I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes three years ago, and it has been a long road since then. My doctor explained that diabetes is a chronic condition where the body is not able to regulate the amount of glucose in my body. It means that I need to be extra vigilant in controlling my diet and physical activity.
At first, I was overwhelmed. Diabetes meant so many changes to my life—eating differently, exercising every day, and managing my health. I worried that I wouldn’t be able to make all these changes.
But I was determined to make the most out of this diagnosis. I slowly started to adopt a healthier lifestyle. I exercised more, made healthy eating choices, and attended regular doctor appointments to keep on top of my health.
Life with diabetes is not easy, but it is manageable. Learning to live with diabetes has taught me to be more patient with myself and to appreciate the small changes I make. It has also helped me to appreciate the importance of taking time out of my day to look after myself.
I have changed my relationship with food. I have learnt to eat smaller meals, spread out throughout the day, and to enjoy healthy foods which make me feel good. Over time, I have become much better at managing my condition.
I am now so much more aware of the impact of my lifestyle decisions on my long-term health. I take great care to look after myself. I still make mistakes and miss the odd meal or exercise session, but I know how to catch up quickly and stay on top of my health.
Diabetes is a part of my life now, but I have learnt to embrace it. I feel empowered to take control of my health and be the one who decides how it affects me. It has taken time, but I now feel confident in managing my diabetes and in living my life to the fullest.