Abe Ngoma’s Journey with Type 2 Diabetes

Meet Abe Ngoma, a dedicated middle school math teacher and enthusiastic marathoner who enjoys long-distance cycling, all from the vibrant city of Houston, TX. Two decades ago, Abe faced an unexpected hurdle when he was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. A self-described “candyholic,” he realized the need to change his habits, especially after seeing how diabetes had impacted his family. Initially, he managed his condition through conventional methods, but everything shifted dramatically in 2020 when he saw an advertisement for a continuous glucose monitor (CGM).

Abe reflects on the moment he received his diagnosis, feeling blindsided despite his active lifestyle. With a family history of diabetes, he knew he was at a higher risk. At first, his doctor prescribed metformin, which helped maintain his blood sugar levels. However, by 2011, he began to experience troubling symptoms like weight loss and dizziness during his workouts, signaling that his diabetes was becoming more challenging to control.

When his doctor proposed the idea of using an insulin pump, Abe was uncertain. He felt it might not mesh well with his active routine. Instead, they decided on a treatment plan involving three different types of insulin, which he adhered to for several years. It wasn’t until the pandemic hit that he stumbled upon ads for Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 2 CGM. Curious about its potential advantages, Abe consulted with his doctor and opted to give it a shot.

The introduction of the CGM revolutionized Abe’s approach to managing his diabetes. It allowed him to gain valuable insights into how his body reacted to various foods, leading to more informed dietary choices. To his surprise, some items he considered safe for his diabetes were actually triggering spikes in his glucose levels. With the CGM’s guidance, he modified his diet to enhance his energy during long bike rides and learned the optimal times and types of food to consume for peak performance.

Thanks to the CGM, Abe no longer has to guess his glucose levels or disrupt his cycling routine for finger pricks. The device notifies him when his glucose dips too low, enabling him to address the situation before it leads to any serious issues. This newfound awareness has allowed Abe to decrease his insulin usage significantly, sometimes going several days without needing to inject.

As he looks back on his experience, Abe wishes he had found the CGM sooner, but he is genuinely appreciative of the positive changes it has brought to his life. With improved control over his diabetes, he feels a renewed sense of empowerment, allowing him to embrace life fully and pursue his interests without restrictions. The CGM has not only transformed his health but also granted him a newfound freedom and control that he had never thought possible.