Saturday 5 June 2010

Raising Awareness of Diabetes Type 1

I am on a mission to raise awareness on type 1 Diabetes, so misunderstood by so many. It is only through ignorance so with push and a shove from some very determined and passionate diabetics, this will happen.

Diabetes is a relentless disease and can lead to dangerous complications if not managed correctly. Living every day with a chronic disease (just because you can't see it doesn't mean it isn't happening) presents many hurdles and challenges.

When first diagnosed it is very hard to adjust, some going through a grieving process, and the question 'Why me?' Many feel like giving up but eventually get on with it as there is a life to live.

My son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when he was 2. He did not get it because he was fat, had eaten too many cakes and sweets. A proper healthy diet won't get rid of it, he won't grow out of it, exercise won't end it. Fact: He doesn't produce any insulin so has to have it administered several times a day, every day, every week, every year for the rest of his life.

Yes he can eat sugary things if he so wishes (though I don't encourage it), he is a child he still wants treats. My son is a little trooper, he copes, he is brave, he gets on with it. He injects without a care in the world, it's other people that turn their nose up!!

I want people to be educated about this disease, it is a suffering without the addition of other peoples ignorance.

Life is for living and Eddie certainly enjoys it, nothing hampers him. He plays football and has just started boxing!! He can do whatever he wants because he wants too.

I will endeavour to pull out all the stops to raise awareness for everyone that suffers from this silent disease, so watch this space.