Voices of Diabetes

I have had diabetes for 19 years now. I can't believe that it has been that long, WOW. At times diabetes was challenging. The reason I say this is that I was very active in junior high and high school sports. I love sports. At times I didn't think I would ever make it during sports because I would have low blood levels or high blood levels. If it wasn't for my mom and dad pushing me telling me I could, I don't think I would have. It is really hard when you don't feel good from your diabetes and then you have to cover it up so you can play basketball. I didn't want to sit out, especially in a big game. People just don't understand what diabetics go through or cover up to do things. I give so much credit to young kids who are diabetics and one thing I would tell them is, “You can do it.” Just when you think you are done, you get up and do it again. Diabetics are born fighters; they have to be to survive. I am thankful that I have diabetes, because it has taught me a lot about life. You have to be prepared for anything with your disease, you are well organized, you are in charge, you know how to have fun in different ways, you don't take things for granted, and you are a fighter.

I played college basketball with diabetes. I am now in my third year of teaching first grade. I am a high school basketball coach. I love it! Every summer for one week I am a camp counselor. It is a camp for diabetics. The week is amazing. It is so nice to see kids together and they all have diabetes. They understand each other and have a contest to see who has the better blood sugar level. I hear it all the time at camp, we are all the same and no one stares at me when I have giving myself a shot or checking my blood sugar. This is what diabetes has taught me and this is what I fight for. Always believe in yourself! Thank you for letting me share my story.

Kristin R., 25

Mount Pulaski, IL

140308