Type 2 Diabetes Changed My Perspective: For the Better

Who would have thought that my journey with type 2 diabetes would be the least of my healthcare-related worries? Don't get me wrong; it's a significant factor in my life. Dealing with diabetes has been a rollercoaster of emotions and having to learn a new way of living.

When all of your health concerns collide

But along with a cancer diagnosis and a saddle pulmonary embolism, it's been like a tornado tearing through everything in my life. What do you do when your journey of living with type 2 diabetes and everything else combines into one?

I've learned that with everything going on, all I can do is take a deep breath and forge ahead. There's a song that says, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." Many people say I'm strong. But honestly, I don't feel strong. I feel like there's no other option than to live and face each new day.

Type 2 diabetes changed my life

Having type 2 diabetes meant I had to change things in my life. Whether it's new medicines, learning to eat the right things that won't spike my blood sugar, or exercising more - it's a massive part of my everyday experience.

If I could change the past, I'd tell myself that life throws you curve balls when you least expect it whether genetics or lifestyle factors caused my type 2 diabetes, that was the first thing that changed me most recently.

Later, I developed sciatica, learned I had multiple tumors, had back surgery, found out I had cancer, had a kidney removed, another partially removed, and then, to top it all off and put the star on the proverbial tree, I developed a saddle pulmonary embolism.

A positive outlook on life

These healthcare challenges have offered me 1 positive thing: a better perspective on life. I don't worry about the little things as much. Sure, I still worry, but if I don't vacuum today or turn on the dishwasher, it's not the end of the world.

I do know that managing my type 2 diabetes is even more crucial to my well-being. Having T2D affects everything from outpatient procedures to my actual surgeries and hospital stays. Everything I learned in the past when all I needed was to take care of my A1C, has come in handy.

You can't predict the future

One of the first things that is asked of me when I have anything done medically is my blood glucose, and usually, it is taken that same day so my medications can be adjusted if needed. Did you know that certain procedures spike your blood sugar? I sure learned that having things done in the hospital and during outpatient procedures.

You can't always predict what will happen regarding your health. I had no clue that having cancer can cause you to have blood clots, leading to my embolism. I had no clue that having an SI injection can spike your blood sugar.

Managing diabetes isn't just about monitoring blood sugar levels and adhering to a strict regimen; it's also about navigating the emotional ups and downs that come with the territory. And adding in more medical stress just amplifies it. Believe me, I know.