Raised in New Zealand, Steve grew up playing rugby union and developed a lifelong love of sport. Now living in Brisbane, he’s still a passionate sports fan, enjoying the action from the comfort of his armchair. But in July 2024, at 59, Steve was shocked when his GP advised he had developed type 2 diabetes. Determined to take control of his health, he set out to defy expectations and turn his life around.

“I was devastated when I was diagnosed. My GP told me, ‘Lots of people have it, don’t worry,’ but I couldn’t accept that. I told him, ‘You advise, I’ll decide.’ I knew I needed to find a better way.

“He also told me, ‘Once diagnosed as a diabetic, you’ll always be a diabetic. The best you can expect is to put it into remission.’ While I now see remission as an incredible achievement, I couldn’t understand why he hadn’t warned me six months earlier that I was at risk. If I’d known, I would have acted then.

“I found Defeat Diabetes after Googling for answers. I did the Defeat Diabetes Risk Calculator, which confirmed that I was at high risk of type 2 diabetes - something my GP had never discussed. That same day, I bought The Diabetes Plan by Dr Peter Brukner. I knew of him from his sporting background and trusted the program right away. I made the decision to change my diet immediately and started the Defeat Diabetes Program in July.

The changes were almost instant. By September, my HbA1c had dropped from over 7% to 6.3%. Another blood test in October, and my HbA1c was 5.4%, so I am now in remission. From July to October, I lost 18 kg. I never thought I’d lose that much weight, and honestly, I don’t want to lose any more! My blood pressure has improved so much that I intend to discuss with my GP about reducing my medication, and I feel on top of the world.

“At 6’4”, I’ve always been a big guy. When I read the success stories on the Defeat Diabetes website, I thought, ‘That won’t happen to me.’ But it did. I’ve learned that no matter your size or starting point, it’s possible to turn your health around with the right tools and support.

“One of the biggest things I’ve learned is the impact of carbs and how they’re in so many foods. I used to be the CFO of a dairy manufacturing company, and the only time I ever looked at the ingredient labels was for new product approvals. Now, I read them all the time.

“The Defeat Diabetes Program has completely changed how I think about food. It’s fantastic, and for $129, it’s incredible value. Having someone to answer my questions, especially in the beginning, was so helpful.

“My meals are simple now. I love Dr Brukner’s Low Carb Muesli with strawberries and Greek yoghurt for breakfast. Lunch is usually leftovers—meat and veg, lamb chops, or roast chicken. I make Cottage Pie with Cauliflower Mash instead of potatoes or spag bol without the pasta for dinner. I don’t miss the carbs at all! Did I mention the zero-carb beer? What an absolute bonus! 

“I used to have real hunger cravings. I’d grab a footlong Subway at 10:30 am and go back for another at 1 pm. I don’t get that anymore. I’m always full. Portion control is no longer a big problem.

“My daughters are thrilled with my results—one of them has a public health degree and has embraced the low carb lifestyle, too. It’s great to have their support. My friends and family can’t believe the transformation.

“For anyone sitting on the fence about joining the Defeat Diabetes Program, my advice is simple: absolutely go for it. The proof is in the pudding, and I’m living proof that it works. I never thought I’d survive without rice, pasta, potatoes or bread, but now I can’t imagine going back.”