Strictly Come Dancing professional Nikita Kuzmin was rushed to hospital in the middle of the night after suddenly losing his vision. The 28-year-old dancer revealed he lost seven kilograms in five days during a severe illness that led to a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes.
A Scary Diagnosis at a Young Age
Warning signs appeared rapidly for the then-13-year-old Nikita, but one particular symptom alarmed his father, who also lives with the condition. Speaking on the Walking The Dog podcast with Emily Dean, Nikita recounted: 'We went with my mom to a Ukrainian restaurant, and I couldn't eat my favourite thing because I was simply not hungry. Then my dad brought me to the hospital in the middle of the night, and that's what they told me – it's happening.'
During the same week, he experienced sudden vision loss: 'I couldn't see clearly anymore, literally suddenly, as I was walking into the tube in Ukraine.' He also described dramatic weight loss: 'I was not eating, just drinking water because your body really wants water.'
Fearing the End of His Career
After being hospitalised, Nikita thought everything was over. He mourned what he believed was the end of his dancing career, as dancing was everything to him even as a teenager. However, the next day, he saw a 'wall of fame' in the hospital filled with inspirational people who have diabetes. This gave him the mindset to continue pursuing his passion.
Understanding Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms
According to the NHS, common symptoms of type 1 diabetes can be remembered as the 4 Ts: Toilet (peeing more, especially at night), Thirsty (feeling very thirsty), Tired (feeling very tired), and Thinner (losing weight without trying). Children may have heavier nappies or start wetting the bed.
Thriving with Diabetes
With a glucose sensor and proper medication, Nikita has thrived as a professional dancer. He often displays his sensor while dancing on Strictly, feeling he is representing his community. 'I'm proud,' he said. He also noted that nerves can spike his blood sugar levels, which is challenging during live TV performances.
Nikita, who danced with Amber Davies in the last season, is confirmed for the upcoming Strictly season. Recently, he ran the London Marathon for Diabetes UK, raising £5,000. He shared on Instagram: 'This marathon hasn't been my best by a mile, and my diabetes may have gotten a little bit in the way, but sometimes even a bad day can be wonderful! So I'm grateful to have been part of this most wholesome event full of wonderful people.'
