42 Year Old Male With Diabetes Shares His Story

by Mike
(USA)

I am a 42 year old male who was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes about three years ago. I was severely overweight – topping the scale at 350 pounds – and led a very sedentary lifestyle complicated by an out-of-control appetite (I love M&M’s, cheddar cheese, and apple pie!). Prior to the diagnosis, my family and I were on a church mission trip to Louisiana to help with the rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina. This was the most miserable 10 days of my life as I have to urinate every hour, on the hour; you could set your watch to my schedule. Having attended nursing school, I immediately knew what it was – but I did not share this with my wife as I did not want her to worry. Immediately upon returning home, I paid a visit to my family doctor in Michigan. He had warned me for years about my weight and the possible complications. A quick finger poke blood test confirmed our suspicions – my blood sugar was over 400! My doctor took quick action by putting me on a very strict diet and medication. A week later my blood sugar was 150 – better, but not ideal. Two years ago, I moved from Michigan to Indiana. My new doctor has been very aggressive with my diet and medications. The most effective combination has been Byetta and Metformin. I have had three straight quarters of an A1C between 6 and 6.4, and, as an added bonus I have lost more than 50 pounds in the last 12 months. In addition, getting some regular exercise by walking at least three times a day has proven extremely helpful. Thank you for giving me a chance to share my story!