Diabetes is more than a physical disease. It is also an emotional 24 hours/seven-days-a-week, 365-day condition. It is always on your mind. Your mind affects your body. Your body affects your mind. I have learned in my 45-plus years with diabetes that your health is determined by how you feel mentally. It is an exhausting disease. When you are feeling good about yourself, you will be more motivated to take care of your body. I am a healthy diabetic because I have lived this philosophy since I was 18 when I fought back against this disease by starting the 16th chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in Toledo, Ohio. I have been a diabetes patient advocate because I am an impatient soul. It is time that everyone on this planet (the medical community, patients, families, and the public) recognize that it is more than a disorder of body organs (which you can somewhat control). The true path must be leading (not just managing) your diabetes. Mind over matter is what matters for a healthy day and a healthy life with diabetes.

I share my insights (including my odd sense of how things are) because I want this global epidemic to be seen in a new light, where despite all the distractions in trying to stay alive, we diabetics are aligned with a personal mission which is to rise above the disease in a positive way. It can be done. It has to be done. Our quality of living depends upon it. It is a solo disease where you are on a tightrope without a net below.

My fellow sweet brothers and sisters - it is in your power to be empowered by diabetes rather than be weakened by it. We are greater than our diabetes. Please join me in not just saving our lives but by thriving and living our dreams by enjoying life!