Being defined by a diagnosis of an illness is not what I want you as the reader to take away from this. Instead, I hope to share a new perspective on how life brings challenges that can be turned into beautiful moments and learning opportunities. In 2015, it was a typical summer day, and I was excited to be picked up early by my father at the camp I was attending. Little did I know the reason he was picking me up early was not to spend the day having fun with my dad but to be admitted to the hospital for a life-changing disease. When my father broke the news to me about where we were going and what was happening, time froze. Nothing felt real hearing the words, “You have diabetes.” This was a foreign topic for me. Twelve-year-old me had no idea what I was walking into and had hope that diabetes was only temporary. As traumatic as this news was to me, my dad had other plans. After being admitted to the hospital, my family and I headed down to the pediatric unit. Before getting to my wing, we had to pass by the oncology unit. My dad stopped me in the hallway to tell me something I will never forget as long as I live. He asked me first if I knew what the oncology unit was, to which I replied yes to. “You are not going down that hall. We are going forward to the pediatric unit. Remember that although this seems difficult, there are always others who are fighting tougher battles.” For a brief moment, I stopped crying and thought about how much worse my situation could have been. I am beyond grateful that my dad said what he did in such a dark time for me. It has changed how I view life since that day. I believe everyone is entitled to validity in their struggles, no matter how minor or major they may be, but I always keep in mind that someone out there is going through hell and back to make it through the day. It is a constant reminder for me to be present and to count my blessings regardless of how inconvenient diabetes may be. Diabetes is no easy feat, but I can live with it. I can manage it and continue to push forward with my life. Others may question whether they can fulfill their dreams in the future or even wake up to tomorrow. People are quick to take life for granted until it is too late, so if there is one thing you can take away from this, let it be that life is precious and to live in the moment. There are so many beautiful experiences you can have that others unfortunately may not be able to experience. Continue to take risks and be present in life. Do not let minor inconveniences stop you from living the life you want and deserve, even if it is an illness you will carry with you to the grave.
