CHANGING THE CONVERSATION for People Living With Diabetes
Cailyn was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at four and a half years old, which means she does not remember life without it. One of the biggest changes for her was realizing she could no longer eat what she wanted, when she wanted. Every meal became something that required measuring, planning, and careful decision-making. Early in her journey, Cailyn began using a continuous glucose monitor, and later an insulin pump, which helped make diabetes management more manageable. Even so, medical device changes and site changes continue to be frustrating, especially with how active she is.
Cailyn’s daily challenges are deeply connected to her busy lifestyle. She plays high-level soccer and volleyball and trains often. Staying in range during sports means planning meals and insulin carefully so she does not go too low or too high. She does not like missing any time on the field or court, and diabetes sometimes requires interruptions for treatment.
Social situations can also be challenging. Cailyn also lives with celiac disease, which means she needs gluten-free options. Birthday parties, holidays, and food-centered gatherings often require extra planning. She has never had a sleepover at someone else’s house, and independence can be difficult when diabetes requires constant monitoring.
Living with T1D has made Cailyn stronger and has helped her become a confident self-advocate. She has grown up fast, navigating appointments, treatments, and responsibilities that never take a day off. She channels that resilience into her sports and her determination to pursue her goals.
Outside of diabetes, Cailyn loves training and competing. She has won awards in soccer and captained her club volleyball team to a provincial championship title. She also loves traveling and exploring new places, even though travel requires extra planning with diabetes. She has visited multiple countries and cities, and she is proud that diabetes has never stopped her from experiencing the world. Cailyn also adores Jellycats and loves adding to her collection.
Cailyn attended D-Camps and loved the activities, including Gaga ball and rope climbing. Meeting other kids and counselors living with diabetes made her feel supported, and she would recommend camp to others.
Cailyn is modeling in the Pump Couture Fashion Show to raise awareness for kids like her and to show that diabetes will not hold her back. She believes diabetes is part of you, but it does not define you.
#PumpCoutureFashionShow #ChangeTheConversation #StopTheStigma
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