The assumption is that people with diabetes all have the same experience. But, everyone has a unique story — from symptoms to management.
Diverse diabetes journeys
According to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly 40 million Americans have diabetes.[i] But each one’s journey is unique.
From what type you’re diagnosed with — type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes or others — to when in life you were diagnosed. Someone with type 2 diabetes that started at age 50 will walk a different path than someone who’s had type 1 diabetes as long as they remember.
The bottom line: there’s no two people who have the exact same diabetes journey.
Trial and error
When you have diabetes, it’s easy to compare yourself to others. You might ask yourself: They don’t need insulin, so why do I? Why doesn't diet and exercise alone help me manage my blood sugar? Why didn’t the first medication work for me?
Trial and error is all part of the process. Everybody responds differently to lifestyle changes and medicines. What works for one person may not work for you. Work with your care team to find the treatment plan that helps you best manage your blood sugar. Remember, just like journeys, every person’s treatment plan looks a bit different.
Share your journey
Sharing your journey with others can inspire them. It’s helpful to find support and community. But with such diverse stories, it’s important to be kind to others. Share your experiences, your challenges, what works for you. Just try not to judge others. Recognize that their road has its own twists and turns.
Sources
[i] https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/data/statistics-report/index.html
https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/blog/lessons-from-the-diabetes-journey/
https://www.uabmedicine.org/-/a-diabetes-success-story-and-how-to-shape-your-own-journey
The mySugr website does not provide medical or legal advice. mySugr blog articles are not scientific articles, but intended for informational purposes only.
Medical or nutritional information on the mySugr website is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a physician or health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
