So the 14th of November 2018 marks World Diabetes Day. While I know I’m a little late posting this, I wanted to write at least something.

The theme for World Diabetes Day 2018 (and 2019!) is “The Family and Diabetes” and this does bring some important topics to light. While the official site for World Diabetes Day https://www.worlddiabetesday.org/ does refer to Type 2 Diabetes a fair amount, the theme is also very topical with Type 1 Diabetes too. I’ll talk personally more about Type 1 Diabetes.

Diabetes is hard on the family as well as the person who has Diabetes. There’s no denying it.

I was personally diagnosed at the age of 10, but some people are diagnosed at a far younger age. Anyone newly diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes goes through a period of learning and adjustment and possible health concerns that can cause a large amount of stress and anxiety for parents and other family members. I personally remember causing my mother and father great concern on many occasions when my blood glucose level was out of control.

Being diagnosed with Diabetes can cause a major upheaval in dietary requirements. While I personally never gorged myself on sweet sugary foods, I did have to make some changes. My mother, like any other parent in the same situation, worked very hard to provide meals and snacks that were suitable for me.

I’m sure I’m not the only one who as a child with Type 1 Diabetes caused, or will cause, some frightening times by ending up so ill that my Diabetes gets out of control or something goes wrong with my Diabetes to the point that a stay in hospital is necessary. I’m sure I scared the shit out of my parents.

To everyone out there who has Type 1 Diabetes, this is a nod to your families. Keep in mind that they have probably gone through, and will continue to go through, hell.

To those who are reading this who have a family member who has Type 1 Diabetes, you’re amazing. You do a fantastic job and have to deal some hard times… I know my family did and were amazing all through it.