We recently connected with Mark. After a career in retail and real estate, he retired. He shared with us his journey since he got diagnosed in early 2019, at age 65, and how Livongo helped him get to where he is today.
Livongo: Tell us about your diagnosis. What went through your mind when you heard you had diabetes?
Mark: It was in May 2019, not too long ago. I was experiencing stomach problems and always feeling overheated, and I hadn’t seen a doctor in over 10 years. When they checked my blood glucose, it came in at 285, and my A1c was almost 7%.
Honestly, I freaked out. Both my mother and my mother’s father had had diabetes. Also, I had known other people with diabetes who had experienced severe complications, so I got worried. My doctor tried to put my mind at ease and helped set me up with my healthcare team, which included an endocrinologist and a nutritionist.
Livongo: How did you first hear about Livongo? What appealed to you about the program at first?
Mark: My wife’s company had recently started offering Livongo as a covered benefit for dependents. As soon as I heard about it, I signed up, within a month of being diagnosed.
The first thing that appealed to me about the program was the free supplies. Thanks to Livongo, I can check my blood glucose three to four times per day. Also, my doctor and I liked that Livongo gives me the option to speak with Livongo expert coach to get information on how to eat, how to plan meals, etc. He and I both think your program is incredibly good.
As I think back, one thing I have grown to value are the notifications I get when my blood glucose is out of range, along with the messages on the meter giving me direction on things I can do if my glucose is too high or too low. Both things make me confident.
Livongo: How’s life today? What has changed for you as a result of being on the Livongo program?
Mark: I am more mindful of what I eat. I have dropped from 190 to 150 pounds. I had to go buy new clothes, I get a lot of compliments, and I don’t mind looking in the mirror anymore.
My latest A1c was 5.6%, which is very low. If I didn’t have the tools that Livongo provides me with, I don’t think I would have gotten here so quickly.
Livongo: Any final thoughts on the Livongo program?
Mark: I’d say to anyone with diabetes who hasn’t heard of it: You’d better use this! What would you say to someone who doesn’t know how to read? You HAVE to learn how to read.
I think our health plan and my wife’s company made the right move teaming up with Livongo. Keeping us healthy and without complications will save them money — it’s very smart.
The testimonials, statements, and opinions presented are applicable to the individuals depicted or quoted. Each member’s exact results and experience will be unique and individual to each member. The testimonials are voluntarily provided and are not paid.
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