How Type 1 Diabetes Shaped My Life, Career, and Mission of Hope

Nearly 24 years ago I was told the life-changing message, “Your labs indicate a chronic auto-immune disorder called Type 1 Diabetes.” However, I was too focused on whether I could continue to eat a candy necklace that no doubt contributed to my blood glucose being over 400 mg/dL. In those moments I felt ill & panicked, which was largely mirrored by my mother's response as she faced the reality that her daughter's life would look very different to how she hoped.

Fast forward to my childhood, where the memories are coated with needle pokes & the need to be prepared for every situation. The joy of eating a piece of cake at a birthday party turned into a detailed discussion about carb counting, insulin calculations & if I was “allowed” to consume the cake at all. I felt foreign in my own body & watched as my thoughts changed from self-empathy to self-critical. As I grew up, I experienced the complexities of living with a disease that required manually controlling an organ. I learned that Type 1 Diabetics make roughly 300 more decisions per day than an average person & have a higher risk of developing depression, anxiety & disordered eating tendencies, which I fell victim to as my independence grew.

The turning point in my mindset is owed to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) Camp Granada. My summers as a camper, counselor & now Dietitian changed my identity from victim to fighter. I developed a strong sense of autonomy, pride & strength after being surrounded by individuals who could do more than sympathize, but completely understand. Throughout those memories of struggle were glimpses of immense HOPE; and hope is exactly what National Diabetes Awareness Month is all about.

This hope is what led me to becoming a Registered Dietitian. My passion is rooted in education, support & humanizing the struggles of dealing with chronic health conditions. I see myself in almost every patient I work with, which empowers me to listen, validate & encourage each unique journey to improved health. Each patient I help has in turn healed those fractured parts of me. In honor of those affected by diabetes, I encourage you to celebrate their strength, support their resilience & always be kind. To my fellow diabetes warriors – when life hands you lemons, make sugar free lemonade!

For more on KMC's Nutrition Care Services, please visit: Diabetes Education & Management Monticello, IL | Dieticians Piatt County