Age: 18 Year Diagnosed: 2008 Location: Orange County, CA
"Type 1 diabetics are always looked at as having the "bad" kind or we get the comment that "we're not fat" and people just don't understand what it means to have Type 1. They say that we cant eat sugar or drink soda and sometimes even question us if that's how we got diabetes. It's common for people to misconstrue the type of people Type 1 diabetics are and honestly, we are just normal people. I think people need to realize that it just happens and we don't have control over it.
I was diagnosed at a younger age and I honestly don't remember life before my diagnosis. I don't remember a normal day without testing or giving insulin, but that's ok with me. Diabetes has made me stronger and more confident in myself. It has led me to so many great opportunities, friendships, and has helped me find a passion in life. Since my diagnosis I've been supported by organizations and camps that allow me to surround myself with other Type 1s who understand. Us diabetics are there for each other and know what it's like to live day to day with Type 1. We get that there are unexplained ups and down and are there for each other when those days happen. We're a community of people who got dealt an extra card in life and that's something we get to live with together. Having Type 1 doesn't make you different, it just makes you unique. We live life just like everyone else, just with a few extra steps.. I'm so thankful to be where I am today. I can't wait to continue my journey and see what the future has in store for me and the diabetes community."