Witnessing my daughter’s resilience through a chronic disease gave me strength I never knew I had
Motherhood is one of life’s most profound journeys, filled with moments of joy, love, and growth. For me, that journey took an unexpected and challenging turn when my daughter, Violet, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just 11-months old. Now three-years old, Violet continues to amaze me with her resilience and determination, even as our family navigates the complexities of managing her condition.
Violet’s type 1 diabetes diagnosis was a shock. Suddenly, I wasn’t just Violet’s mother, I was taking on a new role as carer. For the second time in less than a year, I was thrown into a new world I knew nothing about. However, unlike having a new baby, I had no time to prepare for Violet’s diagnosis and had to rapidly learn the skills to take on this latest challenge. While Violet doesn’t yet fully understand how her life differs from others, the day-to-day management of type 1 diabetes significantly impacts her and our family’s routine. At an age when most children are exploring the world with carefree abandon, Violet is learning to live with devices that monitor and manage her glucose levels. From continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) to insulin pumps, these tools have become an integral part of our lives.
Simple activities like swimming, jumping on a trampoline, or enjoying daycare require meticulous planning. A hypo treatment might interrupt her playtime, or a CGM failure might necessitate a manual glucose check. These moments remind us that her health is a constant priority that needs to be monitored and maintained. As a mother, it’s heart-wrenching to see Violet pulled away from the joys of childhood, but I know it’s what we need to do to ensure she lives as fully as possible.
Balancing T1D management with the demands of also raising my newborn, Delilah, has been a testament to the resilience that motherhood fosters. While Violet’s diagnosis initially made us question whether we could handle another baby, we ultimately decided that type 1 diabetes wouldn’t dictate our family’s future. Delilah’s arrival brought new challenges but also a renewed sense of hope. We’ve learned to adapt, manage, and advocate – skills honed through Violet’s journey with type 1 diabetes.
Technology has been a game-changer for us, transforming how we manage Violet’s type 1 diabetes alongside raising our baby. Insulin pumps, such as Omnipod, have provided flexibility and ease. As it’s completely tubeless and waterproof, Violet can swim without disconnecting her pump, jump in the bath without delay, and even sleep through the night while her glucose levels are managed without interrupting her. Before using an insulin pump, every meal and snack was a calculated gamble. Toddlers are famously unpredictable eaters, and managing insulin alongside their ever-changing appetites can feel like an impossible task. Having more flexible insulin delivery has not only improved Violet’s physical wellbeing but also preserved some of the spontaneity and joy that every child deserves.
One of the hardest parts of being a type 1 diabetes parent is the sense of isolation. Few people truly understand the emotional and physical toll it takes. Nights are often spent monitoring glucose levels, leaving little room for rest. Social outings and family vacations are overshadowed by the need to plan for every contingency. Yet, amidst these challenges, there’s a profound sense of purpose. Advocacy has become a cornerstone of my parenting. I’ve learned to question, research, and make informed decisions about Violet’s care, ensuring she receives the best possible support.
Violet’s resilience inspires me daily. She has shown a remarkable ability to adapt, choosing where to place her insulin pump and embracing the small freedoms it affords her. Her journey with type 1 diabetes will undoubtedly build her character and strength. For me, it has been a lesson in perspective – to celebrate the small victories, to find joy in the midst of challenges, and to believe in the possibilities that advancements in technology can bring.
Reflecting on the role of technology in our lives, I am filled with gratitude for how far medical innovation has come. Omnipod has been an essential part of this journey, allowing Violet to live with greater freedom and fewer interruptions. These advancements not only make type 1 diabetes management more accessible but also restore a sense of normalcy to families like mine. They’re a reminder that while chronic illnesses pose significant challenges, they don’t have to define a person’s life. With the right tools and support, children like Violet can dream big, play freely, and embrace their full potential.
As a mother, my hope is to empower other families navigating similar journeys. I want parents to know that there’s light at the end of the tunnel, that life with type 1 diabetes is manageable, and that joy can coexist with the challenges. It’s crucial to advocate for your child, to explore the best technological options, and to trust in your ability to navigate this path.
For families newly introduced to the world of type 1 diabetes my advice is simple: take it one day at a time. Learn everything you can about the condition and the tools available to manage it. Connect with others in the type 1 diabetes community, who just “get it” and can offer invaluable support and wisdom. Most importantly, do not let a type 1 diabetes diagnosis rule your life; focus on the moments that matter – the fun, the milestones achieved despite the extra hurdles it takes to get there, and the love that defines family life.
Motherhood, with all its unpredictability, is a journey of resilience and growth. For me, it’s also been a journey of embracing new developments and technology as well as advocating fiercely for my child’s wellbeing and creating awareness for those living with type 1 diabetes – particularly babies and toddlers. Violet’s type 1 diabetes diagnosis may have altered the course of our lives, but it has also taught us the power of adaptation, the importance of hope, and the limitless potential of love which provides the perfect foundation for Violet to thrive and the promise of a bright future ahead.
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