A Chatham man is finally getting a handle on his type 2 diabetes thanks to support from his devoted wife.
Ron Jones was diagnosed with diabetes 40 years ago. The 76-year-old says both his father and brothers also struggle with the disease.
"It sort of scared me at first, but I said 'I gotta get to know more about it.' Thank goodness for my wife, we read a little bit together and found out you can get involved enough to control it," says Ron.
His wife, Pat Jones, has taken on the responsibility of monitoring Ron's treatment.
"At first, his treatment was just by diet and exercise. It was when he retired in 2001 that he decided he would take the insulin. [My job] is just to watch that he takes his shots at the right time and dosages," says Pat.
Pat says there have been two frightening occasions when Ron's sugar levels fell too low.
"When I first figured out he was in a hypoglycemic episode, I dialed 911 immediately because I knew I couldn't cope and I had to have help. They came and eventually he was transported to the hospital, but it was very frightening," explains Pat.
Hypoglycemia, which is the most common side effect of insulin therapy, occurs when blood sugar levels drop below normal.
Pat says over time, it has become easier to watch out for signs of an episode, especially as medicine evolves. Ron also works closely with doctors and specialists to learn more about different insulin options and how his treatment plan can be improved.
Coming up in November is National Diabetes Month. Pat says this month is needed to showcase the importance of getting tested and starting a treatment plan right away even if you are just "pre-diabetic."
