July 29th, 2011 was the day that changed our lives forever....my 11yr old son Robert was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. I was in shock, scared, sad, angry and confused. Not one person in my family had or has it! My thought process was "Now what?" would he be able to play sports, grow big and strong, go to college, could he die? I didn't know what to think. So, I rolled up my sleeves and decided that T1D would NEVER stop him from doing anything.
The first year (honeymoon phase) we had our ups and downs but it wasn't that bad. We learned as much as we could while Robbie endured shot after shot and checking his blood sugar often. He was just beginning Middle School so it was challenging for him physically and especially emotionally. He didn't want anyone to know he had something wrong. He was embarrassed that I spoke to ALL of his coaches but it was a must. I also made sure his best friends were aware of what T1D was and how to help him if he needed it. Then the 2yr came.....everything changed. Now he is on the pump and wears a Dexcom. It is still a constant battle..his A1C ranges from 7.5 to 8.5...being a teen isn't easy and add on T1D.
Now my son is 14yrs old is 6' 1" and weighs about 195. He is on 3 lacrosse teams (made JV team in 8th grade) plays football and volleyball. By looking at him you would never know there is anything wrong but as a family we endure the mood swings, the leg cramps, the depression, the scary lows and the agitating highs. Despite all of this Robbie NEVER lets T1D from stopping him. He takes honors classes, in the Honor Society, plays hard at sports and loves to spend time with his family and friends. It is a constant struggle but he handles what has been dealt to him with courage and strength. We are so proud of him and all of his accomplishments thus far......he is my son.....my HERO.
West Sayville, NY
