Today I had the opportunity to interview Charity Serna who has been living with Type 1 diabetes for some time. She enjoys life to the fullest despite her diagnosis and has learned that you need to make sure you have support in some form or another when dealing with diabetes. It can be a difficult journey and road if you feel as if you are alone in your fight.
Through these interviews, we are hoping to ensure that everyone out there knows they are not alone, that there are people just like themselves who wake up on a day to day basis and understand what it’s like to live with this disease. Additionally, we are hoping to raise awareness to a disease that is often times so misunderstood and pushed aside.
First off, what type of diabetes do you have? We have readers with all types, so it’s important to talk about this first.
Type 1.
How were you made aware that you had diabetes? Please share your diagnosis story with our readers.
I had a sore that wasn't healing, so I went to a doctor and was told after a quick finger stick that I was in fact a type 1 diabetic. I was given a script, told I'd be referred and then sent home.
We’re all curious, even if we live the life, everyone is different, what is a typical day like for you?
Same as anyone I suppose add in blood sugar checks, calculating carbs, insulin dosing and dealing with the unexpected changes that come along with dealing with diabetes.
Describe the one scariest moment since your diagnosis.
Waking up after having a seizure due to a low BG was one of the scariest moments I have ever had to deal with.
Living with a chronic illness can be overwhelming, how do you cope with the constant battle of trying to maintain a proper balance with your blood sugars?
I rely on support from others going through the same thing. I also have added an antidepressant into my treatment regime.
If you could give one tip to someone newly diagnosed what would it be?
Reach out to others. It will benefit you greatly to be surrounded by others that know what you are going through.
What is the most challenging aspect to you, in living with diabetes?
Dealing with the unexpected nature of it and trying to always be prepared for anything that comes my way.
What was your reaction when you found out you had diabetes?
Just kind of took it in stride. I have tried to learn as much as possible as I can.
What was hardest for you and your family — emotionally? Or financially?
The insane cost remains a challenge for me.
How often do you have to test your glucose levels?
8-10 times a day generally is how often I test my levels.
What insulins have you used or do you currently use?
Have used Lantus, levemir, humalog, NPH, 70/30. Currently I use Novolog.
What would you like people who have diabetes to know?
You aren't alone but we also all respond differently what works for one doesn't always work for everyone.
Further reading:
- How Much Should I Eat Daily To Control My Blood Sugar Levels With Diabetes?
- What I've Learned from the DOC (Diabetes Online Community)
- Controlling Type 2 Diabetes Through Diet - Expert's Panel
- 13 Tips to Help You Step off the Diet/Riot Roller Coaster
- Lions, test strips, and Tanzania, oh my!: Elisabeth Fraser Talks Type 1
Who do you get support from? Who treats you?
Self, CDE and doctor.
Let’s conclude on a positive note. I know it can be difficult to find the light at the end of the tunnel, but if you thought really hard, what is one positive thing that diabetes has brought to your life?
Pushed me to be better and I've met some amazing people.
Thanks for that interview and all that insight. If you have any comments or questions on the interview post them below.
TheDiabetesCouncil Article | Reviewed by Dr. Sergii Vasyliuk MD on June 03, 2020