Hi, the first time I met diabetes I was nineteen years old and that was in 1981. Considering that no one in my family history had dealt with diabetes, I would be the first. I have three brothers and three sisters and I am the youngest. I have to say, it was a shock and I was feeling very confused. I didn't know much about it except the my brother-in-law had type II and his type was totally different than type I, which is what I was diagnosed with and then hospitalized. I was scared and it was hard...I had to learn how to eat differently, they tested my sugar periodically and was told that I would have to take insulin for the rest of my life. I was admitted into the hospital on my twentieth birthday and stayed for two and half weeks.I had to learn to take care of myself. I left the hospital and gained some of my weight back and was feeling better. I read everything I could get my hands to gain knowledge of this disease. I was going to be in control.
At 51 years old, I am still living with it and I have seen so many changes in treatments for diabetes and I can tell you that we have come a long way since 1981. I thank God that I am still here and have been able to help some friends and family members with the disease. A couple of family members have been diagnosed with diabetes and my knowledge has helped me answer their questions. My attitude has changed and I no longer ask "why". I watch what I eat, I work out three-four times a week and there are new medications out there that have helped me. I have lost 50 lbs. and I have never felt better.
I am thankful for everything I have and that I was given the strength and the support of my family and friends for always looking out for me and being there when needed. Thank you!
God bless.
Carmen
Astoria, NY
