Diabetes,

I’m not gonna lie. Sometimes I wish you never picked me.

I was only nine when you came into my life on January 13, 2024. Back then, I didn’t even understand what type 1 diabetes was. I just knew everything was changing.

Now I’m twelve, and sometimes I still ask, why me?

I’m tired of DKA, the needles, the alarms, and the highs and lows. Tired of having to stop being a kid just to deal with you.

There were days when I felt like giving up because everything was so hard.

But I’m still here. And I’m starting to realize my life has a bigger purpose than my hardest days.

I’m doing better now, but sometimes I still get tired of having to be strong.

Here’s what you didn’t count on, diabetes.

I’m getting my childhood back.

Because of my Dexcom CGM, my mom can help keep an eye on my glucose levels even when we’re apart. That has helped me return to school in person.

And guess what? I’m not just back. I’m doing better than ever!

I’m learning, playing the football I love, and still making everybody laugh. I’m still that kid who always has a joke ready.

I don’t want people to see diabetes when they look at me.

I want them to see Tai’yon.

A student. A football player. A comedian. A kid with big dreams.

You might be part of my life, diabetes, but you don’t get to be my life.

Sincerely,

Tai’yon