Age: 25 Year Diagnosed: 2018 Location: Birmingham, AL
“I distinctly remember two days before I was diagnosed how I was literally so thirsty that I was constantly having to use the bathroom. (This had only gotten worse in the months leading to diagnosis.) One moment in particular stood out to me… I was in my sales class in college. The professor made us act out scenarios in class while the other students had to critique us. Well, I had just downed a bottle of Sprite while in class and then the urge hit me to use the bathroom but my partner and I were up next so I wasn’t about to leave. However, it continued to get worse and our time was imminent. I couldn’t hold it in any longer and blurted out to the entire class, “IM SORRY BUT I NEED TO PEE REALLY BAD,” and ran out of the room. I barely made it. I came back relieved but also to confused classmates. We joked about it but little did we know what exactly was happening.
As someone who is a follower of Jesus Christ, I had a crisis of faith when I was diagnosed. I asked myself the question: How can I continue to trust in a God who chooses not to heal me even when I know He can? It’s a question that I really don’t have the answer to. I've continued to wrestle with my faith and surrendering to God's Sovereignty in my life since being diagnosed. However, I am grateful for the way this disease has brought more amazing people into my life. I'm so thankful to be part of such an incredible community. I know I can count on these people for life!
Don’t compare yourself to other T1Ds and how they do things. Yes, take tips and tricks but seek to study your body and do what’s best for you. Also, hold on to hope. I know it’s easier said than done but that’s what has gotten me through these first few months of my diagnosis. It's always better to have hope than to despair.”