Diabetes Can't Stop Me

Hi everyone! Lately I have been busy helping out with younger kids with diabetes. Recently I went to the American Diabetes Association's Family Hole in One Day, which is part of the Family Link program. It is a great way to meet other parents and children that are going through the same things. We have all been there, experienced that, but it is a great support system for those that are recently diagnosed to parents that have diabetes as well. I went to a miniature golf course with the kids and was able to hang out with them. It was just a fun activity to do with these young kids with diabetes and with their siblings as well. The fun doesn't stop once you get diagnosed- you can do the same things as every/any other child out there. I remember talking to one of the young girls in my golf group and she told me, "Sometimes in my sleep I dream about being normal." I promise you are not alone, at some point every single person with diabetes feels the exact same thing and has the exact same thought as well. Just because you have diabetes does not mean you do not have a normal life. You are just like every other kid out there, but as I like to say, even more special.

I've recently joined the Chain Reaction team/club this year. I volunteered as the leader. I like helping people out when they need it most. I think it's really cool for kids any age to help out in their community or for people their age as well. Me and my team are thinking about have a Walk/Run for Diabetes this year. I'm really excited to put it together and see how any participants I have. I also can't wait to see how much support I will have while doing this project!

I am currently in school basketball and travel softball. I have had some other team coaches come up to me saying how proud they are of me playing sports with diabetes. And I don't even know them. After one of my basketball games, a coach came up to my coach saying how impressed she is as how active I am with diabetes. What helps me keep going is my mentality. If you don't let diabetes stop you from playing sports and accomplishing your goals then you are unstoppable. Anything is possible. You may not think its a big deal to go out there and play sports with diabetes. It doesn't even have to be sports, it could be any club or activity. Just knowing that you won't let diabetes stop you from doing what you like to do best feels amazing. Other people will notice it as well and will just as proud of you as you are to yourself. Remember if you've not been inspired by someone else, you always have that one person that you inspire. You never know who's watching you or looking up to you. Diabetes is a major impact in life but it makes you stronger and who you are today and in the future. Don't let diabetes stop you from accomplishing your goals and biggest dreams. Let it push you to work harder, and one day all your effort will pay off.