A Test of Character- Diabetes Blessings Week Day 2

“The true test of character is not how much we know how to do, but how we behave when we don’t know what to do.” – John W. Holt, Jr.

Paralyzing. That’s what the fear that consumed me was after hearing that I had both type 2 diabetes and congestive heart failure.

I remember the heavy numbness coating me as I sat on the table, listening to the doctor’s words.  I remember the doctor leaving the room, and me slumping over with my head in my hands and not knowing what to think, or say, or do.  I remember April being there with me, trying to offer what comfort she could.

I didn’t have a clue what I was going to do.  How was I going to juggle two diagnoses at once? Had I caught the CHF in time to do something about it? or should I just kiss my rear goodbye?  In my mind, I knew that I could live with the diabetes, but not if my heart gave out completely.

Honestly, there was no way that I could give equal attention to the two diagnoses.  My heart became my top priority; as I said, if it quit working all together, there wouldn’t be any living with diabetes.  I also knew that the diabetes had to be managed, too, so I essentially took a crash course in diabetes management.  I went to diabetes education classes to learn the basics  and get help with developing a meal plan.  I took that knowledge back to my little world, put it to work, and just kind of fell into a routine.  One that has more than paid off in the long run. 🙂

Living with type 2 diabetes and congestive heart failure has been, and continues to be, a true test of character.  And while it is quite difficult some days, I am thankful for this test.  It has shown just how heavy a burden I’m able to bear.