In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Rob and Eritrea interview Phyllis Kaplan, who has been living with type 1 diabetes for 50 years. They talk about various aspects of Phyllis's journey with diabetes, including her early diagnosis, managing diabetes in childhood, attending diabetes camp, dealing with diabetes-related complications, and the impact of technology on her diabetes management.

Topics discussed:

1. Introduction to Phyllis Kaplan and her 50-year journey with type 1 diabetes

2. Early memories of being diagnosed with diabetes at a young age

3. Childhood experiences of managing diabetes, including testing sugars with rudimentary methods

4. Attending diabetes camp and the importance of the diabetes community

5. Transitioning to insulin pump therapy to gain flexibility in diabetes management

6. Coping with diabetes-related complications, such as retinopathy

7. The psychological impact of living with diabetes and dealing with guilt and self-blame

8. The importance of accepting the uncontrollable aspects of diabetes and seeking support from healthcare providers

9. The relief and normalcy brought by modern diabetes technology, such as hybrid closed-loop systems

10. Gratitude for waking up in range and the shift in perspective over time

Key takeaways:

• Acceptance and Perspective: Phyllis emphasizes the importance of accepting the uncontrollable aspects of living with diabetes and shifting perspectives to avoid self-blame and guilt for complications or high/low blood sugars.

• Community and Support: Being part of the diabetes community and connecting with others who understand the challenges of diabetes can provide comfort, understanding, and a sense of belonging.

• Adaptation to Technology: The advancement of technology in diabetes management, such as insulin pumps and CGMs, can bring relief, normalcy, and added flexibility to daily life.

• Growth and Resilience: Over time, individuals with diabetes learn to navigate the challenges, adapt to new circumstances, and find ways to thrive despite the ups and downs of living with a chronic condition.

• Gratitude and Reflection: Reflecting on the journey with diabetes, celebrating milestones, and finding gratitude in waking up in range can bring a sense of accomplishment and appreciation for progress made.

References:

• Medtronic

• JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation)

00:00  Celebrating 50 Years with Type 1 Diabetes: A Journey with Phyllis Kaplan
00:31  Celebrating 50 Years with Type 1 Diabetes: A Journey of Resilience and Community
04:57  The Impact and Nostalgia of Diabetes Camp: A Journey of Empowerment and Friendship
14:57  Evolution of Diabetes Management: From Manual Checks to Advanced Automated Systems
19:37  Navigating Stigma and Building Connections Through Diabetes Advocacy
29:37  Navigating Diabetes Conversations and Reflecting on Milestones
31:40  Celebrating a Life with Diabetes: Reflections on Surviving and Thriving
35:37  Empowering Advice for Living with Type 1 Diabetes for 50 Years
39:06  Navigating Complications and Control in Life with Diabetes
48:36  Finding Relief and Normalcy with Technology in Managing Diabetes: A Personal Journey