Michelle

Sometimes it feels like a curse...

Hi, I'm Michelle. I am just about to turn 18, and I have had Type 1 diabetes since I was four years old. My sister, who is two years younger than me, also has Type 1.

I wanted to tell my story after reading some of the other ones on here.

Some days, being diabetic feels like a curse: nobody wants to have to inject themself everyday. I hated being diabetic and rebelled against it a few years ago, and I'm already starting to see the damage I have done to my body. I have had to start wearing glasses, and I've been catching colds left, right and centre because my immune system has had to fight agaisnt me destroying it. I have earned my fair share of hospital visits and been hooked to numerous drips.

It's not uncommon

I know some of you will be disgusted by the way I have treated myself, but it's not uncommon, and if it wasn't for my doctor reading me some of the stories on here, I would be in a very bad place right now. Since I read these stories I have turned my life arround, and I have a normal life!

I may have to take my blood sugar levals and inject myself but my friends are supportive and find it fastinating. I used to think having diabetes was something to be ashamed of, but then my friends told me they thought it was amazing that I could inject myself. I realised that other people do find it weird to start with, but it's human nature to feel uncomfortable arround things that aren't a part of your daily life. Once you accept yourself other people will accept you.

I don't see it as a curse any more

I dont see having diabetes as a curse any more, I see it as being something that makes me more unique. I don't feel the need to hide who I am any more. I am now working as an administrative trainee for a well-respected company and my life is fantastic!

Hope my story helps people like me.

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