A Wake Up Call

StillKicking

Hi all.  I don't post much but was having a good day.  To date this journey has been nothing but one blow after another:  thought it was DCIS, but than it moved to Stage 1 and chemo.  Next came the lymphadema (in the arm without node removal).  Then came heart problems with the Herceptin.  And now, steriod induced diabetes.  Who knew this was even possible!

But maybe some good can come from it.  I've been overweight most of my life and a smoker since college (25 years).   When my blood sugar hit 599 (normal is 100) and I could no longer see and ended up in this hospital, this was a wake up call.  Why was I surprised.  Diabetes runs in the family.  And being an overweight African American woman, my chances of developing it was extremely high.

For some reason, the cancer didn't scare me nearly as much as the possible loss of my eyesight.  Within one week i've lost 10 lbs (a low-carb diet) and got my blood sugar number down to the 120 range.  While I might not be able to maintain this strict diet, it is my hope (and prayer) that I will be able to quickly get off the insulin, loose more weight, start an exercise program and generally get healthy.

Surely the double wammy of breast cancer/diabetes would make someone wake up to the dangers of living an unhealthy lifestyle.  It's my hope.

Yogi70

StillKicking,

I'm sorry to hear about the diabetes and all the other problems you're having. Since I found out about my cancer I have been vowing to change my eating habits. It is hard but the more I think of the benefits the harder I try.  I think it's great that you are trying. Congratulations on the 10lbs!!!!!  I recently started experimenting with green smoothies!!! They taste great once you get the combinations you want.  Search "green smoothie" and you will find plenty of recipes!!!!  It may sound wierd to you at first but take it from me they are good and good for you.  I am gradually changing my eating habits for the better.  My hope for you is that you reach your goals.  Keep us posted!!!!   Lets help each other on this journey toward a healthier lifestyle. Take care.

AnnNYC

StillKicking, wishing you the best -- I'm in a similar boat -- prediabetes, not from steroids, but just from weight and family history (and maybe Aromasin played a role?).  I quit smoking in March 2007 two weeks after BC dx, and now I'm working on the weight (since Jan 2008).  Wish me luck, and I'm wishing the same to you.

Yogi -- thanks for the green smoothie tip!