This week in feature Friday with Nik and River! We are learning about River who is a 3 year living with Type 1 Diabetes, from his mother Nik’s perspective. River and Nik are both warriors and despite the guilt, tough days, and exhausting nights. Diabetes isn’t easy but Nik is learning how to help her child and be his best advocate! I am proud of her and I hope you enjoy hearing from this family as I did.

Diabetes and Autism

River was diagnosed a couple of weeks after his 2^nd Birthday, in moderate DKA, looking back he probably had symptoms for a couple months (which we had no idea about). He was also diagnosed with Autism around his 3^rd birthday. Which can make managing his diabetes more difficult as there is also food sensory issues, as well as a lack of communication and understanding. He now sees an Occupational Therapist and a Speech & Eating Therapist every week.

Diagnosis Story

All summer, River had been drinking a lot of bottles, all he wanted was bottles. He therefore had lots of wet nappies and wet outside most nappies. We tried different brands, we tried everything and he still wet through his nappies. He started loosing weight. I thought initially something might be wrong with his kidneys or something else due to lack of food and increased milk intake. One day, he had a strawberry milk and vomited it up. We thought was odd but had no idea what was really happening.

Also, he started looking sick (we see that now looking back in photos) and was sleeping more and always looked tired. I had two older boys and thought, they never were like this, something doesn’t seem right. So I googled his symptoms one night around 8pm. I typed in one big sentence into search bar “lots of drinking, lots of weeing, vomiting, tired, loosing weight” and the first and only thing that came up was Type 1 Diabetes.

I told my husband, I think River has type 1 diabetes, he basically said no he doesn’t, get off google, if you are worried take him up to ER then. River was peacefully asleep and I didn’t want to wake him when maybe I was just being paranoid. The next morning when River woke, he basically couldn’t get his head off the floor. I was like this is not normal, even when my other boys had been sick with all different illnesses, they never looked like this.

Being a Child’s Advocate 

So I took him up to the Prince Charles childrens ER which is about 10 mins from home. The room was empty and I straight up said to the triage nurse, I want him tested for type 1 diabetes. She looked at him and said “no his mouth is not dry so its not that.” I said , he has a drink constantly in his mouth so of course his mouth isn’t dry which she replied “he would still have a dry mouth.” Anyway as the room was empty, they took us in fairly quickly, did a finger prick and ketones check, walked out the room and the rest is a blur but lots people coming in and out room.

I am fairly sure they said blood was around maybe 38 and ketones around 6 (again it was a blur and my sleep deprived mind has blocked out as much as it can of that traumatic day) and then I remember drs standing around looking sad and said that I was right, he has type 1 diabetes and he is in mild-moderate DKA. He needed to be transferred by ambulance to the ICU at Queensland Children’s Hospital. I like being right, but I never wanted to be right about this.

DKA

The next hour putting 2 drips in one in each arm was the most traumatic thing ever for him (and I). It was very difficult and took over an hour to get them in and 6-8 people to hold him down that entire 1hr. He was so exhausted and his DKA was worsening as they couldn’t administer any fluids or insulin yet. We then spent 2 days in ICU and then I think maybe 4 days in the ward learning the very basics and getting put on a insulin pump. It was pure hell. No sleep, haven’t had that much sleep since either and still have so much to learn.

Note: There was no type 1 in the family, I have an auto-immune disease (hypothyroidism), he did have an infection a few months before diagnosis and also when I started seeing the signs (which I had no idea back then, only know now looking back).

Initial Thoughts

I was upset that I didn’t pick up on the signs sooner or know what the signs even were. Looking back I’m not sure I knew one single thing about type 1 diabetes. It’s sad that it took a google search and insisting at ER for them to check him based on my google search. Another day and he may not have survived. I still carry around a lot of guilt about not knowing the signs sooner and what suffering he went through.

What helps you as the caregiver and your child thrive with diabetes?

Surrounding ourselves with people that are kind, understanding and supportive.

What you wish you knew earlier…

To do your own research and learn as much as you can and to be your childs advocate. Stand up for them, learn as much as you can for them.

Words of Encouragement

This is more so advice, to try find yourself another type 1 parent that you can speak to for support. I have made some great type 1 mum friends who I know I can message (and they can message me) any day or night to ask anything. We can vent about anything, share the wins, share the bad days and the stresses. Having someone that just gets it and a safe supportive environment for each other.

Final Thoughts

Always have a box of ketones strips around! Also, always do ketones test if vomiting, even if its related to gastro or alcohol. Never presume ketones are fine, always check.

Nik and River (Instagram)

Check out last weeks feature HERE!

The post Feature Friday: Nik and River appeared first on Thriving Diabetic.

This week we are learning about a family from Seattle, Washington who lives with diabetes everyday. Judea is a 10 year old boy who loves sports and staying active with his family! He uses a CGM (Dexcom) to help himself and his family monitor his blood sugar throughout the day and night. Through prayers with God, an active lifestyle, and plenty of insulin- this family is thriving. Enjoy their story!

Intro

I am a wife and mother of 4. My passion is to be home with our kids while teaching them to love God and others. I enjoy fitness, food, and gardening. Judea is 10 years old and loves football, soccer, and basketball. He is easygoing and works hard at everything he does.

Diagnosis Story

He was diagnosed with T1D on 2/18/21.

We noticed Judea lost a lot of weight in a couple of weeks (10 lbs to be exact). He was fatigued, emotional, using the bathroom so much, drinking like he was in a desert, taking breaks to walk halfway up the stairs, bothered by his 3 siblings, & struggling to eat. We set up an appointment for the following week for his well-child check that we missed in 2020 due to the pandemic. On Wednesday night my husband looked at me and said, “I think you should call in the morning & get him seen tomorrow.” So I did.

After examining Judea, his pediatrician sent us to Children’s for blood work & a covid test (just to rule it out). We gave the doctor a urine sample before we left for Children’s. My husband called from work, about 45 minutes away, and said he was on his way to the ER to meet us. I was so confused because I was just going to get blood work done. He told me the doctor called him and wants us to go to the ER because Judea’s blood sugar level was so high and there were ketones in his urine.

I took a deep breath to hold it together the best that I could and told him we were on our way. I hung up with my husband and the doctor called. “I’m so sorry that I didn’t catch you before you left the clinic. I wish I could have told you this in person. His urine sample is showing me it is very likely Judea has type 1 diabetes. Please just go straight to the ER to get him stable.” I took even deeper breaths. I have no idea what any of this means, but I gotta get my son to Children’s without losing it. I gotta stay strong so that I don’t worry Judea.

On the way, I told Judea the doctor said he is pretty sure he knows why he hasn’t been feeling well & that he wants us to go to the ER. I told him Daddy is already on his way and that all the doctors and nurses are going to take care of him very well. I’m telling him all this as my eyes are filling up and I’m trying to blink the tears away, so I can get us to Children’s safely. We arrive and immediately amazing doctors, nurses, & social workers are taking care of us with smiles on their faces and eyes & genuine care in their hearts. The doctor confirmed t1d.

Initial Thoughts

After receiving the diagnosis I had no idea what to expect because I didn’t know any families with young children who had it.

Final Thoughts

Denise

If you would like to follow this family you can find them here on Instagram! Recommended posts are from last feature Friday and you can check it out here!

The post Feature Friday: Denise & Judea appeared first on Thriving Diabetic.

(A Type 1 Diabetic Story)

Today we are learning about Jane (age 4) who has been diagnosed with T1D and her beautiful family! The diagnosis story reminded how scary and quickly symptoms can appear and how precious life truly is. Jane’s mom Claire listened to her gut and was able to get her daughter help quickly. I hope this story opens your eyes, teaches you something new or introduces you to a new family.

Introduction

My name is Claire and I am the proud mother of Jane who is four years old. We live in a suburb outside of Kansas City, Missouri with Jane’s dad (Jon) and her two siblings (soon to be three)!

I am an Occupational Therapist in the NICU at the pediatric hospital in Kansas City. I love my career, but my most important job is being “mom”. Jane is the sweetest child you will ever meet, loves to give anyone a compliment, and is her happiest when she is around her family, especially her cousins! She loves legos and crafts….her creativity amazes us! Jane can also be quiet and anxious, especially in new situations. And this year we have also learned of her resilience and bravery, which are qualities that did not shine until diabetes came around.

Diagnosis and Story

Jane has been diagnosed for almost 7 months. She was diagnosed on November 13, 2020. Looking back, there were small changes in Jane three months prior to her diagnosis including difficulty falling asleep, tired, and  more short fused than normal. Through her first few months in preschool, she would cry before going and look like a zombie when we picked her up. Her teacher had said multiple times at pick up “Jane was very tired today!”. I attributed this to anxiety with a new school. We started noticing more apparent changes about 3 weeks before her diagnosis. She was angry often and would say “I cannot calm my brain down”. She would wake up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom more frequently and eventually started having accidents on her way to the potty.

Symptoms

Her most significant symptom and what ultimately led us to the doctor was, the week before diagnosis, she had three “night terror” type fits. She would wake for 2-3 hours overnight, screaming, kicking, biting, and unable to calm herself. It was terrifying and I knew something was wrong. I googled (of course) and convinced myself that there was no way it was diabetes. Then I took her to urgent care on a Friday evening, in the middle of a pandemic, and the doctor told us within minutes that she had type 1 diabetes. I was in shock, we have no family history, and I knew nothing about type 1 diabetes.

We were sent to the ER, at the hospital where I work, and admitted overnight to a general pediatric floor. Jane was not in DKA, we caught it early. I am so thankful I listened to my motherly instincts and ignored anyone who made me feel I was over reacting about her “small” changes. I am also oddly thankful for the weeks leading up to her diagnosis which included both her siblings birthday parties, halloween, and a holiday pop up shop full of sweets. Those clustered, sugar filled, experiences ultimately led to a significant increase in her symptoms which triggered me to take her to the doctor and receive an early diagnosis. The next several weeks were the worst we have ever experienced as a family. We dealt with severe anxiety in Jane, behavioral changes, and lots of restraining to get our injections done. I am happy to say that we have come so far since that time.

Initial Thoughts After Diagnosis

My initial thoughts were shock and debilitating fear. We were in the middle of a pandemic, quarantined from extended family, and I felt very alone and isolated. I honestly didn’t think we would be able to do it.

Explaining Diabetes

We have always been very honest with Jane and tried to explain things correctly and at her cognitive level. I think the first way we explained diabetes while in the hospital was “your body isn’t able to turn your food into energy to keep you strong and healthy so you need shots of medicine  to help” but soon after we started using more medical terms, explaining the function of her pancreas, how insulin works, and how her body is different than someone without type 1 diabetes.

Diabetic Tip/Trick

No matter how well (or not) you feel your child and family are coping, do not be afraid to seek mental health services to support your child and/or yourself! Jane sees a psychologist who specializes in kids with chronic illness and this has been incredibly helpful to both Jane and I. We have been able to work through specific anxiety triggers related to diabetes which not only improved her quality of life, but ours as a family as well. I am looking forward to her psychologist being a resource for us as Jane grows and her world changes.

Thriving with Diabetes!

Teamwork helps our family thrive! Thrive means that we are living our best life and doing the best we can! Although teamwork is not always possible with three small children, we are focused on inclusion to make sure all of our kids feel equally loved and attended to, despite diabetes being a part of our family.

What do you wish someone told you earlier as a caregiver for someone with diabetes?

Even though it feels like your world is crashing in during those first weeks to months, it truly does get easier. And your child will show you strength that you didn’t know they had.

Words of Encouragement and Hope

You are not alone! Find other families that have been through it or are going through it with you. It truly helps with your well being to feel part of a community who supports you and has walked the same path. Ironically, we found our T1D family while in the hospital receiving our diagnosis. Their little girl, the same age as Jane, received her diagnosis the same night, within the same hour! We have been through this together every step of the way and it has been an irreplaceable blessing.

♡ Claire

PS! You can follow Jane’s journey with Type 1 Diabetes on Instagram @JaneAgnes_T1D Please reach out there if you need someone to share experiences with or if you need support from a fellow T1D mom. Although we have come far in the last seven months, we are still learning so much every day and have a lot to conquer!

Recommendations:

-Find this week’s blog post here to learn the 3 things you should know about staying hydrated as a diabetic!

-Check out the 30 Days to Acceptance Journal for new T1D children here on Amazon.

The post Feature Friday ~ Jane and Family! appeared first on Thriving Diabetic.

Do you remember how you felt after being diagnosed with diabetes?

I do, like it was yesterday! I have been reflecting on how I could help newly diagnosed diabetics in our community. The post-diagnosis of a chronic illness is hard for anyone, especially children and their caregivers.

I finally decided on sharing what has helped me because I know it could help others. When I was diagnosed as a T1D, someone gave me a notebook. This notebook was something I wrote in it almost daily! How did it help?It allowed me to process my feelings of an unknown disease that had just taken over my life, and it was therapeutic in many ways.

This 30 day reflection journal for newly diagnosed Type 1 Diabetics will help children: express themselves through writing.

In this journal you will find:

♡weekly reflections

♡guiding questions

♡brain-dump sections

♡affirmation pages

♡to-do list sections

♡weekly emotional check-ins

This diabetes journal is for children and young teens but can be completed with parents too! We all know that being diagnosed with an illness isn’t easy, and I found that journaling helps at any age. This journal can be found on Amazon, CLICK HERE and check it out if you are interested. I appreciate the love, support, and inspiration you all give me.

Before you go- please tag someone (e-mail or IG) who would love this journal and check out the latest thriving diabetic featured yesterday.

Thank you DIA FAM! 

Stephanie

Thriving Diabetic 

The post Diabetes Journal * L I V E * appeared first on Thriving Diabetic.

Today you will meet an amazing little one named Janielle from Arizona. In the blog post you will hear how diabetes has affected her life, as told by her mother Maria Crisol. Her mother is also a warrior, and a wonderful example of a health advocate who is affected by diabetes 24/7. I love that she says, she is Janielle’s “pancreas momanger.” Remember that diabetes affects entire family units- not just the person who is diagnosed.

Describe you and your family!

I am a stay at home mom, 24/7 pancreas momanger, and homeschool teacher… I wear many hats. Married for 21 years to my middle school sweetheart. Mother of 3.Two boys 19,12 and  Janielle 6 years old. Janielle  is a very strong, courageous and lovely little girl. Sometimes she is shy when she meets someone for the first time but she warms up pretty quickly.

How many years has your loved one been diagnosed with diabetes?

Janielle was diagnosed at the age of 11 months on January 18,2016.

Diagnosis Story

The whole family was sick two weeks before Janielle’s diagnosed with the flu. Janielle was the only one who did not get sick. So after two weeks Janielle started having fever being fuzzy and wanted to be held  that  was weird because she hated being carried for long periods of time. My husband had been taking care of her at night since I was staying in the hospital all night helping take care of his mother who was very ill and in a coma. He told me that there was something wrong with Janielle. When I got home I noticed Janielle had a fever and didn’t want to eat. So my husband told me to take her to the doctor but it was a Sunday, I knew the office was closed so I called the emergency number from the office no one called me back, so I took her to Urgent care seeing that the fever would come and go for a short period of time which was weird.

Once I got her seen the doctor said and I quote “She caught something viral just give her tylenol and it should go away in a couple of days” that didn’t sit right with me. Janielle got even more fuzzier and was crying more but it was the way she cried and how she acted that I knew there was something deeper. She was peeing more but I assume I got a bad box of diapers. I even contacted the company Huggies and didn’t think anything more. We hardly got some sleep that night. She would cry and fall right back up. She woke up early the next day and I got her oatmeal ready and she only took one tablespoon of it and she throw up and all over her hair she fainted on me she scared me to death and then she woke up I rush to clean her hair as my husband was trying to get her an appointment at her doctor but no luck. So I took her  back to the urgent care we were the first ones there and I got the same  doctor, but this time I was not having it.

I demanded to get another doctor. She got upset and I didnt care.

Another doctor came in and listened to what I had to say as I was explaining to him , he observed how Janielle was drinking her pedialyte. So he ran some blood work and urine to make sure she didn’t have a UTI. Nurses came to the room to draw blood but they couldn’t find any veins on Janielle. We finally got Janielle urine results back and the doctor told me she was passing glucose through her urine. I went into shock. The first thing that came out of my mouth was she doesn’t drink sweets. I was so uneducated. We were transported by ambulance to Phoenix Children’s Hospital, a group of doctors waiting for Janielle at the door. Nurses started IV lines and withdrawing blood and Janielle went on a diabetes ketoacidosis. Her blood sugars were at 997 she only weighed  20 pounds. We spend one week and half in the hospital learning about type 1 diabetes and how to care for Janielle.

Initial Thoughts (Post Diagnosis)

As a parent I felt like I failed her and I felt guilty and lonely. I was scared, even though I trained and educated on the basics to care for her. Also, afraid to give her insulin because if I gave her too much I could kill her, and if I didn’t… I would kill her too. I struggle a lot after Janielle’s diagnosed for the first year. We didn’t have a pump at the time so we did MID and my insurance didn’t want to cover dexcom. Every time I could check her blood sugars I felt like I was hurting her, she was always high or too low and that got me into depression.

How did you explain diabetes to your child?

Janielle was too young to explain she had diabetes. So all she has known her whole life is life with diabetes and that is normal for her. As she has got older she has asked how she got diabetes and not why. 

Diabetic tip/trick 

A tip is to take long deep breaths and is okay not to get it right the first time or the second. Listening to podcasts(Juice box, diabetes connections, pancreas pals, and mastering diabetes) and reading blogs(type one diabetic-life.com, t1d mod squad.org,). 

Share what the word thrive means to you!

For me, the word thrive is seeing that Janielle talks so confident about her diabetes and is being involved in her care. She is wanting to take responsibilities and knowing how important it is to speak up, not be embarrassed, and to show and explain her gadgets.

What helps you as the caregiver and your child thrive with diabetes?

Listing to other families’ experiences, Listening to juicebox podcasts, reading blogs, reading books. Talking to others t1d parents. Instagram has helped me so much to communicate with others.

What do you wish someone told you earlier as a caregiver for someone with diabetes?

I wish someone would’ve told me it is okay to grief but don’t stay there too long and to not to feel guilty when you need me time. It is okay to ask for help.

What words of encouragement or hope would you give to other families?

It is okay not to get it right the first, second, three, or four times. Everything will come as a second nature after doing it over and over.  You’re not alone, take it day by day take deep breaths. You will achieve normal blood sugars.

Final Thoughts

Let’s continue to share our stories, experience, and failures because there’s always someone needing guidance, our stories, and our journeys that can help impact someone’s life to continue to lift each other up. As parents we can feel burned out and it’s okay. The more we share our stories we  bring more awareness to type 1 diabetes on what symptoms to look for type 1 diabetes our stories can help save a life. Find what works for you and your family.      

Maria Crisol

If you want to learn more from this amazing family visit them on Instagram: @t1dlagata1985

The post Feature Friday: Janielle! appeared first on Thriving Diabetic.

Today I want to share an amazing family with you from Dallas, Texas. Megan is a hard working homeschooling mama of 4 beautiful kids. Her daughter Aviana who is currently 8 years old is a T1D and was diagnosed at the age of 2. She is the sweetheart of the family, loves to make people laugh, and her mother gushes that her daughter has a heart filled of gold! In addition to learning new things, she enjoys playing with nerf guns, video games, and wearing camouflage. Video games are something she enjoys and she aspires to make her own video gaming channel!

I can’t wait to see what the future holds for this amazing child and I hope you enjoy her story. Let me know if you have any take aways from this, we would love to hear from you!

Diagnosed with Diabetes

Aviana has been diagnosed with Type 1 for 6 years now.

Diagnosis Story

Aviana’s diagnosis story is a pretty crazy rollercoaster of emotions.

Aviana had just turned 2 and we starting noticing random things here and there. It started with excessive drinking and frequent urination. We noticed she was wetting through her diapers and leaking in the bed. Then we chalked it up to needing to size up the diapers. Finally, we started noticing a odd fruity smell from her mouth; almost if she ate Fruit Loops. We took her to the doctors after some weight loss and concerns. They had told us it was just a cold and to keep an eye on her. Aviana then started to become super lethargic. She just wanted to sleep all of the time.

We decided to take her to a local hospital where they monitored her for some hours. They came back and said everything was fine but that she had the flu and to keep her hydrated. Another day went by and she was becoming more lethargic. We took her to a different hospital where they monitored her for a few hours. They came back and told me it was hand, foot, and mouth and sent us home with antibiotics.

Another day goes by and Aviana isn’t waking up.

She was so lethargic she wouldn’t even open her eyes. We immediately rushed her to the nearest children’s hospital. I told the front desk and without hesitation they brought her back almost immediately. The first thing the nurse brought into her room was a blood sugar monitor. That moment when they took her BG and signed, I knew something was wrong. That is when we finally got the answers we needed and she was started on an insulin drip. Aviana was in DKA and it scares me to think of the outcome had we waited another day.

I wish my hospitals and doctors were more aware of the signs and symptoms of Type 1 diabetes.

Initial Thoughts

I first was absolutely relieved because we had answers. She was finally getting the help she needed. Then once things started to calm down, the guilt and heartbreak set in. One of my best friends in high was a Type 1; so I knew a little bit about the care. I just wasn’t ready for all that went into the care of a Type 1. There is so much a parent has to learn in order to care for the T1 child. The guilt came from not getting her to a children’s hospital sooner. I felt like I failed her as a mom. Then the heartbreak of her life will never be the same. I never want Aviana to feel like she’s different. The whirlwind on emotions was so crazy at her diagnosis.

Technology

Aviana is currently using the Dexcom G6 and Omnipod dash. They have been lifesavers and I couldn’t recommend enough. The dexcom is the biggest piece of mind that I thank God for everyday. Technology has come so far and I am beyond grateful for it all. Aviana enjoys being tubeless with the omnipod and with that being said she also enjoys not getting a lot of injections. I and Aviana would recommend both devices to anyone starting out in this journey.

Explaining Diabetes

At the time when she was 2, she really didn’t understand. She knew her life was changing but wasn’t sure how long. She knew there would be ouchies everyday, but that was the extent of what she knew at 2. As she has grown we explain a lot more and she understands the importance of her care. She knows she is just like any other kids her age, she just requires a little magic.

Sports and Activity!

Aviana is currently in soccer and absolutely loves it! When she was younger she was in gymnastics for a while too. My advice would be to not be scared of letting your kids play sports. Be open with the coaches and let them know of your child condition, and what it entails. When Aviana was in gymnastics and they would go to the opposite side of the building; I had the coaches take her dexcom. I let them know if it turns red to come and get me right away. They were completely fine with it and carried it in a little bag I gave them. With Aviana’s coach in soccer, I let them know I will come to them to have her pulled from the field if anything is to happen. They are so understanding and won’t hesitate to call a time out if we don’t have enough players. I just want other parents to know not to be scared, and to be open with those around your kids.

What’s T H R I V E mean to you?

Thrive to me means to flourish. Aviana was given this diagnosis that she will have to live with the rest of her life. She thrives every single day and grows every single day too. It’s like this seed that was planted and with the proper care she grows from it.

Despite the diagnosis she was given, Aviana takes it one day at a time and grows stronger and stronger.

Thriving with Diabetes

Letting her be a kid and not letting diabetes stop her. Most are under the impression T1 diabetics can not have sugar. We are here to show and spread awareness that those with T1 can do anything. Spreading awareness and just letting her be like any other child is what helps us thrive. Showing those that although she has diabetes; she can do anything she sets out to do. Education is so important and the support from family and friends is too.

Insulin for ALL

Insulin should not come at a price. We didn’t choose this life willingly, so I don’t believe we should have to pay for a life saving drug. I have seen too many news articles of passings of diabetics because they couldn’t afford insulin. This hurts me knowing people have had to go without or ration because drug companies have overpriced their drug. Insulin is one of the cheapest drugs, yet the markup is unreal. I believe insulin should come at no price to all. We already have to pay so much just for the care alone; insulin shouldn’t be one of those.

Words of Encouragement

I would have to say just take one day at a time.

Some days are going to be harder than the others. Take these days in stride and know no two days are ever going to be the same. The diabetic community is big and such an amazing support system. Don’t be scared to ask for help if you need it. I think it’s important to know that even with a life changing disease, so many people care. Never be scared to reach out, never feel sorry for needing help. There are going to be days where we feel terrible, but don’t give up. Even in the face of darkness, there is a beautiful light. To the parents on T1 kiddos; you all are amazing too! Just know that some days you might feel like a failure, but it doesn’t last. Our kids are thriving and gaining strength because of us. To all the T1’s and T1 parents; you are enough and you all are incredible!

Final Thoughts

Thank you for being an amazing support system. Without you all, I would be lost. Aviana gets to see so many people just like her and that helps her. So thank you for sharing your stories, your accomplishments, and your struggles. Aviana and I are beyond thankful.

Megan

You can find more from this beautiful family on IG at type1aviana !

The post Feature Friday: The Ragan Family! appeared first on Thriving Diabetic.

Today’s “Feature Friday” comes to us from Shelsea and Coral!

Coral was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes on Friday, March 11, 2016 at nearly 16 months of age. Her mom Shelsea has a wonderful diabetic blog which she says is an “honest and practical guide to managing her toddlers T1D.” If you have a young child with diabetes or know someone that does- you should definitely go check it out! 

She was in Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA), a severe and life-threatening diabetes complication where the body has built up high levels of acidic ketones due to the lack of insulin. Coral’s full diagnosis story can be read on the T1D Life blog. (It is emotional and I suggest you grab some tissues!)

The meaning of thrive:

I often say, “strive to thrive!” Make realistic goals and crush them! Life was never easy for me before I met my husband. When Coral was diagnosed with T1d, I was very angry – all I wanted was a simple life for my first born child. She has become fierce, smart, and beautiful.

How this family thrives with diabetes:

Having a realistic approach to managing this chronic life-threatening autoimmune disease.

In the beginning, I wish I knew:

Log all carbs, boluses, and pre-bolus before eating carbs. All carbs affect each T1ds glucose levels differently.

Words of encouragement:

T1d never gets easier. We just get better at managing it.

Initial thoughts:

“Why my child??!! Was it because I couldn’t breastfeed longer than three months (due to mastitis)? F*ck T1d!”

Diabetic tip/trick!

Similar to the 6th question below. Also, *we* give Coral 2oz of protein shake or Lactaid milk or a small piece of milk chocolate before bed if she has .25 – 0.50U IOB to keep her bgs a bit more steady overnight. Learn how to adjust basals on pump and as much as you can quickly. We read a lot of books and medical journals right after Coral was diagnosed. All listed on the Quick Referrals page of my blog.

♡ Shelsea

PS: If you love this family, check out what family we featured last week

The post Feature Friday: The Deng Family & Coral appeared first on Thriving Diabetic.

The post Feature Friday: Catherine and JJ’s Story appeared first on Thriving Diabetic.

Why start a diabetic blog? I have been on the Diabetic Online Community (DOC) for 7 months now, however, I have had diabetes for 21 years! For me, starting a blog feels crazy and heres why… I never enjoyed talking about diabetes growing up, and that didn’t magically change for me as an adult either. In addition, I don’t like pouring my heart out through my writing. Despite these things, I have noticed that there was something missing for the families affected by Type 1 Diabetes. This blog is something that I am doing for others but also for myself. Giving others hope, gives me hope. I hope you feel the same when you share your story too!

What is the purpose of this blog? The purpose is highlighted in my mission and vision statement. The Thriving Diabetic Blog’s aim is to bring hope and support to families who have children with Type 1 Diabetes. The vision is to share stories and information that will help us all thrive as diabetics! You don’t have to be a parent of a T1D to enjoy or participate in the blog, if you yourself has diabetes- I would love to share your story too.

What is involved in a “blog feature” on Thriving Diabetic? I will send you interview questions via e-mail or through Instagram. First, you respond with your answers. Then, you can send a clear photo of you and your child or only you (if you are submitting for yourself). I will do the feature on both this blog and on Instagram. The posting time will be once per week to start.

What can I do if I want to be featured in your blog? Reach out on the contact form here on the website or through Instagram. I check Instagram daily and will respond when your message has been received.

I hope this answers some questions and I can’t wait to begin this amazing journey with you all!

Keep thriving,

Stephanie

Stephanie

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