‘My story living with diabetes’

Elder Julius Ekundayo Omololu, a 75-year-old who has lived with diabetes for 20 years, gave further insights into his journey.   Have you ever considered using unorthodox methods to manage your diabetes? No, because I know of someone who tried it once and it almost killed him. He was introduced to a herbal mixture that […]

Elder Julius Ekundayo Omololu, a 75-year-old who has lived with diabetes for 20 years, gave further insights into his journey.

 

Have you ever considered using unorthodox methods to manage your diabetes?

No, because I know of someone who tried it once and it almost killed him. He was introduced to a herbal mixture that was supposed to “cure” diabetes in one month. It was made from local roots and leaves. He stopped taking his insulin for two weeks and started the herbal concoction. By the third week, he became very weak and dizzy. His sugar shot up to over 500. He ended up in the hospital for a week.

Since I heard that, I never tried any herbal treatment. I believe some herbs can be supportive, but they must be medically approved and used alongside proper drugs, not as a replacement.

 

Do you feel you’re getting enough support from the government in managing your condition?

Honestly, no. Diabetes patients in Nigeria are on their own. There’s little or no government support. Most public hospitals don’t have consistent supplies of insulin or test strips. Even when they do, the prices fluctuate.

We need structured programmes like the ones for HIV or tuberculosis — where drugs and regular check-ups are free or heavily subsidised. Diabetes is a silent killer, but because it doesn’t have immediate symptoms like some diseases, it’s not prioritised.

Also, I think awareness is low. Many people don’t even know they are diabetic until it’s too late. We need more public education, screening campaigns, and diabetes clubs at the community level to provide both medical and emotional support.

 

What role does your family play in helping you cope?

My family has been my backbone. My wife is my biggest supporter. She is the one who keeps reminding me to take my insulin on time and helps me prepare my special meals. My children also understand my situation — they know that daddy can’t eat cake or sugary drinks, so they don’t bring them around me.

When I was first diagnosed, it was hard for them to understand why I suddenly had so many rules about food and lifestyle. But over time, they’ve adjusted. That encouragement means a lot because living with diabetes can feel isolating.

 

How often do you check your blood sugar, and what challenges do you face in maintaining your medication routine?

I check my blood sugar at least twice a day — in the morning before breakfast and at night before bed. Sometimes, I do extra checks if I’m feeling dizzy or weak. I use a glucometer at home, but the test strips are quite expensive, so there are months I reduce the frequency.

As for medication, I take insulin daily and oral drugs twice a day. The main challenge is affordability. There are times I can’t buy enough insulin for the month, so I try to manage small doses until I can afford more. Another issue is refrigeration — insulin must be stored properly, and during power outages, it’s difficult. I once lost two vials because of power failure.

Despite these challenges, I try to stay consistent because I’ve seen what happens when people abandon their medication.

 

What advice would you give to someone newly diagnosed with diabetes?

My first advice is: don’t panic. Diabetes is not a death sentence. It can be managed with the right attitude, discipline, and support. Follow your doctor’s instructions strictly — don’t self-medicate or skip your drugs.

Secondly, change your lifestyle. Eat healthy foods, exercise regularly, and reduce stress. Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks. Learn to read food labels and monitor your portion sizes. Most importantly, check your blood sugar regularly. Many people die from complications because they didn’t monitor their levels or recognize warning signs early. Don’t fall for miracle cures. There is no herbal medicine that can completely cure diabetes. It can only be controlled. Trust science, stay consistent, and surround yourself with people who encourage you.

 

What message would you like to share with policymakers and the public?

My message is simple: diabetes is real, and it’s growing fast in Nigeria. Government must act now. There should be policies that make insulin, test strips, and drugs affordable — just like malaria and HIV programmes.

We need better diabetes clinics, routine community screenings, and public health education, especially in rural areas. Many people don’t even know what diabetes is until they develop severe symptoms.

To the public, I’ll say this: watch what you eat, exercise regularly, and go for medical check-ups. Early detection can save your life. To those already living with diabetes — don’t give up. Take it one day at a time. You can live long, happy, and productive lives if you manage it properly.