Our family had moved across the state due to my dad's military career. Although, the transition was difficult for Mom and I, there was things happening with my muscles that had not ever happened before. I was eleven years old when I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. My mom made my disease easy to control as a teenager. I took an average of 4-6 shots per day.
My son was born when I was 25 years old. My diabetes really took a toll on my body during pregnancy. I was advised not to have children, but he is worth it. I am currently 36 years old & my son is 11. I am trying to get a pump because my injection sites are limited to legs & stomach because of condition of my arms. Diabetes is a daily struggle and I have one diabetic episode about every 2 months. I have only been to the ER twice this year with passing out. My family was a military family so we did not need financial assistance or medical help. We were unaware of filing for disability. I struggle now to keep any job because I have had the disease for 25+ years. There is no assistance when you are an adult.
Hopefully, a cure is in the future. Until then, I test 4-6 times a day. No complaints other than being tired, but that is part of the disease. I wish people were more knowledgeable about type 1 diabetes. I am dealing with the labor board/EEOC over being fired from my teaching job due to FMLA diabetic related issues.
Paragould, AR
