Oftentimes, Two Hands Are Not Enough

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I have type 1 diabetes, although you might not be able to tell just by looking at me. For years, I chose not to disclose that I had the condition because I didn’t want to be judged by strangers or be a burden to my friends and family. Now, I am passionate about sharing my story because I know that it’s through storytelling that stereotypes are broken and hearts are opened.

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes your immune system to destroy cells in the pancreas that normally produce insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. I’ve always been curious about how other diabetics manage their condition. With the desire to connect to the worldwide diabetes community, as well as an ambition to learn more about the art of science communication, I attended the 18th International Conference on Advanced Technologies and Treatments for Diabetes (ATTD) in Amsterdam.

There are several different types of diabetes. Those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes comprise over 10% of the U.S. population. Yet, it is one of the most stigmatized and isolating conditions in our society. Oftentimes, two hands are not enough to keep all the challenges of diabetes at bay. Victory against a chronic condition belongs to those who never give up. After a decade of living with T1D, I have learned that I am not meant to fight this battle alone. My hope is that by engaging with this story, you will gain a greater understanding of what it means to live with diabetes. Also, I hope you’ll share in my gratitude for the researchers and medical professionals around the world who equip diabetics with the resources and support needed to claim triumph over diabetes day after day.

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