## The Harsh Reality of Diabetic Complications
At the age of 29, Sol Bernal faced a devastating diagnosis. After a routine check-up for her diabetes, her doctor revealed she had nearly all the complications associated with the disease, including imminent vision loss. Within three months, she would be completely blind—this gloomy prediction turned into reality just six months later. Now, at the age of 50, Sol shares her journey, stating, “I only have 2% vision in one eye.”
### Understanding Diabetic Macular Edema
Sol’s diagnosis was diabetic macular edema (DME), a condition resulting from prolonged high blood sugar levels leading to fluid accumulation in the retina. This damage to the blood vessels often results in severe vision impairment. Sol has since undergone numerous treatments including intravitreal injections, laser surgery, and five eye operations in an effort to maintain any semblance of sight.
## A Life Forever Altered
The transformation in Sol’s life was drastic. She described her experience, stating, “My whole life changed in six months.” With a promising career projection suddenly crushed, she found herself reliant on family, leading to debilitating depression. “Every day I woke up and realized that it was not a dream,” she recalled, reflecting on her struggle.
### The Silent Symptoms of Diabetes
Many young diabetics, including Sol, often ignore the warning signs of their condition. Sol initially dismissed her declining vision as just stress, unaware of the impending damage. This oversight reflects the common misperception that diabetes does not cause acute pain or discomfort—if it did, many would be more vigilant in their management. Sol emphasizes, “If it hurt, we would pay more attention to it,” a poignant reminder of the insidious nature of this disease that can lead to life-altering complications.
## Overcoming Challenges
After losing her vision, Sol faced the daunting task of relearning basic daily activities—eating, walking, and cooking. “At 29 years old, I was completely dependent on my family,” she admitted. However, with the support of her loved ones, psychological assistance, and her own determination, she began to regain her independence.
### More Than Just Vision Loss
Sol’s health battle extended beyond her eyesight. She also experienced kidney failure and stomach paralysis, conditions that even today restrict her diet to nutritional shakes. “This is the reality of diabetes that is not well managed,” she warns, underscoring the critical need for effective diabetes management.
## The Journey to Independence
Despite her hardships, Sol adapted and even found joy in her new normal. With the help of ONCE (National Organization of the Spanish Blind), she relearned essential life skills. Today, she navigates the subway confidently and enjoys social outings.
### Raising Awareness
Over the years, Sol has transitioned from experiencing challenges to becoming an advocate. Using her social media platform, @mismanojos, she raises awareness about the realities faced by blind individuals, sharing resources and promoting tools like the ‘Be My Eye’ app, which connects blind users with sighted volunteers for real-time assistance.
Sol’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the silent yet critical nature of diabetes management. Her journey encourages both diabetics and healthcare providers to prioritize awareness and action, highlighting that early intervention can make a difference in avoiding life-altering complications.