Maybel Aspiras was nominated by her colleague Hannah Fehlberg, AuD! Maybel was nominated her for lifestyle transformation, which reversed her Type 2 diabetes, and inspired her colleagues along the way. Maybel has become a passionate wellness advocate for eating healthfully and being physically active. From joining a workplace workout, to participating in company hikes, Maybel has made being active part of her new lifestyle.

Read on to learn from Maybel’s story:

Q. Your nomination shares that over the past 7 months, you’ve lost 20 pounds and no longer have Type 2 diabetes. What steps did you take to change your lifestyle?

A. Since I was diagnosed with diabetes last year, I figured out right away what I needed to change with my lifestyle. I started with walking 3-4 times a week for 45 minutes or an hour, strict low carb diet, drinking more water, and eating meat and more vegetables. Once a week I have a cheat day, but with limitation and I will have a thin slice of pizza or a small portion of sweets. It was really tough for the first few months or so. I was going to give up, but my family and friends are always at my back and support me and I keep moving forward.

Q. Hannah shared that you participate in wellness challenges, UHA Hikes and office workouts. How do you stay healthy during the work week?

A. I prepare my meals by steaming or baking and more on protein. I stay away from fried foods as much as possible and always drink more water. I live all the way in Morgan Hill (and soon will be in Hollister), so I decided to go to the gym to pass the rush hour after work. I usually work out  3 – 4 times a week for an hour and 30 minutes or so!

Q. If a colleague wants to make a similar change, what’s the first step you recommend?

A. Plan your target weight, prep your meals as healthy as you can, do not push yourself to lose weight right away and have discipline, motivation and determination. Starving yourself is a big NO! NO!

Q. Do you use any apps or wearable technology (eg, fitbits) to help you stay motivated?

A. I use my Samsung gear 2 to check how many steps I do everyday.

Q. What brings you joy?

A. Cooking brings me joy because it is my passion. Now I’m inspired to cook and look for more healthy recipes.

Q. What’s the best part about working at SJEAS?

A. Friendly, helpful and bubbly colleagues. The wellness Wednesdays, checking the updates/new wellness challenges and also of course POTLUCKS (again eating with limitation and as healthy as possible).

Maybel’s example shows that with consistent changes, you can make big health shifts.  Congratulations on winning a Wellness Spotlight Award, Maybel!