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As part of the Long Story Short series, we are sharing the stories of people around the world who are living with type 2 diabetes. This is Geetha’s story.
Meet Geetha, who is living with type 2 diabetes in India. Geetha’s journey with type 2 diabetes began long before her own diagnosis. In fact, her first encounter with diabetes was through her mother, who struggled with symptoms like excessive thirst and unknowingly worsened her condition by drinking fruit juices. At that time, knowledge about diabetes was scarce, and managing the disease was a challenge.
Geetha was in her 40s when she started experiencing hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings, which she initially thought were caused by menopause. However, when she began having severe palpitations and started finding it difficult to walk, she sought medical advice. It was then that she was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes by her doctor.
Despite being prescribed oral medication, Geetha was still struggling a month later and was desperate for better management of her condition. It was then she found her ’diabetes hero’ – her diabetologist. Her diabetologist took the time to explain the science behind type 2 diabetes, helping her to understand insulin resistance and blood sugar regulation. Once she had a better understanding of her condition, Geetha felt empowered and more comfortable.
Geetha worked with her diabetologist to develop a personalised care plan. She diligently followed the plan, and over time, noticed significant improvements in her health. She felt better, more energetic, and felt her difficult symptoms subsiding1.
By speaking with her healthcare professional, Geetha learned that insulin is not a last resort in diabetes treatment but can instead be an important part of managing type 2 diabetes effectively2.
With a clearer understanding of her type 2 diabetes and using insulin to help manage it, Geetha wanted to get the right care for her mother too. She brought her mother to the same diabetologist, who explained the different aspects of managing diabetes and taught her how to take insulin injections. A comprehensive care plan led to significant improvements in her mother’s health and energy levels. Geetha says her mother had a ’beautiful journey’ once she received the right care.
Geetha’s proactive approach serves as an important reminder that, with the right knowledge, managing type 2 diabetes is not only possible but can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life. By educating herself with help from her healthcare professional about type 2 diabetes, Geetha not only gained control over her own health but also empowered her mother to do the same.
Has your doctor suggested that you might need insulin to treat your type 2 diabetes? Read through our insulin therapy guide for type 2 diabetes and take notes on questions you can ask your healthcare professional.
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