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Diabetes Count Network was established to be a resource for families of Western Colorado to navigate the challenge of a diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes. Our group provides free support to families through cohesion activities, educational events, and much more.

 

 

What is Type 1 Diabetes?

 

Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is also known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes. This is a condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin, a hormone needed to metabolize sugar (glucose) so it can be used by cells to produce energy. Without insulin, the body has too much sugar in the bloodstream which over time causes damage to blood vessels and organs. Type 1 is usually diagnosed in children or young adults and there is currently no cure for this disease. This is a disease that affects the entire family and it can be especially difficult when a child is first diagnosed.

 

T1D is different from the more common Type 2 Diabetes, in which the body has become resistant to insulin. These two diseases are often confused and with T1D, the child or young adult does not get diabetes because he or she ate too much sugar or is obese. Researchers believe that T1D may be caused by genetic factors or an exposure to certain viruses.

 

Today, with proper treatment and ongoing management, children and young adults can expect to live long and healthy lives.  Diabetes Counts is committed to making sure that newly diagnosed families have this perspective and feel the support that our network seeks to provide.

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Type 1 Symptoms

The symptoms of T1D can come on quickly and may include:

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• Increased thirst

• Frequent urination

• Bedwetting in children who previously didn't wet the bed during the night

• Extreme hunger

• Unintended sudden weight loss

• Irritability and other mood changes

• Abdominal Pain

• Fatigue and weakness

• Nausea/vomiting

• Itchy Skin/Yeast infections

• Labored and/or rapid breathing

• Fruity odor to breath

• Headaches/Vision Changes

 

 

 

Are you newly diagnosed?

 

Whether you have a child who has been recently diagnosed with T1D or you are a teen who has been recently diagnosed, we have been where you are right now. We are parents of children with T1D and having a few years of T1D under our belts, we want to you to know this:

 

• While you may not feel like it today, you will learn how to manage this disease.

• Parents, do not beat yourself up about possibly having passed on the genetic factors that caused this disease.

• The dreams you have for your child or yourself can still come true.

• Yes, this road will be tough but it’s doable.

• Take it one day at a time and you’ll become better at managing it every week.

• Learn from others, ask questions and share your story.

• No two days are alike and that’s ok. Keep the long term goal in mind.

• Your child or you can grow up to live a full and flourishing life.

 

It helps to connect with others who are in the same situation. Diabetes Counts was started for this reason. Together we can take a difficult childhood disease and help shape a strong and healthy life in a young person who can pass that on to the next generation. 

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