As a child, I remember hearing my parents and grandparents mention people they knew who had “sugar diabetes.” These conversations made me wonder if diabetes was like the bubonic plague, something you could catch. Diabetes frightened me. I didn’t realize how much it would affect my family. However, Diabetes support groups helped me and my loved ones.

My dad comes from a tight-knit family and has always had close relationships with his siblings. His oldest sister married a shoe salesman from Kentucky. Uncle Claude was a good old southern boy who enjoyed his sports and his beer. He was frequently the life of the party at family gatherings, always having a good joke or funny story to share. The two of us developed a strong bond through our love of the University of Kentucky basketball and professional football.

The Diagnosis

I always knew what his Christmas gift to me each year would be – a new pair of Nike High-tops for my upcoming basketball season! When their family came to visit during the summer, I could always count on grabbing our baseball gloves and “having a catch,” shooting some hoops, and having a hunting buddy to help control the gopher population.

My uncle was always happy and upbeat, so it came as a total shock to me when I found out he had been diagnosed with Type II diabetes. His diabetes was detected as I was entering High School. He wasn’t the type to be concerned about taking care of himself. Also, he drank and he smoked, ate what he pleased, and didn’t believe in exercise. Absorbing every change necessary to manage his health proved to be a fierce struggle.

His doctor placed him on a diabetic diet and prescribed medication for blood sugar control. He was instructed to quit smoking, stop drinking beer, loses weight, and start a regular exercise program. He was able to give up cigarettes, and Miller Lite entirely and switched to what he considered a healthy substitute – Diet Pepsi!

However, changing eating habits, following a consistent exercise plan, and checking daily blood sugar readings were not on his list. His diabetes progressed quickly, requiring a below the knee amputation the year I started college. He lost his battle shortly after I graduated. He was 61. I skipped his funeral out of anger because I was upset with him for choosing to neglect his health. I didn’t realize what he had to deal with physically and emotionally until I started my healthcare career.

Dealing with Diabetes

 
Diabetes is a chronic condition that has no known cure. Diabetes disrupts the body’s ability to produce and use insulin. It leads to heart attacks, strokes, kidney diseases (nephropathy), nerve problems (neuropathy), and eye problems (retinopathy) if not treated.  Primary symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, blurred vision, increased hunger and thirst, fatigue, and in some cases, weight loss. Other symptoms include dry mouth, slow healing cuts or sores, and itchy skin in the pelvic region.
 
As a Clinical Exercise Physiologist, I’ve worked in Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab and Medical Exercise programs. I’ve had the opportunity to work with many participants that have battled diabetes. I’ve watched some succumb to the disease, while others have been able to manage it effectively.

Step 1

Living successfully with diabetes requires a team approach. Having a healthcare team that is supportive and proactive is the first step. It is essential to have a physician who can collaborate with you and give positive encouragement. A medical practitioner or endocrinology can establish a safe and efficient treatment plan.
 
Many hospital systems have Diabetes Education Centers to help clients handle their condition. A diabetes educator will provide instruction on a wide variety of topics. This includes blood sugar testing, insulin administration, and wound care and prevention.
 
Additionally, one-on-one consultations with a registered dietitian or group nutrition classes. The center or the hospital may also have a diabetic exercise or therapeutic training program. Healthcare professionals work with these establishments and help people with chronic conditions.  Active mentoring is essential for the individual to begin making necessary lifestyle changes. The next step in the process is as important: having a supportive team at home.

Step 2

Family members play a central role in an individual coping with diabetes. Also, learning to deal with the condition can be overwhelming for the patient. People sometimes experience high stress and even a sense of loss as old habits are shed for new healthier ones.
 
A routine of exercise, blood sugar testing, healthy eating, and wound care monitoring can feel like giving control. Receiving positive feedback from family members can foster perseverance and improve motivation. Having a spouse willing to be an exercise partner and even adjust their eating habits can provide valuable incentives.
 
Getting “pats on the back” from children and grandchildren for small successes can lead to more significant improvements. Also, for some people, the extensive changes are too much to adapt to, and depression sets in.

diabetes support groups

Diabetes Support Groups

In those cases, attending counseling with a mental health professional or a pastor can help work through emotional issues. Family support can be the turning point to assist the person in starting and staying on the right track. You can join a support group or Diabetes support groups online for support from people who are dealing with the illness.
 
Diabetes can be a frightening diagnosis. Diabetes and depression are often closely linked. For many individuals with the condition, living an active and fulfilling life can seem daunting. Those who are managing the disease take “baby steps.” By making one necessary change at a time, they have been able to incorporate gradual improvements.

Final Thoughts

People in Diabetes support groups been able to use each “win” as a building block to prepare for the next adjustment. Even as I reflect on my uncle’s life, I wonder what must have gone through his mind when he was told he had the disease. If he were alive today, he would have a stout and understanding advocate within his family to give him guidance and reassurance.
 
If you would like to chat with others affected by diabetes, I recommend joining the app WeAreMore. It’s one of the best Diabetes support groups for guidance.