Diabetes Awareness- Interview with Liz

Happy Tuesday, friends!

November is coming to an end, can you believe it?

November is Diabetes Awareness month and I can’t let the month pass by without making a post about diabetes.

I thought it would be cool to interview my daughter, Elizabeth, who is a Type 1 Diabetic and ask her some questions about this chronic disease she lives with every day.

I hope you enjoy it! And if you know anyone that suffers with diabetes reach out to them one day this week and let them know you admire the courage and strength they give to fight this disease every day!

How old were you when you were diagnosed?

I had just turned 11 years old the week before.

What were some of your symptoms?

I had to pee a lot and was always thirsty. My dad took me to see the new Star Wars movie and I had to go to the bathroom 7 times during that movie, so we knew something was up.

How do you manage your diabetes?

I just recently got an insulin pump. Before that, I had to get 4 shots a day to manage it. I also wear a Dexcom to help manage my sugars and know if my blood sugar is going up or down or staying steady.

Did you ever feel the need to hide it from people?

No way!

Were you worried about managing your diabetes?

Not really. I have always “owned” my disease and learned how to handle it the best I can.

Has diabetes ever affected your education?

No. My teachers are always understanding if I go high or low during their class.

How do you correct a hypo (low blood sugar)?

Eat sugar and sit down. I usually eat a pack of gummies or drink some apple juice. I wait 15 minutes to see if that helped raise my blood sugar, and if not, I will usually eat something else.

What’s the hardest thing about having diabetes?

Shots and the constant worrying about stuff.

What have you learned from having diabetes?

To be stronger.

What advice would you give to someone who has just been diagnosed with diabetes?

Take it a day at a time. It is overwhelming, but you can manage it and live a normal, happy life with diabetes!

I am so thankful Elizabeth took the time to answer these questions for me! She is a typical teenager and has very few words, but I loved hearing her perspective!

She makes me and her dad proud every day!

Click here if you want to read more about Elizabeth’ diagnosis.

Hope y’all have a great day!