Voices of Diabetes

I am probably the only person writing to you that has 3 type 1 diabetics in my immediate family. My husband is 75 years of age and has had type 1 diabetes for 61 years. He has endured the tightrope battle each day, and is presently playing bridge 4 times a week. I was diagnosed with type 1 at the age of 49, called LADA diabetes. The endocrinologist said he was fearful for our 2 sons, and sure enough our youngest son was diagnosed at the age of 13. He wears an insulin pump and is attending Indiana University presently. My husband and I use syringes and vials with short and long acting insulin routines. This Thanksgiving I am thankful that diabetic care has evolved from boiling syringes, sharpening needles, animal insulin and urine testing to designer insulin, pump delivery, glucose monitoring systems and disposable syringes. We're all still very hopeful for a cure or the new artificial pancreas pump that is being worked on for future days ahead. My husband is testimony that you can live a long life with this disease, so never give up! Work towards control with exercise, medication, testing, and healthy food choices. Become your own advocate, and seek help and support when needed. Enjoy the holidays and be thankful this Thanksgiving that you still have life and try to find some joy in each day…because you never get that day back again.

Connie K., 61

Warsaw, IN

140308