Both of my parents had type 2 diabetes and they are no longer with us. Native people are also most likely to have some form of diabetes, just like myself as a Navajo/Diné.
After having COVID-19, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in the beginning of August 2020 by Village clinic here. It was bit hard to share with my family. My older brother encouraged me to get my A1C to 5. He instructed me on finding ways virtually, since the Village clinic had less to share at that time. My journey is unbelievable, but it can be done.
Following my third episode of pancreatitis, doctors spotted a very large cyst on my pancreas. Further examination showed I was at high-risk for pancreatic cancer. On March 21, 2025, I underwent a total pancreatectomy. During the eight-hour surgery, doctors removed my pancreas, spleen, and gallbladder.
As a result, I immediately became a type 1 diabetic. I'm now wearing a continuous glucose monitor and insulin pump, plus taking digestive enzymes (Creon) before, during, and after each meal. Aside from carb counting, a CGM, insulin pump, and Creon...NOTHING has changed.
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