World Diabetes Day: 14 November
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or the body cannot effectively use its insulin. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels.
World Diabetes Day, recognised globally on the 14 November, aims to raise awareness about diabetes, which comes in three main types: Type 1, Type 2 and Gestational diabetes. This day holds a special significance to me due to my family’s history with the disease. On my mother’s side, it’s common for women to develop diabetes, putting me at a higher risk.
Growing up, I watched my mother, and aunts manage Type 1 diabetes daily, teaching me valuable lessons. Although there is no cure, a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise can prevent or manage diabetes.
Today I want to share more about Gestational Diabetes. I experienced this during my pregnancy in 2022-2023. Despite being aware of my family’s history, I was unprepared for this challenge. Gestational diabetes affects not only the mother but also the unborn child. When my diagnosis was confirmed, I felt scared and unprepared. The diagnosis meant immediate treatment. Despite my fear of needles, I had to learn to inject myself with insulin twice a day, alongside taking numerous meds/tablets that I had to stay on top of. Adjusting my diet and controlling my diet was tough, especially trying to follow my mum’s strict diet even during pregnancy. Driving past Classic Desserts became an extreme sport for me, given my doctor’s offices were right next door.
Support from my family and friends was crucial at this time and it got me through a lot of difficult moments. Monitoring my diabetes required constant monitoring of blood sugar levels, meal tracking and regular calls and texts with my doctors. Despite the challenges, my baby and I came through it without lasting diabetes. My experience taught me a lot. Although my sugar levels stabilized after birth, I remain at high risk due to my family’s history. Continuous monitoring and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are essential for me.
A healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a normal body weight and avoiding tobacco can help prevent or delay Type 2 diabetes. With proper diet, medication and regular screening, diabetes and its complications can be managed or delayed.
On this World Diabetes Day, I want to bring awareness to everyone living with diabetes. Stay strong and keep fighting!
Yours Truly, Nyasha N.