Newly diagnosed

The HbA1c level does indicate that you have diabetes I am afraid.

Normal is below 42, pre-diabetes is 42 to 47, above 48 is considered diabetes

Whether or not this is used as a definitive diagnosis, or there are further tests needed will vary depending on the GP concerned.

The fasting glucose test also appears to indicate diabetes

However, now you have found this forum, you are in the best place to find support and get helpful advice

Hi @Mscmhs1 and welcome to the forum. As @britishpub says an HbA1c of 54 indicates diabetes but most surgeries will test a second time to be sure. I was diagnosed at an HbA1c of 70 and chose to take the mildest drug for type 2 which is Metformin. At your level you could ask to try diet only, many on this forum have achieved non diabetic levels by lowering their carbohydrate intake.
Here is a link to useful info we offer to newbies:
https://www.diabetes.co.uk/forum/threads/basic-information-for-newly-diagnosed-diabetics.17088/
Lastly please don’t “feel stupid for allowing yourself to get to this point”, some of us just develop an intolerance of carbs whilst others eat all sorts of junk and get away with it.

Edit: just to add that I do eat a low carb diet too!