Aibel Family
Life changed for the Aibel Family on November 6, 2016, when their 12-year-old daughter Maddie was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Suddenly, they entered a world they knew nothing about – insulin (two types!), needles (two kinds!), monitors, test strips, ketone strips, alcohol wipes, Sharps containers. There was a lot of gear! And a lot of charts. If you’re at this number, do this. If you’re at that number, do that. If you’re at this number but at night, do this and that. It was overwhelming. But while Type 1 may have changed her life, Maddie refused to let it take over her life. Maddie is a dancer and competitive rhythmic gymnast, and the very next day after she was diagnosed, she was back at dance class. She hasn’t let diabetes stop her from doing what she loves. Luckily, she has a strong team helping her: her mom and dad, her brothers, and her dog – plus the amazing community at Beyond Type 1.
