Frank Caputo
Type 2 Diabetes Success Story
Frank knew that he had pre-diabetes (elevated blood glucose levels, which indicates risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes). After a bad case of the flu, which he figured was making him exhausted, thirsty and lethargic, he ended up in the Emergency Room where he was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (T2D).
“I arrived just in time and passed out in the ER,” he said. “My blood sugars were over 800 and the doctors told me I was very close to a coma or diabetic shock.”
Both of Frank's parents had T2D and his diet had consisted of a lot of pasta and pizza. With two college aged children, a demanding job with a long commute, not getting enough sleep, and little to no exercise, Frank had not been helping himself. “Taking care of others, we tend to neglect ourselves,” he said. “We need to be proactive with our health, not reactive. This was definitely a wake-up call for me.”
Under the care of Dr. Asem Ali and diabetes education sessions, plus plenty of reading/research, Frank drastically improved his health and well-being. Within six months he lost 55 pounds and lowered his A1c from above 13% to below 6%. He's no longer taking insulin and he walks at least five miles every day. “At work, when others take a coffee break, I walk around the building.” He eats small meals & snacks throughout the day and makes healthy choices.
Frank was also diagnosed with sleep apnea and his CPAP machine now provides him with a quality night’s sleep. Finally, he makes sure to stay well hydrated by drinking at least 64 oz/day.
“Frank was determined to make every change necessary to improve his glucose control in addition to simply taking medication,” said Dr. Ali. “His lifestyle change allowed him to lower his A1c to where we were able to take him off insulin.”
“My support network is huge,” said Frank. “My diabetes care team taught me what I need to be doing. My wife, children and co-workers have been extremely supportive.” His new lifestyle has rubbed off at work, as some of his co-workers now join him for walks. His team even won the Most Steps Walking Challenge at work.
“It’s not just one thing, it’s a cumulative process,” he said. "I have more energy, motivation, and improved mental acuity.” He continues to lose weight and keep his blood glucose within target range, which drives him to continue improving.
Taking necessary action has literally added years to Frank's life. “I feel like I did when I was 20 years old!”