LIFE WITH DIABETES It seems hard to believe at first, but you will adjust to life with diabetes. DIAGNOSIS: DIABETES What to expect the first week, month and year after a diagnosis Diabetes. You heard the word-but things are hazy after that. So now what? The diagnosis is life-changing for sure, but with realistic expectations and a commitment to making healthy decisions, you'll be in control. And you're far from alone. About 1.4 million Americans receive a diabetes diagnosis annually, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA). The ADA also estimates that while there are 21 million Americans who have been diagnosed with diabetes, about 8.1 million people have diabetes but don't know it. The good news is that when you have a diagnosis, you can take action. 18 W IN TER 2016 PHOTO BY LINDSAY UPSON/GLOW IMAGES That's roughly 27,000 per week or 3,800 per day.