CHANGING THE CONVERSATION for People Living With Diabetes
Emery was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) when she was four years old. It was a scary and confusing time for both Emery and her family, even though they were grateful it was caught early before she became very sick. Emery was seeing a specialist for an unrelated medical issue when concerns were raised, leading to blood work, a return visit with her pediatrician, and then an immediate trip to the emergency department.
Emery remembers how hard the hospital stay felt, especially all the pokes and needles. She even had to stay longer so the nurses could help her family learn injections and diabetes care. Like many children diagnosed young, she had to adjust quickly to a new routine that she never asked for.
One of Emery’s biggest daily challenges is how diabetes can interrupt the fun. She does not like having to stop playing or running around when she has low blood sugar. She also finds it hard to wait patiently to eat her favourite foods. Managing frequent insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor changes can be frustrating, especially when devices fail and she needs extra finger pokes.
Even with all of these challenges, Emery believes living with diabetes has made her stronger and braver. She continues to grow in confidence, learning how to manage diabetes while still living life with joy and energy.
Outside of diabetes, Emery is full of curiosity and determination. She is learning Spanish as a second language, and she enjoys gymnastics, swimming, spending time with family and friends, and going to diabetes camp.
Emery has attended D-Camps and would recommend it to other kids living with diabetes. She loves that camp is filled with sports and fun games, and she feels comfortable being around other kids just like her. At camp, she does not have to answer questions about her medical devices, and she feels supported by kind coaches and staff who help with both high and low blood sugar.
Emery is modeling in the Pump Couture Fashion Show to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and support D-Camps. Her message is simple, powerful, and full of heart. It is okay to have diabetes, and it can make you stronger.
#PumpCoutureFashionShow #ChangeTheConversation #StopTheStigma
