Pokémon Go
Exercise has never been Monica’s favorite activity, but she’s found ways to make it enjoyable. Using Stelo, Monica confirmed just how powerful movement is for glucose management. She loves Muay Thai and recently took up Krav Maga for both fitness and self-defense. She also makes the most of Seattle’s green spaces, taking walks in the park during lunch or after work.
“I’ve always heard that walking after a meal is helpful, but now I can actually see the difference it makes. Just 15–30 minutes brings my levels down significantly.” She’s even turned her walks into a fun, stress-relieving activity—playing Pokémon Go as she strolls, stopping at gyms and completing challenges along the way.
Managing stress and finding balance
Beyond food and exercise, Monica has discovered the role stress plays in her overall glucose health.
“At work, every day is the most work I’ve ever had in my life. But with the information I’ve gained since using Stelo, even my boss noticed that I’m managing stress differently.”
Keeping stress levels in check is such an important part of glucose management. It’s not just about what you eat or how much you move. It’s about how you feel. Monica’s secret is to get outside as often as possible. “The mountains, water, and trees do wonders to manage my stress levels.”
Learning to give yourself grace
Looking back, Monica wishes she hadn’t been so hard on herself after her diagnosis. She notes that there’s a stigma around diabetes, and that people don’t tend to talk about it, especially in the food blogger community. But she wants others to know they’re not alone.
“I’m most proud to be able to keep some of me,” she says. “There was a grief period when I was diagnosed. But now, I’m able to still do something I love and be a model for others. People have even been pulling me aside in person and messaging me about their diagnoses.”
As Monica continues her journey with Stelo, she hopes to inspire others to take charge of their health in a way that feels right for them. With Stelo, she’s been able to balance her love of food with her health goals, finding the freedom to make choices that work best for her.
Monica is a paid Stelo ambassador.
Reviewed by: Kayce Sol
MA, RN, BSN, CDCES
MA, RN, BSN, CDCES
Kayce Sol is a registered nurse and certified diabetes care and education specialist.
