Never let this condition stop you from doing what you want to

I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes on the 5 February 1985 at the mere age of 12, and this was a big change for me.

I had not only started secondary school a year previously, but also had a brace fitted to my teeth and then was told by my GP at the time I had Type 1 diabetes.

This was life changing, and was unsure if I would cope, but as the years went on I began to realise that this was for life and I would learn to survive.

I became a member I Diabetes UK when I was first diagnosed and put an ad in the magazine to try and find a penpal. To my delight I had lots of letters, but selected only one.

The person I selected has remained a very good friend for the last 25/26 years, and this was something positive that came out of something that I found difficult to cope with at the time.

After having this condition for near on 26 years I can honestly say it has NOT stopped me from doing anything, and I enjoy life to the full.

I want to share my story as I am sure there are people out there who may have only been recently diagnosed and want them to know although it is life changing you do learn to adapt and should never let this condition stop you from doing what you want to!