How I Manage My Type 2 Diabetes

My name is Juan Rosa. And I'm living with type 2 diabetes. I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes five years ago, when I was 44.

It was hard for me. I didn't know anything about diabetes at all. At the time, I was mad. I was upset, didn't want to talk to anybody.

My daughter-- who was six years old at the time-- she heard a conversation with my brother, and she thought that I was going to die soon. That was actually something that made me realize that I had to do something for me and for my family.

When I was told about using insulin to manage my type 2 diabetes, it was hard, because I'm actually afraid of needles. In order for me to manage and to get better, I have to put that fear away. And I just take a deep breath and say, it is for my health.

Once I started taking the insulin to manage my type 2 diabetes, it definitely helped. In the first two weeks, I noticed the difference. I was able to get more sleep. My energy level was up and better. And when I started using insulin and feeling better, I was able to do it without any extra effort.

I have to start exercising, which I wasn't doing. So, a little by little, I started exercising. Nowadays I play soccer. I'm the oldest one on the team. I also coach soccer teams. My daughter's definitely helped me stay physically active, because they love playing soccer too. So they go with me to the soccer field.

I had to manage my stress level. So by taking more time with my family, for myself, that definitely helped me a lot. I had to make changes on my eating habits.

Before I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, a typical breakfast for me was a double cheeseburger and fries. Nowadays, it's eggs, toast, and fruit.

Once I was able to manage my type 2 diabetes, so many things changed in my life. I took the option to help others out in the community. I work out in the community as a peer educator. So I'm bringing awareness to the community, to let them know that we can manage our diabetes.

Once you start managing, you will see the difference. And you will definitely be better off.