Question:
Insulin Dependent for 31 yrs.

I started taking insulin when I was 18 yrs. old and now I am 49 yrs. old and I want to know if anyone who has taken the shots for this long has came off insulin? I take two shots a day I am praying I can stop taking them after surgery. The Dr. said I might get off shots but he has'nt any pts. that have taken shots that long he said I might have to take a pill.    — Judy F. (posted on February 8, 2004)

February 8, 2004
Judy, My surgeon is taking part in a study with a bunch of surgeons throughout Europe who are doing just the "switch" portion of the BPD/DS on non-MO severely diabetic patients. Thus far, they have a 99% cure rate of diabetes. It's phenomenal! They found that their DS post-ops were nearly 100% cure on diabetes (I was!), so decided to try it out - and sure enough, it's been working like a charm! The American Diabetes Association has published some interesting articles to this as well. Blessings, dina
   — Dina McBride

February 8, 2004
I think it depends on the reason for your diabetes. Are you Type I, or Type II? Type I's will need to continue insulin after surgery for sure, as our bodies don't produce any insulin at all. Type II's usually produce insulin, but need pills or shots to provide the level of insulin coverage needed. Most Type I's are diagnosed as children, but since you were diagnosed at 18, I would guess it could go either way. What does your primary doctor say? I will tell you that even though I am still taking insulin (was diagnosed at age 9, have been diabetic for 35 years)I am taking much less insulin than was needed before the surgery.
   — Shelly M.