| Newb Update
Firstly, I'd just want to say thanks to all who participate here. I haven't posted since my intro post because I've been reading and learning, and there is so much to learn.
As I said in my first post, my lifestyle changed as soon as I left the doctor on D-day two and a half weeks ago. My emotions have been all over the place & I'm still left with the anger part or the wtf did it choose me part. There are so many others less healthy than I. Why me?
Anyway, with help from a fantastic wife and supportive family I've begun to get healthy. I'm in the gym at least 3 times a week doing mostly cardio because I feel encouraged when my weight comes down. Later I'll work on toning. I've joined a weight loss programme (Weighless for anyone in SA) and have lost 8 kgs on a very healthy eating plan. (I've begun to understand the issues surrounding food labeling or lack thereof).
I've not felt many effects of the condition other that my eyes. I've been refered to an opthalmologist (spelling?) but only when my BS reading are under control (ie 4 - 7 mmol/l). I've worn glasses for a number of years for everything, reading, driving, computor work, tv. Now I see better close up, ie. computor and reading, without my glasses.
My readings are showing a downward trend which is encouraging. Last week I had three readings of below 10 mmol/l and even one of 6.4 mmol/l after a gym session. Very encouraging. I've even had a light beer and a few whiskeys (no.... not all at once) without any noticeable effect change in my regular readings.
When reading through the forum, I do realise that I appear to be one of the fortunate ones in that I found out about my condition relatively early. I wanted to post this update for a reason. I want to stay in touch here but don't yet feel that I've learned enough to offer advice and just about every question I've had is already answered on the forum. Hopefully other newbs will be able to gain from my newb experiences.
I want to add that my doctor gave me a bit of an out when he gave me the news. He said that if I lost 20 kgs I would not noticably have the condition for another 10 to 20 years, as long as I continue to look after my health. He's an honest and forthright man and I choose to believe him for now because it gives me a reason to work hard at getting healthy. I feel lucky to have him on my side.
Hang tough!
Owen  | 
