Either tell us what you'd most like to see change about diabetes, in any way. This can be management tools, devices, medications, people's perceptions, your own feelings – anything at all that you feel could use changing. OR reflect back on some changes you or your loved one has seen or been through since being diagnosed with diabetes. Were they expected or did they surprise you?
Sorry for the delay. I’ve been having a rough week..
In terms of changes, I think one thing that needs changing is the availability of diabetes management tools. Diabetes is one of the most costly diseases to live with and nobody really understands that. Test strips are almost a dollar a piece. Insulin can cost upward to over $200 a vial. This is insane. There are so many diabetics out that that STRUGGLE to get these vital items. This is necessary for LIFE. I also think it’s ridiculous that pumps are so costly. I understand that they are medical devices, but I think it would be so beneficial if everybody had access to these wonderful devices. It can help people better manage their diabetes is the traditional methods aren’t working.
I really think that change needs to happen both in and out of the diabetic community. Type 1s vs Type 2s. There are other kinds that we are leaving out. We are all fighting a battle, and although it’s not necessarily the same, I think we all deserve support. There are so many misconceptions out there so I think that the public needs to be more educated in general. Type 2s don’t cause their diabetes. There’s so much shame and stigma around both types of diabetes; this really needs to change.
I’m also going to reflect on what’s happened to me since being diagnosed. I’m more open to this community and the stigma around it. I think it’s important that we address these issues.
Personally, my immediate family worries a lot more about me now. My parents aren’t the worrying type, but I see their concern before every endo appointment I go to. My more extended family (cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, etc) treat me like a brittle and broken person. They see my pump or shots and they have so much pity in their eyes, it’s seeping everywhere. They never pitied me before but now everytime I see them, they feel sorry for me. I understand where they are coming from, but I think it’s just because they aren’t educated enough on it. This was definitely not expected for me. Maybe it’s because of my culture, but I’m not used to it. And it’s weird for me. I still love them though, but get-togethers are a little bit strange for me now. I have to count carbs and everybody’s concerned for me.
It’s my life. There are changes that need to be done. I’m trying my very best to do what I can. I educate people when I can. The cost of diabetes supplies...well there’s not much I can do about that. I wish I could. I’m a college student with super limited funds so I don’t think I’ll be able to do much ‘til I’m a little older and have an actual income.