November 14th was World Diabetes Day, but for us Type 1 patients, it's every day. Today I want to talk about the people we don't necessarily see or always think about. A Type 1 diabetic needs insulin to stay alive. No ifs and or buts. They will die without insulin very quickly. In developing countries, access to insulin is often impossible, and if it is accessible, will take up a family's entire weekly income. Consequently, according to the International Insulin Foundation, children with Type 1 in developing countries can have a life expectancy as short as a year. I am so grateful to have access to this ridiculously expensive liquid that saves my life every day, and today, I think of those who are not as lucky. Of those who deserve this medication just as much as I do but can't get it. Of the children who will die because of it. And I hope for a future where everyone has access to insulin. Because having to give 7+ injections a day is a curse. But being ABLE to give myself those injections is a blessing.
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