EmpowHer is a rich source of information and inspiration for female readers. As the Diabetes Coach, I guide those living with diabetes to make informed decisions to improve their lives.
Through EmpowHer, I want to reach out to women struggling with diabetes. I’ll share my story through the eyes of a woman, not just through the eyes of a Type 1.
I hope you are able to gain strength, perspective and encouragement.
I was diagnosed at 12 years old. Despite my family’s valiant efforts to find support groups for me in my hometown, there were few at that time. My mother found places where I could meet others with diabetes and share normalcy, struggles and victories.
With the help of my medical team and others I trusted, I have successfully navigated the stages of life with diabetes.
As a girl, managing puberty, blood sugar levels, diet and medication was difficult. It was challenging finding balance as my body struggled to find hormone control.
If your daughter is going through this change, I urge you to find a doctor sensitive enough to understand the roller coaster of this phase. Insulin needs fluctuate during monthly cycles. Diabetics now have different insulin regimens for these times.
In college I struggled to maintain a schedule while trying to eat, keep up with class schedules, sleep and exercise. It was difficult but it can be done with planning.
It is vital a young adult has support. If you or your child is living with diabetes in college, be patient and never give up.
During my dating years, marriage, preparing for a high-risk pregnancy and childbirth, and going back into the workforce, each stage came with its own frustrations and fluctuations as a T1 woman. There were many struggles along the way but I didn’t give up.
Over the next weeks, I welcome your feedback, questions, and insight on living with diabetes. I look forward to sharing with you ways I have helped women, children and their families take control of their diabetes.
From your home life, professional life to your sex life, I’ll share what’s worked for me and other women living with diabetes. We’ll cover pregnancy, childbearing, travel and tips for staying healthy and fit both mentally and physically.
I look forward to being your “coach” even when you want to give up. In the game of life, there are “ups and downs” just like diabetes. Our job is to be in control of it.
By Marianne Tetlow “The Diabetes Coach”
Helping you move forward while managing the ups and downs.
The Diabetes Coach is a comprehensive resource and consulting group for individuals or families with a loved one dealing with diabetes. http://www.diabeteslifestylecoach.com/
Edited by Jody Smith