Type 2 Diabetes: 6 Years Later

Five years ago this month, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. 

I remember the day well - I cried all the way home. As a nurse, I knew my life had changed. Forever. 

And it has. 

On the plus side, I eat a LOT healthier than I used to. I also exercise - I was a couch potato, former P.E. Hater. I started walking daily, as as of today, I have run 16 half marathons, several 10k's, a 15k, and lots of 5k's. 

I'm glad for the awareness of my health. I'm grateful that being a good steward of the body I inhabit has become a priority. I'm grateful that I've lost 30lbs and kept it off. 

I just wish it didn't come with an illness.  

My initial lifestyle changes brought my diabetic numbers into normal range - from a laboratory standpoint, I had non- diabetic results. It was invigorating. 

Five years later, the disease progresses. I just had my worst lab work. 

I get discouraged sometimes. I eat things I know I shouldn't - 4 decades of emotional eating is a huge hurdle to overcome. The higher my blood sugars, the more I crave carbs. It's a wicked catch 22. 

So I make adjustments. I'm learning my body, what works best for me. 

I'm on insulin now and I hate that. I'm changing my diet and increasing my activity with hopes of less insulin use...or not having to use it at all. 

It makes me acutely aware of diabetes daily...and my type 1 friends and family who are affected by this disease. My type 2 friends who struggle. 

My word of advice? Stay healthy. Eat whole foods...avoid processed foods. Exercise. Stay in a healthy weight - obesity kills. Read labels. 

Health is a journey...and daily, I make a decision with every choice I make that affects my health - today, and in the long run. 

Choose health. 

e b e r