“I lead from the heart and from my experience as a patient. Sharing my story and the stories of others living with this condition resonates with people and helps them understand the seriousness of the disease.”
U.S. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. wants his constituents to learn from his experience with type 2 diabetes.
Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr., serving New Jersey’s 10th District, knows the complications that can accompany Type 2 diabetes all too well. He is one of the 32.5 million Americans living with this chronic illness and, like so many Americans and New Jersey residents, he has struggled to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
For the past 20 years, Rep. Payne admits, he was a less than exemplary patient. His bad diet, lack of exercise and poor diabetes management led to weight gain, foot infections, nerve damage, macular degeneration and eventually kidney failure. In 2015, Rep. Payne underwent several surgeries and 11 months of treatment to prevent a serious diabetic foot ulcer from leading to an amputation. Earlier this year, he began receiving dialysis treatment because of diabetes’ effects on his kidneys.
A Change for the better
“As someone who lives with diabetes, I make it a priority to share my story with people throughout the state so that they too understand the seriousness of this disease,” says Rep. Payne. “I am vocal on the importance of managing diabetes through diet, physical activity and the appropriate use of medication.”
Today Rep. Payne has changed his eating habits and feels better than ever. “I traded my hot dogs for a 16-ounce bottle of water. I’ve lost 30 pounds and I am following my physician’s orders as I receive my diabetes treatment,” he says. “Diabetes is a chronic disease, but it can be managed under the care of medical professionals to ensure people like me continue to lead productive lifestyles.”
This year, the Congressman is working with Newark Beth Israel Medical Center to share his story at hospital-sponsored events throughout the city. “I lead from the heart and from my experience as a patient. Sharing my story and the stories of others living with this condition resonates with people and helps them understand the seriousness of the disease,” says Rep. Payne. “I will continue to get out into the community and tell my story. “And I will continue to make sure that those with diabetes know that, even with the disease, they can still control their health by making smart health decisions.”
Find out more information about diabetes and how the Diabetic Treatment Center at Newark Beth Israel can help you manage this condition, or call 973.926.3218.