Meet Emerson

For months leading up to her diagnosis, Emerson was showing the classic signs of diabetes. Increased thirst, frequent urination, always hungry, and often very lethargic. As a busy, active 11-year-old, I didn't think too much of it. She seemed so healthy and I just assumed she's thirsty or hungry because she's always outside and on the go. Things took a quick turn and we found ourselves in the local emergency room where we learned she was in DKA, very sick, and now a type 1 diabetic. The week-long hospital stay was overwhelming, but our family took this on from day one to learn how to best care for her and how to help her live a happy, healthy life with type 1 diabetes. 

Every single sign was there and we missed them. I share as often as I can and tell her story in hopes that it prevents someone else from getting to the point of where Emerson was. I wish others had posted on social media, sharing the signs and things to look out for, or, for someone to have heard me mention some of the changes we've seen and kindly suggest a screening. Knowing what I now know, I advocate for early screening so you can prepare, learn, and manage or monitor levels before the diagnosis is official. Had we known, it would have made such a difference in the months leading up to her diagnosis and possibly have prevented some of the challenges we've faced since. While in the hospital, my days were spent learning, reading, and talking to others and doing all we could to understand diabetes. I found myself on the American Diabetes Association's website often. From the articles to recipe suggestions and overall support, I found so much hope in what was available on the ADA’s website. 

After she woke up and was able to understand and comprehend what was happening, we made our focus on her health and strength. For Emerson, and those who are just diagnosed, it's so important to know that you are not alone. The technology available is incredible and making such a difference in diabetes management and overall health and quality of life. And, we know there's so much more to come, making it even more promising. There are scary times, but you'll find yourself much stronger, more in tune with your body and its needs and an inner strength you never knew you had. Emerson is an avid tennis player and loves her time on the court. Exercise is so important to maintaining overall health, physically and mentally, and finding what you enjoy or continuing what you loved before diagnosis will never stop you! 

I'm incredibly grateful for the ER doctor who literally saved her life the minute we arrived. For the PICU staff who taught us all the terms, levels, and more while they cared for our girl. And, for the American Diabetes Association's abundant resources and support available. Our family is now a lifelong supporter of the ADA and encourage others to become supporters as well. Through our/your support, these funds allow the ADA to continue to raise awareness, encourage screenings, fund groundbreaking research, share resources with medical providers who can in turn share back with their patients, and so much more. As the ADA tagline says, "It Takes All of Us to End Diabetes," and we hold on to that hope as we live every day, one step closer to a cure and life without diabetes.