Meredith Rivera

As a nine year old girl with divorced parents and a lot of craziness in my life, I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. I was diagnosed right as Hurricane Ike was hitting The Woodlands, TX. I was told what T1D was at nine years old in 20 minutes and kicked out of the hospital for people in more critical condition. I was mad and confused at first. Why as a 4th grader, can I not participate in certain activities or eat ice cream at the holiday party? As time went on, I went to diabetes camps over the summer and met amazing, lifelong friends. I realized I am not alone in this journey. I met the CGM and pump. I realized i CAN indeed eat ice cream, (in moderation), and not be left out. Type 1 diabetes does not define me. I am stronger because of it. And I would not change being diagnosed for it made me a more resilient and thankful person. Thank you for taking the time to read this. #curet1d #Icouldwriteawholebookonthis #blessed