Limpopo-born artist Candy Mokwena stage name Tsamandebele has opened up about living with type 2 diabetes.
The soul artist artist from Kalawa Jamzee was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2011 – the same year she lost first born son. It was also that year where she had the strength to start her biggest project yet, The Candy Tsamandebele foundation.
The purpose of the foundation is to educate and inspire the youth about music, importance of culture as well as lending a hand to the needy.
In an exclusive interview with Drum, Candy explained that after losing his son she completely lost all interest in things she loved. Until Oskido stepped in to help by invited her to come in studio and that’s when “Tsamandebele” one of her biggest songs was recorded.
Later, she was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
“I collapsed at one of the popular malls while running errands. After seeing a doctor he suggested some few general medical tests and that’s when I was diagnosed”
Tsamandela explained that diabetes has changed her life style tremendously – not only does she use the stage to perform it’s also where she incorporates workouts to keep healthy.
“I stopped eating just about everything. Now, I watch what I eat and when do I need to eat. My portions are not as hectic as they used to be”
The mother-of-two manages her diabetes by eating and taking her prescribed medication on time. She added that living with diabetes did not affect her career instead it encouraged her to do better.
Candy added a word of encouragement for fans living with the disease,
“DO not feel despondent. With care, the diseases is manageable. If you’re are not feeling well, you must always visit your local health facilities. You must also remember you are what you eat”
