Priya is fifteen years old and is currently preparing for the board exams. She loves books and sports, and has made a diligent fitness routine a sacred part of her life. She shares her experiences with Type 1 Diabetes with Nityaasha.
First Encounter with T1D:
I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes two years ago. I was repeatedly getting ulcers and the wounds would just not heal. I had tremendous weakness and lost a lot of weight. So, my doctor suggested I get my blood sugar checked. I took my doctor’s advice and got my sugar level checked; it was about 560 mg/dl.
I knew absolutely nothing about Type 1 diabetes at the time. It was something completely unexpected as no one in our family had diabetes. It was totally new for me and my family.
The Support:
The news that I had Type 1 diabetes came as a shock to my family, as we had no idea about diabetes and its complications. I was really frightened and frustrated at first. I completely alienated myself and was not willing to mix up with anyone. It took me almost 4 months to get used to my new routine, but my parents helped me to stay calm and cope with it.
My friends too have been really supportive. They never made an issue about the situation. They don’t make me feel any different when I’m amongst them. My school has also co-operated a lot. The faculty members take utmost care of me, especially when we go on picnics or trips. So my parents are comfortable with sending me on trips with the school.
The Negative Reactions:
Thankfully, I have never faced any discouragement or a situation where I was pulled down because of my diabetes. Fortunately, people around me have been really supportive. However I am sure there are others who might face discouragement from people who are unaware about Type 1 Diabetes. I am of the opinion that one should not pay any heed to such people.
The Challenges:
I was very concerned about how I would be able to manage taking insulin at school. When newly diagnosed, I used to carry the insulin pen with me to school and took insulin in the recess before having food. Now I have an insulin pump which has made it easier for me to take insulin.
The Temptations:
I love to eat sweets! So, during festivals I make sure that whatever I eat, I burn those extra calories by exercising. Whenever I go for parties or birthdays, I do a carbohydrate exchange (i.e. if I want to have a piece of cake, I cut down on any other item so that I won’t add on extra calories). And sometimes, if I feel the urge to eat sweets, I opt for sugar free ones.
Words of experience:
Type 1 Diabetes has definitely changed my life. It becomes a part of your life and you have to accept it. What is important is that you should not let your diabetes control your life. I have taken an optimistic approach towards my diabetes as I feel it has made me a better person. Type 1 Diabetes has helped me improve my dietary habits, understand the importance of exercise, be punctual and think ahead!
Important points to remember:
Always carry 3-4 teaspoons of sugar with you everywhere you go.
Wear your diabetic pendant or keep it in a bag when going out with friends.
Make sure that at least 1 of your friend/colleague is aware that you are diabetic. This will help in case of an emergency.
If your sugar level drops, don’t panic. Just try and manage it yourself(eat sugar 3-4 teaspoons) or take your friend/colleague’s help.
Take blood glucose tests every time you change your insulin regimen
Priya (name changed)
