“Closeted” Diabetic – Type 1

Hi Everyone! I have had Type 1 for 15 years and while many people know this about me, many do not. If you saw me, you would think I was the picture of good health…I exercise vigorously, dress fashionably and some people say I am very energetic. I am 38 but could probably pass for 32. This is because I am borderline obsessed with nutrition, fitness, taking supplements and living a health lifestyle. I do love sweets and do indulge more than I should at times.

Before I was diagnosed I didn’t realize how lucky I was to have good health and I ate, drank and abused by body. After being diagnosed, I realized I could either feel sorry for myself or make the best of it. For the most part, I have made the best of it.

So, why do I keep this HUGE part of my life secret? There are many reasons. I am afraid of being discriminated against at work, I want to fit in and be treated like everyone else and sometimes it’s simply a matter of not knowing when to bring it up and sometimes I just want to forget about having it.

So, joining this forum is hopefully the first step in me becoming more open about this and letting everyone know you CAN have a full and healthy life w/ diabetes. Being diabetic really has helped me live life to the fullest and appreciate everything I have…don’t get me wrong, I have my down days, sometimes down weeks but I eventually pick myself up and start again.

So, looking forward to joining and learning from you all.