Hello From a Potential Trucker in S/E Michigan

I currently work in the automotive industry at a supplier of stamped and welded parts. I work as an IT (Information Technology) administrator providing technical support for the global engineering computer environment. It pays quite well but I, at 51 years old, want to get out of IT and do something completely different. I am comfortable being alone for long periods of time and driving anywhere. I can tolerate long hours, strict regulation of activity and tough supervisors. I think this all adds up to what I have considered for a long time. A job as a professional truck driver.

Some of the issues I am facing in making the career change are that I am a type 1 diabetic and the fact that I cannot afford to take a significant pay cut for very long. I see starting wages advertised at around $40K. That just wouldn't work for me. I also read that after 3 years the pay can be $60K to $70 which would work but I can't easily make that kind of 2 year transition. Are those numbers realistic and is there any way to make closer to $60K or more to start with?

If I can make this can work which companies are the best at paying during training? Does being an insulin dependent diabetic affect my ability to get a CDL? Any advice is very much appreciated.

Colt1