A patient’s story. Living with diabetes in Nicaragua

A patient’s story. Living with diabetes in Nicaragua

Our patients Doña Laura and Don José need constant monitoring. At the clinic, they not only receive medications, but they also undergo examinations and learn more about their disease. When you have diabetes, you need to monitor your health every day to prevent complications. Above all, control your blood sugar levels and take your medications regularly.

Doña Laura is a model patient. She regularly goes to the clinic, listens to the volunteers’ advice and strictly follows them. However, despite the treatment, her condition is not as stable as it could be.

The fact is that the medications needed for Doña Laura are stored at a very low temperature, which is not easy to provide in the climate of Nicaragua. So she has to buy ice for storage, and sometimes glucose meter test strips. They are consumables in our clinic and run out quickly. When this happens, Doña Laura has to choose between a hearty meal and her health.

It’s easier to prevent diabetes complications than to cure them. Don José has diabetic foot syndrome, when tissues lose sensation and die off. This creates wounds that are slow to heal and can lead to amputation if left untreated. Volunteers have been treating Don José’s leg once a week for four months. They use saline, sterile wipes, and antibiotic ointment. In addition, Don José receives medication for diabetic patients. Thanks to this treatment, he won’t lose his leg.

Diabetes is an incurable disease, but with medications and regular supervision, the patient can stay healthy and feel good.

In order for us to continue to buy medications for Doña Laura, Don José and other diabetic patients, we really need your support. You can make a donation here.