Diabetes Type 1 Support Group

Hi, welcome to the group.
I'm sorry you've been having such a rubbish time! You sound like you're doing a good job already getting her a1c down - I'm sure you will reach your target soon. :)
I was diagnosed just before my 6th birthday - and I'm now 21. I dont have any complications and I've been able to go away to uni etc and be completely normal. I cant remember anything different, so I want to reassure you that your daughter will be fine, and you will all learn to live with the condition!
Wishing you the best of luck. Any questions, ask away :) Costus

Im not sure what kind of help I can offer but I know as long as you keep it together in her presence its a great start. I was diagnosed when I was 16 and I couldnt bare to give myself insulin shots so my mom did it for the first few months. I cant say it gets easier but it does get to be a part of life that you and she will get used to. Just let your daughter know she is not alone and there are millions of people in this world who take insulin shots.

Diabetes charities offer counselling and support to parents too. They have all kinds of services, including summer camps so parents and kids can meet others in similar situations. I don't know where you are so cannot find one in your area but in the UK Diabetes UK does this, and I think there is an American Diabetes Association in the US.

Note down any questions you have even if they seem silly. Ask Emma's doctors anything and everything. The more you know the less scary it is.

You have done the first and best thing you can do. You have asked for help! Congratulations. I am not an expert, but I would advise you to get in touch with your local ADA chapter and ask for recommendations on a certified diabetes educator. These people are trained in educating children, adults and caregivers for persons with diabetes. They can also give you advice on seeking emotional assistance. I would also suggest that you empathize with your daughters condition, show her what determination and perseverance can accomplish. There are many Type 1 diabetics that have grown up to be famous athletes, professionals and entertainers. Show here that this disease should not discourage her from doing anything she wants to do. And support her in her efforts.

Hi,
I do know what you are feeling and going through as our daughter was diagonosed at 2 1/2 yrs old back in Dec 2009. We were/are very fourtunate that we have Childrens Hosp in Philadelphia close to us. It takes time for the A1C to get in range. I think it took our daughter almost a year. My spouse and I argued, felt guilty, angry and all the same emotions you are feeling. Trust me when I say you are not doing something wrong. You are doing the best you can and that is what you need to do. As time goes on you will become more comfortable with dealing with this condition Do you the hospital support? Like with CHOP's they are always there for us. 24/7. That is where we take her every three months for her check ups. I feel that with all they have taught me, that I am close to being an endo! LOL I know ride for ADA every year and raise money for the research. I ride 36 miles and I will raise about $2000 this year. I am determined to help find a cure for our daughters as well as all the others who deal with diabetes. Have you eventually considered a insulin pump? Just keep encouraging her and let her know that there are other kids like her. Also we always tell our daughter that there is nothing that she cant do, that diabetes wont stop her. Feel free to message me if you want to talk more. Hang in there.

Good morning,
I'd like to commend you on being their for her. :) taking this head on is difficult for anyone but to have actual results so soon into her life/diagnosis is commendable. So wonderful for you both.


I wasn't diagnosed until days before my 12th birthday. I won't get into it but the value of someone their supporting her and staying strong beside her; you can't possibly fathom the value that holds. I'm now 25 & have had a difficult road to say the least. Keeping positive together as a family is astronomically valuable.

I would definitely recommend taking allocca's suggestion find local groups. JDRF has them all over the country. They do marches & have events to support kids with diabetes AND their families. ADA is a great resource to keep going strong.

The best to you and yours but so far it seems you are helping her GREATLY... I've been diabetic over a decade and I am just now reaching the 7 range of my A1C...just for a reference on how difficult it can be without much support.

You are doing an incredible job, you mustn't fprget that! Firstly, wow, getting a 4yr old daughter hba1c to 8 in the first place is just fantastic, so well done. Secondly, just for a bit of reassurance, my mother was diagnosed at 4 and shes 58 now. She still diesn't have any com[lications, and that was using the medicine over half a century ago! Thanks to her diligent mother too. So, have faith, it's hard, but the fact you are concerned and on here demonstrates that your little girl will be fine with diabetes, as you are her mother.
Praying for you, always have my support, Sorry, don't have much advice...
Hannah