My name is Maria and I have been living with diabetes for the past 15 years. During this time, I have learned a lot about managing my condition and how to live a normal life despite the challenges.

In this article, I want to share my diabetes journey, starting from my early diagnosis in Papageorgiou to my current life in Rovaniemi.

Early Diagnosis

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when I was 10 years old in a hospital in Papageorgiou, Greece. It was a shock for my entire family, as we had no history of diabetes in our family.

I remember feeling scared and confused, not understanding what was happening to me. However, I was lucky to have supportive parents who helped me through the initial shock and taught me how to manage my condition.

Learning to Manage Diabetes

After my diagnosis, my parents and I spent a lot of time learning everything we could about diabetes. We met with doctors, attended workshops and read books about the condition.

I also had to monitor my glucose levels throughout the day by pricking my finger and regularly taking insulin injections.

It was not easy to manage my diabetes at first. I remember feeling frustrated when my glucose levels would spike, or when I had to skip meals to stay on top of my medication schedule. However, over time, it became easier to manage my condition.

I learned to listen to my body and understand how to balance my insulin intake with my glucose levels.

Challenges during the Teenage Years

Managing diabetes became even more challenging when I entered my teenage years. Suddenly, I had to deal with hormones, peer pressure and the desire to fit in with my friends.

It was not always easy to follow my strict medication schedule or stick to healthy eating habits. I remember hiding my insulin injections from my friends so that I would not appear different.

Looking back, I understand that this was a mistake. Being open about my diabetes and my condition was important. It was also important to prioritize my health above my desire to fit in with my friends. However, it took me a while to understand this.

Moving to Finland

When I was 19, I decided to move to Rovaniemi, Finland to study. It was a big change for me, both culturally and medically. In Greece, I was used to the hot, dry climate, while in Finland, I had to deal with cold temperatures and long, dark winters.

Managing my diabetes in a new environment was a challenge. I had to learn how to keep my insulin at the right temperature and how to adjust my medication schedule to the new time zone.

I also had to learn to cope with the emotional challenges of being away from my family and my support network.

Current Life with Diabetes

Today, I am 25 years old and have been living with diabetes for 15 years. While managing my condition will always be a challenge, I have learned to live a full and active life despite it.

I understand the importance of checking my glucose levels regularly, eating a healthy diet and staying active. I also understand the importance of being open about diabetes and educating others about the condition.

Conclusion

Living with diabetes has been a journey for me. It has not always been easy, but it has taught me resilience, patience and the importance of prioritizing my health. If you are living with diabetes, know that you are not alone.

There is a strong community of people who understand what you are going through and are willing to offer support and guidance.