When I was first diagnosed as a Type 1 Diabetic, I thought that I would not be able to do the things that I loved to do anymore. Before becoming Type 1, I practically lived in the ocean. Swimming and surfing were a big part of my life. As a former lifeguard, even working in the water was my job.

After becoming Type, I was afraid to go do those things again. I was scared to go into the ocean without being able to have a form of glucose attached to me. I kept thinking that if I were to have a low blood sugar episode in the middle of the ocean, I could possibly drown or not get to shore in time. However, I have learned that we cannot live our life in fear. There is no reason to stop the things that you love just because of a setback or a fear. I took a chance and got back in that salty ocean on my surfboard and it was the best feeling that I could of felt. I overcame my fears and I felt stronger just knowing that I have overcame my metal challenges about this disease. I do take the extra precautions each time I go out. I make sure that my numbers are in a good place pre-surfing, I at least have my glucose tablets on the beach waiting for me just incase, and I always use the buddy system.

Live the life you love! Don’t let the disease stop you from living life to the fullest! That is by far the biggest lesson that I could of learned.