Terry loves a good challenge. And a challenge is what he got when he was diagnosed
with type 2 diabetes in 1985.
His first concern, however, was not so much for himself. It was for his daughters.
He feared his condition could be genetic and he would pass diabetes on to them.
So, Terry began learning everything he could about diabetes.
"I read a lot about diabetes and heredity," says Terry. "I spoke to both of my daughters
about what they could do now to reduce the risk of having diabetes enter into their
lives."
Based on what he learned, Terry changed his diet, lost weight and started exercising
regularly. But over time, it wasn't enough.
"I was losing control of my diabetes with diet, exercise and oral diabetes medications
alone," says Terry. With his doctor, he considered his choices. "It was time to
move to a different tool that could improve my blood sugar control – insulin."
But first he had to overcome his fear of needles. With help, he did. Now he is able
to give himself insulin.
He also checks his blood sugar levels several times each day. With advice from his
doctor, he uses his numbers to make necessary adjustments to his diet, exercise
and insulin regimen. He also knows the benefit of keeping a blood sugar log and
sharing his numbers with his doctor.
"It is great for patients to bring in their blood sugar logs to their treating healthcare
provider to show their numbers," says Terry. "But it is even better if the patient
can tell how they got those numbers. For example, tell your doctor why you might
have had a high blood sugar reading on one afternoon due to stress at work. Or possibly
you were ill one day, causing a lower reading."
His grandchildren are an inspiration for Terry. Their zest for life is a daily reminder
to him of how wonderful life can be.
"Seize the day," says Terry. "Make of it all that you can."
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