The crazy ups and downs.

When I was diagnosed I had a cold I could not get over. Dr took a blood test and said I needed to take a glucose tolerance test. It confirmed I was diabetic. For the first 4 years they tried every oral medication available (Orinase, Diabetes, Tolinase, and Dymelor) but none helped. Finally I was put on Insulin and took injections for 34 years. Since 2000 I have used used pumps (Mini Med, Deltec, Anamosa and Tandem). I have done very well but of course after that many years I have a few complications. But I have been able to do everything I wanted to do.

I have been surprised about the constant surveillance that has been required of me. I have been a diabetic for most of my life, a long time.

I was constantly tired and peeing so much I would tap fire hydrants at a construction site to fill up water jugs. I also lost about 40 lbs in a month.

Of all the symptoms I was having constant urination surprised me the most. Second was lack of energy.