Today marks twenty years of living with Type 1 Diabetes.
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| My 10th birthday, about two weeks before diagnosis. |
Twenty years is a long time (see also: holy crap, I'm old). Twenty years of finger sticks, insulin shots, and pump sets. Low and high blood sugars. Quarterly trips to the endo.
It's difficult to describe or quantify. As today approached, I tried not to think about it too much. Twenty years with T1D is a milestone, but I wasn't quite sure how I felt about it. Last night, I had a bit of a pity party. The never ending-ness of all of it got to me. Josh was there to encourage me, as he always is. I texted my mom and she too helped me refocus on the important things. As did some DOC friends who responded to a tweet.
Yes, twenty years is a long time. But I'm still here, still alive, living my life. Between my husband, my family, and the DOC, it was nearly impossible to be in a bad mood today. You all have helped me focus on the positive. On the things that matter. So thanks for that. I love you all.
Mark this diaversary as a powerful moment, Jess. And remember that you're the powerful one, not D. Much love to you.
ReplyDeleteJess -
ReplyDeleteYou are alive and you are magnificent & I am so proud and honored to call you my friend.
Celebrate the fabulousity that is you today, your diaversary and everyday after - And continue to be and become.
Xoxo
Its always uplifting when someone from the DOC replys to a tweet; because its the understanding and love behind it. That's what makes the DOC special. Your an inspiration to me because you seem to have the same personality that my older daughter of the 2 dkids. Seeing you overcome T1 gives me a glimps seeing her doing the same thing. Maybe that sounds weird but I do appreciate
ReplyDeleteyou sharing your story. Thank you from a d-dad!
Rock on Sistah! I meant what I said last night... Congrats on fighting the fight and living life. You ARE doing it! xoxo
ReplyDeleteYou are such a diabadass, Jess. You have helped me numerous times over the last couple of years - to either see something in a different way, or feel better about myself and how to (keep on) deal(ing) with d. I SO appreciate your honesty, your kind heart and your presence in the #DOC. And I'm honored to know you. Here's to knowing each other another 50 years, and to the years getting easier, not harder, to bear. Love you.
ReplyDeleteHappy diaversary to you!!! As each year ticks off, I find my emotions become more mixed too. I think it's okay to feel some sadness and exhaustion along with our pride of accomplishment and recognition of all the good things. Big hugs!!
ReplyDeleteHappy Diaversary! Thank you for writing about it, even though it feels weird to celebrate. We all feel that weirdness as diaversaries come and go. I second what Karen said above. I hope diabetes treats you well today. You deserve it.
ReplyDeleteHappy 20th! Thank you for being such a bright spark in my life.
ReplyDeleteYou inspire me.
ReplyDelete20 years-- Definitely worth a pat on the back (or two). Revel in the triumph that you're living a good life, and you're here for those who care about you. Happy Diaversary.
ReplyDeleteHope you had a smiley, happy 20th!
ReplyDeleteAnd no, you are not old.
And yes, you really are quite amazing!
Awesome milestone of continued awesomeness for an awesome person!
ReplyDeleteI'm sad I missed your anniversary, and sad you were overwhelmed about it, my D-twinsie. Belated hugs, belated cheers for the milestone, and a giant high-five for keepin' on despite the endlessness.
ReplyDeletexoxo