Shifting Mindsets and Embracing the T1D Community

Shifting Mindsets and Embracing the T1D Community

Hi there! My name is Anna, and I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when I was 4 years old. I’ve just recently begun my first year of university at McGill, which means that I have been living with this disease for nearly 15 years now — something that still feels surreal to see written out.

Over that time, so much has changed: the technology, management strategies, and even my own medical needs. Yet throughout it all, I held tightly to one belief — that this disease should never change the way I lived my life.

Because I was diagnosed so young, I grew up frequently hearing the mantra “you can do anything” from every direction. I internalized it deeply, convincing myself that since diabetes couldn’t technically stop me, I could be just like everyone else.

I tackled every challenge head on, determined to minimize the role diabetes played in my life through sheer willpower. I wanted to prove to myself, and those around me, that it wasn’t holding me back.

Living Without Limits

Throughout my childhood and teenage years, I participated in almost any activity imaginable: competitive soccer, rowing, skiing, running, hiking, and more. Sports became a major part of my identity, but they were not my only focus.

As I got older, I became increasingly devoted to academics, setting ambitious goals for university. I pushed myself to earn top grades, became involved in extracurricular activities, and gained work experience throughout high school—all in the hopes of attending one of Canada’s top universities.

Keeping Diabetes in the Background

As I juggled these demanding aspects of my life, I did my best to keep diabetes in the background, to never have to admit when things were hard.

I hid the scary lows after soccer games, avoided asking for help, and refused exam accommodations—because why would I need them if I could do anything? I was determined to show that there were no limits to my life as a diabetic.

Redefining Strength

While it’s true that I can accomplish anything that I choose to pursue, that doesn’t mean that it isn’t incredibly hard at times.

Over the past year, I have learned that strength does not mean doing everything alone. I’ve started to allow myself to lean on others, to ask directly for support, and to be transparent about the hard days—which, trust me, happen a lot.

I still believe deeply in my capabilities, but I now understand that this disease is not meant to be carried alone.

Finding & Embracing My T1D Community

My mindset around T1D has changed tremendously alongside my approach to it. I’ve let go of stressing about other people’s perceptions of myself and stopped worrying about what the random person on the side of the street would think if I stopped my run to have a few Skittles.

I also sought out the diabetic community — something I once avoided for fear of diabetes occupying even more of my life.

I’ve made friends who understand this disease in ways that others simply can’t, and found relationships that have allowed me to feel seen, heard, and validated on the days that are especially tough.

Growth, Gratitude, and Grace

This past year has been filled with both immense challenges and incredible growth as I navigate university and begin to build a life for myself. I am deeply grateful for all of the opportunities and experiences that I have been brought in this past year, but most of all, I am thankful that I’ve finally allowed myself the grace to feel the full weight of T1D, and to ask for help when carrying it becomes overwhelming.

Hi! My name is Anna and I am a first-year student at McGill University in the Life Sciences Program and a mentee in the DHF peer mentorship program. I’ve truly loved being part of the program and am so grateful to be matched with two great mentors. As I settle into my first year of university, I am investing more time in pursuits I’m passionate about, including my involvement in DHF’s diabetes community.