November is the month that brings millions of people from all around the world together, bringing more awareness to diabetes. People gather to fundraise and show support. Most people don’t realize the challenges and struggles that those with diabetes face on a daily basis, and they are trying to change that.
There are two different types of diabetes that often get mixed up: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 is when your insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas get destroyed. As a result your body stops creating insulin. This leads to the following: insulin deficiency, high blood sugar levels, and other complications. Type 2 is when your body still produces insulin, though it is not enough, as your body has become resistant to it. The effects are the same as Type 1, although skin irritation, increased infections, and excessive hunger can occur as well. Approximately 1.45 million people who live in the United States have Type 1, and 36.95 having Type 2.
Elizabeth Twigg, an alumni of Carolina Forest, shared, “I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when I was three-years-old. I don’t really remember life without being a diabetic! Growing up I thought this was the worst possible thing to happen to me. It has definitely had its challenges. As I’ve gotten older and learned more about it and truly understanding my condition, I’m so thankful to still live an amazing and eventful life! Being a diabetic might slow me down here and there, but it won’t stop me.”
Being a diabetic might make things harder at times, though there are a few different ways Type 1 diabetics can manage and monitor their blood sugar levels to stay safe. One way is through the use of a Dexcom, or CGM monitor, that helps to alert a diabetic if their blood sugar levels are too high or low. If they find their levels to be on the higher side, a diabetic may use a pump, a tool used to administer insulin, to bring their levels to a safer range. However, not everyone uses an insulin pump, as some would rather distribute insulin through shots. While some Type 2 diabetics may use a GCM monitor sometimes, most typically take medication or make lifestyle adjustments, such as exercising and dieting, to improve their health.
Mariah Baker, a type 1 diabetic at Carolina Forest, said, “I manage my condition everyday by pricking my finger and checking my blood sugar with a machine. I have to check carbs and everything, then give insulin through the machine before eating. I have to do this everyday and then change the machine every three days. It affects everything that I do. Since my diabetes has me monitoring my sugar, I sometimes can’t do things if my sugar levels are either too high or low.”
All diabetics have high or low blood sugars, which causes them to experience changes within their personality and mood. Low sugar may result in confusion, dizziness, anxiety, poor coordination, and drowsiness. High sugar may result in headaches, blurry vision, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. All of these plus more are symptoms diabetics must deal with on a daily basis, as changes in sugar levels occur frequently.
“Sometimes I can’t practice in gym class due to my low blood sugar, along with my high blood sugar. I get super dizzy and angry, which isn’t a good thing,” shared Baker.
Balance is very important when someone has a condition like diabetes. It can be hard for them to maintain their blood-sugar at a level that is neither high or low, though there are a few things that can be done to keep your sugar levels from constantly going up and down. Eating healthy and watching your sugar intake is one of these things; most people don’t realize that even though they have the ability to administer insulin they must still be careful of what foods they are eating. By adjusting their diet to be healthier they can better control their sugar levels. This goes for both Type 1 and 2.
All of these things that diabetics must go through and deal with, many people being unaware, is the reason why so many people come together to support them, as well as fundraise. Throughout this month awareness campaigns will be held, as well as, local walks, fundraising events, and insightful social media posts. People also wear blue throughout the month to show their support!
There are also many events held in South Carolina! One of these is an Diabetes Free SC Annual meeting, where people gather to talk about prevention, intervention, and community strategies. This is held in Columbia, SC on November 14. Here in Myrtle Beach, the Sky Wheel will be lit up in blue and grey to show awareness all throughout November!
Throughout this month, countless people will continue to spread awareness to diabetes! It is important to make sure that diabetics know that others are aware of what they go through and are even willing to help them get through hard times. It is not easy for someone to manage a condition all by themselves, so it is good to show support when you are able to!
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