On October 28th 2010, I got a diagnosis I had been living under the shadow of for 5 years. I was diagnosed with Secondary Diabetes by my new doctor. Secondary Diabetes is a rare form, less than 2% of diabetes reported is this type. I also have Chronic Pancreatitis. My pancreas had suffered so much damage over the 5 years since I had gotten my first episode of pancreatitis, that it doesn't make enough insulin anymore. I started using insulin pens to deliver the insulin my pancreas can't make enough of anymore. I was very scared at first diagnosis but, it is not so scary to manage my condition anymore. I learned to count carbs and figure out insulin dosages. I test my BG 3 to 4 times a day. I am doing quite well actually my most recent A1C was a 6.5. I have read many books about diabetes and find lots of helpful information to help manage my condition online. My goal is to be in the 5% Club and I'm not too far from it! It's not impossible to live with Diabetes it just takes more planning! We can manage our condition as we hope for a cure!

Cindy Smith
Duluth, MN