Second Chances

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Ilene Raymond Rush’s diabetes journey started with a diagnosis of gestational diabetes 26 years ago, while pregnant with her first son. For seven years, she was able to avoid a diagnosis of type 2 with daily six-mile runs, but with a second pregnancy the gestational diabetes returned. In 1987, Ilene was diagnosed with full-blown type 2, and started on a regimen of drugs, diet, and exercise.

Over this time, as a freelance writer for magazines and the Web, she’s had access to scientists and the latest research on diabetes – a perk that has proved both inspirational and frustrating: it’s one thing to know what to do, but it’s another thing to do it.

For her, every day is a second chance towards better care. She doesn’t always succeed, but she’s given up on achieving perfection. “If I give myself a second chance -- forgiving myself for that extra serving of cake or glass of wine, not stressing over a missed exercise class now and then – I’ve found I can better deal with everything from A1C’s to deadlines at work.”

You can also read Ilene's blog, Diabetes My Way, here.

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Disclaimer
dLife's Daily Living columnists are not all medical experts, but everyday people living with diabetes and sharing their personal experiences. While their method of diabetes management may work for them, everyone is different. Please consult with your diabetes care team to find out what will work best for you.