George, 60-year old male who was a previous patient to the office, called asking for help. I made a house call because he had been unable to sit up, stand or walk for about 4 months due to diabetic neuropathy and his weight of 580 pounds. He was angry, cranky, had isolated himself and given up. He felt that the SHAPE Program was his last hope.
Presented with: Diabetes, neuropathy, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea. He was on oxygen, using a C-PAP machine and taking multiple medications for symptom after symptom. Taking 3 different diabetic pills, 50 units of insulin 3 times per day, and still had uncontrolled diabetes. After an ingrown toenail turned gangrenous, he had to have his toe removed. He hit rock bottom and was ready to make some changes.
He started the SHAPE Program with 16 ounces protein, unlimited approved vegetables and 2 fruits daily. Given Standard Process brand St. John’s Wort (4 per day) and Inositol (6 per day) for his diabetic neuropathy.
- Day 7 – His mood had improved and was able to sit on the side of the bed.
- Day 14 – He was standing, able to take a few steps and sitting in his wheelchair for dinner with his family. His MD reduced his insulin by 5 units.
- Day 21 – He was making an effort to talk to his family and friends, enjoying all the new foods and sticking to the plan.
- Over the next several weeks, we have seen many health improvements – His medications have been reduced, he is enjoying life and looking forward to a wonderful future.
At this point, we do not know how much weight he has lost (he can only be weighed at the hospital, so we are thankful that he has not been back there). We do know he is shedding the unhealthy weight, but the most important part is that the life is coming back. This program is not about the weight loss numbers but about the number of happy, healthy days spent with those you love.
Submitted by Dr. Lynn Brown
