This is the first entry in the publisher’s “First Year” series, which seeks to set itself apart from other health advice lines with its authors all “patient-experts.” Diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 1996, Becker quickly learned that there are many ways to approach diabetes care. She uses appropriate humor and presents basic information to take the reader through each day of the first week, each subsequent week of the first month, and the next 11 months after diagnosis.

Emphasizing the self-management skills that all diabetics must master for adequate control of the disease, Becker addresses the questions not always anticipated or answered by healthcare providers. For instance, she covers necessary and optional tests, diet, drugs, weight and stress management, and the emotional strain of the disorder. Her sections on insurance and paying medical bills are excellent. Internet diabetes expert Rick Mendoza has also contributed a chapter (more…)