In 1990, I was diagnosed with diabetes a devastating disease. Before insulin injections were invented in 1922, it was a death sentence.
Today, insulin allows the 26 million Americans diagnosed with diabetes to live. Diabetes, like cancer, is deadly but, as my endocrinologist said, "Do the work, live a normal life."
November is National Diabetes Month, and I'd like you to know a few things.
This summer when my husband battled stage 3 cancer, I asked him which disease he'd rather have, diabetes or cancer? He answered, "Cancer."
I realized then that my treatment isn't just three months of therapy and then I'm done. I test my blood six times a day, take multiple insulin injections and count carbohydrates 24/7.
I'm 45 and have no complications because I exercise, eat healthfully and take my medication. I want to live, and I want others to know they can, too.
This epidemic will afflict half of all Americans by 2020.
Give to JDRF, the leading global organization focused on type 1 diabetes research; the American Diabetes Association; or the Utah Diabetes Prevention and Control Program.
Just do something this November so diabetes doesn't trump cancer.
Aimee Greenholtz
Park City