PINEHURST, N.C. – When Jefferson Saddler first enrolled in FirstHealth’s Diabetes and Nutrition Education Program, managing his diabetes felt overwhelming.
His A1c had climbed to 10.7%, and he weighed 319 pounds. Determined to take control of his health, he attended the program’s diabetes group class, where participants were encouraged to leave with one realistic goal.
One Small Goal Started Everything
His was simple: reduce his daily milk intake from a half gallon to one quart. That single goal became the first step in a remarkable journey.
Diabetes Education and Nutrition Counseling with FirstHealth Dietitians
Following the class, he began meeting monthly with FirstHealth registered dietitian Rebecca Serra. Together, they focused on nutrition, lifestyle changes and realistic, sustainable goals. If possible, he hoped to improve his health without relying on medication.
“I reduced my sugar, carbohydrates, fat and salt, started eating more whole foods and produce from my garden, and became more physically active,” Saddler said. “When I asked how much weight was healthy to lose, Rebecca encouraged me to aim for about one pound a week. Having realistic expectations made all the difference.”
Over the next two years, those small, consistent changes added up.
Saddler has lost more than 100 pounds. His A1c dropped from 10.7% to 5.3%, his cholesterol improved, and he experienced dramatic changes in his physical health, energy and overall well-being.
“None of this would have been possible without my dietitian’s support and accountability,” he said.
“She encouraged me at every visit to keep pushing forward, even when it was tough. The entire Diabetes and Nutrition Education team was welcoming and encouraging every time I came into the office. I’m so thankful I was referred to their program at FirstHealth.”
Specialized Diabetes Care at FirstHealth
That level of personalized support reflects the expertise of FirstHealth’s Diabetes and Nutrition Education team. Serra and fellow dietitian Nicolle Imig recently earned the prestigious Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) credential, an advanced certification recognizing specialized knowledge in helping people successfully manage diabetes through education, nutrition counseling and lifestyle coaching.
For Serra, Saddler’s success is exactly why she chose this profession.
“Watching someone take small, achievable steps and transform their health over time is incredibly rewarding,” she said. “Our role is to provide education, encouragement and accountability so patients feel confident making changes they can sustain for life.”
Today, Saddler’s story has come full circle.
The produce from his garden, which became an important part of his healthier lifestyle, recently made its way back to the Diabetes and Nutrition Education team. To thank the staff who supported him throughout his journey, he stopped by the office with a beautiful planter and everything needed to plant and grow cucumbers.
It was a thoughtful gesture that reflects the partnership between a patient committed to making lasting lifestyle changes and a care team that believed in him every step of the way.
FirstHealth's Diabetes and Nutrition Education Center offers counseling and education for those who wish to maintain optimal health and people with specific medical needs such as diabetes, high blood pressure, digestive disorders, celiac disease, pregnancy, obesity and allergies.
Services are offered in Moore, Montgomery, Hoke and Richmond counties. For more information, call (910) 715-1919 or visit FirstHealth.org/Diabetes.
