Voices of Diabetes

I was diagnosed 13 years ago. I am turning 49 next month and STILL learning to cope with diabetes. I realize now what a truly complex and diabolical disease it is. After being diagnosed type 2 initially, my denial caused my condition to progress to insulin dependence.

If I could do it all over, I would have seen a psychiatrist directly after seeing my endocrinologist for the first time. This would have probably added at least 5 years to my life. I had such a hard time accepting the seriousness of my condition. It took years to wrap my brain around the fact that I had a chronic condition that needed to be actively managed by me, and in need of tremendous support from my family, friends and colleagues at work.

I work in the restaurant industry, and change is part of the business. I have had such a hard time trying to not only incorporate some type of routine in my life, let alone exercise every day. I do feel, though, as if there is always hope, a chance to do the right thing for yourself every day. It's just difficult with marriage, children and career to always put yourself first. That is what I'm struggling with right now. But I'll never give up, because what's the alternative?

Thank you for listening.

TJ C, 48
Columbus, NJ