T1D Community: Diabuddies are the Best Friends! 

Having Type 1 diabetes as a child took away many choices. It restricted what and when I could eat. If I had a low blood sugar episode, I didn’t choose to miss out on fun activities, it was a matter of safety. I was forced to constantly monitor my blood sugar, rather than just having fun and being a carefree kid. It isn’t my choice to feel bad when everyone else can give their 100%.

I struggled throughout my childhood with feeling alone. I was the only kid in my whole elementary school with Type 1 diabetes. So when I finally got to high school and saw a DEXCOM on the arm of one of my classmates, I immediately jumped at the opportunity to make a diabuddy.

Diabuddies: Bonding Over Shared Experiences

Since then, I have made three new diabuddies throughout high school. As we developed a close bond, I felt truly understood by these friends because of the similar experiences we shared. If I ever need a sugar pill or advice on bolus amounts, I always have somebody who I can rely on. It is nice to have a trusted second opinion from my friends who are also diabetes experts.

So while Type 1 diabetes has taken away many of my choices, I have learned to not let this disease control my life and instead focus on what I have gained. Making these friendships has made me feel extremely lucky since I now not everyone has the same type of support.

If I could give my younger self any diabetes-related advice, I would tell her to be more involved in the diabetes community. I should have chosen to participate in more diabetes-related events as a kid. I didn’t consider that taking advantage of these opportunities would allow me to make new connections and share experiences with my peers.

T1D Community: Opportunities to Connect

Diabetes Hope Foundation has many opportunities to connect with other people with Type 1 diabetes from all ages and backgrounds. I look forward to continuing to make new friendships within the Type 1 diabetes community by choosing to be involved and cherishing the diabuddies I make along the way.

There’s no denying that Type 1 Diabetes is not a life I would choose for myself, but despite all the carbohydrate counting, pump changes and constant glucose monitoring, my family and friends in the diabetes community are always there to provide love and support.