Yesterday I heard news from some dear friends that their son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Although I can't imagine how they are feeling or thinking, I know they are strong Christians, educating themselves and have a huge support system to guide them in this process. By sharing this information, I hope to give some facts and HOPE about this disease.
From the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation:
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease in which a person's
pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone that enables people to get energy
from food. It occurs when the body's immune system
attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, called beta
cells. While its causes are not yet
entirely understood, scientists believe that both genetic factors and
environmental triggers are involved. Its
onset has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle. There is nothing you can do to
prevent T1D, and-at present-nothing you can do to get rid of it.
Affects Children and Adults
Type 1 diabetes strikes both children and adults at any age. It
comes on suddenly, causes dependence on injected or pumped insulin for life,
and carries the constant threat of devastating complications.
Needs Constant Attention
Living with T1D is a constant challenge. People with the disease
must carefully balance insulin doses (either by injections multiple times a day
or continuous infusion through a pump) with eating and daily activities
throughout the day and night. They must
also test their blood sugar by pricking their fingers for blood six or more
times a day. Despite this constant
attention, people with T1D still run the risk of dangerous high or low blood
sugar levels, both of which can be life-threatening. People with T1D overcome these challenges on
a daily basis.
Not Cured By Insulin
While insulin injections or infusion allow a person with T1D to
stay alive, they do not cure the disease, nor do they necessarily prevent the
possibility of the disease's serious effects, which may include: kidney failure, blindness, nerve damage,
amputations, heart attack, stroke, and pregnancy complications.
Statistics
-
As many as three million Americans may have type 1 diabetes. 1
-
Each year, more than 15,000 children and 15,000 adults -
approximately 80 people per day - are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in the
U.S.2
- 85 percent of
people living with type 1 diabetes are adults.3
- The rate of type 1
diabetes incidence among children under the age of 14 is estimated to increase
by 3% annually worldwide. 4
Warning Signs
Warning signs of T1D may occur suddenly and include:
- Extreme thirst
- Frequent urination
- Drowsiness or lethargy
- Increased appetite
- Sudden weight loss
- Sudden vision changes
- Sugar in the urine
- Fruity odor on the breath
- Heavy or labored breathing
- Stupor
or unconsciousness
"So God has a way of preparing us parents. We don't know when where or why but he does. Dalton was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes yesterday. Day 1 education underway. Dalton is handling it like a pro with a great sense of humor that is keeping all of us on our toes. We're thankful knowing we have excellent resources with in our reach & very supportive family to go along this journey with us. The 'normal' road ahead is the direction we will go!! We appreciate your prayers for us all to have the listening ears so we may continue to provide for a healthy & active lifestyle for Dalton & our family.
Today we are very appreciative for Dalton's teacher letting us know of his changes in his routine at school. That was a major piece encouraging us get further medical advice." ~Heather
This is just a "bump" in this special boy's life. He is a fighter and will take this challenge on! GO Dalton!!
HOLY HUGS,
~Deb
