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Submitted by PatientsEngage on 13 November 2018
A dark haired woman with spectacles in a yellow and red sari and blouse sitting on a white sofa

Nandita Banerjee, 60 a certified Diabetes educator with DAY (Diabetes Awareness and You) in Kolkata, talks about how she has been battling this silent killer herself for the last 18 years with a  lot of success.

Please tell us a bit about your condition.

I have been suffering from Type 2 Diabetes for last 18 years, but have managed to keep myself disciplined and in control

When were you diagnosed?

In 2001

What were the early symptoms?

It started with rashes in my whole body which I initially ignored to be a bout of allergies. Soon I started suffering from blurry vision, cracked heels and urinary infections.

Is there a history of diabetes in your family?

Not that I am aware of. However, back in those days awareness was so low that even if my grand-parents had it, we would not have known

What is your present condition?

Totally normal! Thanks to my doctors, educators and dietitians for keeping me disciplined and controlled. I would give some credit to myself as well, keeping control all the time and maintaining a restrictive diet is not easy! But I am fighting diabetes with a smile!

Please describe your experience of managing diabetes

Keeping control is not easy, and that’s where many falter. Body creates resistance to medicines over time. Hence, keeping complete focus on life style is essential. Furthermore, I check my blood sugar levels regularly, and consult my doctors every six months. I get my HbA1C checked quarterly as well.

Any related complications?

Touchwood, no!

What medications are you on?

Insulin and metformin. I take my vitamins daily.

Were there any side-effects of the medicines?

None

What were some of the challenges you faced and what is your advice to patients who face similar challenges?

The biggest challenge was a lack of awareness about diabetes. I had no idea what a big role  lifestyle plays, how to change it and what kind of food and nutrition I should be on. Diabetes Awareness and You (DAY) played a big part in changing my life. DAY’s  awareness programmes, experienced dietitians and expert educators were a big help to me. I would suggest everyone to educate themselves about diabetes, as well as consult educators and dietitians. There can be no bigger mistake than relying upon just medicines. Healthy diet, physical exercise, self-control and self-monitoring are critical success factors for a diabetic patient

Download Now: 3 Simple Steps to Diabetes Management EBook

Have you learnt anything in managing in your condition that you wish you knew before?

Certainly! I joined DAY in 2007. It taught me how to control sugar levels, step by step. Its various programmes and courses not only educated me about this silent killer we call diabetes, but also trained me how to combat it. It introduced me to various techniques including SMBG or self-monitoring of blood glucose. Today, I am a certified diabetes educator myself.

What kind of specialists do you consult and how often?

Endocrinologist and Diabetes specialist, once in three months.

What resources are available to you in your city to help you manage the condition?

Dietitians, educators, and world class doctors from DAY are available to everyone. 

Have you had to make some changes to your lifestyle because of your condition?

I have been on a very healthy diet plan for many years now. I also make it a point to exercise at least 45 minutes a day. I love walking and use this hobby as much as I can to keep myself fit.

Learn from Patients: Lifestyle Changes That Helped Control Diabetes

Have you tried complementary medicine or therapies, like homeopathy or yoga?

I am a big fan of Yoga!

Download Now: Yoga for Diabetes E-Book

Has it been difficult emotionally to cope with your condition?

Initially it was a shock for me, but I quickly realized that it can completely be controlled. I faced no difficulty whatsoever after that

How has your family supported you?

They have not only supported me in my health endeavours, but have also themselves embraced my healthy way of life.

Did you see a counsellor for support? Were you offered counselling by doctor?

No; but being a psychological counsellor myself, I would highly recommend individuals to seek help if required. Mental health is as important as physical health, and essential in combating diabetes.

How did your friends treat you? Were you isolated?

There is no reason why I should be isolated! After all, I lead a very normal life. I eat almost everything during get togethers and parties but exercise strict portion control. Discipline can never result in seclusion.

What was the hardest part of the treatment? What kept you going? how has this changed your life perspectives and ambitions.

The hardest part was to transition myself to a healthier lifestyle and stick to it.

What kept me going was my awareness about this silent killer, and if kept unleashed, how it damages organs. My will to live a healthy life kept me going. I give diabetes credit for my association with DAY. DAY not only encouraged me to have certifications on diabetes, food and nutrition, but enabled me to join its noble cause in spreading awareness and help patients lead healthy lives.

Courtesy: Diabetes Awareness and You (DAY)

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