At DHF, we understand the ups and downs of living with type 1 diabetes – pun intended! We admire the youth we work with who bravely confront T1D, refusing to let T1D stand in the way of them achieving their dreams. Our blog is a platform for these inspiring individuals to share their stories of triumph through the day to day challenges of navigating life with Type 1 diabetes. We are excited to feature their stories, not only to inspire and inform but also to remind everyone in the diabetes community that they are not alone. Let’s celebrate resilience, exchange stories, and form a supportive community that celebrates youth who truly are greater than T1D!
DHF Community Blog
Greater Than T1D
Beyond Food, Exercise, and Insulin: Embracing the Complexity of T1D
Blood sugar is affected by three main factors: food, exercise, and insulin. Other factors which could impact my blood sugar were alluded to, but not what their impact was or what to do to mitigate their effects…
10 Tips for Navigating the Transition to University with T1D
I moved from Northwestern Ontario to Hamilton for school, leaving my family and everything I had ever known a 2 hour flight, or 15 hour drive away. This was what I wanted, but it took extra preparation in order to make a successful transition.
Obstacle is the Way: Employment and T1D
As one of the first firefighters with Type 1 diabetes, Peter’s story serves as an inspiration to youth living with T1D who are transitioning into the workforce, especially into careers that were traditionally non-accepting of individuals with diabetes.
My Body: An Interview with Erin Marcellina
I had the pleasure of interviewing Canadian singer-songwriter, Erin Marcellina, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 8 years old. This interview focused on Erin’s new song, “My Body”, and the realities of living with T1D and working as a full-time musician.
Type 1 Diabetes Stigma: As a (Stigma)tter of Fact
Being the first kid with T1D in my family was isolating. It was hard for my immigrant parents to learn and deal with this disease, and it was equally as hard for my older sisters who were still kids.
Empowering Yourself: Strategies for Success as a T1D Student Employee
Going to school with T1D is one thing, but working with it is completely another! I felt it was important to share some tips for how to successfully work as a type one diabetic…
T1D and Sports: Tips for Success
As physical activities and exercise are essential to live a strong and healthy life, let’s not let T1D interfere. Here are a few tips that many T1Ds may find helpful when managing T1D while playing sports:
Being Queer and T1D: The Intersection of Diabetes & Gender Identity
I was diagnosed with T1D in the fall of my grade 8 year and came out as part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community around the same time. Reflecting on my journeys with diabetes and my queer identity, I find lots of intersections…
From Fear to Empowerment: My Transition to Independence with T1D
Although during the first few weeks I would take a very long time to inject myself, I was always so proud I was able to do it independently. This also set me up with a great foundation for how I would continue viewing and treating my diabetes in the future.
Hitting the Trails: 5 Tips for Backpacking with Type 1 Diabetes
Carrying a 35-40 lb pack for multiple days up steep trails in the backcountry would be a challenge for anyone, but being a type one diabetic, it comes with extra difficulties. But for me it has always been more than worth it!
Gluten-Free and T1D: My Celiac Journey
I want to take this opportunity to give you a glimpse into what life is like for someone living with celiac disease – needing to go gluten-free – when also type 1 diabetic, both of which are autoimmune diseases.
Type 1 Diabetes and Holi: Management Strategies
For those living with T1D, managing blood sugar levels can be challenging during Holi due to the consumption of sugary treats and irregular meal times. Incorporating certain management strategies can ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration.
Type 1 Diabetes and Ramadan Fasting
The three main risks of fasting with type 1 diabetes include having high glucose (Hyperglycemia), low glucose (Hypoglycemia) and becoming dehydrated, which may be prevented by preparing in advance.
5 Type 1 Diabetes Travel Tips
Type 1 Diabetes Travel Tips: Managing T1D on its own is a full-time job, but travelling with it is a whole other ballgame – especially if you are travelling on your own or with friends over reading week. Check out my diabetes travel tips…
25th Anniversary & Scholarship Ceremony
Thank you to each and every one of you who helped celebrate Diabetes Hope Foundation’s 25th Anniversary, honouring this year’s 48 stellar scholarship recipients and cheering on our alumni with the Celebration of Hope event.
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Diabetes Hope Foundation (DHF) is a Canadian not-for-profit organization founded in 1999. The foundation’s mission is to provide education and resources to help youth with diabetes transition to a healthier tomorrow. Learn more about our youth programs and resources below.
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