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Lessons Learned
It wasn't easy to change habits that had been in place for 77 years but (Dennis) Jack Dickson was able to transform his life after completing a four week class held once a week at Henry County Hospital (HCH). Being diagnosed with diabetes two years ago and recommended by his doctor, the two-hour lessons that gave Dickson the knowledge to manage his disease also helped him prevent a worsening heart problem. "Identifying my diabetes helped the doctor find out that I needed a pacemaker. Diabetes thickened my blood which slowed my heart down. Taking the classes helped me understand how to control my diabetes."
Diabetes education is not just about feeling better but about learning what happens to everything in your body when blood sugar isn't kept below 100. "Practicing what I learned in class helped me lose 60 pounds," said Jack. An avid golfer, he learned to incorporate more exercise in his game by walking the first nine holes and added daily walks of two miles per day to level out his blood sugar. "It isn't a diet, it's a lifestyle, and I got the information I needed from this excellent school and am thrilled with my food choices now. I am living a happy life."
You're not alone in learning how to control diabetes. Classes are held every month at the hospital and you can bring a companion who can help support you in a new lifestyle. Call 765.521.1544 to start learning.