I’m 59, married with three children, three grandchildren and I’ve had Type 2 diabetes since 2002. A while ago I read a newspaper article about Bas van de Goor, the 1996 Olympic champion volleyball player, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in 2002. In 2008 Bas climbed the Kilimanjaro mountain with a group of Type 1 diabetes patients. In September 2010 he’s taking another group to climb the 4167 meter high Jbel Toubkal mountain in Morocco.

 

To my surprise I made it through the selection process and became a member of the group. January 28 was the kick-off meeting in the Ketelhuis in Amsterdam. One of the items in our preparation package was a "DirectLife". DirectLife is an activity program with a clever, small device and internet site. The device registers your activity calories and the program offers tips to improve your health. Like taking the stairs more often, and choosing to use a bike instead of a car for short distances. DirectLife is incredibly motivating!

 

The number of lights indicate how active I’ve been that day. Some days are better than others, but if I get 100% and the lights begin to ‘dance’ I feel great. You know, that "Yes" feeling of success. I also have a personal coach that I can contact via email whenever I get discouraged or have a question. I find this reassuring. Bas van de Goor and all the participants, including our medical team, use DirectLife so we can compare our results and experiences.

 

The stories can be hilarious! We’re all enthusiastic and committed because we’ll be climbing that mountain together in September. Sticking together, supporting and encouraging each other; that’s what it’s all about. Get active, wear DirectLife and battle your diabetes in a healthy way. You’ll see that life gets better. We’re not sick, we’re just a bit different than other people. Good luck!