Karen was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes 10 years ago. After a series of set backs, including the loss of her sister-in-law to complications related to Type 1 diabetes, Karen decided she wanted to take back control.
Karen's story
It’s been about 10 years since I was first diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, at that time I knew very little about it and did not take the illness serious. Slowly the diabetes got worse and I went from diet controlled to ending up on five tablets of Metformin a day.
Loss
About 3 ½ years ago my sister in law who had Type 1 diabetes died on the operating table whilst having her leg amputated from an infection from a blister. A few months after this I went for an annual diabetes review and was told very sternly that my sugars were way too high and that if I did nothing I would end up on different medication that would increase my weight and that I could potentially end up on insulin.
"I went home, did some soul searching and decided that I could beat it"
Taking control
I went home, did some soul searching and decided that this was not an option and that I could beat it. A few days later I found a local scheme call “move it or lose it” and signed myself up. This scheme enabled me to use the local leisure centre and slimming world free of charge for 3 months. This was incredibly beneficial because I learnt so much about food and learnt to enjoy exercise. A year later I challenged myself to run 10K for cancer awareness. After completing this I entered another 10k race and then in 2016 a half marathon. In 2017, now 3 stone lighter, I completed my second half marathon and completed a 10k Tough Mudder.
Remission
Slowly, over the past 2 years, my medication was being reduced by the doctor and 1 year ago I came off of all medication. On 22 April 2018 I completed the London Marathon and 2 days later went for my annual diabetes review to be officially told that the diabetes is in remission. Who could have known so much was possible?
If you feel inspired by Karen's story and would like to take on your own challenge, follow the link below.
