Living With Type 1 Diabetes: The Best & The Worst

After having type 1 diabetes for nearly 22 years, I thought I’d make a list of the best and worst things that come with the territory.

The Worst:

The way people judge me. The cruel comments I hear about diabetes because they don’t know better.

Having to explain it to almost everyone you meet. I would like to avoid the frequent awkward conversations with co-workers, friends, and even strangers.

Needing to inject my insulin in the worst places is a big frustration. If you have diabetes and need insulin, you need it when you need it. You cannot wait until it is more convenient. You learn to do it when and where you need to. I can’t tell you how many times people walk in on me injecting at my desk at work.

The constant daily pressure I feel to do better. I expect a lot out of myself.

The way I feel about myself when I’m experiencing horrific blood sugars.

Some form of diabetes burnout is bound to occur. Burnout is natural considering that there is no escape, no vacation, and no reprieve from diabetes.

The complicated sick day plans. Ugh, the way we have to plan and be on our game even when we have the flu. Sick days offer a whole host of other issues when you use insulin.

I’m tired. Diabetes takes up so much mental and physical energy. I’d love to spend my time on something I enjoy instead of trying to play the part of my vital organ.

The frequent doctor appointments we need. My dad went to the doctor recently. It has been a billion years since he last had a physical. I have to go every few months for checkups and refills. I am so grateful that my dad is healthy, but it is hard to believe I’m his daughter and have so many health problems.

The fear that rides with you during life with diabetes is haunting.

Diabetes is a financial nightmare at times…enough said.

 

The Best:

Discovering a deep connection with others that also live with diabetes is life-changing. There is no better comfort than knowing that you are not alone in this. Many others live with the same daily frustrations that we do.

When you find that friend or family member that “gets it” and supports you like they have it themselves. People that love you will get protective and help you through the hardships.

I found a man that accepts me no matter what. He goes through the highs and lows along with me, and when we discover an obstacle, like having to give up gluten or limit carbs, he figures it out and makes sure I enjoy life (and food!) despite those difficulties.

I found a place (thank you Diabetes Health!) to voice my fears and triumphs. Whether you have a blog or a social media circle you can vent to, speaking out about the challenges diabetes offers is huge for your sanity. I felt alone for the first 15 or so years of my life with type 1 diabetes. Finding your voice changes everything.

I found out how strong I am. I have been through a lot. I know there is going to be a lot more on the road ahead, but I am resilient.

I feel incredibly lucky to be here after nearly 22 years with this difficult illness. When you have a health condition like diabetes, I think you see the world a little differently, a bit more gratefully and with more hope than others.

If you have diabetes burnout, I highly recommend making your own list. While the “worst” part of your list may be longer, the “best” somehow conquers it because you are still here, and you can thrive despite the worst of diabetes!