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Me and My Diabetes

Stories/ Lived Experience

World Diabetes Day 14 November Logo

Authors: Layla May and Deirdre Forde, ALL Institute, Maynooth University

This story was written by Layla May and supported by Deirdre Forde, who is a member of the ALL Institute, Maynooth University. 

The lived experience piece authored by little Layla May aims to mark the World Diabetes Day, which is celebrated on 14th  November  every year. It also aims to raise awareness about children with diabetes and their experience.

What is Type 1 Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus Type 1 (T1DM) is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the pancreas stops making the hormone insulin. Insulin helps control blood glucose levels and allows glucose (from carbohydrate in the diet) to move from the blood into body cells for energy. The brain uses glucose as fuel so low blood glucose levels are dangerous in the short term and if not recognised and treated can result in collapse and seizure. High blood sugars can lead to other complications for someone with diabetes.

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Hypoglycaemia (sometimes termed a low) occurs when the blood glucose is below 4.0mmol/l and a child feels unwell. For some children, the level at which action is required may be higher

Ketones are acid products that are formed in large amounts if there is insufficient insulin to facilitate glucose transport into body cells for energy generation

Hyperglycaemia occurs when the blood glucose level rises above 11.1mmol/l (WHO). Children can feel thirsty and may need to go to the toilet frequently. A child can feel unwell with a high blood glucose reading and if ketones are very high this can result in damage to other organs.

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