SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Jan. 31, 2025 – As a competitive powerlifter, Nathan Zenero has a unique talent for lifting heavy things. He’s also taken on more than a few challenges in his life, including sports injuries and thyroid cancer. But when he received a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis, the 45-year-old says the weight of diabetes stigma felt even heavier than his previous setbacks.
The Burden of Stigma
“There’s a belief that you’re powerless and have no ability to control it,” Zenero says. “I felt an intense sense of shame — shame that I had let myself down, that I had let my family down.” Diabetes stigma describes the judgment, discrimination and negative attitudes toward people living with diabetes. “There’s this stigma associated with diabetes that the condition results from someone’s own choices — like eating too much sugar,” says Aleem Kanji, M.D., a board-certified endocrinologist in Houston and Zenero’s doctor. “But that is false, and the stigma that surrounds diabetes really plays a role in people’s mental and emotional health.”
The Impact of Stigma on Diabetes Management
In a U.S. study of 12,000 adults with Type 2 diabetes, 52% said they perceived social stigma from others because of their diabetes¹. In turn, diabetes stigma can impair diabetes management, such that, for example, someone might avoid doctors' appointments². Fearing that diabetes might hinder his daily activities or affect his role as a husband and father, Zenero was motivated to work even harder to take control of his health. “I didn't want to be the guy that people didn't invite to things because they think I wouldn't be able to make it to the end of a hike or a workout,” says Zenero.
Finding Support and Control with FreeStyle Libre 3
But thanks to the help of his doctor and Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 3 continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system, Zenero overcame the initial shock and learned to use his CGM to his advantage. The Michigan native, girl-dad and husband is now fueled by his newfound control over his health, increased confidence and mission to break diabetes stigma — because, he says, no one should feel the way he felt during his diagnosis. “Where I was before FreeStyle Libre 3 was a dark place,” Zenero says. “I felt horrible physically, and because of that, I felt pretty bad mentally. I was concerned about my longevity, and now I feel like I can conquer life.”
A Path to Empowerment
With the help of his doctor, diet changes and the FreeStyle Libre 3 system, Zenero was on his way toward achieving his health goals. “To combat stigma, you have to give people an opportunity to improve,” Zenero says. “The best thing you can do is to trust, have faith and confidence in them that they can change and grow.” Zenero’s story highlights the importance of addressing diabetes stigma and empowering individuals to manage their condition effectively. His journey serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges, demonstrating that with the right tools and support, it is possible to overcome the weight of diabetes stigma and live a full and active life. The FreeStyle Libre 3 system has played a crucial role in Zenero’s journey, providing him with the insights and control he needs to manage his diabetes and pursue his passion for powerlifting.
Moving Forward
Nathan's experience underscores the powerful impact of continuous glucose monitoring in diabetes management and the importance of addressing the stigma associated with the condition. By sharing his story, Nathan hopes to inspire others and contribute to a more supportive and understanding community for people living with diabetes. He emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, proactive management, and open conversations to combat misconceptions and empower individuals to take control of their health. Nathan’s dedication to powerlifting and his commitment to raising awareness about diabetes demonstrate that a diagnosis does not have to define an individual or limit their potential. He is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the support of innovative technologies like the FreeStyle Libre 3 system.