Type 2 Diabetes, my denial
My type 2 diabetes journey,
In January 2018, I was still adjusting to life with an ileostomy, wrestling with a whirlwind of emotions and feelings that came with that major change. It was a period of uncertainty and adaptation, and the impact on my physical and mental wellbeing was significant.
Feeling Unwell and Seeking Help
I began to notice that I was feeling increasingly lethargic, drained, and weak. Concerned, and mindful of previous health issues, I decided it was best to consult my doctor. Initially, I suspected iron or potassium deficiencies, having struggled with those during my time in hospital following surgery.
Waiting for Answers
An appointment was arranged with the occupational nurse, where we discussed my symptoms and she took blood samples, checked my weight, and ran a few other basic tests. The results would take between 10 and 14 days, so another appointment was set, and the waiting began.
Diagnosis and Initial Denial
On the day of the follow-up appointment, I fully expected the conversation to revolve around iron and potassium supplements, alongside advice about food sources. HOW WRONG WAS I—the revelation that I had TYPE 2 DIABETES was a genuine shock. The next ten to fifteen minutes passed in a blur; I struggled to absorb what was being said, as I slipped into a state of denial. The nurse explained that my reading (65) might have been slightly high due to several factors, suggesting a follow-up test in three months to review my progress, since my body was still recovering from surgery. My inactivity and weight gain over the past few months were also likely contributors.
Living in Denial
I continued to deny the diagnosis and avoided dealing with it. When I returned three months later, I had made only minor changes—slightly more activity, but not enough. I convinced myself that the previous results were inaccurate and expected the next blood test to be fine. However, my weight had not changed, and the cycle began again: blood tests and another appointment two weeks later. Although my levels had dropped slightly, it was not significant. The occupational nurse was beginning to lose patience, and although different approaches were suggested, I was stubborn and chose ignorance, refusing to accept the reality.
The Turning Point
My denial persisted even as we discussed foods, sugar, and lifestyle changes. I managed minor improvements in weight loss and sugar levels, but not enough to break the cycle of tests and appointments. At the next visit, I saw a different nurse who recommended medication, but I was adamant that tablets would only be a last resort.
Seeking Help and Education
At a subsequent appointment, my perspective shifted. I became open to receiving help and advice, so long as it did not involve medication. With the support of my regular occupational nurse, I enrolled in a DESMOND course—Diabetes Education and Self Management for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed. This marked a real turning point for me, as I was determined to avoid medication. DESMOND – Diabetes Education and Self Management for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed
A Wake-Up Call
The real jolt came while watching a “24 Hours in A&E” programme. A man with type 2 diabetes was featured, and seeing the condition of his feet and toes shocked me into realising the potential consequences of ignoring my diagnosis. It was the wake-up call I needed to take action and address my health seriously.
Changing Habits
After completing the DESMOND course, I began making changes to my diet, switching from white bread, pasta, and rice to brown alternatives—not completely, but it was a start. I also sought ways to increase my daily activity, returning to swimming despite the challenges posed by my stoma and the anxieties it brought. Determined to reduce my blood sugar levels and lose weight, I included regular swimming sessions and bought a cheap bike to cycle to work. A few weeks in, I started losing weight, although I was uncertain about my blood sugar progress. Understanding hidden sugars in foods and how my body processed them, I embraced these new challenges, remaining focused on my goals until my next test.
Setting Goals: Weight Loss and Lower Sugar Levels
At the outset, I weighed about 18 stone and 4 pounds, with blood sugar levels around 64—the pre-diabetic threshold being 42. My initial goal was to lose weight, hoping this would also improve my sugar levels. After a month of swimming and cycling, I began to shed pounds, albeit slowly. I realised that as I gained muscle and lost fat, the scale might not reflect rapid progress. To my surprise, I started enjoying the exercise, eventually joining a gym and purchasing a better bike. Swimming sessions increased in duration and intensity, and I relished the challenge of cycling to and from work, aiming to improve my times with each journey.
TBC….