I earned the CDCES credential to advocate for how important yet manageable diabetes can be. I was diagnosed with pre-diabetes/PCOS during my senior year of college in 2017. At the time, I was also beginning my clinical rotations for my dietetic internship. From then on, I have found ways to manage my glucose. I could not imagine my dietetic career without providing diabetes care and education, from staying current on the most recent research to sharing my recipe ideas with patients to helping them find ways to enjoy the foods they still love. To know that I have helped a patient in ways that I may not have been able to help with if I did not have this experience and certification.
What or Who Motivated You to Become a CDCES?
My journey to becoming a CDCES was not a solitary one. It was fueled by the support and guidance of my dietetic preceptor for my outpatient rotation, who was studying for the CDCES exam. He was always impressed with and appreciative of my counseling skills in the outpatient setting. I found a passion within myself that I did not know existed. Additionally, the first supervisor I ever had as an RD was a CDCES. She knew about my health background, passion, and interest in diabetes care and education. She was very supportive and helpful in pointing me in the right direction regarding what study materials to use.
On Opportunities Provided as a Result of Holding the CDCES Credential
My CDCES certification has significantly enhanced my career and patient care. As the lead clinical dietitian, I primarily provide inpatient care. My team's appreciation of my certification has allowed me to increase my load in diabetes consults and provide more education to type 1 patients. This has strengthened my relationships with other interdisciplinary team members within the hospital and broadened my patient diversity. The impact of the CDCES certification on my career and patient care has been profound and rewarding.
What Would You Say to Someone Who is Considering Becoming a CDCES?
If your passion is there, you can pass the exam. Although studying can be long and tiring, you rarely realize you are "studying" because the information is fascinating. I enjoyed learning, and anyone wanting to help this growing population should not hold back.
Share an Achievement or Special Moment You’ve had as a CDCES
I have experimented with different CGMs, and telling patients about my experiences with them has been beneficial. Motivating patients to try CGMs and experiment with foods they may have avoided is liberating. Food is a part of life and a happy part of life. Whenever I can help patients reconnect with food they once viewed as "bad," I know I have made a difference.
If you want to be featured in a future CDCES Story, please contact Susan Hall.
