It has been almost 7 years since my doctor informed me that I have a chronic illness: Type 1 Diabetes.
I had symptoms that I had ignored for a while until one day I felt like I was having a heart attack and was rushed to the emergency room. It was then discovered that I have type 1 diabetes. Not even in my dreams I could have imagined having diabetes since nobody in my entire family has it.
My life changed after that moment and I was told that many things would be impossible for me. I was in tears for months and thought my life is coming to an end now.
My life did change but not for worst but for the better. The disease has actually made my life meaningful.
I took my illness as a challenge and now today I am motivated to make a difference in my life and many others who suffer from this.
Today, I am blessed with two beautiful kids, won several beauty pageants, a radio host; work with media and over all I advocate and volunteer with American Diabetes Association.
In the past 7 years, I had many ups and downs with my illness. At times, I have felt low and depressed. But I am surrounded with supportive people. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes or any other illness, your family and friends are the best medicine.
Diabetes often goes undiagnosed because many of its symptoms seem so harmless. Studies indicate that the early detection of diabetes symptoms and treatment can decrease the chance of developing the complications of diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and was previously known as juvenile diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin.
Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. Only 5% of people with diabetes have this form of the disease. With the help of insulin therapy and other treatments, even young children with type 1 diabetes can learn to manage their condition and live long, healthy, happy lives.
People can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes through a healthy lifestyle. Change your diet, increase level of physical activity, and maintain a healthy weight. With these positive steps, you can stay healthier longer and reduce your risk of diabetes.
There’s always hope: all these new medical researches, better and smarter insulin devices give me hope and courage.
I am a very optimistic person by nature and a positive attitude leads to better quality of life, and that means better outcomes.
I am a healthier person now than ever. I want to be an example for others out there; there are no obstacles that we cannot overcome. Never under estimate the power of a motivated individual, beauty queen or not!
I have been very lucky in my journey that my health care
professional team realizes the power of words they use with their patients. Doctor’s visit can be very stressful for some people but if you choose the right one who cares can bring a big difference in your overall disease management. Diabetes is a common disease, yet every individual needs unique care.
Jyoti Mahajan
Jyoti Mahajan, the Fashion Editor: Fashion, the ever-changing and most talked-about industry is overflowing with varied traits and umpteen choices. Our Fashion Editor, Jyoti Mahajan, not only distills fashion trends for you, but also presents highly innovative ideas for successful image-making in an effortless way. Mahajan is a highly successful career woman and holder of a crowning glory of titles including Mrs India International 2010, Mrs. Gladrags Top Finalist 2010, and Ms America Finalist 2011. Mahajan guides you into what’s hot and what’s not - before you head off to go shopping - and provides you with ideas about what you can mix and match to create that perfect look that suits you the best.