I might seem like your typical busy mom—sporting a casual topknot, navigating the streets in my minivan, and fueled by a steady supply of coffee. I genuinely believe I’m raising four of the most amazing kids, yet I’m not afraid to shout at them when necessary. I manage to fit in workouts nearly every day and strive to maintain a healthy diet. However, those who see me would never guess that I live with a chronic autoimmune condition. Type 1 diabetes is often labeled an invisible illness—one that cannot be detected just by looking.
As someone with an underlying health condition, I belong to the vulnerable populations that have been highlighted since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Alongside the elderly, individuals like myself are at a greater risk. I urge everyone I know to take social distancing guidelines seriously and to adhere to the shelter-in-place mandates.
Throughout my fourteen years as a type 1 diabetic, I have heard countless times that I don’t “look sick.” This phrase is often thrown around regarding invisible illnesses, yet it never fails to sting. What exactly does “sick” look like? Being judged based solely on appearances is tiring and, frankly, discriminatory.
Just because I may not appear unwell does not mean that I am free from health challenges. I don’t feel ill every moment of the day, but I have unique needs. My large purse is filled with essential medical supplies, including items to manage my insulin pump and quick-sugar snacks for emergencies. I wear a medical ID bracelet in case I lose consciousness due to low blood sugar or find myself in a situation where I can’t communicate my condition. Traveling light is not an option for me; it would be irresponsible.
If you saw me, you might not notice my insulin pump, which is discreetly clipped to my waistband or sports bra. A tube runs from the pump to a cannula delivering insulin into my body. Additionally, I have a continuous glucose monitor inserted in my abdomen that communicates my blood sugar levels to my pump and phone. These devices are essential for keeping my health in check.
So, what’s the connection between my condition and COVID-19? Managing type 1 diabetes requires a delicate balance. Various factors like stress, dehydration, and illness can cause my blood sugar to spike or plummet. When my blood sugar levels are high for extended periods, I risk developing Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA), a severe medical emergency. Elevated blood sugars also weaken my immune system, making me more vulnerable to the virus.
Achieving stability in diabetes management is often an uphill battle, even for experienced individuals like me with advanced tools at my disposal. Illness can send my blood sugar on a wild roller coaster, complicating my ability to fight off infections and recover.
Witnessing individuals disregard social distancing guidelines is infuriating. Historically, there has been a lack of respect for the elderly and those with disabilities. Many healthy individuals take their well-being for granted. I’ve been blamed for my diabetes, with people incorrectly suggesting that it was caused by consuming too much sugar. This victim-blaming mentality is not only misguided but also selfish.
Ignoring health guidelines, or only following them half-heartedly, is unacceptable. Everyone, regardless of age or health status, deserves protection from the virus. Life’s value shouldn’t be assessed based on appearances. Every loss is a tragedy.
Moreover, there’s a misconception that being young and healthy equates to immunity from COVID-19. The reality is far different, as younger individuals are being diagnosed too. The presentation of the virus is not uniform; it affects everyone differently.
It’s crucial for all of us to take the fight against COVID-19 seriously and do our part. I live in fear that someone unknowingly carrying the virus will assume I’m just another young, healthy person and expose my family. While we practice social isolation, we can’t control the actions of others—whether they are in stores, delivering packages, or simply walking by our home.
Let’s not judge others by their appearance. The only way we will emerge from this pandemic is together. For more insights into related topics, you can check out this post on nourishing meals or learn more about family-building options.
In summary, we must recognize that appearances can be deceiving and that everyone deserves consideration and protection during this pandemic.