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Jim Turner's Mail Bag

Jim's Mail Bag

Q: Hello Jim:
 
First off let me start off by saying I love you aw an actor and was shocked to find out you had diabetes and have had it for over 30 years. I was just wondering after having the disease for so long, do you  have any major complications? Thanks – Donyue

A: Well, thank you Donyue.

Yes, I've had type 1 diabetes for 36 years, 8 months and 3 days, but who's counting? And I've been very lucky to have NO long-term complications. My eyesight hasn't changed in 15 years. I show no signs of glaucoma, or any eye damage, no neuropathy in my feet, no kidney damage, nothing really.

But I have to say I am a VERY proactive person when it comes to my diabetes. I exercise several times a week. I've found things that keep my interest. That's important when it comes to exercise. If you get bored doing stuff, you just won't do it. I play basketball and golf. I love both. I test CONSTANTLY – about 10 times a day, more if something feels off.

And I do whatever I can to keep my blood sugars as close to the normal range as I can. Most days I go up and down but if I'm up I do whatever I can to bring it down. The biggest danger I face is from low blood sugar. That's something I deal with every day. And not anything I enjoy. But who does?

Thanks for writing.