How #diabetes changed me for the better, Georgia’s blog
So, I totally forgot on Friday until Mum reminded me that it had been 6 years since I got diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. I can’t believe it has been that long already. It has been a big journey, with some ups and downs but many positives.
I did a standard Facebook status honouring my D Day which read:
“Six years ago today I got diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, I can still remember the exact emotions running through my mind on that night.”
I just want to thank everyone who has been there for me, they know who they are. Those who have come on ‘Walk to Cure’s’, donated, helped raise awareness, those who have asked questions and wanted to get a better understanding of it all and those who have been through it and can relate.
Mostly I want to thank my parents who have made everything easier; I honestly don’t know what I would do without them or where I would be. They have been my angels who have helped me believe I could do anything and that nothing (especially this) could stop me from living out my dreams. I have travelled to destinations I have dreamed of, been on a Safari tour and went White Water Rafting in South Africa. So as my favourite role model Audrey Hepburn says, “Nothing is impossible, the word itself says ‘I’m possible’!”
I’m not one to post the details of my private life often, but at that moment, I was proud.
Proud of how I have accepted this change, proud of how I have dealt with everything and proud of the person I am today. And although there are times I wish I never had this, I know I wouldn’t be the type of person I am today – someone I am proud of.
I’m the type of person who when told ‘you can’t’ it makes me want to do whatever that is even more. My mum was worried sick when Dad and I went to South Africa and if you read my blog posts from that trip she had very good reason to be. She knew I was in safe hands, but having diabetes does require control and preparation.
My dad is a builder and he is currently renovating our river property. I was admiring all the work that has gone into it, it’s been thought out and executed with precision and I was amazed. My dad said ‘with building you always need to be a step ahead’. I guess it is the same with Diabetes. Like our trip to Africa required a lot of background planning, checking up on places because I am Gluten Free too, and packing enough supplies to make sure our backup had backup for those ‘just in case’ emergencies.
Diabetes is a daily job. Before I start my day I check my blood sugar levels which determines the sort of ‘diabetes’ day I am going to have. It determines what I can have for breakfast and so on. It’s all about planning ahead, and I am proud of every person out there living with diabetes, because it isn’t always easy, but you make it work and have to live your life how you want to. Just like building a house you design it to your needs.
Diabetes has for sure changed me, the way I view the world and what I want out of life. I was highly ambitions before, I guess I always have been but now I have the confidence to go with it. I’ve learnt nothing is certain and you have to go for what you want, because before you know it the moment passes and you’re left drawing up another blueprint.
Although I have been on many planes, and many trips, this weekend I am going to Melbourne for the first time with a friend, without my parents. Although I organised all the airfares in Africa this is different. This is a big independent step for me and I am really excited. Of course, I am going with a great friend who has been one that has always been there for me, so I have no worries at all.
I will be sure to let you know how the trip went, hopefully no dramas, just some funny memories.
Until next time,
The daughter of a builder – Georgia
