Hello and welcome to my Blog, my name is Chris, a bus driver for First Mendip based in Wells, Somerset. I am Chair and H&S rep for the depot branch of Unite the Union. Married to Fiona, we live in Midsomer Norton near Bath, with Boots the cat. My main hobby is Amateur Radio and I hold the call sign G4KVI. I am the repeater keeper for GB3UB and MB7UB. I have a fascination for the weather and all things to do with nature and science. As a Christian I worship, when shifts allow at St. Nicholas Church in Radstock. These are my observations on my life, both at work and at home.

24 Nov 2011

Diabetes

Called to the Doctors today to discuss the results of the blood tests. It seems that I have Type 2 Diabetes which now needs to be controlled with medication. The tablets  I have been prescribed are the common Metformin. I have to say it will take a while to get used to the fact but I am trying to learn as much as I can about it and how I can possibly reduce any future problems. One major thing I was worried about was of course my job. I was under the impression that once I started tablets I would have to go for a DVLA medical and if I got to the point of requiring Insulin I would not be able to drive, at all. However, it seems the rules have changed as of the 15th and you can now, subject to some criteria even drive while Insulin dependent. I have already notified DVLA but it looks like I will need to notify them of the change of status. Full details of the current regulations cab be found here.

15 Nov 2011

T & C's

Came across this on the company web site. I wonder how many passengers have read this or even realise they are bound by it. It makes for VERY interesting reading.


http://www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/bristol_bath/about_us/conditions_of_carriage/

New Tyre

The thread on the rear tyre of the bike has become a little low and I have been putting off it's replacement for a while but bit the bullet today and had a trip over to Frome Bike Breakers to have a nice new one fitted. I was a little surprised to see just how low the thread had become and it properly explains the tendency for the bike to follow the lines in the road. Need to run the tyre in but the ride back from Frome was a lot better than the ride there!! Now need to save some money to have the chain and sprockets replaced but that will properly be after Christmas.

9 Nov 2011

Finally got me

For those that don't me I suffer from Type 2 Diabetes. I have had this for a few years and only found out through an unconnected blood test. However, it has  never caused me any problems and I had pretty much forgotten about it. Until now that is. The last couple of weeks has seen me very tired, which I put down to work. Having to visit the loo a lot and not sleeping well. Fiona has had Type 2 for a long time so we have a blood sugar meter in the house. My level is usually around 7 but  it has been down to 4 and up to 12. So a trip to the doctor was arranged and a quick 'dip test' shown high levels of glucose. Now waiting for full blood test but it looks like I will be going down the road to medication.

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