SARA'S STORY ABOUT HER MOTHER

Ok....I have a confession to make. I am not diabetic (yet, or that I know of). But I wanted to be here because diabetes runs rampant in my family...my most recent loss (several years now) to the disease being my mother, at the age of 60. She took so many meds, she needed a dispenser to keep them organized...meds to help with the meds that caused problems...on, and on, and on...She was an elementary school teacher...concocted the flu. Couldn't keep meds or food down for 3 or 4 days. My father wanted to bring her to the doctors, but she refused...saying she was feeling better...never wanting to be a "burden". That day, she was found on the kitchen floor, in a coma in a state of Diabetic Acidosis....her blood sugars were in the 1400's. Her organs and blood were literally turning into acid and shutting down. I spent two weeks watching her...looking for any signs of a come back. A move. A twitch. Eye contact...something....but there was nothing. Nothing but the machine filling her lungs with artificially earned air. She waited until the last of her five children made it to the room, and we all watched as she let go....as the line went flat on her monitor. Not being able to do anything about it. I am here because, I WANT to be able to do something about it. I want to be able to support others. To prevent my own fate with this disease. To help others out of their state of hopelessness....I am here to support, listen and encourage others, while educating myself. I can't relate to your daily struggles, but I can relate to the effects Diabetes has on families, the community and the world. I don't know many of you...but I hope to. Prayers for health and happiness...

COMMENT BY BETSY

 I almost died from a massive heart attack but they determined it was caused by diabetes being out of control, last year a good friend of mine died from kidney failure, bought on by diabetes, same thing with my Uncle years ago, my poor Uncle diabetes took him slowly and piece by piece, first it took his eye sight, then one foot, then a leg then the other leg, then came kidney failure, hope that clears things up.

DANNY'S STORY

I just joined this group and wanted to say hi. I'm a type 1 diabetic juvenile diabetes almost 20 years of fighting sugar issues. Most of the issues we have type 1 & 2 have same problems with eating right and exercise. One thing I need to do myself take my own advise. I just recently got out of the hospital for the 5 times going into a diabetic coma sugar running @ 1140. My grandmother told me when I was diagnos with it , not to think it was the end of the world that it is a part of my life for now on and able to a happy life. But being hard head still today its hard I'm 36 years old and having people with similar issues to talk with might help me be on this earth a little longer and hope to help you all cope with some of the complication with diabetes.I have neuropathy issues bad knees to my toes. Very fortunately I have kept a close eye on my feet and had some problems with my toes. Best thing to do is some kind of walking and moving around to help your blood flow cause if not the pain is so painful and if you smoke like I do it blocks blood flow to your legs and feet. And one other thing skin issues with diabetes,if you keep your sugar regulated close to normal And taking vitamins to get some nutrition thats hard to get from food we dont suppose to have will help with these sores and bumps we get on our skin and helps heal cuts and scraps we get on a daily base fast. Thanks for letting me share and hopefully this will help one of you. I wish I'd listened to my doctor when I was 17. Yes I'm still up and walking around and don't look like I have any health problems but I try so hard not to show the pain and agony I'm in everyday. Father of 3 and my wife sometimes I feel like a burden so I keep it to myself a lot of times. This picture was from memorial day weekend. Again you don't want to be there and thanks again for listening.

MELISSA'S STORY

I was mistakenly diagnosed with gestational diabetes in 2006 while pregnant with my first child. Soon afterwards, it became clear that I had type 2. I have let my diabetes go unchecked since 2009. I decided last week that I need to get serious about this disease. After watching my mother ( diabetic for 40+ years) pass away last year from complications from diabetes, watching her health decline for a long time, it really hit home that I do not want to suffer as she did. I have... made an appointment with my doctor for Wednesday to get the medication I need. For 4 days now, I have cut out sweets, checked my sugar regularly, and drank more water. I am so glad I found this group, because it's really hard for me to stick to my goals and watch what I eat. I am very proud of my progress these last few days, and really could use all the support I can get to continue this journey!

JIM'S COMMENT

What's on my mind, eh? Well let's see.......I let an infection go in my left foot last March (I have neurapathy in my feet). Well, infection went up to my groin. So I went to ER. Thought I was going to get a shot and antibiotic. Well, 14 days in hospital ..IVs. And on April 1st, lost my left big toe and part of my foot. (doctors kept threatening with leg amputation). Now, going on 15 months later of wound vac, wraps, total contact casts (3)..foot just healed and hopefully thi...s coming week get my special shoe. I see a chiropractor, councelor (shrink), wound doctor, diabetes doctor...And thoughtful neighbors & Church. There isn't an issue I haven't stressed over...Anyone out there with similar issues, minor amputations (if there is such a thing), diabetes, insulin, diabetic diet, stress, poo-pooh party, etc. and need to share, please by all means drop a line. Maybe my issues can help yours. drop a line...

CAROL'S COMMENT

Sitting here waiting for them to "pull the plug"on my friend who had multiple strokes,etc from diabetes. HEART wrenching to see her family,especially her daughters. I wish I had 1 day for each time she "cheated"just a little...laughed and said"Well ive been good all week,I can eat one small sliver of cake,etc" Its a disease people.......is one piece of cake worth what her family is going through? We have the power to heal alot of type 2 and we just laugh/shrug it off....I bet Nora wished she could take it back. Heart broken — feeling sad.

CAROL'S COMMENT

Please,I have to ask a question......(This is not aimed at anyone and not intended for any disrespect) Why,please tell me why......people w/type 2 continue to eat anyway that they want and then ask...Whats wrong w/me,I cant get my numbers down?" My mother did this..ate carbs,fruits,sugars,candy,etc(laughed while eating it)and then paid the price...her heart exploded one day and she died. I have been so angry at her for "Oh just one piece wont hurt" She left her whole family devastated and angry.

DEB F. MY DIABETES JOURNEY TO WELLNESS

My Diabetes Journey to Wellness

I’m the luckiest person in the world. Seems like a strange statement coming from a person with diabetes, doesn’t it? But it is very true. This is my story.


On June 28, 2007 I was out with family celebrating my niece’s tenth birthday. We let her choose what she wanted to do, which was miniature golf. I had been feeling off for several weeks – tired, sweaty, and thirsty all the time. Plus, I had lost weight.

I remember being especially hot that day. We had made it to the fifth hole when I started feeling lightheaded. Before I made it to the next hole, I collapsed. I came to shortly afterwards. I consider myself very fortunate because I had two of my brothers with me that day – one who is an EMT; another who has diabetes. They recognized my symptoms and tested my blood glucose levels. I registered a 555. My brothers told me that was way too high and insisted that I contact my doctor. I scheduled my appointment and was formally diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes on July 2, 2007.

My family doctor gave me very basic information on diabetes, a referral to a diabetes educator, and prescriptions for a meter, lancets, test strips, and Metformin. The Metformin made me so sick, I could not leave the house. My doc wanted me to give it a month to see if it would level out. It didn’t.

Over the next two years, we tried every drug on the market in an attempt to control my diabetes. Nothing seemed to work to bring down my numbers – and I had a reaction to everything. I finally ended up on a combination of an extended release Metformin, Glipizide, Actos, with Lantus in the evenings to get me to near normal levels.

As many of you know, that’s a pretty expensive cocktail. I am self-employed, and do not have prescription drug insurance coverage, so the cost of all these meds comes out of my pocket. I was always looking for ways to save on costs.

During this time I went through all the typical feelings of anger, depression, and feeling sorry for myself. I gained 90 pounds and felt horrible about myself.

One day while skimming through news headlines in the Wall Street Journal, I came across a news piece about a diabetes study that was being done by The Cleveland Clinic. I clicked on the link to read the article and that was when the excitement and hope began to come back into my life. The purpose of the study was to find which

option offered the best solution to the Type 2 diabetic: drug treatment; gastric sleeve surgery; or bypass surgery. Study participants would be randomized into one of the three groups. I had nothing to lose and a lot to potentially gain by participating.

I called the number listed in the article and answered the preliminary questions. As I had been on insulin for less than five years, I was considered a good candidate for inclusion in the study, but there were additional tests that I had to take and pass before I could be accepted – and I had to commit to being available for five years for participation in the study. A stack of documents (about an inch thick) was sent to me, which I immediately completed and returned. About a month later I received a call telling me that I had passed the initial cut and would I be willing to come in to meet with a study coordinator.

Over the next few months I went through a battery of tests: blood work, EKG, eye test, psychological testing, you name it. The worst was the stress test. Try doing that when you’re 90 pounds overweight. Any one of these could have eliminated me from the study. Fortunately that did not happen.
On October 28, 2010 I was randomized into the group to receive the gastric sleeve surgery. My surgery took place the afternoon of November 15. I had been told to expect to spend 2-3 days in the hospital afterwards. I was really hoping for only two days because my birthday was the 17th and who wants to spend their entire birthday in the hospital. The surgery itself took about five hours and went fine. I was up the next day and walking around. On Wednesday morning I was taken down to the X-ray Dept. so that they could take a picture of my new, improved, size-of-a-quarter stomach (they called it a pouch). I had to drink a liquid to contrast in the image. It did not go well. It made me sick and the image showed a leak in the pouch. I ended up staying in the hospital until Friday in order to allow time for the leak to seal.


My diet for the first two weeks after my release was milk with added protein. Then I graduated to jars of baby food. Everything with added protein. I had to take my time eating – at least 30 minutes per meal – otherwise I would experience dumping. I spent the Christmas holiday with family and decided that I was feeling well enough to eat regular food. It was a mistake to introduce regular food back into my diet before recommended. It made me sick. I strongly urge anyone who has this surgery to follow the dietary instructions to the letter when you are released.

I am now 3.5 years out from my surgery. I’m 80 pounds lighter. I’m off all my diabetes meds – no insulin, no blood pressure meds! I have to take a multi-vitamin every day and I take extra vitamin D. I feel better than I have in years. I have a second chance at the life I want to live and I intend to maintain what this surgery and The Cleveland Clinic helped me achieve.

SANDY'S COMMENT

Good morning everyone! Just wanted to share that because of the jump start and support this group has given me, I made up my mind to take my diabetes by the horns and get serious with my eating habits, which basically were eat whatever I wanted!!! Just in the past 3 weeks, I have been counting the calories and carbs of everything I put in my mouth. I typed up a chart where I record my BS several times a day, my blood pressure, and weight. I also write down everything I eat for all 3 meals and include 2 snacks in there. This has really helped me. I have started eated healthier and my husband even loves the stir-fri meals I cook. In just 3 weeks, I have lost 23 pounds!!! Woo Hoo! My BS has come down, along with my blood pressure and pulse! If I can do this, so can you!!! Today is the first day of the rest of your life!

MOLLIE'S COMMENT

I have been reading a book about diabetes- The Things Doctors Don't Tell You About diabetes. It is enlightening. I was mostly shocked to read that the ADA says that a person with a 180mg post-prandial is "keeping good control." Other research uses 140, and yet others 120. I'm shocked by the disparity of numbers quoted by various medical organizations. It seems the ADA is the worst. For now, I personally want to try to get as close to 120 as possible, but even if I can't as long as I keep my BG under 140 I'm happy. I was only diagnosed in April of this year.

Also of interest was that if you have some blood disorder, say like anemia, your a1c will be off. African Americans who have sickle cell anemia also will show a misleading a1c. All sorts of factors come into play, so for doctors to generalise a1c as the litmus test for diabetes or not, should make sure there aren't any other factors affecting a1c. Plus, ultimately it is your post-prandials that count the most- at least according to this book.

Interesting stuff to learn. Taking it all with a grain of salt though, but the author himself is a diabetic. Gads, my brain hurts now, LOL.

Like

MELINDA'S TIP

•  Most chain fast food places and chain restaurants post carb information either on their website or at their restaurants. But really, since we are all different in our food tolerances, who decides what is "diabetic-friendly"? We do, not some company. We decide what is healthy for us, we just have to learn self-control, learn to plan ahead if we are eating out, and learn how to navigate the grocery store to best suit our individual needs. It can be done. :)

MARK'S STORY

I was recently diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes in April with a BS level of 430 and my A1C was 13.2. The lab contacted me at 9:30 pm and suggested I go to the ER for immediate treatment. I preferred to visit my Dr in the AM and was immediately prescribed 1000mg of Metformin 2x/day, 5mg of Glipizide 2x/day with meals and 10cc of Lantus injected at bedtime. I went to a Diabetes intro class and issued an Accu Check meter and strips. At the class, my BS was down to 320 but still high. I continued for a few days restricting any grain and still having fruit in the AM with yogurt. My BS was still over 200 2 hrs after eating. My symptoms were constant urination and unquenchable thirst along with leg cramps in my calves each morning. My mother has T2D and I'm the third of seven children diagnosed
I cut out fruit, grain, rice, potatoes and restricted my diet to 20g of sugar carbs per day. I have long been an advocate of Low Carb/High Fat diets such as Dr. Atkins. While I found the finger pricking annoying at times, I believed it was a necessary afterthought to maintain health that would prolong my life with a minimal of complications. I check my BS before and after each meal. My nightly injection of Lantus is no problem. It is minor in the scheme of things.
My first 30 day A1C dropped to 9.2 and my most recent A1C after 60 days was 6.2. I continue with meds until directed otherwise by my PCP. My LDL was 82/HDL 38 Total Chol 135, Triglyc 75. I also invested in a FitBit Flex to monitor my daily steps and sleep patterns. I'm 58 and 5'10, 235 lbs with a goal weight of 180. I work on losing 20 lbs at a time so I'm not overwhelmed. I've only had one low BS of 48 and felt shaky, clammy and weak. I immediately ate a juicy peach and a slice of pizza and a beer and was at 95 within 20 minutes. I should note that I am a veteran and covered by the VA for all of my meds and supplies with a small copay.
Some of my favorite foods are Dannon Carb Smart Vanilla Yogurt with Cinnamon (3g sugar), Premier Protein shakes (30g protein, 1g sugar). On the go, I carry celery stalks and a jar of Smuckers Natural Peanut Butter (1g sugar) for a quick snack.
Salads for lunch with fresh greens, tomatoes, cheese, and bacon bits with sugar free Walden Farms Balsamic Vinaigrette. My favorite is a fresh tomato, fresh mozzarella and basil drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
Rotisserie Chicken with grilled asparagus, squash, zucchini, peppers and onions. A low carb spinach dip with celery stalks as an appetizer. I continue to have 2 glasses of red wine each night with dinner. I save my favorite, Chardonnay for the weekends. A variety of cheeses without the crackers and an olive medley instead of grapes. When I reach my goal weight, I will reintroduce fresh fruits into my daily routine.
I also have Russel Stover sugar free mint patties or coconut patties for a sweet treat. I enjoy frozen sugar free ice pops or a Jello Temptations Sugar free Mouse topped with whipped cream (1g sugar).
For a treat, I go to Chili's and have a Tableside Guacamole with chips, salsa and wine. The chips don't raise my BS above 130 and has replaced my love for pizza.
My wish for everyone is to embrace Diabetes as a healthy empowerment rather than an embarrassing curse. There are those with T2D that fight the guidance and those that embrace it, going with the required focus. Those that fight it are those with the greater likelihood for complications or a shortened lifespan. Hope this has been helpful.

ROSE'S STORY

Doing the HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY Dance  My A1c today was 5.2 ( non diabetic level ) BUT Im always a diabetic Still on Meformin but NO MORE insulin at night . Good Cholesterol is up and She is estatic lol more than I was really lol . Triglycerides are still up a bit tho .. not alarming but still there .. goes along with diabetes . Hoping to get even lower next reading  See WE can BEAT IT . Keep the faith 

EVIE'S STORY

Hope everyone is having a good, low bs day. My leg cramps finally stopped after those 12 hr shifts lol. I appointed today my clean up, change of life day. I took everything white including bread, flour, rice, pasta, all high carb canned foods to the food bank. I replaced my kitchen with low sodium V-8 juice, brown rice and low carb brown pasta. I don't eat sauce with pasta, I eat garlic mixed with olive oil in my pasta. I didn't buy bread since I am dieting. A multi-vitamin f...or diabetics, Threw out my soda's and juices. Bought a huge dispenser filled with water and small part of mango juice. I started my water aerobics just walking in the pool for now. Last but not least I bought vapo so I can switch from cigarettes. This is an entire life style change for me so wish me luck. So far my sugar goes to around 160 after meals but starts to come down gradually to about 100. Lost another 2 lbs. Thanks for letting me brag, now if I can stick to it that would be great . Have a wonderful night. My thoughts to everyone in here.

PAULA'S STORY

joined the group about a month ago and I have been watching the posts and wanted to introduce myself. I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at the beginning of April. I was speaking to a customer of my store, telling her how I had been feeling and that I thought it was diabetes and it just so happened (or not chance is my belief) that she was a diabetic nurse, which I didn't know. She went to got her meter and tested me and I was 26 (Canadian girl here). I believe that i...s about 494 or so. She recommended that I go to emergency right away, which I did and received my diagnosis.

Both of my parents are type 1 now, my older sister diagnosed last year and my brother about 3 weeks after me. Seems its hereditary in our family!
At first I was scared, upset, then realized that I need to get over it and on with it. I own my own small business and work it 6 days a week. I realized it was part of a wake up call because I wasn't taking care of myself the way that I needed to. I try my best to assist others (I am a reiki master - an alternative healing modality using energy - a psychic & medium and a hypnotist) but I wasn't doing that great of a job with myself!
I started changing some of my eating habits (I had a love affair of soda) and beginning to tell my body every day that I was happy and healthy and my body is my own. In a month, I'm off of my glyburide and only on metformin and my nurse thought I would need insulin shots to bring my sugars down, which I haven't so far and my sugars are ranging between 4.5 and 7.5 now (85 to 142) and I try to take things one day at a time.
I just wanted to add that I truly believe how we choose to address the situation has a bearing on how this disease will affect us. Stay positive and tell your body every day that you are healed! Our emotions effect us in a big way.
Okay, I've talked enough but I hope everyone has a

MOLLIE'S STORY

My Diabetes Journey to Wellness



I’m the luckiest person in the world. Seems like a strange statement coming from a person with diabetes, doesn’t it? But it is very true. This is my story.

On June 28, 2007 I was out with family celebrating my niece’s tenth birthday. We let her choose what she wanted to do, which was miniature golf. I had been feeling off for several weeks – tired, sweaty, and thirsty all the time. Plus, I had lost weight.

I remember being especially hot that day. We had made it to the fifth hole when I started feeling lightheaded. Before I made it to the next hole, I collapsed. I came to shortly afterwards. I consider myself very fortunate because I had two of my brothers with me that day – one who is an EMT; another who has diabetes. They recognized my symptoms and tested my blood glucose levels. I registered a 555. My brothers told me that was way too high and insisted that I contact my doctor. I scheduled my appointment and was formally diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes on July 2, 2007.

My family doctor gave me very basic information on diabetes, a referral to a diabetes educator, and prescriptions for a meter, lancets, test strips, and Metformin. The Metformin made me so sick, I could not leave the house. My doc wanted me to give it a month to see if it would level out. It didn’t.

Over the next two years, we tried every drug on the market in an attempt to control my diabetes. Nothing seemed to work to bring down my numbers – and I had a reaction to everything. I finally ended up on a combination of an extended release Metformin, Glipizide, Actos, with Lantus in the evenings to get me to near normal levels.

As many of you know, that’s a pretty expensive cocktail. I am self-employed, and do not have prescription drug insurance coverage, so the cost of all these meds comes out of my pocket. I was always looking for ways to save on costs.

During this time I went through all the typical feelings of anger, depression, and feeling sorry for myself. I gained 90 pounds and felt horrible about myself.

One day while skimming through news headlines in the Wall Street Journal, I came across a news piece about a diabetes study that was being done by The Cleveland Clinic. I clicked on the link to read the article and that was when the excitement and hope began to come back into my life. The purpose of the study was to find which

option offered the best solution to the Type 2 diabetic: drug treatment; gastric sleeve surgery; or bypass surgery. Study participants would be randomized into one of the three groups. I had nothing to lose and a lot to potentially gain by participating.

I called the number listed in the article and answered the preliminary questions as I had
been on insulin for less than five years, I was considered a good candidate for inclusion in the study, but there were additional tests that I had to take and pass before I could be accepted – and I had to commit to being available for five years for participation in the study. A stack of documents (about an inch thick) was sent to me, which I immediately completed and returned. About a month later I received a call telling me that I had passed the initial cut and would I be willing to come in to meet with a study coordinator.

Over the next few months I went through a battery of tests: blood work, EKG, eye test, psychological testing, you name it. The worst was the stress test. Try doing that when you’re 90 pounds overweight. Any one of these could have eliminated me from the study. Fortunately that did not happen.
On October 28, 2010 I was randomized into the group to receive the gastric sleeve surgery. My surgery took place the afternoon of November 15. I had been told to expect to spend 2-3 days in the hospital afterwards. I was really hoping for only two days because my birthday was the 17th and who wants to spend their entire birthday in the hospital. The surgery itself took about five hours and went fine. I was up the next day and walking around. On Wednesday morning I was taken down to the X-ray Dept. so that they could take a picture of my new, improved, size-of-a-quarter stomach (they called it a pouch). I had to drink a liquid to contrast in the image. It did not go well. It made me sick and the image showed a leak in the pouch. I ended up staying in the hospital until Friday in order to allow time for the leak to seal.


My diet for the first two weeks after my release was milk with added protein. Then I graduated to jars of baby food. Everything with added protein. I had to take my time eating – at least 30 minutes per meal – otherwise I would experience dumping. I spent the Christmas holiday with family and decided that I was feeling well enough to eat regular food. It was a mistake to introduce regular food back into my diet before recommended. It made me sick. I strongly urge anyone who has this surgery to follow the dietary instructions to the letter when you are released.

I am now 3.5 years out from my surgery. I’m 80 pounds lighter. I’m off all my diabetes meds – no insulin, no blood pressure meds! I have to take a multi-vitamin every day and I take extra vitamin D. I feel better than I have in years. I have a second chance at the life I want to live and I intend to maintain what this surgery and The Cleveland Clinic helped me achieve.

PAULA'S COMMENT

I joined the group about a month ago and I have been watching the posts and wanted to introduce myself. I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at the beginning of April. I was speaking to a customer of my store, telling her how I had been feeling and that I thought it was diabetes and it just so happened (or not chance is my belief) that she was a diabetic nurse, which I didn't know. She went to got her meter and tested me and I was 26 (Canadian girl here). I believe that i...s about 494 or so. She recommended that I go to emergency right away, which I did and received my diagnosis.

Both of my parents are type 1 now, my older sister diagnosed last year and my brother about 3 weeks after me. Seems its hereditary in our family!
At first I was scared, upset, then realized that I need to get over it and on with it. I own my own small business and work it 6 days a week. I realized it was part of a wake up call because I wasn't taking care of myself the way that I needed to. I try my best to assist others (I am a reiki master - an alternative healing modality using energy - a psychic & medium and a hypnotist) but I wasn't doing that great of a job with myself!
I started changing some of my eating habits (I had a love affair of soda) and beginning to tell my body every day that I was happy and healthy and my body is my own. In a month, I'm off of my glyburide and only on metformin and my nurse thought I would need insulin shots to bring my sugars down, which I haven't so far and my sugars are ranging between 4.5 and 7.5 now (85 to 142) and I try to take things one day at a time.
I just wanted to add that I truly believe how we choose to address the situation has a bearing on how this disease will affect us. Stay positive and tell your body every day that you are healed! Our emotions effect us in a big way.
Okay, I've talked enough but I hope everyone has 

NETTE'S COMMENT

At first I was afraid to use this site tonight is my first time actually reading a lot of the post on here I feel so comfortable now knowing their's actually people out there who can help me and encourage me to do better controlling my diabetes
My story I have been a diabetic for 14 years I was young really didn't understand what it was and how bad it can affect you and your body so I didn't worry about it kept doing me as the years went by I got older still didn't care it has taking a whole toll on me I'm pushing myself hard to do the right things now I have to I have a daughter that I love more than ever I have to be here for I just want to say thanks for having me in this group I pray I can work together with everyone reading their different post to help me as well
— in Southaven, Mississippi.

STELLA'S COMMENT

I just want to say "good job warriors!" For all those who managed to stay on this side of 120 today or got that good news from your doctors or whatever positive steps you made in the battle against diabetes today. For my warriors who are still struggling or just struggled today I want you to never lose hope! Each day rise with the determination to win and hold on with the tenacity of a raging bulldog! DEATH TO DIABETES!

CLARKE'S COMMENT

I am 61 yrs old and I am ready to throw in the towel. I've been a t2 since 1984. I am on kidney dialysis, I have neuropathy in my feet and ankles, which means that i can barely walk, have retinopathy in my eyes. I had a serious heart attack in 2009. Now I have neuropathy in my hands. And it appears that all my former friends have abandoned me. However, it is all my fault. I always thought that since I didnt feel bad, there was nothing to worry about...boy was I wrong. For those of you in the early years, watch your blood sugars and do what your doctor says. So now that you have heard my tale of woe, do the opposite and you will have a much better, happier life.

NANCY'S COMMENT

One year health check with diabetes clinic today and I have good news! A1C is 5.8 and all the various things they check are also good. The only problem is LDL cholesterol is up a wee bit. I bought bran today to sprinkle on oatmeal etc. It's a bit confusing though that there are different goal ranges for diabetics. For instance the LDL is fine if I wasn't a diabetic but because I am they want it under 2 mmol. So we have to be better than normal! Thanks to everyone here. I enjoy all the posts especially as it helps me not feel so alone.

 — feeling hopeful.
Nancy is a member of the type 2 diabetes weight loss group

MOLLIE'S COMMENT

Okay, gotta rant.
When I tell some folks I have t2 diabetes, they say, "Oh, I can help you to eat healthier." Well, I have been on a low fat, low carb, low sugar diet for two years, even before my diagnosis. I rarely ate fast food, hardly at all in the past decade. I enjoyed fresh veg and fruit with lots of fibre. My diabetes is genetic. I have never been obese. I exercised and stayed active- all those things considered healthy, well except for smoking.
It irritates me that ...people assume I was eating crap. Anyway, I will look those folks in the eye and say, "It's genetic, not diet-related." That usually takes them aback. Maybe I'm a bit sharp with them, but I feel the need to dispell a lot of false assumptions that people have about diabetes and diabetics- at least in my case. I'm sure these folks mean well when they offer advice, but I get a bit tetchy when they do, LOL. Oh well.

Actually the best thing that has come out of having diabetes is that I've quit smoking and exercise even more on a regular basis and am fitter than I ever was before. Yes, I have to watch what I eat and do, take meds etc- but I feel great. I try not to look or dwell in the past. I have a NEW life and loving it. I'm living out my dream of being out in the country, raising chickens, taking walks with my dogs etc. Each and every moment, I'm looking for alternatives for things I like and discovering new things to bake, cook, and create.

Mollie is a member of the type 2 diabetes support group

JOHNNY'S COMMENTS

I see a lot of people on here are having trouble controlling their diabetes and losing weight . I've battled that problem for a loooong time. When I was 33 my peak was 438 lbs. I was taking 80 cc of novolog a day on top of 14 pills. My kidneys failed I was on dialysis for 2 years. Instead of giving up I took control of my life . I had weight loss surgery and lost 220 lbs . My niece who was 23 at the time donated a kidney to me . It's been 7 years of my new lease on life . Please please please people if you're overweight please look into WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY!!!! It works the results are real. IGNORE THE NEGATIVE PEOPLE THAT WILL TALK ABOUT THAT ONE PERSON WHO HAD A BAD EXPERIENCE WITH SURGERY!!!!!! I've been medicine free for 7 years with an a1c of 6.0

PENNY'S STORY

• Actually I really don't know what I did. I don't count carbs because I don't know how. I have never seen a endocrinologist or a dietician. I do a lot of walking. In 2010 I was diagnosed with a low thyroid and was put on thyroid medication. I then dropped 50 pounds really fast. I gained 20 back almost just as fast. I also had both my knees replaced the one in Aug. of 2010 the other in Jan. of 2011. When I drink soda I take a can of sprite zero and I put it into a 32 ounce mug then I fill it with ice and water. I do eat candy and ice cream all of the time but not everyday. I recently had cataract surgery and can see better than I have my whole life. In 2007 I got cellulitis in the middle toe of my right foot and almost lost my toe. I lost some tissue and most of my toenail. I now wear diabetic shoes and sox. My insurance pays for my shoes. In June of least year I was hospitalized for a huge blood 

  • clot in my leg. The main thing I did was to change my diet. I have a goal to get completely off the metformin. I am going to start going to the gym regularly.

DWAYNE'S COMMENT ON TESTING

Here is how I figure out if I should limit or eliminate foods. Over the past three days, I've been experimenting with oatmeal for breakfast.
Each day I ate the same amount of oatmeal, 3/4 cup-40 carbs, 6 grams fiber and tested at 1 hr from the time I began eating. I also used 50 points as my spike target.
Day 1 fasting test was 98,oatmeal alone, 1 hr test 176. 78 point rise.
Absolutely unacceptable ...
Day 2 fasting test 105.Oatmeal with 2 oz protein, 1 hr test , 163 58 point rise. Better, yet, could be improved I wanted to get as close to 50 as possible.This left me with the option of upping the protein or cutting back the oatmeal.
Day 3 fasting test, 90, Oatmeal with 3 oz protein. 1 hr test , 141. 51 point rise. Still 1 point more than my target, but close enough for me.

This little experiment shows me that this amount of oatmeal is acceptable as long as I eat protein with it, at least 2 ounces, as you can see there really wasn't a vast difference between day 2 and day 3 with an extra ounce added on day 3. It may seem a little obsessive but if you want to know how foods effect your tests, when to avoid or eliminate a food this is the best way I've found to determine that answer.
Hope this helps you along the way!!

 

LISA'S COMMENT ABOUT A FRIEND

Lisa ‎TYPE 2 DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP

6 mins ·

We buried a friend today. He was diabetic and overweight, had high bp and cholesterol and not sure what else. He had neuropathy so badly in his feet he could not feel them. He had a crushed ankle that required surgery and didn't even know it was broke. He ate anything and everything he wanted. He just took more insulin. He was 56. Left a wife, a daughter he just got reacquainted with and a beautiful granddaughter who adored him. While I am not perfect in my quest to live a no...rmal life, I have vowed to my partner that even this horrible disease may take me down that path, it won't be because I didn't work hard. I cannot allow myself to be that selfish. Sorry. I just had to get that out. It has renewed my will to get my butt out of bed at 4:30 to get on my treadmill and ride my bike. I must do the physical. I eat good. I just got lazy. OK I'm done.

CHARLENE'S STORY "I REMEMBER"

 

I Remember

 

I remember that night, September 8, 2013.

There was nothing different about that night, until it was time to go to bed.  I felt something nothing that I could put a finger on just a feeling.  An odd feeling, and a thought that something wasn’t just right.  An impending feeling of doom.  At around 11:00 pm after still having these feelings I decided to drive to Southern Maryland Hospital.

I remember.

I headed down Route 5, I have driven past this hospital so may times I can’t even count them.  Halfway there my mind is confused, have I gone to far, have I not gone far enough.  I take the next exit and pull over trying to get my thoughts together.  By this time I know what that odd feeling is, my heart is pounding, I am having pressure on my chest like someone is sitting on me.

I Remember.

I get my head together and continue back down Route 5 to finally see the entrance to the hospital.  I park my car and get out not knowing if I can make it across the parking lot and up to the emergency door.  There were a few people walking to their cars and I tried to get their attention so they could get me some help, but I don’t know if I was not talking loud enough or they didn’t want to get involved or they thought I was some nut.

I remember.

I see a red pole on the other side of the parking lot with a sign that says Help, if I can only make it to that sign maybe I can get some help.  I slowly make it to the pole and see it has a button on it to push to get help, so I push it and look at the ER waiting that is close but seems so far away.  As I look at the windows of the ER and see people turn and look at me when I push the button, I see no one moving to help me.  I push it again and finally see a hospital employee stand and head to the door.  What seemed like hours was probably seconds or a few minutes at best.  But it was an eternity for me.

I remember.

Finally he comes out with a wheelchair and as he gets closer to me I say “I am having a Heart attack” , he says okay at the time I am thinking he is just a little to nonchalant about it but now I am thinking he was just being calm which at this point I was not.  I am put on a stretcher and a doctor comes in checks my heart and gives me a nitro pill and says he will be back in a few minutes.  He comes back and asks how I am feeling and I say I am having a heart attack.  He then says no you are having an Angina attack here is another nitro pill and off he goes again.  He comes back a third time and asks how I am doing and I say I am having a heart attack he gives me another nitro pill.  Back he comes and asks again How I am doing and by this time I holler at him and say I am having a heart attack, he says no its Angina and now he is going to give me a pain killer.  I pass out.

I remember

The next day I wake up as they are getting me ready to transport me to Washington Hospital.  I am told I need a Double bypass, its not registering in my head.  I am confused and don’t know where I am.  I make it to Washington hospital and meet my nurse “Casey” she explains what happened and what they were going to do.

I remember.

Casey asked if there was someone I wanted to call and all I could think was who would want to receive a call like that.  Who in my family should I burden with that call.  At first I thought no one just have the surgery and call them after.  But then I thought oh if they did that to me I would kill them. So on 9/11 my older sister got that call an hour before I went into surgery.

I don’t remember.

I don’t remember the people who visited in the first few days after surgery, I don’t remember those first few days at all.  Although I am told that even with all the equipment and tubes down my throat I was able to give orders of what I was going or not going to do LOL.  Meds and loss of memory for a couple of days has a funny effect on a person.  My first memory is of sitting in a chair not being able to talk a tube down my throat and someone saying your family will be here soon and we will take the tube out.  To me it seemed like this person was saying that for days.

I remember.

Then my team of doctors come in to discuss what happened and where I am.  I was in ICU recovering from a quadruple bypass and was in A Fib and had an irregular heart beat and by the way did you know you were diabetic?  Well that reality finished my smoking cigarettes of 37 years thankfully (and I am still smoke free and don’t miss it).  Now I had things to decide changes to be made and diet was a major part.  I spent 2 weeks in ICU and another week on the heart floor where I was sent to a hour long course on nutrition.  Needless to say I got very little out of that class.  So I went back home to Maine to recuperate with my family using the guidelines I got in the hospital.  My blood sugars ranged 160 to 230 on good days.  When I finally made an appointment with a primary doctor (for 20 years I didn’t need doctors) we went through all the tests all the things I should have had tested my A1C came back as 7.0 and my doctor said well you have your blood sugar under control.  I told her that I don’t know how because of my ranges but she said continue what you are doing.  Well that wasn’t good enough for me I got a second chance at life and I was not going to mess it up.  So the research began the endless hours of surfing the internet to find out all I could.  Then one day I saw the face book T2 Diabetes support group and joined from that day a few weeks ago I have learned more than I could have expected.  I am very sensitive to carbs, white foods, fruits so I now do a Low Carb High Fat diet.  I still occasionally will spike to 160 but most of the time I am under 130.  I power walk 20 - 40 minutes a day I am still trying to improve my heart function.  But it is working, my friends will say you are doing great how do you do it?  For me its not a choice anymore it is a Lifestyle change, in the past I had choices and made the wrong ones. December 26^th, 2013 I had a defibrillator implanted as a Christmas present.   Now I chose to live so I will control Diabetes it will not control me! Fight and stay strong and find what works for you. 

Charlene is a member of the type 2 diabetes support group

 

PATRICIA'S STORY

My story starts out with me having blackouts not knowing why because i felt fine- so after the third blackout i made a drs appt. had blood work done and regular exam.A couple days later got my results high blood pressure and cholrestrol up i go on meds- Told to eat bland diet drink lots of water and some type of vitimin d would be good. My meds worked great and i was in control of my illiness until bout a year later i begin to feel bad make my drs appt. everything was out if wack again and had no job no insurance limited income from unemployment sought treatment at the healthreach clinic where i live blood work in the making and still no diabetes at this point but changed meds - back and forth to ther drs every couple of months and blood work every 2 months and bout 6 months blood wook time again this time it showed diabetes i was devastated but i knew something was wrong because i was urinating alot and vision begin to blur. Treatments with metiform begun i had reactions couldnt take it -my dietician was so much help she understood me because she is a diabetic- she changed my meds to glipizde and crestor and with a proper guide and seminars and a  diet plan made just for me and check ups every month for 3 months and blood work every 2 months i begin a plan and was feeling better losing weight drinking water walking 2 miles a day dr visits went from every month to every 2 months and blood work every 2 months still got my bs down from 163 to 118 and A1C down from 7.9 to 6.0 i lost a total of 17 lbs and when dr seen that i was serious but my diabetes she told me lets see how u can do with just the diet and exerise and take you off the meds she also said she believe my meds i taking for my bp and cholrestrol was the reason for the diabetes because they can cause it . So as of August 13 2013 i have been meds free and stable and in control of diabetes so far checked every 6 months now. 

Pat is a member of the type 2 diabetes support group

A COMMENT FROM SHANE ON FOOD

Ok, since I got my venting done, I thought I would post some food's for thought. Want a hamburger? Try a turkey burger! To me its best on the grill with a few smoke chips to add a bit of flavor! And instead of a hamburger bun, use two large portabello mushrooms! very tasty, and you just deleted your carbs! Everyone knows fish is the best source of protein! Eat more fish! Love mine, of course, grilled! Quinoa pasta is a great alternative! Yes its carby, but the carbs from quinoa wont spike you like white or wheat pasta's! Omlettes are awesome for diabetics! And you have so many options to put in them! My two favorite are jalapeno and onion, and steak and mushroom! Be careful on the jalapeno and onion, as onions can be loaded with sugar! Cauliflower mashed like potatoes are awesome! And a great way to switch out a carb! Chicken breasts stuffed with mushrooms and spinach are another favorite! And you can stuff chicken breasts as well as center cut pork chop with so many things! Want to substitute potato chips? Use pork rinds! Just not a good idea for those with cholesterol issues! Feel like subway? Toss the bread! They will make any salad with the lunch meats from any of their sandwiches! Just dont get crazy with the salad dressing! I say this because most "dieting women" make a salad more fattening than a whopper just by the amount of salad dressing! Yes I read that in a science study! And on the salad note, if you feel 2 table spoons (serving size) isnt enough. Make your salad in tupper ware, add your dressing, put the lid on, and shake the hell out of it! Now you covered your salad with dressing! And last but not least, please study and learn the low glycemic fruit and veggie index! Hope ya'll enjoyed!    Member of type 2 diabetes support group

RANDY'S COMMENT

As an experienced journeyman carpenter I approach my T2D as I would with any bridge I have built and any apprentice I have worked with and taught. There was a post earlier about following the old ADA research and recommendations regardless of what long term diabetics with tremendous success suggested. My first inclination was to ask why are you here? I remember working with a very talented and bright apprentice with a lot of "Book knowledge". However he had also said, after working with me for about a week, that 1/2 of everything he had learned at carpenter school, he had to throw out the window and that there was so much more about carpentry that can't be learned in a classroom but only from an old timer like myself. My point is, knowledge is power but common sense is invaluable and priceless. I want to learn about diabetes from someone who lives with it and has experience that you can't learn from just research. If I don't value another diabetics opinion then why am I even here. Just saying.

Randy is a member of the type 2 diabetes support group

A COMMENT FROM SHANIA

I've literally had people ask me how to lose weight (went from 230-140 and kept it off for 3 years) and in the same breathe say they like junk food or don't want to give up junk food. Well, if that's your mind set amd you're not willing to make meal substitutions for the items you like to eat then stay unhealthy and definitely you will get complications sooner or later from this disease. It did take me a while to get under control (I was an obese child so lots of and eating habits and just plain ignorance) but now I am without any medications. 

Thanks for your post because you kept it real. Yes we all get it that you want to eat what everyone else eats, find replacements! If you want ice cream do you research and find which places sell no sugar added, sugar free. If you want pasta make the pasta out of veggies, if you really want to eat a burger at least try to remove one bun! But some people are not willing!    Shania is a member of the type 2 diabetes support group

A COMMENT FROM SHANE

Okay, I need to vent and get this out there! First everyone who has been diagnosed, should seek as much education about diabetes as possible! You need to control your disease, not the other way around!!!! Yes, when I was first diagnosed, my numbers were just over 300, and in 2 weeks, I had them under 100! Yes I felt very weak, and all around felt like crap! I had allowed my body to get use to seeking out carbs and sugar rather than the protein like it should! Its each individ...uals choice on if they're going to do what it takes to conquer their affliction! Yes, I too see everyone else eating and drinking whatever they want! But MY LIFE, and MY HEALTH are more important! I see posts on here where it seems people are bragging, "how high have your numbers gone" or "How low have you gone" this isnt a joke! Diabetes isnt a joke! And a support group is NOT the place to come for ANY medical advise! On another note, for those who have friend requested more, or messaged me asking questions, I love getting to know new people, and will help in any way I can. But if you ask me a question, dont get upset if I give you a truthful answer! For me, diabetes was a blessing in disguise! I was diagnosed last March, Ive lost 35 pounds, Im eating so much cleaner, as well as appropriate portions. My over all health is much better, and it was a kick in the butt to start exercising! This is a support group! I have no problem supporting anyone who will try to support themselves! Anyways, done venting!    Shane is a member of the type 2 diabetes support group

VICTOR'S STORY

   I was put on 500 metformin once a day.  My numbers were still running in the 180’s so prior to the follow up with my primary I upped myself to 500 twice a day.  When I saw my doctor a week later I was still running in the 150’s so  they upped me to 1,000 twice a day. I made an appointment to see the endo.  I saw the endo on 12/27 he had me see the dietician in his office which I did on 12/30.  They put me on something called the Protein sparing modified fasting diet .  I will spare the details but basically it’s the two week induction to Atkins but low fat proteins and you do it for longer then two weeks.  You do it under the doctors care with lots of blood test and regular visits because it is not a balanced diet and comes with risk.  

          I took the next week and ate like crap then started june 8^th. I saw results by day two with my sugars fasting being 80.  I called and asked to be removed off metformin because I was having horrible side effects still.   He agreed.  Well on February I was in the ER with impacted bowels from not having a bowel movement for 6 days.  I called endo and dietician and said I am coming off this diet and doing this the right way.   I had lost about 30 pounds at this point but I  DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS DIET FOR ANYONE.  It is so radical and un healthy.   I started counting carbs and keeping them to 30 or under per meal.   Many meals just being a protein and steamed veggie that was not starchy like a broccoli or green beans.  On 2/28/13 I had my second A1C and it was 5.5.    

          I saw endo again in May and he likes my numbers. I am up five pounds though and he does not like that.  Today I am still trying to loose weight my sugars are pretty stable with my highest readings being like 140 and that is rarely.  My fasting are 90-120.  I wish they would stay in the 90 range but I think for no meds I am doing ok.   I will have my next A1C in July and we will see if I get to keep it below 7. I test 3-4 sometimes 5 times a day especially when I eat something new to see how it effects me.

Victor is a member of the type 2 diabetes support group

MARGARET'S STORY

 

hello my name is Margaret ,im 67 years old and live in the uk and have been type 2 for 14 years....here is my story in short....When I was diagnosed with type 2 I was sent to a diabetic nurse, who told me to eat "porridge,potato.s, pasta,rice fruit and much more..i went back after 4 months to be told my BS was to high..i said "but I have only eaten what you told me,she wanted to put me on more drugs including insulin,,i said NO..i bumbled about for a few years,then one day I said to myself "enough is enough and decided to do my own research.i joined the type 2 support group to speak to real diabetics with real experiences,and the word LOW CARB came up time and again,my nurse never mentioned low carb...I bough a carb counting book and looked up the thing I had been eating and it was in the hundreds..i stumble across Dr,eric westmans lchf diet,and it suited my lifestyle..i started this diet on the 1st,jan,,in six weeks my bs dropped to normal range,,my blood pressure came down.and my cholesterol is now only 3..i went back to the nurse who was so surprised that I was in control and over 2 stone lighter she said she had never heard of lchf diets and would have to look into it..bringind down my bs gave me a great buzz and the weight drop was a bonus,,my goal now is to get off metformin by cutting one in half for two weeks and so on..and hope to be off it by the end of the year........thank you and god bless

Margaret is a member of the type 2 diabetes support group

MEG'S STORY

So, I was diagnosed with T2 diabetes at 15. Along with high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. In 2006. At that time I was shufflers between metformin and glyburide to control. I gained a lot of weight during two pregnancies and with the medications. In 2012 my son was diagnosed with low functioning autism. I knew right then I needed to make a change because I may be the only person he has in the future. I started a trial and error. I stopped all medication and took my risk at a LCHF diet. Within 9months I lost 80lb and my sugars were beautiful. Blood pressure, cholesterol beautiful. I became pregnant in 2012. I was controlled 7.5 months by diet during that pregnancy. I started glyburide. I gained no weight however while continuing my diet but less strict. Shortly after I had that baby in 2013 I became pregnant again. I was using medication on that pregnancy though. After my last daughter was born in 2014(April) I started LCHF diet again. In 3 weeks I dropped another 9lb and was back off medication.

Meg is a member of the type 2 diabetes support group

GWEN FROM FLORIDA

I joined this group a little over a week ago, and I am so glad I did. I've learned so much and the support is just awesome. I feel as though I can ask any question; post my sincere fears/concerns and not be judged. Being a part of this group is great therapy and motivation to fight this wicked disease called Diabetes!!  

Gwen is a new member of the type 2 diabetes support group

AMY'S STORY

My story:
At 8 AM, I was at a regular doctor visit in March 2006. My blood pressure was high so the doctor sent me to the lab for blood work because she wanted to put me on a blood pressure med.  After having blood drawn, I returned to work thinking all was fine.  Approximately 2:30 PM I got a phone call that I needed to return to the doctors office immediately. When I asked why, I was told I had T2 diabetes.  I knew absolutely nothing about diabetes but had vague recollection that people lose limbs.  I was utterly and horribly in shock.  When I got back to the doctors, they took me back immediately and started working on me. I can't tell you all the information that was thrown at me in approximately 30 minutes.  I was given a shot of insulin, multiple prescriptions and instructions.  I was told my bs was 400. I had no clue what that meant. I spent the next day learning how to give myself shots.  I am deathly afraid of needles so this was a struggle every time I had to give myself my shots. After I was instructed on the shots, I went to a bookstore because I wasn't given very helpful instructions.  Between the multiple books and internet searches, I felt I could begin my journey. I was on insulin with the understanding i could regulate the dose.  I got up to 30 units of Lantus before my numbers started getting better.  I was also on 1500 mg of Metformin. I lost 30 pounds in 3 months which also helped my numbers to go down. On Valentine's Day 2007, my doctor took me off insulin!  I retired 3 years ago because I felt the stress from my job was taking a tole on my body.  I exercised a little more and lost another 20 pounds.  About a year ago, I came off Metformin. I still struggle with complications...most importantly neuropathy.  But I work very hard every day to have a positive attitude and get my exercise in. It has been a challenging journey but I am so much healthier and happier now. 

                      Amy is a member of the type 2 diabetes support group

J-ANA'S STORY

J-Ana  48 now, diagnosed last year, no complications, diagnosed with an A1C of 9.1 and BSL 181, now A1C of 6.7 and avg BSL of 118, first generation diabetic on both sides of the family, no meds just diet and exercise, 50 lbs lighter than last year from cutting carbs, cholesterol was good until I started eating low carb so now I am on a very low dosage to lower it, I am also on low dosage meds to protect my kidneys, high stress job which I try to combat with relaxation therapy, just trying my best to be happy and make this journey called life one I can be proud of in the end. 
    J-ana is a member of the type 2 diabetes support group