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On April 20 th , I was all smiles when I went to see my endocrinologist for regular follow up of my thyroid. For the first time in years my laboratory levels were within normal limits. I was feeling better. In the past few months I'd shed more than 40 lbs and the weight was staying off. I was getting more physical, and had started a regular walking program. I had finally taken the advice of the nutritionist I'd seen two years prior for my insulin resistance related to PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) and was eating six small meals daily. The only problem I seemed to have was that with all my new activity I was thirsty a lot. I figured that was a good sign. Water bottle in hand I had good news to report, so when my doctor said, “We have to talk about your lab results” I thought she would be all smiles too. However, she looked concerned, and solemn. “Your glucose levels have slipped over into the diabetic range. We'll continue your metformin dose and monitor your labs, but I want you to take Diabetes Education classes. A lot has changed with what we know. You're right on the edge but we need to be proactive with your other health conditions.” So now on top of my Thyroid, Systemic Lupus, Sjogren's, PCOS, Fibromyalgia and Atrial Fibrillation we tossed Diabetes onto the pile. Suddenly I felt incredibly weighed down. My doctor then handed me a meter, knowing I was familiar with its use from caring for my grandmother. With a hug, and assurances that I could contact her with any questions she sent me out the door with the words, “I'm not too worried, this is probably related to the prednisone, and you're making positive changes. Just take the classes. It'll be okay.” And, overall it is okay. The weight has lifted somewhat. I've gotten over the shock, and the Diabetes Education courses were very informative. The nurse and nutritionist taught me that my carbohydrate intake was too low, and I wasn't giving my body enough to function on. They also told me that six meals a day was actually contributing to my insulin resistance, and recommended I cut back to three and a snack. Together we worked out a plan of action to create a diabetic friendly diet that works for me and I'm continuing to make slow, but positive strides in my everyday living. One thing my D-Day has in common with the well known historical event are the words of General Dwight D. Eisenhower spoken on that day “We will accept nothing less than victory”. I say we, because diabetes isn't something you can tackle on your own. It requires a team effort. Not just a team of doctors, but a team of family and friends. Thanks to PKSA Karate of Greater Brighton, I can now add Bob Maxwell and Diabetic Life to my team (our kids train there together). Four months after diagnosis with Diabetes, I'm smiling again. The weight has lifted some. My glucose levels are stable. I've taken up Pilates and continued to revamp my eating habits. I'm still thirsty a lot, but that thirst is for knowledge and helping others who find themselves in my situation, facing the rebel army within. Remember, we will accept nothing less than victory. It'll be okay.
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