The theme for World Diabetes Day 2018 and 2019 is The Family and Diabetes. Lets look at how families supported our diabetes patients and the role of the family in the management, care and prevention of diabetes.
Marianne de Nazareth, Bangalore
My son, Andrew, who was studying at St. John’s Medical College, began to badger me to get my sugar checked. With his growing medical knowledge, he was becoming increasingly concerned about my sugar readings. He knew I had a huge craving for all things sweet. Whenever anybody brought chocolates or sweets home, I would devour them wilfully. On my son’s insistence, I finally visited the diabetologist.
Read the rest of Marianne's story here
Jimmy Ong, Singapore
I have felt unsure at times about how to deal with diabetes and felt very strange to be having this disorder at a young age. I was married and my second child was on the way when I was diagnosed with the killer disease. Naturally, I was very disturbed and could only handle the pressure because of my family support.
Jimmy Ong talks about his journey with diabetes and management of hypoglycaemia
Pushpa Garde
In Mahabharat, Gandhari had tied a piece of cloth over her eyes because her husband was blind. My husband also stopped taking sugar in his tea. Poor fellow followed Gandhari’s path. I was thrilled by this act.
How did Pushpa Garde go about changing her lifestyle to manage diabetes
Christine Lee, Singapore
They(my family) will remind me not to eat sweet stuff, ask about my condition, etc. When we have family functions, there will always be bottles of plain water instead of sugary drinks. The caterers are reminded to use less oil, and sauces for food are placed separate from the food.
Christine shares her hacks and tips for controlling diabetes and becoming an empowered patient.
Bina Patel, Vadodara
My daughters have been very understanding and now ensure I eat on time and avoid stressful situations. My friends have been very supportive. They always encourage and accompany me on my walks.
Bina shares great tips on managing her diet and exercise
Mr. S, in an email to PatientsEngage
I am an elderly person and my wife is diabetic. I would be grateful, if you kindly suggest some recipe for diabetic person. She is also a senior citizen and once I get the recipe, I would love to cook for her a few dishes. Incidentally, I have never done any cooking, but at this old age would love to give a slight relief to my wife who cooked for me daily for the past 35 years.
For more on Diabetes Management, watch out for our next FB Live Q&A session on Living Better After Diabetes
