As a middle school math teacher and avid marathoner and long-distance bike rider in Houston, TX, Abe Ngoma received a shocking diagnosis of type 2 diabetes 20 years ago. Despite being a self-proclaimed “candyholic,” he quickly cut back on sweets upon learning about his condition, especially after witnessing the devastating effects of diabetes on his family members. Initially, traditional management methods seemed to work, but everything changed for the better when he saw a commercial for a continuous glucose monitor in 2020.
Reflecting on his journey, Abe recalls feeling stunned by the diagnosis, as he had always been active and fit. However, with a family history of diabetes, he knew the odds were against him. His doctor prescribed metformin initially, which seemed to keep his diabetes in check until around 2011 when he started experiencing weight loss and dizziness during physical activities. It became clear that his diabetes was gaining the upper hand.
When his doctor suggested an insulin pump, Abe hesitated, as it didn’t seem compatible with his active lifestyle. Instead, they opted for a regimen of three types of insulin, which he followed for several years. It wasn’t until the onset of the pandemic that Abe came across advertisements for Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 2 continuous glucose monitor. Intrigued by the potential benefits, he discussed it with his doctor and decided to give it a try.
The CGM proved to be a game-changer for Abe, allowing him to better understand his body’s responses to food and make informed choices about his diet. It revealed that some foods he thought were diabetes-friendly were actually causing spikes in his glucose levels. With the help of the CGM, he adjusted his diet to better fuel his long bike rides and learned when and what to eat for optimal performance.
Thanks to the insights provided by the CGM, Abe no longer needs to guess about his glucose levels or stop to prick his finger while cycling. The device alerts him when his levels are low, enabling him to take action before experiencing any adverse effects. As a result, he has been able to reduce his insulin intake, sometimes going days without needing it at all.
Looking back on his journey, Abe wishes he had discovered the CGM sooner but is grateful for the positive impact it has had on his life. With better control over his diabetes, he feels empowered to live life on his terms and pursue his passions without limitations. The CGM has truly transformed his life, giving him a sense of freedom and control that he had never experienced before.