3 year diaversary

I remember when I was first diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, I was really naive. I never understood the severity of the situation, and I never understood why my mum was in tears. I never understood that I would be controlling and self-dosing a potentially lethal drug. I never understood the implications that it would have on exercise, eating and on future jobs.

Now I'm 3 years in, and I fully understand everything having Type 1 Diabetes entails. Although I have only had diabetes for 3 years, I feel like I have had it for much longer. I can barely remember what it is like to not have to calculate a dose of insulin before my meal, to not have to plan every move I make. I don't remember being able to be spontaneous. I now understand the stress my body is put under, but also the mental effects having a long term condition can have.


There have been many downs along the way. My first hypo. My first HI (blood sugar too high to register on a meter). My first hypo seizure. The first time I ripped out my cannula on a door handle. Having to cancel my expedition to Morocco due to diabetes. Having to rethink my plans to study nursing because of diabetes. There will be many more downs to come, I'm sure.

Blood glucose reading too high for meter to read

Type 1 Diabetes has also given me a lot of opportunities. I have met some of my best friends because of the common factor of diabetes. I have got to volunteer with diabetes Scotland and been nominated for awards because I have diabetes. I am so thankful that I have been lucky enough to be given these opportunities. Diabetes UK have done a lot for me.

The meetings, camps and conferences that are diabetes related have been amazing. I have met so many wonderful and inspirational  people. The people with diabetes conference was amazing because it introduced me to so many different types of people. The Diabetes UK care events were amazing because everything was relatable. It's these things that makes having Type 1 Diabetes tolerable.

Lydia, Grant, Ellie and I at the people with diabetes conference

Me and the girls at Diabetes UK care event in Centre Parcs

A diaversary is a diabetes anniversary. 3 years to this day I was in the doctors getting told I had to get to the hospital as quickly as possible. 3 years ago today, my whole life changed and I never knew it. I would tell people about my diagnosis and they wouldn't believe me at first. Everyone believes me now.

I have had a rough 3 years. Here's hoping things get easier from here!

Until next time

Alyssa x