Diagnosed in 1977 (beginning my 2nd year in Nursing school). I was told the reason for diagnosis was a combination of being on birth control and stress from Nursing school. I had enormous guilt that I was the reason for the start from a deadly illness. My family dr. suggested that I go to an Endo specialist and made that appointment. I came out of that appointment mad. He treated me not as an individual but as a nurse. Assuming I should know all the medical jargon. I decided to get opinions from the Nurse Educators from surrounding hospitals. “Who would you go to if you were diagnosed with diabetes. They all recommend Dr. Westbrock! The first appointment he understood me! He was well informed and kept a close eye me, discussed new technologies. In the early 80’s he provided my first glucometer and soon after suggested a new device called a Medtronic insulin pump. I was hesitant, (he said because I was obsessive in my DM care) and after a year of discussions I agreed start the pump.The first in his practice he was my advocate. I spent 2 weeks in the hospital under his watchful eye. I was very active in sports and working out. He keep me in the hospital longer. He and the Diabetic educator kept me active to mimic what I did at home. I have been pumping ever since. He retired in mid 1900’s. I credit him for my helping me become who I am today. After 41 years of this awful chronic disease, I continue pumping and my obsessive personality. I control “it”, “it does not control me! Sort for the length. I know this group can relate.