Running towards life: meet Courtney Govender

Ready for some inspiration? Courtney Govender is sharing her story of navigating life with Type 2 diabetes, and Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS, formerly known as PCOS).

Could you tell us your diagnosis story?

Both of my parents were diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in their 30s, so I already grew up in a household that was conscious about living a healthy lifestyle. However, this meant that I was also genetically predisposed to developing diabetes myself. It was only in 2020, when I was 25 years old, that a GP suggested I do an HbA1c test given the family history. At the time of diagnosis my HbA1c was 10.4%. And since then I’ve brought it down to 6.3%.

Could you give a brief explanation of PMOS for those who don’t know about it? How does PMOS affect diabetes?

PMOS is a metabolic disorder, mine is basically insulin resistance in the form of Type 2 diabetes. My body isn’t able to regulate insulin and use it to its full ability, thus affecting my hormones and metabolism.

What made you decide to start motivating others living with these conditions?

I decided to start motivating others because I felt that through this past 6 years, I have gained a lot of knowledge and I want to use that to be able to help others through their diagnosis.

How did you get into running?

I started running to help with my weight control and blood sugar levels by just moving my body more. Research shows that even a 10 minute walk after a meal can significantly reduce a sugar spike. So imagine what more movement could do?

I fell in love with the feeling of knowing my body is able to accomplish the goals I set out to achieve.

“Running helps me remember that my body isn’t my strongest asset, my mind is.”

What would you say to someone who is struggling with their diabetes?

A diabetes diagnosis is not the end; with the right mindset and discipline you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

What makes your life sweet?

What makes my life sweet – my husband, my family and friends. Having a support system through it all is what makes my life sweet!

Follow Courtney’s journey on Instagram: @courtneygovender_

Do you want to share your journey with diabetes?