“I still remember the voicemail.”

A routine round of bloodwork. Then a diagnosis John Schaak wasn’t expecting: Type 2 diabetes, with an A1C of 8.3.

He isn’t a doctor or a dietitian. He’s a regular person who figured out what to do next, one step at a time. In eight months, his A1C went from 8.3 to 4.9, and he lost more than 60 pounds without any weight-loss medication.

Answering the Wake-Up Call is the practical, honest guide John wishes someone had handed him the day he was diagnosed. It’s written especially for anyone who just heard “you have Type 2 diabetes” and doesn’t know where to start. Nine clear steps cover food, movement, medication, blood sugar, and the habits that make change stick:

• Schedule two appointments
• Learn the basics of Type 2 diabetes
• Eat differently, but don’t fear food
• Understand carbs and food labels
• Get moving
• Make your medication work for you
• Test and learn
• Don’t wait to get started
• Keep going

John’s results were his results, and yours may be different. This book isn’t medical advice, and it’s meant to be used with your doctor and care team.

Your diagnosis can be a wake-up call, and the first step toward a healthier life.