My dad was diagnosed with diabetes this week. That sucks for him. He loves to eat crap. After he got the phone call from the doctor, he said, “but I still went and ate 15 Oreos.” Yep, that’s my dad.
This also sucks for me. I live in an avoidance state of denial. And now, the one thing I had going for me (no family history) is gone!
I had gestational diabetes with all 4 of my pregnancies- insulin dependant- could only eat rabbit food- was miserable. It was for the health of my baby, so I did it. Of course, I bitched about it incessantly. And instead of the typical flowers and baby gifts, people brought sympathetic chocolates and sugary treats to me after the births. God Bless them all!
After the birth of my youngest (a mere 5YEARS AGO!), my doctor gave me the yummy “Glucola” to store in my fridge and drink before my next check-up appointment. Ummm, said Glucola is still in my fridge. Don’t judge.
Fear of living my life without sweet goodness is a fear that closely rivals the fear of losing my sight and my legs- I know it’s wrong.
I’ve been eating well and exercising lately, although I did make out with a chocolate lava cake today (Happy Valentine’s Day to me- from me!) and now I’m wallowing in the guilt and have a good sugar high, but when I come down, I’m going to feel really bad!
Tena, I am so sorry to hear about your dad! I remember when my mom had her heart attack at the age of 48 and I kept saying, “Oh my God. I now have a “family heart history.” Then when she was diagnosed with a stroke, same thing. Then again with diabetes. Or…as my mom and all old people say, “diabete-is” or “the sugar.” Good luck to you. I am the same age as you and so far so good. Maybe we won’t be “blessed” with our parents’ illnesses! Prayers your way!
I was diagnosed Type II diabetic almost 15 years ago. Knock on wood, I can still see, I have all my limbs and I’m not in danger (yet) of becoming insulin dependent. I eat sugary things, from time to time – in fact, my diet is an abomination. BUT – what I have learned is the value of moderation. Don’t overdo.
So sorry to about your Dad. But you don’t have to live without the sugary sweetness. Its all about moderation and willpower.
My 16yo son was recently diagnosed as pre-diabetic. Hopefully we will be able to manage it with diet and exercise only. He is not too happy about having to be careful about what he eats, and I hate having to be the mean mommy.
Of my extended family (both parents and bio-brother), I’m the only one who doesn’t have diabetes. My son’s diabetes educator told him that he didn’t have to deny himself anything he likes to eat, he just has to be smart about when and how much he eats.
Good luck to your dad.