Vanessa's interview
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How did all start?
It all started when i was 8 years old, I was basically skin and bones, thirsty all the time, and wetting the bed every-night. Because of the last symptom that I mentioned, my mother took me to the Doctor's Office.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
I did not have a diagnosis, and nobody in my immediate family had ever heard of Diabetes type 1.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
I have type 1 diabetes, and I had the double diagnosis of Thyroid Storm. Having lived with both, I can say that I would never wish the experience on anyone else. With these diagnoses combined, it is deadly and I can say that during that experience I almost died at least twice a week with dangerously low or high blood sugars due to my thyroid raising and lowering my metabolic rate.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
The most useful thing for me was working hard with my husband to get the first artificial pancreas, the 670G pump. This system is extra amazing because it helps take care of me when I sleep at night.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
I have had many autoimmune diseases in my life. When they combine together, it makes it seem like your health can be so fragile. Overcoming each setback what ever it may be is very difficult.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
My husband during my diabetic thyroid storm had to save my life numerous times, because of this he has PTSD and diabetes stresses him out very easily.
What things have you stopped doing?
I was stopped when I was younger because of parental fear from going on school field trips, and activities. Trying to get a job with insurance to cover my diabetic supplies has stopped me from looking into jobs that I would be interested in. It also shaped my college education. Due to my stubbornness, I have been able to do most things. (including being wheeled around college campus in a wheel chair.) It has made things extra difficult for me though.
What do you think about the future?
I would like to continue traveling, having adventures, and living my life to its fullest. I am planning on teaching English in China next year, and ordering 670G supplies from Hong Kong.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
Every year I am alive, and living my life to its fullest. I love when I can live my dream and have a good support system.
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
I would probably be even crazier, and do amazing things like live in Russia, Japan, and Italy. I would eat what-ever foods I wanted including sweets and treats.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Difficult, and expensive with amazing and breathtaking moments.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
I would say, just like the Nike saying: "Just do it." Don't leave living your dreams for later in your life or die before you reach them. Just do "your dream" now!
