Reading Glucose Levels Instead of Pop-Up Books: A Look into Living with Childhood Diabetes

When she was only six years old, Amber grew incredibly ill. She was constantly dizzy, lost fifteen pounds in one week and felt weak. Her parents were confused and terrified. They felt she was likely suffering from the flu and kept her well hydrated. However, when she began having small seizures a few days later they rushed her to the doctor for additional testing. The family expected the worst and had no idea how long it would be for their little one to get better. After an examination and blood work, the doctor made her diagnosis. Amber had juvenile childhood diabetes.

The family immediately broke down emotionally. They had other family members with Type Two adult diabetes but didn't know anyone else with childhood diabetes. Her father remembered his own mother giving herself shots as an adult and cringed at the thought of his own daughter being required to do the same. They weren't sure what changes they'd be forced to make in their lifestyle but they did know changes were eminent. While other six year olds were worrying only about whether or not they could ride a bike with only two wheels, Amber was immediately forced into living with childhood diabetes. She'd be required to have her glucose levels checked multiple times a day and shots would be given accordingly. All parents know the terror children associate with getting shots at the doctor and now Amber was going to be getting multiple shots, everyday, for the rest of her life. Her mother's heart was broken and she was scared for her little girl. After all, all she'd ever wanted was for her children to be healthy and happy. It seemed her daughter was getting ready to take on the most difficult challenge of her life.

However, the family made a plan. They changed the diet of all family members to include more "diabetes-friendly" choices. They created a schedule for checking glucose levels and administering shots. Quickly their biggest fear silently became their everyday routine and things weren't nearly as scary anymore. Amber felt better, was healthier, and in time wasn't even fazed by the pricks and shots! She was a growing girl with a common medical condition. However, she was determined not to let it stop her from doing everything else girls her age did. She rode bikes, played with dolls, and attended sleepovers. Although she was living with childhood diabetes, she was still living!