I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes about 6 months ago, on May 9, 2011. The first dose of insulin was administered on the 11th, and I met for the first time with the dietician, nurse technician, and endocrinologist on the 13th of May. This all occurred about one week after writing the last final exam of my second (of third) year at Humber College, for Sustainable Energy and Building Technology. I am 26 years old.

The initial diagnosis was quite the shock. I had been feeling unwell for at least a few months, and I am now embarrassed to admit that until my parents noticed how much weight I had lost, I had no idea that anything was wrong. I blamed the lethargy and weakness on a lack of sleep, or a lot of school work and stress; and the constant thirst was a natural sign that I wasn’t drinking enough water for my level of activity. In hindsight, I was on the verge of diabetic ketoacidosis all the while studying, preparing, and writing six final exams and projects. I maintained my 90% average.

After being diagnosed, I was very sad. The constant, uncontrollable crying persisted for only a few days, and about three or four days after D-day, I was happy again. In fact, I was very happy. I don’t know what it was, but I was already proud of my diabetes by then. Whoever I told about the -betes immediately wished their apologies and best for my newfound disease, but I would smile, thank them, and tell them it is a blessing in disguise. I am now much healthier than ever before.

I exercise, practice yoga regularly, and am embracing a rewarding (and pre-diabetes) vegan diet. In fact, there have been quite a few meals that I managed a zero insulin dose. This was done by introducing more raw foods into my diet and by maintaining healthy physical activity. Veganism has truly been THE diabetes diet for me, and I am happy to spread the message of food as medicine.

In addition, carb counting and insulin dosing became somewhat of a hobby for my partner, Katelin, and I. We’ve made it a game. In fact, SHE is the real champion. With her help, diabetes has been extremely manageable, and within a month of diagnosis we were travelling Europe together, and even went on a 10-day canoe trip through Algonquin: with no (serious) problems.

My A1C went from 20% upon diagnosis to a remarkable 5.7% only 3 months later. Dr. Silver is my champion; Margaret and Lucia are my champions; my parents, Tsvi and Lee Ann are my champions; and Katelin is my champion. Lastly, I can’t overlook that I am my own champion for taking this supposed setback in stride, with a smile on my face, and pride in my heart.

I have faith that anyone presented with this seemingly lifestyle-ending disease can manage, maintain, and even flourish, assuming the will and support are present. That first day or two after diagnosis were dark days, in which everything seemed hopeless. Now, life is good. Life is great. And to be honest, I have Type 1 Diabetes to thank for it.