Hi,
Long time lurker, first time poster
I was diagnosed at 19 whilst applying to join the RAF and felt at the time that my plans for the future and the world around me was about to come crashing down. At 19/20 I felt I didn't deserve to be diabetic but should be out enjoying life and doing what young people do.
To be honest these days I don't see being diabetic as a disadvantage as I still live my dreams of joining the RAF by continuing what I do with the Air Cadets. I haven't let it stop me and have climed Ben Nevis, Snowdon and Scafell Pike and I am currently working towards my Mountain Leaders qualification.
I have also learned how to fly a plane and flown gliders too. At first I sturggled with control but as of late I have inadvertanly become a role model for a family friend and also one of my cadets who have been struggling to come to terms with the realisation that they too are diabetic. By telling them of my experiences and problems I faced they are learning to overcome the challenges they have faced and have found it helps talking to someone who understands
Just thought I would add my two-penneth