Diabetes, I wish you knew how many years it took for me to get accustomed to having you around. Every time I thought we were friends, I was met with sleepless nights, unprecedented lows, then highs that came back with a vengeance.

I was only four years old when I met you. My grandparents helped you settle in, carefully monitoring how we got on and teaching me how to navigate each day with you by my side.

As a child, I didn't realise how much of an impact you'd have on my life. In the early days of finger sticks, we rarely saw eye to eye. I'd turn a blind eye to you, and my frustrations would rise, just as my glucose levels often did.

Before Dexcom and after Dexcom is the best way I can describe our journey. What began with checking in a few times a day has become a constant connection. With every glance, I get a better understanding of you and the patterns that shape our days.

Each day, I reflect on the 25 years we've spent together. Through the highs and lows, you've taught me resilience, perseverance, and how to turn our connection into my superpower.

There was a time when I was nervous about introducing you to my friends, family, and colleagues because of the lack of understanding from others. You weren't always visible, but the stigma surrounding you was.

Every moment in range, every new insight, and every encouraging comment from my support network has given me the confidence and strength to keep going, rather than focusing on our differences.

So instead, I'm grateful. Grateful for the ways you've challenged me, the resilience you've helped me build, and the tools and technologies that continue to help me thrive while supporting others who know you well, too.