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My Story
I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes on Dec. 29, 2008, and Congestive Heart Failure on December 30, 2008. The road to each diagnosis began about a month earlier.

I initially went to the doctor for what I thought was a yeast infection. Turns out I was right, and given my size, family history, and some other factors, the doctor suspected that I might be diabetic. My blood pressure was rather high at the time, too. Again, given family history, size, etc…, the doctor decided to order a battery of tests to check the condition of my heart as well. So, after a month of testing, waiting, and worrying about what could possibly be wrong with me, my doctor called me in to share all of the results

Hearing that I was diabetic didn’t really surprise me. Several members of my family have had diabetes, so it’s in my genes. What scared the hell out of me was when the doctor started talking about the results of the heart tests. The echocardiogram they did revealed that my heart was moderately depressed, and was only functioning at 30% to 35% of its capacity. The next day, the cardiologist confirmed that I had Congestive Heart Failure.

Fortunately, my age and the fact that all of this was found now is in my favor. Doctors say that with proper medications, diet, and some light exercise, we should be able to reverse the CHF over time, and restore at least some of my heart’s functionality. All the while working towards getting my diabetes under control. So, that is very encouraging.

So, while being diagnosed with both diabetes and congestive heart failure is alot to handle at once, I have always enjoyed a good challenge; I plan to face both of these head on. I look at each as a blessing in disguise. If not for one, I might not have found out about the other before it was too late.

If there was one bit of advice I could give anyone, it would be to go to the doctor if there is something wrong with you. No matter how minor the symptoms may be, or how embarrassing the situation might be, go get checked. I know for many men, including myself, if there is something wrong downstairs, there is a real feeling of embarrassment, and a strong urge to just deal with it on their own. Let me tell you, there is no shame in going to a doctor. Your health is too important not to go.

So yeah, that’s my story. I’m doing pretty well for the shape I’m in. I feel strong, my spirits are high, and I’m ready to get busy living the rest of my life.

Rock on!