I had the most wonderful time in Nashville this past weekend celebrating my future marriage and creating unforgettable memories with my best people. It seems like we never stopped laughing and dancing. I haven’t felt that much joy in a long time. It was amazing to see and reconnect with all of my incredible friends, but I have to say, my favorite bonding experience was with this gem.
We were walking down Broadway on our quest to find Tennessee BBQ when my best friend and maid of honor, Katie, spotted a group of people with some killer type 1 gear. “Ohana means family. Family means nobody fights type 1 diabetes alone.” How awesome is that saying?!! Katie and I have known each other forever. She was there for me through my diagnosis and still remains one of my biggest supporters. She ran up to them enthusiastically yelling, “Hey! My best friend has diabetes! Who here has diabetes?”. Though they probably thought we were a little bit crazy at first, they were very friendly. It turns out this sweet girl was diagnosed when she was just 13 months. Now she is 6 years old and cute as can be with her t:slim pump and an impressive family support system. I got to chat with her for a few minutes, our moms chatted too, and she’s now my newest and cutest betes buddy.
It’s often difficult to find the positives in diabetes, but the fact that diabetes can bring people of all ages together is a beautiful thing. I’m grateful for all of the people that diabetes has brought into my life. Thank you all for being a part of my support system! I am grateful for the special bond that we have.
