Co Down man 'never looked back' after taking part in Ulster Hospital's programme for Type Two Diabetes patients
Peter Jackson initially lost 5 stone thanks to the programme, and is now in remission from his initial diagnosis in 2021.
Last updated 7th Apr 2024
A Co Down man is five stone lighter, thanks to a Type Two Diabetes Remission pilot programme in the Ulster Hospital.
68-year-old Peter Jackson, from Saintfield, is now in remission from his initial diagnosis, after receiving an alarming call from his doctor in 2021.
He said he has 'never looked back' and credits those who were involved in the programme, and his family, for their encouragement.
The programme for Type Two Diabetes patients is aimed at those who are overweight and have recently received a diagnosis. The programme follows three phases. Phase one provides a diet composed of nutritionally complete total diet replacement products such as soups and shakes, for up to 12 weeks. The second phase begins a reintroduction of food for six weeks and the third provides subsequent weight maintenance support for 34 weeks.
Peter started the remission programme when he was aged 65 under the guidance of Consultant Endocrinologist, Dr Roy Harper at the Ulster Hospital in August 2021.
Mr Jackson spoke to CoolFM/Downtown exclusively: “I lost a stone myself initially, and that was a big moment for me. It was the first time I think for 15 years I dropped below 19 stone. I never imagined that I would be either capable or willing to do that.”
“It was nearly like two teams, there was the professional team from the NHS, who dealt with everything in such a personal way. And then there was the team at home, great support from my wife and my sons and daughter and their partners. The secret weapon was the three grandchildren…. I used that to keep myself motivated; it was great.”
“The 12 weeks finished just before Christmas…. So, Christmas dinner was pretty exciting!”
Mr Jackson said he feels great, his joints and his lower back feel much better. His blood pressure tablets were lowered in dosage.
He went on to encourage those who are struggling with the disease to tap into the resources at local health centres and reach out for help: “It’s a very widespread disease. Tap into the resources, believe in yourself. I definitely surprised myself, I never thought I could do that.”
According to the Diabetes UK website, there are nearly 112,000 people living with diabetes in Northern Ireland and this number is set to continue to rise.