Absolutely true...one of the "inspirations" for me to get healthier was being aware of the horrible death experienced by my aunt from diabetic complications in her late 50s, and the knowledge that, of my father's 8 siblings, only one has made it past age 60.
Heart disease and diabetes has decimated my family....and they have participated in generating their own health problems through the way they eat and (don't) exercise.
My father was 45 when he died, and I am 50.
For me, this journey isn't about the number on the scale or the size pants I wear (although those are fun things to see improving
)....it is purely and simply about staying alive and healthy enough to see my son grow up and, hopefully, to enjoy a long retirement and eventual grandchildren.
I honestly don't give a crap about society's messages that "thin is beautiful" and that you can't wear more than a size 8 and be desirable. I do care a great deal about keeping my vision, and my feet, and living long enough to enjoy the non-working part of my life.
I'm fortunate that my diabetes was caught early enough to be treated with oral meds....so I am not insulin-dependent....and I have never been a "fragile" diabetic. My doctor describes me as a "sturdy diabetic"....and that works for me. My genetics pretty much guarantee that my diabetes isn't going anywhere....but if I can control it with metformin, improved eating habits and regular exercise....then I can live with that.