Monday, June 25, 2012

Starting over....again!

I began this blog on Valentine's Day of 2011. Since then I've blogged in spurts, and that's pretty much been my approach to my diet and exercise. Right after I found out about the kidney issues I was dealing with, I got better about being more consistant with what I needed to do. But not consistent enough. So, here I am again, facing yet another health issue. So once again, I am facing a major lifestyle change. And this one has to be permanent!

I've had a lot of stops and starts, "do overs" if you will. I am so thankful that God allows "do overs", or I would be in serious trouble! So, rather than beat myself up at everything I have failed to do, I am committing myself to begin again to get to where I need to be.

I went to the dr. today and after reviewing my history, my test results, and my meds, I was told that several of my levels were not where they were supposed to be and that I am developing diabetes. My pancreas is only working at about 15-20%. My renal panel showed that my creatine levels have gone back up and that puts my kidneys at risk for more damage. So, the dr. took away 2 of my meds, and added 5 new ones. Plus I have to eliminate sugar from my diet and stop drinking soda. I can't have anything with aspertame in it, because that causes me horrible headaches (ones that make migraines seem so tame!), so I will have to explore a diet that relies on natural sweeteners. Basically, I am going to need to follow a diabetic diet. I love starches like rice and potatoes, so this is going to be a challenge. I am fortunate that my family will give me lots of help and support! And I know I can count on our small group to pray for me, as well as some of my other friends and family.

I know that this isn't going to be easy at first. Especially learning what I can and can't eat anymore. But I don't want to develope full blown diabetes, so I am determined to make the necessary changes. I look at the faces of my grandkids and I want to be here to watch them grow up. I want to be able to play with them and take them on fun adventures. I want to spend another 30 years with my husband. I want to see my kids become grandparents, too. So I have to make these changes now. And with God's help, and the support of friends and family, I can do it!