It seems not so long ago when I collapsed while on vacation in Florida at my grandparents' condo. I wasn't into the fireworks on the 4th and all I wanted to do was throw up. Finally after falling asleep in a cold shower, my grandmother told me to get dressed so she can take me to the doctor. Next thing I knew I was in the ICU with tubes everywhere. I was 11.
Fast forward. I went on the pump after doing my first 100 mile ride in the JDRF Ride to Cure Diabetes in Death Valley in order to acknowledge my 20 years with diabetes.5 rides later, I'm off again to Vermont to do another century.
I went from 5-6 shots a day and 2 tests per day to my pump and CGMS combo, and reversal of my impending retinopathy.
However, my passion has grown from wanting to keep myself healthy, now wanting to keep others healthy and able to enjoy their lives. In August I will be entering nursing school, with hopes of becoming a Diabetes Educator a few years down the line.
Life has not been easy, but not always because of diabetes, though I've met way too many emergency medical personnel. However, I have learned to thrive with my disease, but would be more than happy to say good-bye. I've jumped out of planes, biked thousands of miles, inked my skin and fallen in and out of love in spite of its existence. But yes, I do celebrate these 27 years. They have kept me passionate and shown me the way to help make my life count and make a difference.
