Api Tuitubou is employed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the translation department at the Church’s service centre in Suva, Fiji.
He describes his work as very fulfilling and feels a real kinship to the other employees there.
Recently, employees at the service centre, were invited to participate in a volunteer blood sugar screening. Api, who is in his late twenties, stepped up willingly to be tested and weighed.
To his utter shock, his blood sugar levels were at 22. He knew many diabetics but it had never crossed his mind that he could receive such a diagnosis at this young age.
He said, “My way of measuring carbs was how high I could stack my plate.”
Elder Dean Clark and his wife, Sister Joyce Clark (medical professionals serving a full-time mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) in Fiji, set Api up with a “back to health” plan which included cutting out refined sugars completely, eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and getting exercise.
Stunned by his diagnosis, he immediately became a “believer,” then took control of his life by following diabetic guidelines provided by the Clarks on healthy eating habits and exercise. His newly found outlet of boxing has provided entertainment and exercise.
Api has started to show improvement in his health. His blood sugars are down to 10 and his weight is on the decline.
He attributes his success to the caring counsel from Elder and Sister Clark as well as peer support from family and workers.
Api plans to be married in September. He is hopeful that his new-found enthusiasm for embracing healthy lifestyle habits will have an impact on his future family and their health choices.