Age: 55
Name: Richard O
Location: Jacksonville, FL

Summary:

It is a daily effort, but I can control these diseases. Go to the doctor and get checked out, don't wait until it's too late.

Finding out I had high blood pressure and diabetes was a blow to me. Initially, I was depressed and angry.

My family has a history of these diseases. We cook with olive oil and use Smart Balance so we were somewhat prepared for dietary changes. We took out salt from our cupboards and anything with a high sodium content. We try to eat under 1500mg sodium a day.

I have been seeing an internal medicine doctor that specializes in the cardiac and diabetic conditions. With the lifestyle changes and under his medical guidance, I am able to treat my condition with oral medication.

I am able to control these diseases - not letting the disease control me. It is a daily effort, but I can control these diseases. Go to the doctor and get checked out, don't wait until it's too late.