Hi Rob, welcome to the forum
🙂 Sorry to hear about your diagnosis, and that it has come at an inopportune time (is there ever a 'good' time though?). I would say, enjoy your birthday - one day isn't going to do you harm. Probably the thing to keep in moderation most would be anything that is high in carbohydrates - pies, cake, potatoes, pizza, pasta, rice etc.
How did your diagnosis come about? Don't worry about gyms, never been that keen on them myself - far easier if you can work out a nice, pleasant route where you can walk from home and enjoy parks or countryside. If you can make it a regular thing, then you will be surprised at how much it can help
🙂 Are there any activities you particularly enjoy?
Have a read of
Jennifer's Advice and
Maggie Davey's letter - they will set you on the right track to understanding diabetes and what approach you need to take. I'd also recommend getting a copy of
Type 2 Diabetes: The First Year by Gretchen Becker. Understanding is key to living well with diabetes, and you can live well with it as long as you are prepared to make the changes you need to in order to manage your blood sugar levels well
🙂 Diabetes UK also has an online training course for people new to Type 2 diabetes, see
Type 2 Diabetes and Me.
Please let us know if you have any questions and we will be happy to help!
🙂