I was diagnosed in the fall of 1995. Type 1 runs in my
family but since I was overweight and didn't exercise, I was a prime candidate
for Type 2 and that's what I had. I didn't get any nutritional information or
diabetes education after my diagnosis so I just continued on my merry way. It
was the wrong way.
I popped an occasional pill figuring it would magically
take care of everything. I never checked my glucose numbers. My head was firmly
imbedded in the sand. I was getting worse and worse but I didn't know it. Of
course, I never kept my doctor's appointments.
On the Monday after Easter Sunday in 1993, I had a funny
feeling in my left leg, it was like it was asleep but it wouldn't wake up. That
evening my left arm felt very heavy. I
figured it was time for a trip to the ER. I'd had a stroke. A very minor one
but a stroke just the same. I was 55!
I changed doctors and he persuaded me to seek some
education. I went to weekly support meetings, diabetes classes, nutrition
classes, the works! It changed my life!
I started on insulin and watched my carb intake and am now
the proud owner of a 6.3 A1C! My third grandchild was born 4 days after my
stroke and I am DETERMINED to see her get married, at the very least! Good luck
to ALL!
Ann P, 58
Abington, MA
132838