RX for health

RX for health

Sunday, June 1, 2014

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

No comments:

Post a Comment