Being a Type 1 diabetic there are a lot of struggles. There are a lot of days that seem to only go downhill and it can be so mentally draining. However, Type 1 can make some long lasting impressions and moments that I will remember for the rest of my life.
- When I was first diagnosed with diabetes, my mom and I were sitting on a bench in the hospital. As a 9 year old, I didn’t really understand what was going on. My mom was crying and I couldn’t understand why. A stranger noticed my mom’s distress and offered her a cup of water and tissues. Ever since I have always wanted to act like that stranger. The simple act of kindness is so important in life.
- Miss Idaho walking out in her bikini while wearing her insulin pump. I thought that this was so cool because it helped to remind me that there are so many people that deal with diabetes. Even pageant winners. Also I was featured on the Today Show for her campaign #ShowMeYourPump.
- Clara Barton Camp was, for a very long time, the only place that made me feel “normal.” CBC allowed me to meet so many people that deal with some of the same struggles that I have. This camp was such a magical experience for me. And I’m so appreciative of all the relationships that I have developed because of it.
- This past year I was staying at a hotel and I saw someone changing their pump battery. I went up to them and just started talking about diabetes. After my twenty minute conversation I went back to my friends and they said “Diabetes is kind of like a friendly cult” and I realized that it is. For me, I have never seen a person with diabetes and not went up and started talking to them. Type 1 allows people to connect with each other.
- Diabetes always gives me something to talk about and it took me a while to be thankful for it. Diabetes has given me many opportunities that I wouldn’t have had if I was ‘normal’ like I was so desperate to be when I was younger.
Thanks for the very sweet, educated attitude
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