My relationship with my Type 1 Diabetes.

Steve talks about how Type 1 Diabetes affects his life. Very interesting Diabetes may not be the one thing he would change about his life given the opportunity. He talks about working within boundaries in the short term which will keep long term goals on track. Steve's main message is to treat Diabetes as part of a routine and a lifestyle - using this approach he doesn't feel he needs to dwell too long about long term outcomes.

Chris talk candidly about his first experiences of being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. His parents tell him that he has lost weight and was passing a lot of urine. He talks about starting insulin and having urine tests for sugar levels. His first blood sugar testing machine used to be the size of a brick! A key theme he talks about is balance - balance between diet and exercise. He tells about having a regular 'clockwork' lifestyle to be able to use insulin predictably. A major change for him was doing a DAFNE course which allowed him to vary his diet and vary his insulin dose accordingly. Chris describes the Expert Patient programme as a major step in acknowledging his learning over his life. Finally he talks about more flexibility being possible in this day and age.

Daniel talks passionately about how his relationship with his healthcare provide team put him very much in the driving seat of his care. He made it clear that he wanted to know everything and be fully involved in making decision with regards to his health. This worked very well for him. He also acknowledges that this may not be the best situation for everyone. Daniel also takes pains to stress that he knows he's not an Endocrinologist and that he always discusses his thoughts and ideas with his healthcare providers in order to get a better understanding of the science involved.

Daniel talks about his journey with Type 1 Diabetes. He developed Diabetes as a post graduate university student. He shares how his first symptoms weren't picked up but eventually become quite unwell and was then diagnosed this point. When he was diagnosed he was started on tablets but glucose control was not good. He describes some fear around being started on Insulin but the Insulin pens helped. Daniel was grateful to the amount of detail he was given to do with his Diabetes. Particularly, he engaged very strongly with detail over the long term benefits of good blood glucose control.

Steve talks about two main insights he's gained: Fear is not a great long term motivator - he explains that this main work short term but is not useful long term. Looking after yourself with Diabetes is a long term journey and is best dealt with on a day to day basis. Lastly he talks about interacting and talking to others who have been there before you to help you cope emotionally.

Steve talks about stigma. He explains how he's not experienced it himself. He says that this might be as he's always explained his condition and what it means to him. He's been pleased with how people respond when he does explain the issues related to Diabetes.