Scott Sakatch’s article in the Herald

Editor:

I would like to share my story. About 15 years ago I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes by numerous doctors at the Coaldale Campbell clinic. At first, I denied I had this problem but later admitted I had a problem that needed looking into. To rectify the problem, I started walking around Land-O-Lakes Golf Course daily in winter or summer for a round trip of two miles. After six months I lost 50 pounds and felt like a spring chicken.

My current doctor suggested that I wear Sigvaris compression stocking 23 mm. This helped my circulation to put them on in the morning and remove them before going to bed. He also suggested that I visit a foot doctor monthly so that he can keep an eye on my feet. Recently I had a test by an AHS home care nurse and found that my left foot had a pressure of 30 and the right foot a pressure of 60 which is normal. So, the only solution was to buy stocking over the counter for rating of 15-20 mm, but the catch-22 is that ADL does not pay for the stocking when I initially used them. The other alternative for circulation is to seek the services of a reflexologist that helps circulation in the legs and feet. I also wear a pair of Acu-Relex sole sandals that serve as reflexology aid around the house. 

Scott, I can relate to your story in the Lethbridge Herald. One can control diabetes with the help of a doctor; accept there are certain prescribed medications that you will need such as Metformin, Invokana and Giliclazide. Your doctor will send you to the lab every 90 days to determine the results of your tests for Type 2 diabetes and refill your prescription when needed. 

Paul Jones, Coaldale