Living with a chronic illness can be a daunting journey. As someone diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, I face the daily challenge of managing my blood sugar levels. This involves checking my blood sugar multiple times a day, calculating insulin doses, and meticulously counting carbohydrates in every meal.
The reality is that my condition can be exhausting. My day often revolves around managing these tasks, and if I’m not monitoring my blood sugar, I’m often engaged in lengthy discussions with insurance companies over medical bills. It’s a constant balancing act of assessing how my activities—like exercise—affect my glucose levels. Each choice I make, from sleep to diet to physical activity, carries significant weight; the consequences of mismanagement can be severe, including complications such as vision loss, amputations, kidney failure, and heart disease.
You may not realize I have diabetes just by looking at me. I fit the mold of a typical mom: hair in a messy bun, clad in yoga pants, coffee in hand, juggling my children’s activities while managing household tasks. My husband returns home in the evening, and we often collapse on the couch after a long day, enjoying some mindless television. Externally, I appear fairly normal.
However, when people discover my condition—either through my insulin pump or when they see me checking my blood sugar—I often encounter a barrage of questions and unsolicited advice. Stories of relatives with severe complications abound, and I am frequently asked if I can simply take pills instead of managing my disease with insulin. Some express disbelief that I can inject myself, while others question my dietary choices, assuming I can never indulge in sweets. Well-meaning acquaintances might suggest herbal remedies or share articles about “miracle cures,” which can be more frustrating than helpful.
The reality of managing diabetes is akin to trying to calm a toddler during a tantrum; it requires constant vigilance. My pancreas no longer performs its essential role, which means I must take on that responsibility every single day, all day long.
Living with a chronic illness creates a unique kind of stress. It fosters constant worry, second-guessing, frustration, and, at times, restlessness. However, it has also instilled in me a sense of resilience, determination, and the ability to prioritize effectively. The concept of balance becomes paramount when you’re navigating life with a chronic condition.
As someone living with diabetes, there are certain things I simply don’t need. I have no interest in overpriced “sugar-free” products that promise miraculous results. Hearing about someone’s unfortunate family history or being asked if I’m okay does little more than reinforce a sense of being “broken.”
Instead, I appreciate genuine support. When I was first diagnosed, a friend visited me in the hospital. Instead of peppering me with questions or offering platitudes, she simply sat at my bedside and rubbed my feet. It was a powerful gesture that communicated care and understanding without any expectation of reciprocation.
For those who have a friend like me fighting a chronic illness, consider small acts of kindness. Bring them a coffee on a tough day or send a card that will brighten their mood. A simple text expressing admiration for their strength can mean the world. Ask, “What can I do to make your day a little easier?” and be ready to act on it.
Please refrain from feeling sorry for me. Rather, stand alongside me in this battle and, if you’re inclined, send some coffee my way.
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In summary, living with a chronic illness like Type 1 diabetes involves managing a multitude of daily decisions that can significantly impact one’s health. Instead of pity, support and understanding from friends can make a world of difference.