It’s been over a year since I posted. The main reason is that I could not see the computer screen sufficiently enough to accomplish anything. It’s been a long journey, and I’m different because of the events that transpired. Getting back to normal has been a bit of a struggle.
Go back to March 2018, when I had my annual eye exam. The optometrist said it looked like I had cataracts developing. He said most were slow-growing, and I could probably wait three to five years before anything had to be done. By October 2018, it was a challenge to drive at night because oncoming headlights would flare and starburst, making it impossible to see safely.
Over the next few months, I struggled to see anything on my computer and stowed away my Mac because I couldn’t get the high resolution. I couldn’t believe how fast my vision was degrading. Schedules were busy, and I finally visited the eye doctor in August 2019—bad news. There were retinal hemorrhages in my right eye, plus my cataracts have grown very fast. I stopped driving and felt like I was withdrawn from the world.
My husband was a trooper and helped me read labels. I could only get out when he drove, as I was too scared to drive. A couple of friends kept me in touch with reality; I will be forever grateful for that.
At the first visit in September 2019, the eye doctor looked at my retinal images and said, ” You have diabetes.” I was floored as I didn’t have any of the classic symptoms. More tests. Sure enough, my initial A1C was 13! I started oral medications on the 12th. My first appointment with the retina specialist was later that month. He did more imaging tests and recommended eye injections for the right eye. I had the first one that day. It didn’t hurt, but it was weird.
I read and read about treatments and supplements. There is tremendous research on plant-based Omega fatty acids, CBD oil, lutein, and saffron. Plus, changes to my diet to help manage my blood sugar included eliminating ”white death.” By that, I mean sugar, flour, rice, and potatoes. I started taking the plant-based Omegas and CBD oil and found a great eye nutrition supplement called MacuGuard.
Getting Back To Normal
My next visit to the retina specialist was thirty days later. He repeated the retinal scan and was impressed with the healing! Praise God! I credit prayer, diet changes, and supplements! My average blood sugar had dropped to 145 by then. I had one more retinal injection treatment. He approved cataract surgery and wanted to see me in January 2020!
I had my cataracts removed, and now, by the grace of God, I can see 20/20 in my left eye and 20/40 in my right eye. There is some ”bending” of vision in my right eye, so it’s too soon to tell if the damage is permanent. My distance vision is excellent, and I need reading glasses for up close and computer work.
My follow-up visit to the doctor was fantastic! My A1C was down to 6.4! An A1C level below 5.7 is considered normal, so I’m on my way to getting back to normal!
Have you ever experienced something similar and struggled in your effort towards getting back to normal? Reach out to me with your story, as I’m working on a project that may be of interest to you.