La Porte County Woman Fights The Effects Of Diabetes

Marleece Carr
Marleece Carr
While diabetes affects almost 26 million Americans, it disproportionately affects African Americans. Marleece Carr, 54 years of age, of Michigan City found out that she has type 2 diabetes when taken to Indiana University Health La Porte Hospital in September of 2012.

Originally she went to the hospital’s emergency room with a body wound that would not heal. But to her surprise she was also diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. “It was a frightening experience, my blood sugar numbers were off the chart,” Marleece said.

After a 2 week stay in the hospital Marleece was sent home with a strict diet, insulin regimen, and an exercise plan. “I use my walker in my apartment building, and take insulin injections 4 times a day,” she commented. Since being diagnosed with diabetes she watches her seasoning, limits her salt intake, and doesn’t drink caffeinated drinks. “What makes it difficult is that I love to cook, she said with a smile. “I’m active in my church and practice self control, but it’s still a daily chore to keep my diabetes under control.”

Recently Marleece had one of her fingers amputated, and still visits the wound care department regularly. “Good health is a gift you can give yourself, and diabetes can be preventable, she advises. “I enjoy my life, and don’t complain, but it would be so much fuller if I had avoided this disease.”

Thank you Marleece. Type 2 diabetes is produced by genetics, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and eating poorly. Having a normal weight reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 60 to 70%. Of course if you have family members with type 2 diabetes you are susceptible, too. Taking steps to prevent type 2 diabetes is a wise decision.