My name is Rhonda, and I have been a Type 2 Insulin Dependent Diabetic for 23 plus years. In my family tree there is a long history of diabetes. Both of my parents and grandparents had diabetes. I've seen the highs and lows of this chronic disease with the recent passing of my mother at 64 years old due to complications from diabetes. Two out of three of my children ages 18, and 20 have been insulin dependent for over 10 years now; however, there is no sad story for us because we are determined to fight for a cure and overcome diabetes. We have taken the time to learn about the disease, so that we would not have to always feel defeated. One of my famous sayings is "Just because I can't have sugar, it doesn't mean I can't be sweet." We took this sour lemon of a situation called "diabetes", and made sweet lemonade with substituted sweeteners. In closing, in order to feel better about this chronic disease, it will take a made up mind, discipline, and boldness to confront the issue that associates itself with the disease, and that is sugar. I pray that this story will inspire, uplift and encourage someone else who might be in the same place that I was in 23 years ago, when I first was diagnosed to know that you can live for a long time with the disease and still have a productive and fulfilling life.
Blessings,
Rhonda
Sacramento, CA
