Newb Update

Omac · #1 (**permalink**) 05-12-2008, 07:18 AM

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

JoanW · #2 (**permalink**) 05-12-2008, 09:09 PM

Welcome to DF. You seem to have a good handle on things with your increased exercise and better eating habits. Seeing a downward trend in numbers is always a great feeling and keeps us on track. Stay in touch with the group here there are so many nice people with helpful responses for any questions you may have.
Cheers, Joan

kgm0612 · #3 (**permalink**) 05-14-2008, 06:20 AM

Hi Owen & Welcome! Glad to read you're doing well so far and hope you keep that fantastic attitude!

Karen

Janlaton · #4 (**permalink**) 05-14-2008, 06:27 AM

Welcome, Is the doc saying you will be diet controlled with the weight loss? Or will you stil be on meds?

By the way congrats on the control and low Numbers. Be sure to post from time to time especially to help welcome newly diagnosed folks and you can best share with them how you felt at this time of your life. I can tell about what I have learned over time. But I have long since forgotten my initial feelings and fears.

Keep up the good work.

davef · #5 (**permalink**) 05-14-2008, 06:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Omac

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.

Omac,

Congratulations on your new lifestyle and improved numbers, you will feel so much better with your numbers under control.

I have had a similar experience with my eyes. Just before I was diagnosed I thought my eyes were gone to he11 in a handbasket. Once my numbers started to come down my eyesight improved dramatically to the point where I didn't have to wear my glasses (which I have been wearing for about 25 years). This lasted about 5-6 weeks, now 5 1/2 months after diagnosis I only wear glasses for driving, I would probably "get away" with not wearing them, but I feel happier wearing them and being on the safe side.

You are doing great, keep up the good work!