President's Note: Apple, a young fellow diabetes patient who recently reached out to me and voluntarily joined the ranks of the Recovery Foundation volunteers, shares her touching story here—Apple's Story

Below is her reflection and review of the emotional journey she experienced after being diagnosed.

The Onset of Illness

Imagine you're enjoying an ice-cold cola when suddenly the doctor tells you: "Congratulations, you have diabetes!" It's like being told there's chili pepper mixed into your ice cream right in the middle of a scorching summer day.

That's exactly how it happened to me - suddenly diagnosed with both diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). At that moment, I could almost hear fate laughing at me: "Hey, welcome to the chronic illness club!"

Most chronic diseases develop in connection with various personal factors: high-pressure work environments, poor dietary and lifestyle habits, or unresolved internal emotional struggles caused by external influences. In such unhealthy circumstances, the body gradually undergoes changes, leading to conditions like diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome.

This type of chronic disease involves genetic factors, environmental influences, and personal reasons. It is widely believed that once you develop a chronic illness, you must live with it for life. But I want to tell you: while doctors can help treat you, only you can truly heal yourself!

As a long-time diabetes patient combined with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), through decades of battling illness, I've gradually accumulated insights and methods which I want to share—to help you build and restore your self-healing capacity.

Acceptance and Understanding

When first diagnosed, I behaved like a cat whose tail got stepped on—panicking and running around. But soon I realized this wasn't just a challenge but a wake-up call for change. I began examining every aspect of my life: from diet to daily habits, emotional management to social circles. Instead of relying solely on medication, I started thinking about fundamentally improving my health. It was like running a marathon where I needed not just speed, but sustainable health.

Just like experiencing the "three excesses and one deficiency" symptoms when having diabetes, the body is very "smart" - once damaged, you'll feel discomfort or even notice visible changes. We shouldn't feel anxious about these changes; instead, they're signals from your body urging you to stop the damage in time.

For instance, if you experience thirst, would you stop yourself from drinking water? In reality, thirst is merely a manifestation of the disease, or even a temporary way to help your body regain balance. The deeper issue lies in the disease itself - diabetes being the root cause.

Many people stop at this realization, thinking taking medication or insulin injections solves everything. They often overlook the more fundamental question - should we examine all aspects of ourselves, including diet, lifestyle, emotions, and more?

Eliminate the source of harm

A person's health is the most important thing, but in reality, we are often deceived by life's illusions.

For many women with PCOS, they are often troubled by the disease itself or daily trivialities. When you are affected by negative emotions such as anxiety and anger, what we need is—

Stop the anxiety, stop the inner turmoil. Move closer to those who bring you joy, closer to those who radiate positive energy. With the right circle, your energy is preserved rather than silently drained away.

I decided to cut off all sources harming my health. This wasn't just about changing dietary habits, but transforming my lifestyle and emotional management. I stopped endless anxiety and internal struggles, leaning towards those who bring me positive energy. I learned to step back from roles and view problems rationally from a third-party perspective. It wasn't easy, but I understood that only by changing these could I truly begin my path to recovery.

Building New Habits

Good habits strengthen the parts of our body that support overall resilience. As the saying goes, "Diabetes isn't terrifying—its complications are." After gaining control over blood sugar, we must cultivate healthy lifestyle habits to maintain physical fitness at an optimal level. Only when all organs function well do we have the time and energy to meet the version of ourselves that may be cured.

I started building better habits—daily walks, practicing Baduanjin exercises, eating more fresh fruits and vegetables. I realized that good habits are key to supporting my body's recovery. I stopped eating junk food and mindlessly playing games or scrolling through my phone. Instead, I set aside time each day to care for my body, giving it the highest level of support. It's like embarking on a long journey where I must not only go far but also walk steadily.

Put your health first in everything, and make time for reflection and meditation. Many chronic illnesses arise from not taking our bodies seriously—eating junk food, indulging in endless gaming, mindlessly scrolling on our phones. When we don't cherish ourselves, who will?

On the contrary, we should set aside time every day for walks, practice Ba Duan Jin, and consume highly nutritious, fresh fruits and vegetables—there's so much to explore in this regard. There's no limit to how much we can support our bodies with the highest standards possible. When your overall physical and mental circulation improves, certain deficiencies will gradually recover and compensate to some extent, leading eventually to qualitative changes through accumulated quantitative improvements.

Unlocking the Power of Self-Healing

I gradually came to realize that the body possesses remarkable self-healing abilities. I started putting my physical health first, making time for reflection and meditation. No longer ignoring my body's needs, I did my best to provide it with optimal support. Though I understood that chronic diseases aren't easily cured, I believed that through my own efforts, I might discover a path to recovery. It was like fighting a silent war - one that required not just combat, but strategic wisdom.

Hope and Sharing

I firmly believe that while chronic illnesses differ from common diseases due to their systemic nature (often involving endocrine disorders) and stronger links to personal factors, cure remains possible. Through my journey, I hope to encourage others to become masters of their own conditions while maintaining faith in science and continuing medication. I've consistently explored non-pharmaceutical approaches, wishing my experiences and methods could benefit more people facing similar challenges.

Humor and Wisdom

Throughout this journey, I've learned to face life with humor. Whenever I feel anxious or frustrated, I tell myself: "Hey, you've got diabetes, not a bad temper!" I've started using humor to relieve life's pressures, which not only improves my mood but also makes those around me feel more relaxed. I've discovered that humor is not just an attitude toward life, but a powerful healing force.

Looking Ahead

I know my journey with chronic illness will be long, but I'm ready. I will continue maintaining a healthy lifestyle and keep exploring more healing methods. I believe that as long as I stay positive and keep striving, one day I will find the key to recovery. It's like a long expedition where I need to go far, but also make the journey enjoyable.

This is my story - one about acceptance, transformation, and hope. In truth, each of us has the ability to improve or even heal our chronic conditions through self-adjustment and improvement. I hope it inspires you to take that brave first step when facing your own health challenges.

Remember, no matter what challenges life presents us, we have the strength to overcome them. Together, let's face each new tomorrow with a positive attitude and a healthy lifestyle.

We are looking for diabetes survivors, because every survivor is a beacon leading to health!

Their success stories serve as pathways guiding fellow diabetics toward recovery and wellness.

If you are a Type 2 diabetic who has reached the stage where you no longer need injections or medication to maintain normal blood sugar levels;

If you are a Type 1 diabetic still in the "honeymoon period" or can maintain blood sugar within normal ranges using insulin.

If you are willing to share your experiences and lessons learned, please click here to complete the questionnaire—Diabetes "Recovery" Case Collection