Voice of the Diabetic

Voice of the Diabetic

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TOMMY FORD - A PATIENT TO REMEMBER AND AN EXAMPLE FOR ALL

by Steven T. Boyd, Pharm.D.

As a health care professional who works one-on-one with patients, I know it

may take several encounters to remember a patient on a personal level. Patients

have unique aspects and genuine characteristics that make them special and contribute

to a doctor's long-term memory. But every once in a while a patient arrives

who just knocks you out of your white coat, and you remember from day one.

Tommy Ford is a great example of a patient you can't overlook.

I first met Tommy when he was referred to my Diabetes Clinic. He was the first

patient to enroll into my program. Even though I thought I was ready, I wasn't

quite ready for Tommy. I'd done my research on diabetes. I knew the drugs, the

nutrition guidelines, and the exercise recommendations; but I wasn't prepared

for a patient with eyesight deficiency.

Tommy lost his eyesight about six years ago and has been battling

multi-diseases outside of the realm of diabetes. Tommy was diagnosed with HIV

infection in 1995 and with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in 1996.

In 1996, Tommy was diagnosed with serious tuberculosis complications. As a result

of anti-viral therapy containing a protease inhibitor for HIV, he developed

diabetes. Even though Tommy has been dealt multiple challenges throughout his

life, he has been able to direct his emotions and efforts in an extremely positive

way not only to help himself, but also others.

Considering the many things Tommy has accomplished, his most

amazing quality is the desire to help other people. On a regular basis, Tommy

speaks to local school-age children on the danger of drugs, premarital sex,

and the importance of continuing their education. He states, "I enjoy helping

kids. I would like to prevent them from falling through the cracks at an early

age." He attends and is an integral component of an HIV support group at

Siouxland Community Health Center (SCHC). In addition, he belongs to two support

groups for the blind, the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) and the Siouxland

Informational Group for the Blind (SIGB). Tommy also has had speaking engagements

at the Sanford Center (a local day care and after-school program), the Boys

and Girls Group Home, Public Health Department, Shelter and Family Services

Center here in Sioux City. Many people, on a regular basis, ask Tommy for his

thoughts and ideas. He is always willing to stop whatever he is doing to help

any person in need. Tommy says, "It's hard at times, but living a Christian

lifestyle full of prayer helps me to continue to work hard."

Since Tommy enrolled into the diabetes clinic, he has lowered

his average blood sugar from 185mg/dl to 135mg/dl. He has accomplished this

by multiple means, including nutrition, medication and daily exercise. Tommy

first started running in place several times per day at home. This, of course,

is challenging, but not nearly as demanding as attending water aerobics and

lifting weights at the local YMCA! On multiple occasions Tommy has attended

exercise classes specifically for patients with diabetes and even visits the

YMCA for individual workouts! He is a true example of determination and inspiration

for any patient regardless of physical challenges.

Tommy has significantly changed his dietary habits by incorporating

more fruits and vegetables, and by counting his carbohydrate intake, which he

accomplishes in spite of his eyesight deficiency

It is extremely important for Tommy to take his medications.

Adhering to his medication regimen is no small feat, as Tommy takes up to 10

different medications every day! Tommy accomplishes adherence by using a wristwatch

with alarms, and with help from his family.

Tommy states, "My family support has been remarkable! I

would also like to send a special thanks to all who support me."

When people ask me, "What is the most challenging aspect

of your job?" I always reply, "Motivating patients to take control

of diabetes instead of allowing diabetes to control you." Tommy is a great

example of a person who not only controls his diabetes, but also inspires others

to get the most out of each and every day.

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