It is not a disease; yet it can cause almost any disease. It can affect your heart, kidney, eyesight, skin and reduce your resistance to various infections. It may make you a paralytic or may cause gangerine. I have been living with diabetes for the last 27 or 28 years. I am regularly taking insulin shots twice a day. I am taking pills to keep my B.P. in check. I have undergone bypass heart surgery. I am 72 years of age. It is really frustrating when you are denied your favorite drink A couple of pegs of whiskey) because you are a diabetic. You cannot indulge in hobbies like travelling and seeing new places. Sometimes I feel like throwing away all restrictions and indulging in all forbidden things.