Back to home Aug 2012
Lee Diabetes Care
Taking Control of Diabetes and Life
A chronic condition, diabetes requires a commitment and diligence to one's
health in order to manage blood sugar, reduce complications and ensure a
healthier and better quality of life. For Fort Myers resident Rich Franklin,
competently and confidently managing his diabetes was his only option.
"Diabetes was not going to be a death sentence for me," Rich says. "I decided right away that I liked having my limbs and vision and I didn't want to have to deal with dialysis or any of the other complications that can happen when diabetes wreaks havoc on the body."
Last year, two days after Christmas and after days of feeling under the weather, Rich knew something was wrong, so he called 911.
"When I got to the hospital, I was going in and out of consciousness," Rich says. "My blood sugar level was 1685. I spent a week in the hospital and left a diabetic."
While in the hospital, Rich was visited by a Lee Diabetes Care certified diabetes educator who helped him understand his condition. "We talked about dieting and exercise," he says. "I used to exercise a lot, so I knew how to train. I realized quickly that I was not going to be one for measuring out my food—carbs, protein, etc. So, I knew I was going to have to exercise more in order to eat more. I knew that I would have to eat more healthy carbs, lean protein and fresh fruits and vegetables to support the energy requirements of exercise."
Rich started working out at home with weights and a stationary bike, gradually increasing time, distance and resistance. He also continued attending diabetes classes, which helped him stay on track, motivated and supported with regard to his medications, diet, exercise and glucose testing.
By the beginning of May, Rich was down to 185 pounds— a weight loss of 50 pounds—and his blood glucose was under control.
"I feel great," he says. "For me, being diagnosed with diabetes was one of the better things that happened because I've used it as motivation to reclaim my life."
“Lee Diabetes Care offers comprehensive education and consultation services for people with diabetes. Working with your physician, our educators develop an individualized management plan to help you manage and control your diabetes. For more information, call 239-424-3127.”
Treating Pre-Diabetes May Avoid Full Blown Disease
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