November marks American Diabetes Month, a month to recognize and support the millions of people who live every day with diabetes. The goal of this month is to encourage educating oneself, raising awareness and to celebrate the strength of the people who have to manage their condition daily.
There are 2 different types of diabetes most widely celebrated this month of Nov; Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes constantly affect the lives of millions of Americans.
Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. For people with Type 1, insulin must be taken every day because their bodies cannot make enough on their own. Although there is no known cure, advances in insulin pumps and glucose monitors have made the management of Type 1 Diabetes much more efficient and simple.
Type 2 Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body either cannot make enough insulin or does not use insulin properly. Type 2 is, however, easier to manage; with diet, exercise and medication often providing more than enough treatment. However, if it’s not properly monitored, it can lead to serious health complications.
It is important to understand that people of all ages, lifestyles, diets and backgrounds can be affected by diabetes. Managing blood sugar levels, prepping for erratic highs and exhausting lows can all be draining for a person who has diabetes. Many diabetics describe feeling isolated and misunderstood, especially in situations where people might not fully understand their lifestyle.
However, support and being educated can make a difference for diabetics. By learning how diabetes works and how to uplift those who have it, friends, family and classmates can help make their environments feel safer and more inclusive.
Aliso Niguel High School student Eve Meyers (11) has had Type 1 diabetes for almost seven years. Over these years, she’s found that diabetes has made her more “confident, strong, independent and proud of who I am.”
In the past couple of months, she created a TikTok account named @evewitht1d. On this account, she posts insulin pump and Dexcom changes, what she eats, educational videos, unboxing supplies and days in her life.
She’s formed a following of fellow diabetics and friends, and through this account, every day she hopes that people take inspiration and can relate to her dealing with her diagnosis.
Meyers says, “It’s important to spread positivity and awareness to let people know everything will be okay.”
As places across the country celebrate this month, the overall message remains the same: diabetes does not define a person, but it reveals their strength and determination.
In recognition of American Diabetes Month, Meyers encourages everyone to take time to learn more about the condition and urges people to support diabetics.
Meyers says, “Let’s take this month to inform people how much diabetes can be something that makes us stronger, not weaker, we diabetics are capable of anything we put our minds to.”
