Retiree Improves Lifestyle Habits

When Matt entered Matria’s Diabetes Management Program a year ago, he was placed in the highest risk level because his blood sugar readings were in the 200s. Today, Matt’s blood sugar count has dipped to the 120s and he has come down to the lowest risk level in Matria’s program.

“Matt is very receptive to what we have to say, and he tries hard,” says his nurse, Christa Pittman, RN. “He also has a good doctor, and that helps. Matt has made a lot of improvements throughout the year.”

Matt, a 61-year-old retiree whose wife works for one of Matria’s largest clients, also lost 10 pounds throughout the year.

“My nurse inspired me to exercise and change my diet,” he says. “I have cut back on my red meat, and I have learned to cook less fattening foods. My nurse gave me recipes and taught me that I should bake or broil chicken with the skin off. I knew that I should be eating better, but she motivated me to do something about it. That’s what I like about this program. There are times when you may know something, but then somebody talks to you and reminds you about it, which encourages you to do better.”

A reduction in weight and improved blood sugar levels are not the only benefits Matt received from the program. As a result of conversations with his nurse, he learned what could happen if he did not take his insulin correctly.

“I wasn’t good about keeping up with my insulin shots before I started in the program,” Matt admits. “Now, I am much better about taking my insulin on time and at the right dosage. Matria’s program has encouraged me to do a better job of taking care of myself. My nurse was real thorough about explaining things; she really made me understand that I needed to do the right things to take care of myself.”

What Matt likes the most about the program, he says, is receiving calls from people who care. “It’s good to talk to somebody when you feel down and depressed,” he says. “When somebody cares, you are more likely to do the right thing. Diabetes is a mean disease. It doesn't lighten up. You've got to fight back because if you don't, it will take you down. It's a disease you can live with if you can manage it, but if you can't manage it, there are so many negative things that can happen to your health.”

Names and other personal details have been changed to protect the identity of the patient.

DISCLAIMER: You should not expect to obtain results as favorable as those described in the testimonial set forth above. A reduction in weight and improved blood sugar levels are not guaranteed and individual results will vary.

Names and other personal information in the testimonial have been changed at the request of the patient. The information contained in this testimonial is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice nor is it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment.