“Having diabetes is no fun at all. I wouldn’t recommend it. I’ve been living with it for nearly two years, and they’ve probably been the most challenging years of my life.

I was first diagnosed in September 2022, shortly after my 30th birthday. For a couple of months, I had been exhibiting what I now know to be classic symptoms. However, I attributed them to other things: maybe an illness or bug, feeling constantly run down due to work stress; drinking extra fluids and eating excessive ice cream was just enjoying summer.

However, during a general check-up, my GP did a blood test and sent me straight to A&E when the results came back. I was in DKA. I spent a week in the hospital on an insulin drip, feeling bewildered. After being discharged with a crash course on insulin injections, I spent the following months absorbing as much information as possible about diabetes. I read online articles, constantly emailed my assigned dietitian, and regularly listened to podcasts. The real-life experiences of others with the condition had the biggest impact on me. I feel lucky to have had great medical care and follow-up support, but hearing how others manage their condition was invaluable. Now, I want to share what has worked for me with others.

Living with Type 1 diabetes has shifted my perspective over the past couple of years. It has made me more aware of life’s finiteness and more health conscious. Although it can be limiting at times, it has also opened my mind to new ways of thinking and approaching life. Balancing health management with living life fully—making memories, having fun, and loving people and places—is an art.

I wouldn’t be running this marathon (with some walking, I’m sure) if it weren’t for diabetes. Marathons were never on my agenda before my diagnosis, but now I want to prove to myself that diabetes isn’t limiting. I can do challenging things, even for those without the condition.

There are some perks to Type 1, like having a built-in excuse to avoid unwanted activities: “I’m really sorry, but I think I’m having a hypo,” or “My blood sugar glucose is a bit off, so I might have to sit this one out.”

In summary, I’m much more concerned about my health and managing my condition daily. Perspective is a powerful tool, and I’ve learnt not to feel victimised by diabetes. I live with it, but I’ve made it a part of me, using it as motivation to be disciplined and do things I wouldn’t have considered otherwise.

I’m nervous about this marathon, but I’m confident I will finish it. I hope it shows that Type 1 diabetes doesn’t have to be limiting. Thank you for taking the time to read my story.” – edited for readership.