“This year was a huge milestone for me…50 years living with T1D. I was diagnosed in 1967 when I was six years old and in kindergarten. I remember being in the hospital for ten days, not being able to have my three siblings come visit me, and remember the nurses teaching my mom how to give a shot by practicing on an orange. Once discharged, I remember my mom boiling my glass syringes, drawing up beef or pork insulin, and having me leave specimens of urine so she could approximate my blood glucose level. Wow, have times changed!
Fortunately, 50 years later, I’m healthy with very minimal complications from diabetes.
I’ve had lots of highs and lows in my life (literally) but have never let diabetes define who I am. I have a positive outlook, a sense of humor, and am grateful for all I have. Yes, there are days when having diabetes really stinks, but I’m human and allow myself those days. I never forget that things could be worse. I am blessed to have a wonderful family and great friends. I’ve been married for 26 years and have 3 beautiful children...and a much loved dog, Bella. I also have an awesome team of doctors.
I am excited about the future of diabetes research because, as a child, I was told that within my lifetime I would live to see a cure for diabetes. I realize we are not there yet, but all this research has led to some amazing new discoveries and technology. Each day that passes, we are one day closer to a cure!”
Do you have a story to share about your experience with diabetes? Share it with us here.
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