NCDs champions

Ministry of Health ‘Walk for Life Campaign’ put faces to the fight against Noncommunicable diseases. Not only did they have Stanley Monageng, the 75 year old walker who rose from near death to be one of the fittest individuals in the country, they also had two NCDs champions also share their experiences.

Ms Mmanare Rose Kgope of Gabane has been living with High Blood Pressure for 22 years and has learnt important lessons regarding the control of the NCDs. Her advice was simple; “I encourage you to work out. If anything just walk around the house,” she said and added; “Take doctor’s advice very seriously and when taking medication don’t drink alcohol. You should also drink lots of water.”

Ms Tryphinah Mmipi suddenly became very ill 22 years ago and would later be diagonised with diabetes. She had lost her sight, appetite and was haunted by endless thirst and urine. She immediately went into medication, changed her diet and got better.

Erroneously thinking that she had rid herself of diabetes, Mmipi told Nkoyaphiri residents that she returned to her old harmful ways. “My children thought I was healed and bought me all manner of things; often too much oil and drinks,” she said.

Soon Mmipi became worse and had to be prescribed insulin. She has learnt her lesson and now only eats healthy food.

“If you come accross a diabetic smile and give them support. Remember they need to eat frequently and many families can’t afford to support this. Some patients faint because of hunger,” Mmipi advised. SHe further stated that diabetes is worse for men who are not open about their ailments.