Tell Us About YOUR Badass Story!
BADASS DIABETIC LLC is a platform for you to share some of the awesome things that you are doing. Your stories have the ability to move, touch and inspire us all to "play" this life to the fullest! Please DO NOT BE SHY!! We want (need) to hear from you. Be part of the movement!
At some point (often when we need it the most) we have heard someone's story and thought, "that's exactly what I needed to hear today". Your story has the opportunity to impact someone else in need.
BADASS OF THE WEEK
Julia Starikovsky
I was diagnosed at age 2 with T1D. I have spent 20 years now working with my diabetes and learning how to be in control, while also enjoying life. It took me a while, but I have graduated college (Go Terps!) and lowered my A1C. My passion is in being a mental health advocate for those with chronic conditions. My passion for psychology and cognition has led me to apply for my PhD in Psychology and hopefully be en route to helping others cope and work through their mental illnesses.
Stefanie Zawack
A life with diabetes is the only one I’ve really known. I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes as a baby, not even 2 years old yet. Sadly my symptoms came to a peak on the day of my sister’s 5th birthday party, ruining the celebration as my parents shifted their focus to a hospital visit. At the hospital, the doctors casually suggested it was likely just an iron deficiency and were ready to move on to the next patient. My mom was my champion that day. Diabetes runs in our family, so she insisted they do bloodwork and check my glucose. Sure enough, the nurse returned with a big apology and a new sense of urgency. I was admitted immediately for what would be a week long stay. They took that time to train my parents how to test blood sugars at home, count carbs, and give a toddler insulin injections (practicing on an orange). That was 1987. I’ve come a long way since that day that started off as a sad clown and ended in a hospital bed with a lifelong disease.
From that day, my parents took on diabetes head on and instilled that mindset in me with every challenge Type 1 Diabetes brought. I could do ANYTHING. My condition did not change that simple belief. The phrases I heard so often as I grew up were “Life isn’t fair” and “If you don’t control your diabetes, your diabetes will control you.” So my entire youth is documented in little black notebooks, each day with the blood sugar readings for the day, the insulin (and type) injected, carbs eaten, sickness felt, and activities to boot. If you were you review my life through my glucose documentation, you’d notice my rebelious years through college where I just got tired of the work and had extra freedom to make my own decisions (even if they weren’t in my best interest). You’d notice my self-correction and re-dedication as I worked to get my A1C back down to 7%. What you wouldn’t see are the emotional ups and downs that coincide with those numbers. My family was my rock through them all.
My family has always been a strong support system which is truly what has made the difference in how I accept, and dare I say even cherish, my diabetic fate at times. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without it. I truly believe that T1D has made me a stronger, more compassionate and driven person. It has prepared me for life’s lessons in ways I never imagined. And let’s be honest - those lessons weren’t fun to experience. Few life lessons are. But it’s how we choose to grow from it that shapes us in such a unique and powerful way. I quickly learned to live life on my terms. Yes, I have diabetes. Yes, I can do _____. I have moved across country and state borders. I have lead my soccer team to a state championship and competed on Olympic development teams. I have earned a masters degree and applied it to a career that challenges me in new ways every single day. Yes, I believe my life with diabetes has unfolded beautifully, even if it was a beautiful chaos at times.
The last 5 years have proven to be a new phase in my relationship with diabetes. It wasn’t until I started on a CGM that I was reintroduced to the modern aspects of a diabetes community. As a kid, I never sought to connect with other Type 1s. Every year my mom and doctor would ask if I wanted to go to diabetes camp. I really didn’t have any interest. I didn’t feel alone, even though at times I was fundamentally different from everyone else around me. Unintentionally, I found a sense of comfort with that scenario. Looking back, I’m sure I would have had a great time and made some amazing friends who finally understood me, but c’est la vie. I was involed with JDRF as a kid and again in college, but I didn’t want involvement in all things diabetes to take over my life. But at 30 I started on a CGM and my life with diabetes pivoted once again. I should mention, that coincidentally just following my doctor’s CGM recommendation, I was presented with the opportunity to work on Dexcom (a CGM company) as their new advertising agency of record. At this point, many colleagues I had worked with for years had no idea I was diabetic. Not because I wanted to hide it, but because it didn’t really need to come up. I had it controlled and a system for managing it. But when I suddenly needed to lead our team strategically into the life, mind and heart of a T1D, my worlds collided. I have always approached conversations about my diabetes as an open book. No question is stupid. I’ll tell you anything. I’d rather you ask and be curious to learn about it than be afraid to ask the question and go through life spreading false assumptions about the disease. This was no different. In the last 4 years on Dexcom both as a patient and an agency professional, I have achieved a 5.9 A1C ( number I never imagined I’d reach in my lifetime), reached an average of 85% time in range (thanks Control-IQ Technology!), connected with so many other amazing T1D badasses, married a man who is not phased by my diabetes but has my back with it no questions asked (a diamond in the rough!) and am eager to explore what’s next together. There is so much life to live. Diabetes, in my opinion, can be the catalyst to perfecting your own health if you want to, or if you let it. I believe a T1D has the fortitude to take on all of life’s curveballs, the perseverance to outlast the rest, the empathy to do so with grace and the tools to be able to be even healthier and live a fuller life than many who don’t have the fortune to have the teacher that is diabetes.
Hi, my name is Aubriana Lene, I’m 15 years old and live in Sacramento, CA. I’m an actress, model, and influencer. I’m an advocate for diabetics everywhere and work with many organizations such as JDRF, BeyondType1, Medtronic, and Dexcom! I was diagnosed at 7 years old with diabetes and my message to anyone is to not let it stop you no matter what your dreams or goals are!
Jim Lynch
Hello, my name is Jim and I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes 25 years ago. I have had literal and figurative highs and lows throughout the years, but I have found that consistency with the basics has helped me manage my diabetes the best. I learned by trial and error that heavy weight lifting workouts along with intervals and added muscle mass help increase my insulin sensitivity and metabolism. This, combined with a lower carb and higher protein diet, allows me to take less insulin (relatively speaking) and helps mitigate blood sugar spikes. I still treat the same way I have been since the beginning, I use a sliding insulin scale with fast acting insulin and test with a standard meter multiple times a day. I love to standup paddle and surf, among many other types of high intensity sports, and I’ve never been a fan of insulin pumps or other devices that could be ripped out. I actively work out 6-7 days a week in some form and this helps keep everything in balance. I’m also a dad and a husband and my family is a great team that supports me through all of this.
Hannah
Hannah is a brand new type 1 diabetic. Diagnosed September 13th. Her only device right now is the One Touch Verio Flex and her insulin pens. We have eagerly been stalking the mailbox waiting for her DexcomG6 since we received news it had shipped last week. Hannah is 8 years old and wants to be a scientist when she grows up. She’s on her local swim team and is homeschooled. She loves to dance and craft.
Jackie Maywood
Hi, I’m Jackie! I am 25 years old and live in Florida and I was diagnosed at 8 years old. My mom received a phone call from my doctor that my blood results came in and my Blood sugar was 429. I was rushed to the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, where I was living at the time. I spend the next three days on IV’s and learning about my new disease. I had an awesome team teaching me about nutrition, finger pricks, injecting insulin, counting carbs... the list goes on. Fast forward 17 years, I have made so many friends, learned about my health and focus on the good that type 1 has given me. I am now a Personal Trainer and focus on learning how to be a better athlete with diabetes, by focusing on nutrition, training methods and ways to advance my performance!
Courtney
My name is Courtney, 37 yrs old from Camarillo, California. I have been a T1D for 34 years. Being a very active person from a young age, trying to manage my diabetes can sometimes be challenging but I do my best! Most recently over the past year I have been using a CGM for the first time to go a long with my insulin pump. Its definitely a learning process and some days are better than others, but overall my management has improved as well as my A1C. Activities such as bodybuilding competitions/training (I have weekly checkins with my coach @paulrevelia) boxing/bootcamps (@khaosspartan2018 @b2fitness) and weight lifting are very demanding on my body but I always have to consider the diabetic aspect as well. Diets in the past have included a keto based diet which did help, but most recently I have switched over to a low carb diet which is also beneficial and more enjoyable for me. I have not been on stage for a competition is over 2 yrs and my goal is to get back on that stage soon in the healthiest way possible and represent for all the diabetics out there. I love to show anyone on social media with diabetes how I run my diabetic life and would love to help in whatever way I can in the diabetic community!
Janielle Gomez
Hello my name is Janielle and I am 5 years old and was diagnosed at the age of 11 months.I am from Arizona where it is sunny and hot almost all year. The day before my diagnosed I was misdiagnosed with the flu. My mother follow her instinct and know something was wrong and I didn’t had a flu. She followed her feelings, good thing she did. I was diagnosed on January 18,2016. I was a baby so I don’t quite remember. I don’t know what is living without diabetes, but is not different from my brothers lives. I do eat everything that everyone else does just with extra steps like checking my blood sugars and getting insulin shots or using my pump. I can say I love my life. I am proud of my diabetes gadgets I love to show them off because they are part of me. Diabetes isn’t always unicorns and rainbows it’s hard and somedays are harder than others but I don’t let that stop me. It made me strong, fearless, determine, and discipline but a courageous warrior. I have found a second family in my community. That I am not alone they inspire me everyday. I love to see other girls and boys just like me on Instagram. And I hope with my journey I can inspire other girls just like me.
Darren Celley
My name is Darren Celley, I am 24 years old and I am from Vermont, USA. I was diagnosed with T1D 12 years ago
after noticing I was very dehydrated and had very low energy levels. I have been able to lead a happy and healthy life despite having diabetes. I play in an adult soccer league every year, I see my family and friends frequently, and am getting married next summer in 2021. I graduated from Northern Vermont Universitywith a BA in Business in 2018. That education along with growing up in Vermont, the top maple producer in the US, inspired me to found Maple Rise, a business with the ultimate goal of providing effective and durable products to help aleviate low blood sugar. I love soccer (Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe fan here) and I was worried about having to give that up right after I was diagnosed, but I have continued playing year round without slowing down! I am so fortunate to have the family and friends I have who helped make it possible for me to live the life I do. This can be a difficult journey at times but there is a wonderful T1D community out there to provide resources and support. I have recently been trying to get more connected with other people with T1D so please feel free to reach out! You can find me on Instagram @maplerise or send me an email at maplerisevt@gmail.com. To learn more about what I do with my business can be found at maplerisevt.com
Natalie Rodriguez
My name is Natalie. I am the daughter of Cuban immigrants who built a raft to make it to the United States. I have been a type one diabetic for 16 years and was University of South Florida’s youngest graduate with a bachelors degree in aging science. This week I got accepted into medical school and will be the first doctor and college graduate in my family. I was able to accomplish all of this with an a1c of 5.6.
Jessica
Hi, my name is Jessica and I live in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. I was diagnosed with T1D on November 26th 1999 (my 10th birthday) I had the typical signs: extreme thirst, constant urination, lethargic, sudden weight loss. It was a surprise as there are no known diabetics in my family. Back when I was diagnosed they still practiced giving a needle to an orange. Then a sponge. And finally on an artificial belly. I have never had any interest in using a pump. I am still MDI and doing quite well with it. I carb count and take NovoRapid with meals and Levemir at bedtime. I enjoy baking, arts and crafts, walking, jogging, Halloween, tattoos and piercings. I am now 30 years old, happily married with one daughter. She was an unplanned pregnancy but not a mistake.Our daughter is also a T1D. She was diagnosed May 13th 2013 (a little over 4 years old) She too had the typical signs: extreme thirst, constant urination, lethargic, sudden weight loss. Her dad and I were in denial and devestated. Shes always seen mom taking needles so she was okay with us giving them to her. She started pumping December 2013 and haven't looked back. Today she is a very independent and responsible 11 year old. She does demonstrations and information sessions at her school, loves to play soccer and go for bike rides with friends.
I cannot leave out my husband, Sheldon. He has been a major support and has been there for all the ups and downs. He does nighttime checks on myself and our daughter, tends to us when we're sick and just overall cares for us. He does site changes, attends appointments with us and gives me my needles sometimes. We're lucky to have such an amazing man helping us through our T1D journey.
Sophie Lunnon
I'm Sophie, I'm 22 and I'm from Devon, England. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 7 years ago at age 15. It was a shock as no one else in my family had diabetes. For 4 years I followed the recommended high carb diet and for 4 years my blood sugars were a rollercoaster. I would deal with high blood sugars daily and multiple daily hypos. 3 years ago, I began eating low carb and my blood sugars have never been better! I finally feel in control of my diabetes and I am no longer experiencing the blood sugar rollercoaster. I feel like a normal person again! I wish I'd known sooner about how brilliant this way of eating is for type 1 diabetes. I created my Instagram @t1dsophie to inspire other type 1s to give this way of eating a go. It's been life changing and I want to help as many type 1s as I can.
Antonio Cennamo
Hi, I'm Antonio, 29 yo and diabetic since 6 years, come from Italy. Well since I've diagnosed it looks like I would have tested everything to prove myself I can do everything. So I started to do more km on bike, lift up more weights in gym, run more km at better pace on my legs. It was a great boost because with right motivation your body can do anything. Now I'm on 5 injections a day but I did test also pump but after 8 months we decided to divorce LOL! I'm feeling better with pens and without cgm. What could I add? I'm trying to set an higher limit to my body everyday with correct lifestyle and right life approach. After that I can only say: Stay strong and keep pushing, human body is so strong if mind wants that.
Erica MacKay
My name is Erica, I am 32 years old from Toronto Canada.
I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 2. My parents were devastated, they didn’t know anything about this autoimmune disease and they didn’t know anyone with it. We spent 10 days at Toronto SickKids Hospital learning how to do injections, dose insulin, basic nutrition and carb counting, as well as all the new information on Diabetes and how our lives would change. When the doctors asked if they could handle it, as any parent knows, the answer was, “Whatever it takes. We got this.”. My mom also researched and came to the conclusion that a cure was not far off!
30 years later, I am married to my best friend, I a proud mama to two beautiful toddler boys! I have 2 post secondary degrees, I have my black belt and have competed for Canada at the Pan American Games. Most importantly I am happy and healthy- mostly due to the fact that my parents took such good care of me and my blood sugars throughout my entire childhood and when it was my turn to take over I had learned from the best! Still looking for that cure.
My advice to anyone with T1 diabetes is to dream big, T1D should not hold you back from anything you want to do whether it’s having babies or exploring outer space. You are just as capable, or maybe even more so, than anyone.
Grace
Hey, y’all! My name is Grace! I am 22 years old and was diagnosed with type one diabetes at the age of 7. I have been grinding without a pancreas for 15 years and continue to live life to the fullest, as I am a dreamer! I have graduated from college, traveled to 10 countries (I live for traveling and experiencing new places), jumped out of planes, and am currently working on finishing grad school. "With all that being said, diabetes has not always been easy, in fact, it was terrible at one point, but it NEVER stopped me from anything! It has empowered me to make many more of my dreams become a reality. I am so thankful for this diabetes community. I’m even more grateful because it found me at the lowest point in my lifelong career of diabetes. Through this community, I have gained confidence and tips to optimize my health, control, and life. Each day has its ups and downs, but I am currently living my healthiest happiest life and continue to do so forever! I appreciate you all, diafam!!! X, G
maya
My name is Maya ,27 years old, and I'm from Sacramento CA. I've been Diabetic since I was 8 months old . I had a condition called Nesidioblastosis, which means my pancreas was overworking, and I had severe hypoglycemia. I had half of my pancreas removed , then a beta cell transplant (failed after a couple days), and then my entire pancreas removed. I take insulin and Creon enzymes to do the digestion part of the pancreas. These enzymes are lifesaving..I start feeling extremely sick when I do not take them & I get the worst bloating ever. I've learned so much about myself and I am constantly inspired by other Diabetics that I meet. This hasn't been the easiest ride ever, but I've found so much beauty in the struggle.
Stephanie De Rita
My name is Stephanie and I am from Philadelphia, PA. I am a Type 1 Diabetic mama and educator! Although I am not new to diabetes, sharing my story is something that is brand new to me. I was diagnosed at the age of 12, and I remembering internally struggling with the acceptance that part of me was different. I have been a diabetic now for 20 years (soon to be 21!) and this journey has been quite the roller-coaster! I have been through life’s highs and lows like everyone, but diabetes has been there almost my entire life.
Fast forward to today, having diabetes motivates me to make healthy choices and push myself during workouts. I want to be the best-version of myself for my loved ones so I can live a long, healthy life. Not only that but I have a lot to live for since I am the mother of two amazing boys, an Elementary School teacher in Philadelphia, and a current master’s student! Instead of viewing this disease as a “burden,” I view diabetes as a motivator to continuously grow and improve myself. I am thankful for my diabetic community and that diabetes has brought health and fitness into my life. I made the @Thriving.Diabetic Instagram to build a diabetic community where I can help other diabetics like myself who are struggling with acceptance or who need support. I believe we can all be thriving diabetics!
Sophie Folgheraiter
I’m Sophie and I was diagnosed when I was 13 and it was a very traumatic and scary time especially as before my diagnosis school would try to not send me home because they thought I was just exaggerating my symptoms and it felt like no one had taken me seriously. This is because my symptoms were just the odd cold, cough , feeling and being sick , drinking and going to the toilet lots but to be honest I’ve always done that so no one thought it was abnormal.One day when I was really ill I couldn’t even drink water without being sick my parents rang and ambulance and I was taken to resus .It took until my sugars had gone ridiculously high (28.4) and I was in dka for my diabetes to become apparent had I left it much longer things could have been fatal . Since my diagnosis I’ve switched from injections to a pump which is helping a lot . It has been a struggle mentally especially as I loved to dance and go to the gym but would always hypo and this made me gain lots of weight and I hated the way I looked and became really self conscious because of it . This is still something I’m working on and taking it day by day to be able to do the things I love without constant hypos . However I’ve learnt diabetes isn’t the be all and end all and that you should never let it stop you achieving things . Since having diabetes I’m hopefully off to uni to study psychology later this year , have been with my boyfriend 4 years and completed many goals including the race for life and the couch to 5k programme .As well as performing at the royal Albert hall and her majesty’s theater and I sang solo in front of a large audience . Whilst having diabetes may be difficult sometimes and there are bumps in the road I’ve never let it stop me and showing of your robot parts is just an added bonus .
I created my Instagram account @brokenpancreas1701 to join the amazing community we have and make some biabuddies but also to raise awareness and help other which is the most important part.
Alicia Kee Price
Hey, I'm Alicia! I'm a professional dancer living in NYC. I grew up in Vancouver, BC, Canada and was diagnosed with T1D when I was 20 months old. I consider myself lucky to have been diagnosed at such a young age because this is the only way of life I know. I don't have anything else to compare it to. Growing up with Type 1 taught me how to be aware of my body and the changes I felt with high/low blood sugars and I learned a great sense of responsibility at an early age. Though having diabetes doesn't come without struggles. After high school I had auditioned to be a dancer on a cruise ship and was offered the contract but once they got my medical forms back and saw I was diabetic, they cancelled my contract. It was the first time I had felt any resentment for being diabetic. With tons of support from my family and friends, I was able to keep my head up and I continued to pursue a career in the performing arts. I then moved from Canada to LA, then NYC for college where I studied dance and theatre. After college I stayed in the States which meant I had to switch to new health insurance and learn to convert my BG to a different measurement system. It was almost like relearning how to be diabetic. As all diabetics know, everyday is a challenge to keep our BGs in range. We have to balance numbers, carbs, exercise and stress. As a dancer, doing a show can mean a lot of exercise and a lot of stress, nerves and adrenaline which can (and does most of the time, for me at least) result in rollercoaster blood sugar levels. I think it's important to remember that we can only do our best with what we have and give ourselves some slack when we have those rollercoaster days. Do what you can and learn from the past and just keep going! I'm glad to be a part of such an amazing and supportive community of warriors.
Jessyka Pairman
Hello! My name is Jessyka Pairman and I have been living with Type 1 diabetes for almost 4 years now. I was diagnosed a little later in life, I was 23 at the time and didn’t have much education on diabetes. I grew up quick when I had to carb count, change my entire diet and injection myself with needles (which I’m terrified of). Being in and out of the hospital for the first couple of weeks of being diagnosed was a whirlwind of emotions for me. My parents never left my side but I still couldn’t help feel like I let them down. I have always been an independent person and love to do as much as I can with very little help. All of that changed when I found myself not understanding and needing help with my injections and low blood sugar moments. Diabetes has changed myself for the better. I am a strong more confident person because of it. I have come to understand my body and what it can and can not handle. I have my good and bad days with diabetes but I wake up everyday thinking of the positives in my life. Diabetes is always on my mind and if I can fight to stay alive every single day, I can do anything!
Amy Jordan
Over my lifetime I have had to and continue to manage seeming impossible obstacles. I live with type 1 diabetes. I have experienced trauma that nearly took my life and limb (literally).
Yes, sometimes it seems like just too much. BUT, through pure trial and error and NEVER GIVING UP I unknowingly found a system that still allows me to move through my life, challenges and all, and be happy and content.
I call it transforming trauma into triumph.
It isn’t a quick or easy fix but It works.
I’m also a dancer, two time author, documentary star, and love anything fitness. I laugh a lot and try not to take myself too seriously. If I have learned anything it’s that
Everything Works Out for the BEST.
Kelsie white
Hi, I’m Kelsie and a PT from the UK. I was diagnosed type 1 when I was 20 years old in 2013, in the same year as having my appendix removed and discovering I have a severe peanut allergy (everything happens in 3’s right 🤷🏽♀️🤣). It wasn’t a huge shock for me as my brother is type 1 and I recognised the symptoms. Luckily my brother was a brilliant role model showing me that you can still be very active being a 400m track athlete. I continued my job as a sports therapist and personal trainer and went about my new ‘normal’ life. As much as I would love for a cure for diabetes, I am very thankful to diabetes for making the person I am today. It has driven me to be the healthiest version of me, given me ambition for my business and given me the goal of trying to show fellow diabetics that you can continue to be active! I love strength and HIIT training! I look a little bionic with my freestyle libra and omnipod insulin pump but I am so grateful for the advancement in technology for diabetics. With careful planning, I have had a beautiful and healthy baby girl. By eating well, exercising and focused control of my BG’s, I had a smooth pregnancy and elective c section. Let’s just say I am very content with life right now
Stephanie Brown
Hey, my name is Stephanie and I live in the beautiful state of Alaska. I am a twin, I just graduated from nursing school, and I have lived with Type One for 18 years! I was diagnosed when I was 8 years old. We lived on the Tanana river in Central Alaska and had to boat 1 mile up the river to get...anywhere. The nearest hospital was 2 hours away and I was admitted after my glucose levels were checked at a clinic. I was not in DKA but my A1C was 12.1. I spent 3 days in the hospital, longing to leave, and was finally discharged when my parents could accurately dose insulin and I could administer my own injections.
Of course, as we all know, it was a massive adjustment. I quickly learned to carry my diabetes supplies everywhere with me. I had to wear a fanny pack during physical education, which was the worst for my 8 year old self :) We remained in our home, on the river, and far from a hospital and my only diabetes related visit remains, so far, to have been my diagnosis. I did go into mild DKA once, but my mother called a doctor and managed it at home. ( I do not recommend, but that is my story)
I lived a full, adventurous, and beautiful childhood. We camped for days, canoed for miles, hiked to glaciers, fished for Salmon in the Copper river, built forts, and deeply enjoyed the wilderness of Alaska. The transition to me caring independently for my diabetes was tricky and coupled with puberty, teenage years, high school, and my parents divorce it was a challenging ride. Through it all my loving family has supported and encouraged me. After high school I visited Ireland for a few months, got my CNA license, and moved to Ohio, briefly. I returned to Alaska, got married, and dove right into nursing school. Since my diagnosis I have known I wanted to help others who struggle with life long diseases. This month I graduated and was pinned as a nurse! To quote one of our own, Dr. Mike Natter, "My diagnosis is something I would wish on no one. However, it has given me my greatest gift: my calling and a deep connection to my patients." <3
I still do injections, 18 years later, and haven't tried a pump- yet! I use exercise to manage insulin resistance and therefore glucose levels. I am an avid gym member but I also love to hike, kayak, and bike. I just celebrated my daiversary (May 10th) with a 9 hour hike to summit just one of the majestic mountains that surrounds the city I live in. I also learned to ski this past winter (after 26 years in Alaska) It turns out it is my second favorite thing, with sky diving still ranking as number one. I went sky diving in 2019 in Hawaii and I have suffered extreme withdrawal ever since. Other than exercise, insulin, and good dietary choices, I would say stress management is huge for Type One. If you are new to Diabetes, I recommend looking into ways to manage physical and emotional stress. Personally I benefit from yoga, breath work, talking when I need to, and the great out doors!
Life with Type One is almost all I know, and I love it! That is not to say it isn't heartbreaking, exhausting, and challenging at times but we have all gained determination, compassion, and an appreciation for life that is undeniable. Diabetes has given me the opportunity to CHOOSE life every single day, and for that I am deeply thankful. Thank you to all those who have shared their stories, if you're ever in Alaska let me know!! For now I'll be here, enjoying the midnight sun, hiking through the wilderness, waiting for the blueberries to grow, and studying for the NCLEX!
Sean Coffey
My name is Sean Coffey and I’m 15 years old from Cork, Ireland. I was diagnosed in 2015 when I was 11 years old. Since the day I was diagnosed I had always had a positive mindset. I remember telling my family who were upset when I was first diagnosed “it could be worse, I could be dead”. That mindset carried on until now. Almost two years ago I was sick of letting diabetes control me to an extent and I joined a gym. The gym changed my life. It helped me manage my blood sugars better than ever and even when I was having a bad day with diabetes the gym was my hour therapy, were I could take out any kind of mood swings I had and didn’t have to think about anything. I am now only 15 years old and the happiest I have ever been.
When I was diagnosed I wish I was told that you can still do ANYTHING. And I mean anything. Life is going to throw these obstacles in the way but don’t leave anything stop you. There is no limit.
Ryan Boydstun
My name is Ryan Boydstun and I have been living with type 1 diabetes for 20 years. I was diagnosed when I was 7, and just like every other newly diagnosed diabetic, I was afraid and unsure of what was to become of my life.
From the beginning, I took a strong ownership role of my heath and disease. I was counting carbs and injecting my own insulin within two weeks of my diagnosis. I was a very active child and I was not going to let anything stop me.
I was an avid baseball player and when I was released from the hospital, I went straight to the baseball field for a game. My dad cut off my hospital bracelet while I was standing in the on-deck circle waiting for my first and only at-bat. I hit a home run. As I was rounding third base I remember looking up at my mom and she was crying, my dad was too. I didn’t know why they were crying at the time, but now looking back, it was a sign that everything was going to be alright.
I ended up playing baseball all the way through college and at the end of my senior year, I was awarded Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year for the entire conference. Another sign that everything is alright.
Throughout my 20 years of living with diabetes, I have always tinkered with my diet and exercise to find the best way to control my blood sugar and still be able to do all of the things I love doing. I am still an avid fitness junkie and health nut and I have never once let type 1 diabetes slow me down.
Caitlin Hurley
I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes 16 years ago. At the time of my diagnosis, I had no idea of not only the physical but also mental struggles I was about to endure. It’s also not something I talk about with even my closest family and friends. It is often an invisible disease. People don’t automatically think when they first meet me that I have a chronic illness due to the fact that I am young and active. I run, weight-lift, have been practicing Muay Thai for over a year, hike regularly, and am a registered nurse on a Blood and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit. It can be difficult to battle to keep my blood glucose in range, count every single carb, make sure I have enough snacks and insulin in case of emergency, try to love my body despite how hard it sometimes can be, etc. The list seems endless. Even with all of this, I know I am so much more than my disease. I want to make sure every single newly diagnosed diabetic knows that. You’re life isn’t over. You will be ok. Find friends and family who will love and look out for you and go live your life. I’m glad I have and am thankful for all those who have supported me along the way.
William Oberndorfer
My story started when I was diagnosed at 13. Pretty quickly, I realized I was very fortunate and wanted to give back. I sold Willstrong T-shirts that said stronger than diabetes on the back and spoke at a couple of charity events. I raised over $10,000 for JDRF for a cure in a year. My mom and I were unsettled because we couldn’t tell how the money was being used. Together, we came up with what is now Diabetes Will’s Way, a nationwide charity that acts as a bridge between underinsured Type 1 Diabetic families and their out-of-pocket costs. In almost 7 years, we have done 165 grants. These grants help to buy insulin, pumps, CGMs and other supplies. I am a board member and help run our social media and do different fundraising. Away from the charity, I have not let diabetes be an obstacle to my success as I have been valedictorian of my high school, an all-conference soccer goalie, very involved with my church, and now I am at Purdue studying professional writing and Public Relations. I am also a proud member of the Chris Dudley Basketball Camp family where I was a diabetic counselor for 5 years and on staff for 2 most recently as an activities director. I have met many of my diabesties there! The next fundraising event for the charity will be Disc Golf for Diabetes with a tentative date of June 20th in central Indiana!
Lucie
Hi everyone, I'm Lucie and I'm 24 years old. I was diagnosed with type 1 when I was 2, meaning I've had diabetes for 21 years, so in diabetes terms I'm basically an old lady . My diaversery is in September, but nobody seems to know the actual date I was diagnosed, seeing as it was so long ago, so it's my diaversery month . Having had the disease for so long I don't really remember lots about it during my childhood, other than the fact I hypo'd and fainted twice when I was 5 because I didn't eat all my lunch at school . I still remember them both! The first was a maths lesson and I woke up with my teacher rubbing hypo stop (🤢🤢) in my mouth and a boy saying "she just fell asleep miss" . The second, my parents were at a funeral and my Mum's friend was looking after me and I passed out on her sofa. I've been on an insulin pump since I was 15 and it's absolutely changed my life, it gave me so much more freedom and I didn't have to worry about the stares from injecting in public. I've also been on the freestyle libre since January this year and I'm absolutely in love with that too, I like being able to see exactly what my sugars have been doing in between each scan! If anyone ever asked me for some advice I would say never let diabetes hold you back! After studying for three years at university I'm a fully qualified primary school teacher - which has been my dream job since I was in primary school! ️
Breionna Protega
Hi! My name is Breionna! I have been a Type 1 Diabetic for a little over 3 years. I am a competitive figure skater and competed all over the country in synchronized figure skating for 3 years. My first year of synchronized skating was scary, but we quickly became friends, and not much after like family. It was January and we were at a competition in Fon Du Lac, Wisconsin, getting ready to go to official practice. I didn’t feel very well, but didn’t think much of it. I love the ice so much I would live on it if I could, but I got off. I started feeling like I was going to throw up, I was freezing, and I was so tired, I thought I had the flu. My parents, Coach, and friends all knew something was wrong. Thankfully, my coach is an ER nurse and recognized the symptoms. She told me she wasn’t going to let me compete and I was crying and begging her to let me skate. She still refused, but agreed to let me stay, watch my team skate, and get ready, just as if I was competing. She told my parents to take me to the hospital the next day after my team skated and have them check my blood sugar. The following day I was feeling a little bit better. I had some orange juice and crackers and 4:30 AM before we left to watch my team skate. I didn’t eat for the rest of the day. My parents started driving back home (to Indiana) and we stopped home, changed, and went to urgent care at about 7 PM. My parents asked them to check my blood sugar and I was diagnosed at 425. They admitted me to Anne and Robert H. Lurie’s Children Hospital in Chicago, where I received expert care and was taught everything about diabetes. Since then, I have become a MAJOR foodie, took control of diabetes, I am kicking its butt, and love to show off my robot parts. (Omnipod and Dexcom). Being Type 1 is not a blessing and I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. I have highs and lows like everyone else, but I chose to have fun with it and explore every cuisine of food, find new tips and tricks, and love working out.
Mary Clare Schweitzer
Hey, I’m Mary Clare and I was diagnosed with T1D at age 26. Unlike most, my diagnosis came as somewhat of a relief. After two pregnancies and 1 ½ years of being misdiagnosed as a Type 2 Diabetic, I finally felt like I was getting answers to a lot of my questions. I had become a shell of a person, completely exhausted, miserable, and no matter how much carb counting I did my blood sugar would sky rocket. I struggled with a very hands off endocrinologist, who did little to change my care despite high A1C’s. I felt so much confusion and guilt for the “habits” and “lifestyle” choices I was told were the problem. I was dropping weight like crazy without trying (muscle mass). I finally hit my breaking point last June. One day, when taking out the trash, I struggled to even lift the bag with two hands. I had to set it down every 5 ft. or so and lost my breath while coming back up the stairs. I started having trouble breathing, called my endo and demanded an A1C a month early. It was 12.4% ! I was diagnosed on the spot. After the diagnosis, I felt a sense of relief, I knew there was something else going on! It was of course overwhelming to say the least- What’s a CGM? Pump vs MDI? However, it forced me to slow down and focus on my health, something that had been neglected for quite some time. I am so grateful for modern technological advances in the medical field, which has made those of us living with T1D much easier! As a mom of two little ones, using a CGM and MDI have given me so much flexibility and freedom. (My three year old loves to “report” my current blood sugar reading on my Inpen app). Having a caring, supportive family and friends circle has been key for my diabetic management. I honestly don’t feel like T1D holds me back in any way, and am so lucky to have the resources that allow me to adjust to this new way of life. I’m currently a stay at home mom who loves exploring new places with my little ones, enjoying the outdoors, and creating art every chance I get. Lastly, I want to thank the online diabetic communities, where I have found so much hope and inspiration for living a healthy and happy diabetic life. I’m looking forward to connecting with more individuals with T1D. Thank you for reading my story!
Emily Brooks
My name is Emily! I am 20 and have had type one diabetes for 17 years now. When I was younger my parents always did a great job at keeping my glucose levels and A1C's at a great level. I still cannot thank them enough to this day for all of the sleepless nights worrying about my blood glucose levels and checking to make sure I was always okay. As I started to get older I had a period of time where I did not take care of myself to the best of my ability. Seeing other people my age live "normal" lives and not have to worry about counting carbs or testing their blood sugars all day really made me feel different. When I met my now boyfriend, Anthony, I began to realize that taking care of myself really mattered and I didn't want something bad to happen due to me not taking care of myself properly. Anthony has been one of my biggest supporters by always lifting me up when I get down about a bad blood glucose day, by constantly getting me snacks when I go low, and so many more things as well. Once I started taking care of myself again, I turned what I once thought was negative and made it a super positive thing in my life. I now wear my insulin pump and Dexcom proudly. I have had so many young kids come up to me and show me their CGM's and insulin pumps which makes my day every time it happens. I have talked to so many people with type one which has helped tremendously as well. I still look back sometimes and really wish I would have taken care of myself and been more confident wearing my diabetes gadgets, but I just have to remind myself that the past is the past and it can only go up from now on.
shane
Hi, I’ve been type one since I was fifteen. I was diagnosed and slipped into a coma at the hospital, and my mum was told to expect the worst as I was in a bad way! I went from 9st to 6st in two months. I spent the next twenty years not bothering testing or caring about my sugars, and I developed diplopia which is nerve damage in the eyes. I then realised I need to sort myself out. I’ve now got my HbA1c to 52 which is a lot better than it was a year ago at 74! Feeling healthier now than I did in my twenties! I’m now 48 and back into cycling which involves falling off my bmx quite a lot! I’m now living life and refuse to give up!!!!
weronika lenczewska
Hi, my name is Weronika and I have been suffering from type I diabetes for 11 years. I live in Poland and although I do not have access to the latest devices for diabetics, sport helps me maintain normal glycemia. My adventure that sport basically started a few months after getting sick. Looking for information on coping with the disease, there were many articles about the good effect of physical activity in the treatment of diabetes. So the first step was to do a fitness instructor course so that you could run a fitness class. After a few years, I went a step further and gained the qualifications of a personal trainer to better understand the impact of exercise on our body. I can also boast that I have been training crossfit for a year and I have never been so happy. I completely found myself in this field, I am learning perseverance, patience, overcoming my own weaknesses and of course it has a very good effect on my illness. Once upon a time, I would not think that the disease would.
Bentley Nelson
My name is Bentley, and I was diagnosed with type one diabetes at 6 years old. I now wear a Dexcom g6, and I do injections. My dexcom has helped me a lot. I love playing baseball, basketball, and football. I also love playing my play station. Fort nite is my favorite. I don’t let my diabetes keep me from anything. I’m still just a regular kid!
Brooke
My name is Brooke and I’ve been living a type one diabetes for I was 35 years. I founded @t1dsugarmommas in 2012 for women living with type one diabetes who are in family planning stages, pregnant or type one women who are moms and they have young children! I started DIY Looping in 2017 and it’s been amazing! My last baby was a Loop baby! Love my Medtronic pump, Riley Link and Loop App! Follow us @t1dsugarmommas
Emma Stringfellow
Hey there, my name is Emma Stringfellow and I’m a CrossFit athlete with Type 1 Diabetes! I just wanted to share a little bit about my story with you!
I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes back in 2015. My diagnosis was honestly a very easy transition, for which I am extremely thankful. My younger sister has had T1D since she was 3 years old, so I had grown up with a Type 1 in the family, and knew the symptoms and how to control my blood sugar. I was able to check my blood sugar on her monitor and was up at 561. That’s when we knew things were not OK, so the next day was spent in and out of hospitals, doctors offices, and labs. I was fortunate enough to have caught it so early, and to have been so knowledgeable about the disease, that I didn’t even have to stay overnight in the hospital. I didn’t have to miss any of my gymnastics training, and was back in the gym the next morning, determined not to let this life change slow me down. I truly am so thankful that my diagnosis was such an easy one, because I know that most of the time that is not how things go.
In the years since my diagnosis, I haven’t let Type 1 slow me down! In fact, I use it as a motivation- just because my pancreas doesn’t work, doesn’t mean the rest of my body doesn’t either! Sports have always been a big part of my life, and I’ve loved pushing my physical capabilities for as long as I can remember. Type 1 has only made me stronger in the sense that mentally, I know that nothing can keep me down. Let's be real, sometimes being a T1D sucks. Everyone has those days when their blood sugars just won’t cooperate. The highs and lows can get to you, not to mention that fact that multiple injections a day and frequent visits to the doctor just aren’t fun. Type 1 can be a pain in the butt sometimes, however, I wouldn’t change being a Type 1 Diabetic. I feel that God placed it in my life for a reason. He gave it to me to make me stronger instead of weaker, and I am thankful that I get to use it as an opportunity to lift others up and inspire them to continue to push the limits and pursue their dreams!
Don’t ever think that you can’t do something just because you're a Diabetic! Set the bar high, and if you have a dream, chase it down! Work hard, have fun in the process, and just remember to be responsible in taking those extra steps of managing your blood sugar! Type 1 Diabetes isn’t something that has to weigh you down!
Amanda Wass
Hello to you! I was diagnosed at 22 years old with type 1 & have embraced the last 7 years of this as a learning opportunity and really endeavoured to have a positive outlook. Don't get me wrong, there ARE days where the beeties gets the better of me, whips my ass and no matter what I seem to do my levels are sky high, moods are swinging, emotions are flying and my beloved friends and family see the ugly side of me (...I mean this could be NOTHING related to my sugar levels haha but I like to blame it on that! Why not?! You've gotta make it work for you, right?). On the whole I have always been determined to genuinely hold an optimistic outlook with this disease and never allow it to stop me from doing what I want to do. Whether that's being active or travelling, enjoying a slice of cake or enjoying a night out with friends. Not only has it allowed me to have this ownership over my life but it's also opened my eyes to food and wellbeing and how that has such an impact too. It's easy to just hate on it, to dwell or to let it stop us from living the life we want but I'm trying my best to find that balance between having a healthy mindset between all the diabetic baggage and heaviness. Trying to let the guilt of 'bad' sugars go and knowing that as long as I try my best and have fun along the way, it's all good
Konstantin
Hello, my name is Konstantin, I am 28 years old and with T1D from 2011. I was born in Ukraine. From five years old I started training in gymnastics, and got the title of Master of Sports of Ukraine. Over the past 10 years I am working as an circus aerial gymnast around the world in top American cruise line company's. In the near future I will actively work on my Instagram page diabetes__lifestyle in order to show people how to look good with diabetes through my own example. It is also important for me, motivating all of you, I motivate myself. For the moment I use my Medtronic 670G and monitoring guardian 3 which I am not so happy and i will explain you why soon on my page, also I am use Dexcom some time ) I wish you all good sugars and constant motivation to live a good and successful life!
Kevin and Emily Barbarino
Meet Kevin and Emily, they have both had t1d for over 20 years. They have been married for a year and are expecting their first child in April. It has been easy to be accountable for each other for the mere reason that they are both t1ds and know what to expect from each other. Kevin uses a Medtronic insulin pump while Emily uses the Omnipod. They are so grateful for the t1d community and are here to encourage and support anyone within it going through struggles or who has questions.
Seth Batchelar
Seth was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 7, almost 5 years ago. He is an inspiration to his friends and family, as he has been positive and brave from the very beginning. Excited to get back to his soccer game a week and a half later, he got right back into "normal" life right away! He knew he had some extra steps to take in order to keep himself feeling good and healthy and he had no problems doing it. Fast forward a few years and now he is playing travel basketball! Each year at the JDRF Walk For The Cure, Seth has an opportunities to say uplifting yet tear jerking speeches in front of everyone. He has gained confidence, leadership skills, and responsibility because of Type 1 diabetes! Every year he raises awareness and money for JDRF in his school by going to each classroom with his poster, and telling his story while teaching the classes how they can help someone with Type 1. He inspires me every day to live life to the fullest because that's what he does! Of course he gets down about this disease but he doesn't dwell on it. He gets right back up and moves on. He is our real life hero!!!
Julie Kfr
My name is Julie Kfr and I am the founder of the Diabetic Travelers Network - @diabetictravelnetwork a social impact community that provides every diabetics with the knowledge support and connections they need to travel without worry.
I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 4. This not only took away my childhood, but also left me with a life that was dictated by others’ judgement of my abilities. I was not allowed to go on school trips as some of the teachers considered me a liability.
Over the past 5 years I have visited 22 countries across 6 continents and lived in 3 for extended period of time.
As I look back on my travel journey, I revisit all the countries I have been. I pause to relish the memories I have created. I suddenly find myself writing about the 8600 needles I carried with me across countries and cultures. It occurs to me that my insulin pens survived the low temperatures at the peak of Mount Tongariro, the blazing heat of Egypt, the intense humidity of the jungles of Bali. They remained intact during my sugar crash in Spain, and a 24 hour flight to Australia.
My pens always have my back. Thanks to them, I am alive.
Given my circumstances, some might think that I was crazy to go traveling like this. But I always knew I would make it.
For reasons I cannot explain, I feel it is time to share what I learned with others and to empower other to take a leap of faith.
I want to be an example, beautiful souls, of what living looks like. I want you to know that you can do anything you want in life. Some will say that you cannot. They are not in your shoes.
There is always a way. You have the power to make your dreams come true, regardless of what you must carry.
You just need to believe it.
With love.
J. ⠀⠀⠀