Marc

Marc, Age 14, California, diagnosed in 2012 (age 10), Omnipod user

Describe the day you were diagnosed.

I was on the Trialnet study so I didn’t have any symptoms on the day I was diagnosed. My parents called me downstairs and told me that I could be diagnosed with diabetes and that I’ll have to lay off unhealthy food for a while in order to give my pancreas a rest. They did this politely of course. A few days later, the doctor called from UCSF (where the study took place) and said that my blood sugar had been 387 when it should have been normal. He diagnosed me with T1D. Luckily, I knew a lot about it because 1, my mom was a nurse, and 2, my twin sister had been diagnosed with T1D at age 2. I was on shots for a year until I went to OmniPod.

What annoys you about diabetes?

Having to change my pod every 3 days and having to weigh and calculate bonus for food (I never use bolus calculator on pump; I find it unreliable).

What do you like about diabetes?

I am more aware of my health. Also, being very knowledgeable about diabetes, I can help others with their diabetes. Also, I get to go to diabetes camp 🙂

How has diabetes changed you?

I have become much more responsible in that I don’t eat as much junk food and I have to dedicate a lot of my time to it.

Describe a time where diabetes made you cry and/or laugh.

I went to a party by myself and I had a 199 carb meal. My BG number was also 220 before the meal. My bolus ended up being 24.5! I laughed when I checked 3 hours later and my number was 125 (my target)!

What has been your highest blood glucose reading?

760

What has been your lowest blood glucose reading?

14

Describe a time when you used diabetes in your favor.

Not sure if I have ever used it in my favor, but I always eat the healthiest at get-togethers!

What are your fears about your future with diabetes?

I’m not scared of my diabetes. I know that I can’t get rid of it, and I’ll have to embrace it!

I’m a diabetic and…

I am a roller coaster enthusiast! I always carry 4 glucose tabs in my zippered pockets when I ride! I also play basketball!

What advice would you give newly diagnosed diabetics?

Don’t feel sorry for yourself. It will just make you miserable. You can’t get rid of your diabetes, and you’ll have to embrace it and treat your body right!