 New Attitude
A Frightening Diagnosis
Schaffer's cardiologist Ned Gutman, MD, diagnosed
unstable angina and recommended surgery. Cardiac catheterization and
angioplasty restored a healthy flow of blood to Schaffer's heart. But
during his hospital stay, Schaffer received the unwelcome news that he
also had Type 2 (adult-onset) diabetes, which had contributed to his heart
condition.
Type 2 diabetes affects more than 15 million Americans;
half don't know they have it. When it strikes, the body does not
assimilate the hormone insulin, which converts a blood sugar into energy.
Untreated, it can lead to blindness, stroke, kidney failure and heart
disease.
Schaffer was put on medication and started a diabetes
education program at The Miriam Hospital. "To bring the disease under
control," says program coordinator Judy Swift, RN, "Howard
learned meal planning, which includes healthy food choices, proper spacing
between meals and snacks, avoiding concentrated sweets and lowering fats.
Exercise is a big part of diabetes management. He also tests his blood
glucose level, which evaluates the effectiveness of diet, exercise and
medication."
In the first weeks after his diagnosis, Schaffer admits,
he was afraid. He was 48 years old, the same age his father had been when
he died. "I became very sensitive to everything going on in my body.
Stress was magnified. I was worried that I could die—even though I knew I
was healthier than I had ever been."
A New Outlook Changes Everything 
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