T1D, What is Happening to Me?

If you are anything like me, you can appreciate my severe need to know what is wrong whenever I get sick. I want to know what is happening to me and why. I think this sentiment holds true even more so for children who are so sweet and innocent and just want to know when they are going to feel better. It has been a confusing journey for my son who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of two. He better copes with the disease at present, but it took a long time for him to comprehend what was actually happening to him. His dad and I have used this diagram, mostly the pictures, to aid us in explaining the disease to our son and how and why it was affecting him.  

Type 1 Diabetes is an illness of the pancreas, an organ located in the abdomen. Its role is to convert the food we eat into fuel for the body's cells. It helps in both digestion and the regulation of blood sugar through insulin production. When the pancreas is not functioning properly, insulin production is slowed and therefore insulin in the blood vessels is decreased. Since insulin balances the glucose or blood sugar levels in the body, decreased insulin means more glucose. Unregulated, this can lead to keto-acidosis, which is the build up of acid in the blood. This can cause death.

Glucose Meter

Though death is inevitable, it is natural that humans attempt to prolong it for as long as possible. My son is only eleven. The more he understands the need to regulate insulin in his body, done mostly through diet and checking his blood sugar levels with lancets and test strips on a glucose meter, the better chance we have of keeping him alive and well. This is at the top of our list of priorities on a daily basis and should be for anyone who suffers with T1D.