I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes (GDM) in 1984, at the age of 24, with my first pregnancy. It was actually the beginning of my journey with type 1 diabetes and I was devastated and afraid for my future. I had been practicing as an RN for three years and had worked with many people who had diabetes. After diagnosis, I realized that I never fully understood what having diabetes meant and the many challenges that were involved. Being diagnosed with diabetes gave me a new perspective. I recognized how I previously made judgements without really knowing the story.
At the age of 19, I was diagnosed with diabetes. At the time, I didn’t fully understand what that diagnosis would mean for my future. I thought it was something that I could manage easily, something that wouldn't have a significant impact on my life. But as the years went by, I began to realize just how serious diabetes can be if not carefully monitored and managed.
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