Thanks for sharing that. I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes about 5 years ago, and I found it to be a life-altering event, as well. I had been dieting/not dieting most of my adult life, and this is the first time I've managed to stabilize my weight.
The diet I adopted is not for everyone, but it worked for me. I limit my carbs, but I also gave up sweets completely. I decided I'd rather live without cookies than bread; I love bread.
I lost 60 pounds, and have kept my blood sugar average under 100 for five years now.
Like you, I think my discipline has helped me deal with AW's total lack of discipline. I guess it's a roundabout way of maintaining some balance in life.