As a diabetic of fifteen years, I've become so used to having this disease to the point that it just feels so natural/normal. And sometimes I forget that there are other people in the world going through the same thing as me everyday.
So for this blog post, I wanted to take a step back and thank all of those who have played such a key role in my life and helped me be comfortable and stay safe with my disease.
My Parents
My parents are definitely the most important reason why I am where I am today. Without them, I would have never learned how to take care of myself and manage my diabetes.
When I was first diagnosed with diabetes, it was actually my mom who took me into see the doctor. She was heartbroken, of course, upon hearing that her three year old daughter had a medical condition that would be in her life forever. But she was so strong and made sure to learn about the proper steps to take and what this disease would entail.
My dad has been the one who has showed me how to do everything - from inserting a new pumpsite and reservoir to understanding how basal works - he is the best teacher I know. Without my dad, I would never have been confident enough to manage my diabetes by myself. He is also the one who always stays up late to monitor my blood sugars, wake me up in the middle of the night, and call me in the day to make sure everything is okay.
My Endocrinologist
While diabetes is a horrible disease that I would never wish upon anyone, I am partially thankful for having this disease because it led to me meeting my endocrinologist, Dr. Prakasam.
While Dr. Prakasam is my doctor, he is so much more than that. He is family. I believe that family is the people who are there for you no matter what. Time and time again, Dr. Prakasam how showed my family and me how much he cares about the well being of us all - not only for my diabetes but all of my life. I am so thankful to have met him and be his patient.
My Brother
It can be tough and sometimes frustrating to grow up with siblings. You argue and fight constantly, but at the end of the day you wouldn't want it any other way. My older brother Ethan has always been so understanding of my diabetes which is something I am so grateful for.
My older brother, while we do bicker and have our differences a lot, has always showed me that he cares about me especially through checking up on my diabetes. I am thankful to have him in my life!
My Friends
One friend in particular that I will forever by grateful for is Kaitlyn.
One time in eighth grade I didn't feel well. Nevertheless, I was lazy and didn't want to go back to the classroom to check my blood sugar. Kaitlyn contested and walked me up to the classroom and has me check my blood sugar - it was in the 40s. If not for Kaitlyn, who know's what would have happened! I am so thankful that I have reliable friends who have showed me how much they care about me as a result of diabetes.
While diabetes can be tough, it has also brought so many amazing and caring people into my life. I am thankful to have been shown who true loved ones are as a result of this condition. I hope you all have a good diabetes awareness month!
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