I was diagnosed with the disease 2 years ago this coming June.

Was told that my glucose levgel was a little bit too high, then it was becoming too low.

Had the symtoms a few years before, but wasn't sure. Then one of my younger brothers told me that HE was diagnosed with it! I began to ask my doc, but he said that the glucose level was normal.

Then in June '06, the doc told me that there is evidence of diabetes. Later that year, I started having SOB (shortness of breath) attacks. Had to got to the emergency room. Was then diagnosed with heart failure! Three weeks later, I was back in the ER!! Went back to woork after the holidays.

In October last year, I applied for disability. Was approved this past February. My rehabilitation counselor told me that I can no longer do any more strenuous hard core labor. Only light duty work, which I do.

I no longer have the strength that I had three years ago. I can't even jog any more because my heart won't let me! I get too tired too soon. Can only walk slow or fast.

But thank God that I'm receiving SSDI payments every month now, because I was struggling so bad. Couldn't even pay the rent because all I had to live off of for 5 months was only $540 a month from my small pension!!

I feel now, that a big heavy burden has been lifted!! No more financial strains!! Now I have to look for another apt because I can barely climb 3 flights of stairs to the apt.