Aldrin Munnick shares his Type 2 diabetes journey and how after having COVID, he endured a stroke. Despite this, he is still going strong.
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Aldrin Munnick (55) lives in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape with his wife, Fiona. They have one daughter, Danielle.
Aldrin recalls being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes about 22 years ago. He explains, “I wasn’t feeling well at home, so I drove myself to the casualty section of a provincial hospital, thinking I might be having cardiac issues since I’m a known cardiac patient. After conducting some tests, the doctors discovered an imbalance in my blood glucose levels. They were surprised to learn that I had driven myself to the hospital. When I woke up, I saw my wife and brother, Joseph, standing next to my bed. Following all the necessary tests, I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. My symptoms included excessive sweating, fatigue, and a very dry mouth.”
Aldrin was prescribed metformin hydrochloride and glimepiride. He also started walking and exercising as well as changed his diet. “I cut down on junk food and pastries and added more greenery to my meals. I also cut down on my sugar intake,” he says.
DSA Springdale Support Group
It was Aldrin’s sisters, Avrille Munnick, Glynis Hearne and Sharlene Davids, who introduced him to the DSA Springdale Support Group. He found that joining this support group help him in many ways.
He explains, “The guidance and advice from the different speakers have helped a lot. The group has created a lot of awareness as we share our stories and experiences with each other.”
COVID causes more health issues
After Aldrin had COVID, he unfortunately had a stroke. He was then put on semaglutide, along with metformin hydrochloride twice daily (1000mg), as well kidney medication as his kidneys weren’t functioning at optimal level. At this time, his blood glucose levels were in the high 20s.
“Since the stroke, I had to minimise my walking and exercise routine but do what I can,” he adds. Yet, he is very much looking forward to the nice weather that comes in spring.
MEET THE EDITOR
Laurelle Williams is the Editor at Word for Word Media. She graduated from AFDA with a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Live Performance. She has a love for storytelling and sharing emotions through the power of words. Her aim is to educate, encourage and most of all show there is always hope. Feel free to email Laurelle on editor@diabetesfocus.co.za
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