November 14
A celebration of two birthdays. One of my childhood best friend. One of Dr. Frederick Banting — the researcher credited with discovering insulin. Ashley and I have been friends for 28 years, for 20 of those, I’ve had type 1 diabetes. I’m blown away by both.
Yesterday, I posted after a long hiatus. I’ve moved, and things have been hectic. Diabetes advocacy online wasn’t a priority, and it probably won’t be for a few more months. But with moving, I’ve learned, comes so many opportunities to advocate and educate. Most of my colleagues aren’t too familiar with type 1 diabetes, and it’s been my privilege to share it with them.
I’ve educated on the differences between type 1 (auto-immune) and type 2 (metabolic). I’ve explained how my pump and CGM (continuous glucose monitor) work. I’ve even had the opportunity to explain why it’s fine for me to eat desert so long as my blood sugar is within the ranges I set. I’ve shared cycling stories and the JDRF Ride to Cure Diabetes program. I’ve even been able to answer questions about life with diabetes and what makes it different. It’s been nice to open people’s eyes and share something with them they didn’t know.
So my challenge to you is this. Find one person today who isn’t familiar with diabetes and the different types. Take the opportunity to teach them and help them better understand the causes and treatments available. Share with them where the future is headed by way of the artificial pancreas technologies, beta/islet cell regeneration/transplant and hopefully, one day, a cure. Take today and educate one more person.
Only 5-10 percent of people with diabetes worldwide have type 1. That’s not a large number comparatively, so let’s take a few minutes today and help others understand. I love this job of being an advocate; I love sharing my passion with others. Happy National Diabetes Month, and happy Diabetes Awareness Day. May you find joy in today!