My name is Stephanie. I was misdiagnosed as a type 2 diabetic Christmas Eve 2012. I have recently been informed that I have a rather uncommon form of diabetes known as LADA ( latent autoimmune diabetes in adults). Even more uncommon for someone to be diagnosed with it at the age of 24. It is difficult having a doctor tell you they are not sure how to proceed because they have not dealt with this particular case before and that there is not much in the means of case studies to refer to. In the end, you still have to do the same things all diabetics have to do. You do your best to manage it and try to learn more about it everyday. I have recently had alot of things in my life turned upside down and have a beautiful 16 month old son to take care of. As much as none of us quite understand diabetes, It really has changed my life in incredible ways. Every day is a new battle, but it has given me strength I honestly had no idea I had. It makes me want to fight harder, learn more, and improve myself everyday. I have so many things to be grateful for and a child that makes my life worth living. Anyone with serious health conditions feels defeated from time to time I think, but the fact that we still have the chance to wake up every morning is a blessing in itself. Another chance to put your best foot forward, another opportunity to make memories, another day to inspire and help others. As scary as it seems at times, I will not let it slow me down! Every day is worth the fight and one step closer to a cure! Stay Strong!

Stephanie
Monticello, MN