My Story
Type 1 diabetes isn't caused by diet or lifestyle. It's an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system destroys insulin-producing cells. So your pancreas that used to work automatically, stops working. And that's just one side of it. The physical gruelling reality is constant monitoring, close to 200 extra decisions every day. There's no break from it, no days off. And even with pumps and continuous glucose monitors, there's still late night lows, alarms, managing food, stress, exercise, even hot weather. The emotional load is huge. People talk about never really being able to switch off. You know, like carrying a constant mental checklist. As for fundraising impact, every donation to Diabetes UK helps fund research into better treatments and ultimately a cure. It supports people who are newly diagnosed, provides advice and support services, campaigns for better care and access to technology. They also work to improve mental health support for people living with diabetes.