FACTS ABOUT T1D

Little update from the Erke Fam. Our T1 journey is becoming somewhat second nature to us. We are adjusting, as a family, to many new norms with the hope that we all make Maverick continue to lead a healthy and mostly normal life. He is still a very happy & active toddler. We are asked often how he is doing and we always feel so blessed to say he is doing well. If any kid was made for this journey it was him. He takes the injections, alarms, and added steps in stride and doesn't really seem to let it be something that holds him back. We are so thankful that his journey so far has not resulted in any serious side effects and we hope to continue to learn to prevent that as long as we are able. This is not a journey I would wish on anyone but there truly are so many blessings to come from his diagnosis. We have adopted a T1 Family approach which has resulted in healthier habits for all of us and really has made use closer as a family. Our older two are the perfect siblings to Mav and have also not let this diagnosis interfere with their love and affection for him. 

November is National Diabetes Month AND November 14th is the birthday of Sir Frederick G Banting, the man that discovered insulin so it is only fitting to share a few topics that we feel we are discussing often when people ask about Type 1. Some of this content was compiled from many sites that list these topics as the top facts about T1 and I added my touch of perspective to each. I hope this helps start our journey in sharing and educating whoever wants to follow our journey. 

TYPE 1 IS AN AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE
Your body has insulin producing cells called 'beta cells' in the pancreas. The immune system attacks and destroys the beta cells. These cells cannot be regenerated and eventually all of these cells will die which will make the body fully dependent on insulin. Typically, autoimmune diseases come from weak or weakening systems that allow for the body to attack certain areas. Other common diagnosis that follow a Type 1 diagnosis are celiac and thyroid. 

INSULIN IS A HORMONE - NOT A DRUG
Insulin is the hormone that allows energy to enter our cells. Everyone needs insulin to live. As your beta cells begin to die off your body is unable to produce insulin and release glucose into the blood stream for energy use. Insulin is the key to this release. People with Type 1 have to give themselves insulin multiple times a day via a needle injection or pump. Without insulin the body's blood sugar will rise each time food or drinks are consumed and will result in high blood sugar and eventually DKA. If not treated, you cannot survive. 

TYPE 1 IS NOT PREVENTABLE, REVERSIBLE, OR CURABLE 
The cause of T1D is still not known. It, unlike Type 2 Diabetes, is not caused by diet and lifestyle choices. This also includes the diet and lifestyle choices of the mother during pregnancy. It is no one's fault. That also means it cannot be reversed. 

Many people think that insulin is considered a cure, this is also false. Insulin is a treatment. A person with T1 has to follow this treatment 24/7 for the rest of their lives. There are no vacations, breaks, or moments of relief. That is why a cure that is attainable for all people with T1D is so important to push for! 

 The only cure for Type 1 at this time is removal of your pancreas and receiving a transplant - this type of surgery is elective and typically is reserved for people with serious complications that are not easily managed with insulin injections. The surgery also comes with very serious side effects.  

TYPE 1 IS NOT CONTAGIOUS
It is impossible to "catch" diabetes. Just like the fact that you can't prevent getting Type 1 you also can't give it to someone else in the form of transfer, like a virus. However, Type 1 is a genetic autoimmune disease and it is very common to pass this disease on to your children. It is also very common for families to have multiple children with Type 1 (say a prayer for them - this is hard with just one kid!)

PEOPLE WITH TYPE 1 CAN STILL EAT ALL THE FOODS
There is a common misconception that people with Type 1 can't have sugar and many other foods. The only difference between someone without Type 1 consuming food and someone with is that the T1 person must give themselves insulin based on the amount of carbs they plan to consume in order to regulate their blood sugars. Sugar actually saves lives in many cases as it combats the "lows" and helps prevent any serious side effects of low glucose levels. Diabetics learn to read labels and count carbs to determine insulin doses necessary for regulating blood sugar. This typically results in healthier habits and better nutritional education BUT that doesn't mean they can't have those sweet treats and foods! 

HIGH & LOW BLOOD SUGARS ARE VERY IMPORTANT
A person's glucose levels change throughout the day based on food intake, activity, and many other factors. These fluctuations affect a person's body, emotional state, and general thinking. Often people can notice they have a high or low blood glucose level based on feelings of their mental clarity, physical state of their body, and many other factors. Noting these cues can help a person intervene with food or insulin to regulate their body before anything too serious takes hold. 

Maverick and his bestie enjoying Halloween!