ABOUT
JOY'S STORY
In October of 2020, Joy displayed COVID-19 like symptoms, which caused concern for her mother to bring her to the ER. But, to her mother's surprise, little Joy was diagnosed with a rare, lifelong illness known as Type 1 Diabetes (Childhood Diabetes) at the young age of 2. Due to her illness, Joy has to take insulin injections multiple times a day for the rest of her life. However, Joy's diagnosis has not deterred her. She can still play, go to school, go to church, travel, and live a normal life. She is still a vibrant little girl who loves life and brings joy to everyone she meets. We hope that the telling of Joy's story will bring joy to the families
who may be experiencing the same thing.
Mission
Our goal is to let adults caring for kids with Type 1 Diabetes know that life is still full of possibilities and that a Type 1 Diagnosis is not the end of the world; just the beginning of the kid's super powers.
About Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes, once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Insulin is a hormone needed to allow sugar (glucose) to enter cells to produce energy.
Different factors, including genetics and some viruses, may contribute to type 1 diabetes. Although type 1 diabetes usually appears during childhood or adolescence, it can develop in adults.
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Despite active research, type 1 diabetes has no cure. Treatment focuses on managing blood sugar levels with insulin, diet and lifestyle to prevent complications.
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Symptoms
Type 1 diabetes signs and symptoms can appear relatively suddenly and may include:
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Increased thirst
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Frequent urination
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Bed-wetting in children who previously didn't wet the bed during the night
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Extreme hunger
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Unintended weight loss
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Irritability and other mood changes
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Fatigue and weakness
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Blurred vision
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For more information, visit https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-1-diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20353011.
Insulin
People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day. You usually take the insulin through an injection.
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Some people use an insulin pump. The pump injects insulin through a port in the skin. It can be easier for some people than sticking themselves with a needle. It may also help level out blood sugar highs and lows.
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The amount of insulin you need varies throughout the day. People with type 1 diabetes regularly test their blood sugar to figure out how much insulin they need. Both diet and exercise can affect blood sugar levels.
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Diet and exercise
People with type 1 diabetes should eat regular meals and snacks to keep blood sugar stable. A dietitian who is also a certified diabetes educator can help to establish an eating plan.
Exercise also helps lower blood sugar levels. Insulin amounts may need to be adjusted according to your level of exercise.
Properly managing the condition can help reduce complications and prolong life expectancy.
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For more information, visit https://www.healthline.com/health/type-1-diabetes-causes-symtoms-treatments#treatment