Testimonial

How long have you been living with diabetes?

I have been living with type 2 diabetes for nine years.

How were you diagnosed?

I had this uneasy sensation in my head. I thought that there was something wrong in my body. I was unsure whether to tell my family how I felt. I had just got married and didn’t want to worry them with my health issues. I eventually told my father. We went to the doctor, who prescribed some tests that confirmed that I had type 2 diabetes.

Did your diagnosis come as a surprise to you?

I was not surprised by my diagnosis. I was surprised at how high my blood glucose was. I was worried about my future and struggled more mentally than physically. It took me months to accept that I had diabetes, but my wife and family supported me at every step.

Have you ever experienced issues accessing diabetes medicines, supplies and care?

Thanks to the support of my family, I have not had issues assessing diabetes care. I don’t know how I would have been able to afford my care without their support.

What do you think needs to change to improve the lives of people living with diabetes in your country?

Diabetes medicines should be made more affordable and there should be better access to healthy foods. There are also a lot of misconceptions about diabetes in my country, which mainly concern diet and physical activity. In many communities, so-called “Doctors” make false claims about cures for diabetes.

What does the centenary of insulin mean to you?

Insulin has been very helpful in managing my blood glucose levels. Without it, I think that I would have developed many complications. I was struggling to keep my blood glucose levels in control when I was only taking oral medicines. Insulin treatment has helped me enjoy my life with my loved ones.