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 a different person because of the events that transpired.
Go back to March 2018 at my annual eye exam. The optometrist said it looked like I had cataracts developing. He said that 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 resolution high enough. I couldn’t believe how fast my vision was degrading. Schedules were crazy, 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 I stopped driving, and I felt like I was withdrawn from the world.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, CBD oil, and found a great eye nutrition supplement called MacuGuard.
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 didn’t want to see me until 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!