Hello all,
My 15 year anniversary of getting diabetes came and past in December. It is a little surreal. For how long I have had type 1 I would think that I would be an expert by now, but come to find there is still so much to learn and encounter.
After 15 years I would like to just say that I feel blessed to still be alive and have no complications. In 15 years I have seen highs and lows, met many doctors, and encountered life decisions most people will never have to make. As diabetics we are all stronger physically and emotionally. That's a lot more than many people can say. I was diagnosed when I was 8 and at the time dealt with many people who refused to research the disease and recognize what it really was. I can't even count how many times people who know nothing about the disease ask me "Should you be eating that?" yeah. I have one specific memory of when I was diagnosed and still in the hospital of the doctor telling me I could never participate in Halloween because I couldn't have the candy. That, at the time, devastated me. Come to find out, as long as you take insulin and exercise you can have pretty much what you want. Like everything, in moderation.
I am in no way a saint when it comes to diabetes. I had a time in high school of denial and it took a some time to kick that feeling and grow up. It feels like whenever life gets hard diabetes is the first to suffer. Of course like most of us, we know better but still do it anyways, maybe to feel normal or to take a break. With the new year I want to make a lifestyle change and get rid of the "breaks" and stop making myself feel like MY diabetes is not normal. It's normal for me and everyone else can put it, well you know where. I want to utilize every ability my pump has to offer and optimize my pump therapy and my CGMS. I have all the tools for success, and while I use them, I want to perfect them.
Here's to a new year and many years of health and happiness to you all! Together we can do this!