Age: 59
Name: Gene H
Location: Brooklyn, NY

Summary:

I owe this success to the wisdom and knowledge of my doctor, my finally facing up to the debilitating consequences of the disease and keeping a tight control of my diet, exercise and recording of my glucose levels.

In 1992 I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and despite oral medication, and later insulin injections, slowly began a progressive decline in my health.

In 1996 I underwent triple bypass surgery (I was 45) a complication of the diabetes. My condition continued to decline as I became more and more insulin resistant. I started on the insulin pump about three years ago, which helped to some degree the control of my blood sugars.

About six months ago my endocrinologist (she helps me handle the diabetes) started me on a concentrated form of R insulin called U-500. I witnessed a slow but steady decrease in my insulin resistance, and with her consultation and mutual work, I am now using less insulin than I have in years and my doctor predicts I may be able to cut down on insulin usage (which I have been able to do already) or not need it at all!!

I owe this success to the wisdom and knowledge of my doctor, my finally facing up to the debilitating consequences of the disease and keeping a tight control of my diet, exercise and recording of my glucose levels. Not to mention the loving support of my family.

I am slowly losing weight (I am obese by 40 lbs) and have less brain fog than I used to. To those struggling with this disease I say, don't give up. Muster up as much will-power as you can to eat right, test your blood often, take your meds, and your reward will be a longer life with less or no complications. As a friend of mine who has type 1 says, "Diabetes is a very boring disease." Yes boring, but devastating.