From graphic design to dietetics, Leigh's journey is shaped by their own experience with type 1 diabetes and a belief that better health doesn't require perfection.

Living with type 1 diabetes means making countless decisions every day. What to eat, how much insulin to take, how activity might affect blood sugar, and what to do when things don't go as planned.

For Leigh, these challenges are personal.

Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 33, Leigh understands how much life can change after a diagnosis. Their own experience inspired them to pursue a career helping others navigate nutrition and diabetes with greater confidence.

Today, they’re a part of the Balance Diabetes Wellness (BDW) team as a Nutrition Navigator, bringing together their lived experience, growing nutrition knowledge, and passion for helping people find a more sustainable approach to their health.

From Graphic Designer to Future Dietitian

Before entering the field of nutrition, Leigh spent a decade working as a professional graphic designer.

Their diagnosis with type 1 diabetes marked an important turning point. As they learned to manage the condition, they developed a deeper interest in how nutrition affects blood sugar, daily routines, and overall well-being.

That interest eventually grew into a new career direction.

Leigh is currently studying at Texas Woman's University as they work toward becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES).

Their goal is to combine professional nutrition training with the perspective of someone who understands what it's like to live with diabetes every day.

Why Balance Matters More Than Perfection

When you're managing diabetes, it's easy to feel pressure to get everything right.

You might worry about a blood sugar reading that doesn't match your expectations, feel guilty after eating a favorite food, or become frustrated when your usual routine stops working.

But diabetes management isn't a test of willpower.

Leigh believes sustainable habits matter more than extreme rules or the pursuit of perfect numbers.

That means looking at what works for your body and your circumstances, rather than trying to follow an approach that doesn't fit your life.

For some people, progress might involve creating a more consistent meal routine. For others, it could mean developing a healthier relationship with food, learning from blood sugar patterns, or finding ways to support an active lifestyle.

The goal is to build habits you can maintain, including on days when life doesn't go according to plan.

Nutrition Support Should Fit Your Real Life

No two people experience diabetes in exactly the same way.

Your food preferences, activity level, health history, schedule, and relationship with food all influence what sustainable care looks like for you.

Leigh is particularly interested in areas such as:

  • Type 1 diabetes: Understanding the everyday challenges of managing blood sugar while maintaining flexibility in food choices.
  • Disordered eating patterns: Recognizing the importance of approaching food and diabetes care without shame or unnecessary restriction.
  • Sports nutrition: Exploring how nutrition can support physical activity and individual performance goals.
  • Renal nutrition: Understanding the role of nutrition in supporting people with kidney-related health needs.

As a Nutrition Navigator and dietetics student, Leigh brings these interests and their personal perspective to BDW's team-based approach.

You're More Than Your Blood Sugar Numbers

A blood sugar reading gives you information. It doesn't measure your effort, character, or worth.

At Balance Diabetes Wellness, we believe meaningful progress starts with understanding your needs and building a care plan around your life.

Our team works to help clients feel more informed and supported in their decisions, without turning every meal or blood sugar reading into a judgment.

Leigh's journey reflects that same philosophy.

Their experience with type 1 diabetes reminds us that managing a chronic condition is an ongoing learning process. You can make adjustments, ask questions, and keep moving forward without expecting yourself to get everything right.

Take the Next Step Toward Personalized Diabetes Support

If you're looking for diabetes nutrition guidance that considers your health goals, preferences, and everyday challenges, our team is here to help.

Balance Diabetes Wellness offers personalized nutrition counseling and diabetes education designed around your individual needs.

Ready to explore your options?

Start by completing our Check Your Benefits form to find out whether your insurance covers nutrition counseling with BDW.