I was diagnosed with diabetes a few months ago. I have a strong family history of type II diabetes. I'm certain that I must have had diabetes for a long time, I kept going to the doctor complaining about feeling generally unwell, and far too tired, with excessive thirst and frequent urination, and he kept trying to refer me to counseling, and telling me to get more exercize. I switched doctors, and guess what...
My new doctor diagnosed diabetes with a simple blood test, put me on the South Beach Diet and said that we will see what happens after I follow the diet for several months. He said that the low-fat "food pyramid" diet that my previous doctor wanted me to follow was not a good diet for a diabetic. He said that these days there are better pills for type II diabetes than what was available a few years ago, so I should not worry too much about having to give myself insulin shots in the future. What I'm expecting, with type II, is strict dieting, and starting the pills at some point in the future when the diet is not enough.
I would recommend to anyone who suspects diabetes to eat plenty of protein (good quality lean meats, especially) and strictly limit anything made with sugar, potatoes, or white flour -- no white bread, pasta, noodles, or rice. If you just have to have a sweet treat once in awhile, make it a small dessert after a high-protein meal. Don't skip the protein. (And, ShadesOfMe, I've been losing weight like crazy since starting the South Beach Diet. I only got fatter and fatter on the Food Pyramid.)
Type I diabetes is scarier, ShadesOfMe, and I really understand that you are scared. But remember that diabetes can be managed, and the sooner you begin to manage it, the better your health will be. Whatever else, the doctor should be able to give you something to clear up that yeast infection on your feet. And do take very good care of your feet, that's an important issue with diabetes.
I will be thinking of you and hope you will let us know how this goes.