CHANGING THE CONVERSATION for People Living With Diabetes
Ashton was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at a young age, and the experience was frightening and overwhelming. At the time of diagnosis, he knew nothing about diabetes and did not know anyone else who lived with it. His childhood slowed down as he learned to manage his condition, and even brief pauses to check blood sugar or take insulin felt isolating. Sitting still for even 15 seconds often felt like being left out while other kids kept going.
Managing diabetes has been physically and mentally demanding. Rotating pump and Dexcom sites, dealing with device failures, and managing multiple technologies at once takes a toll. There are days when Ashton does not feel well, and it can be difficult when others assume he is exaggerating or faking how he feels. Living with an invisible illness has taught him that not everyone will understand, and that he does not owe anyone an explanation.
One moment left a lasting impact on Ashton. When he was around seven or eight years old, he woke up and began eating breakfast before school. Suddenly, he dropped his bowl of cereal. At first, it seemed like he just needed to wake up, but after treating the low and checking his blood sugar, it was 1.2. From that moment on, he understood how quickly diabetes can become serious.
These experiences shaped Ashton’s outlook on life. He tries to live life to the fullest, knowing there are no guarantees when living with diabetes. That perspective drives his goal of becoming the first doctor in his family.
Attending D-Camps had a powerful impact on Ashton. Coming from a small town, meeting other kids with diabetes helped him feel less alone and changed his perspective. He would strongly recommend diabetes camp to other kids navigating their diagnosis.
Ashton is modeling in the Pump Couture Fashion Show to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and show that diabetes does not define limits.
#PumpCoutureFashionShow #ChangeTheConversation #StopTheStigma
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