The Warning Signs I Ignored—Don’t Make My Mistake – The weeks surrounding the New Year were incredibly challenging. I mourned the loss of loved ones, and our beloved dog, Norton, passed away. I hadn’t been feeling well, but I dismissed it as the toll of the season—stress, exhaustion, and too little sleep. My right foot had been aching for some time, but I assumed it would heal on its own. I couldn’t have been more wrong.
At my husband’s urging, I finally scheduled a checkup. Within minutes of my arrival, the situation took a drastic turn—I was rushed to the emergency room. My blood pressure was at a dangerously high level, my blood sugar had soared off the charts, and the persistent pain in my foot was revealed to be a life-threatening infection requiring urgent intervention. Doctors warned me that had I waited another week or two, I might not have survived.
Now, three weeks later, back at home, I find myself reflecting on the article I’ll write for this edition of the magazine. Perhaps there are lessons worth sharing—insights that might inspire someone to schedule a checkup before it’s too late. Is my experience uncommon? Not at all. I am one of nearly 40 million people in the United States facing this condition, with almost 100 million more at risk. The numbers are staggering—a silent crisis hiding in plain sight.
I was diagnosed with diabetes. The infection, combined with stress, had triggered dangerously high blood pressure. An urgent treatment plan was put in place to bring my glucose levels down from a critical state. After three days of treatment, monitoring, and evaluation, doctors concluded that surgery was necessary to address the infection in my foot. What was initially planned as a minor procedure under local anesthesia quickly escalated into a more extensive operation requiring full anesthesia. The infection had reached the bone, affecting my small toe and the fifth metatarsal. To prevent its spread, the difficult but necessary decision was made to remove them. No more sandals for me!
I spent two weeks in the hospital, and now, back at home, my recovery continues. I carry an IV pump, delivering around-the-clock antibiotics for the next six weeks. Each day is a lesson in adaptation—learning to monitor my glucose levels, administer insulin, and navigate the complexities of a new way of eating. Every choice feels more deliberate, each moment a step toward reclaiming my health.
In the grand scheme of things, my experience is neither rare nor extraordinary. After all, 40 million Americans navigate this same diagnosis. Many people face far greater medical challenges, and my heart goes out to them and their families. I share my story not for sympathy, but in the hope that it may raise awareness. By recognizing the signs early, and incorporating a few holistic approaches, you may be able to take proactive steps toward better health.
RECOGNIZING THE SIGNS AND RISKS
Listen to Your Body – I didn’t realize it at the time. Sure, I was tired, and my vision was a bit blurry—just an age thing, right? But symptoms shouldn’t be ignored—your body is sending you a message. Fatigue, frequent infections, slow-healing wounds, constant thirst, and vision changes can all be early warning signs of diabetes. Pay attention before it’s too late.
Prioritize Regular Checkups – Even if you feel fine, annual health screenings for blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol can help catch issues early before they become life-threatening.
Don’t Dismiss Pain or Discomfort – If you experience recurring pain, tingling, or numbness—especially in your feet—don’t ignore it. These could be signs of nerve damage or infection. I wish I had paid attention to my foot pain sooner. I didn’t, and now I’m living with the consequences.
Monitor Your Stress Levels – Chronic stress can elevate blood sugar and blood pressure. If you’re dealing with loss, work pressure, or emotional distress, make self-care a priority.
Be Proactive About Foot Health – People with diabetes are more prone to infections and circulation issues. Check your feet daily for cuts, sores, or swelling, and wear comfortable, protective footwear.
HOLISTIC APPROACHES TO MANAGING DIABETES
Adopt a Balanced, Whole-Foods Diet – Focus on nutrient-dense foods such as leafy greens, healthy fats, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid refined sugars and processed foods that spike blood sugar levels. Also, eat at regular intervals. Keeping a schedule is important.
Incorporate Gentle Movement – Regular exercise, even light activities like walking, yoga, or tai chi, can improve insulin sensitivity, circulation, and overall well-being. Prior to this, I walked at least 10,000 steps a day and I look forward to getting back to it.
Practice Mindfulness and Stress Reduction – Meditation, deep breathing, and journaling can help manage stress, which plays a major role in blood sugar fluctuations.
Explore Natural Blood Sugar Support – Cinnamon, fenugreek, and berberine are among the natural supplements that may help regulate glucose levels. Always consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating them.
Prioritize Restorative Sleep – Poor sleep can increase insulin resistance. Establish a calming nighttime routine, limit screen time before bed, and aim for at least 7–8 hours of quality sleep.
If there’s one thing I hope you take away from my story, it’s this—don’t wait. Your body is always speaking to you, and ignoring the signs can have serious consequences. Whether it’s fatigue, pain, or something that just feels “off,” take it seriously. Schedule that checkup, make small but meaningful lifestyle changes, and prioritize your health before a wake-up call forces you to. I learned the hard way, but you don’t have to. Let my experience serve as a reminder: awareness, early action, and self-care can make all the difference.
Unlock your full potential with a 7-day free full-access trial! Join over 50 powerful live coaching sessions every month, explore hundreds of on-demand sessions, and connect directly with expert coaches between sessions. Plus, get personalized support from our AI Coach Assistant to help you set and achieve SMART goals that drive real results. Start today — your growth journey begins now!
- Join the INGOMU Community and start your Journey to Wellness.
- Get weekly coaching tips from Al and Ingomu.
- More articles are available from our VIP Executive Contributor Al Wynant.