12 Things that Only a T1D Parent Understands

There are somethings that only a type 1 diabetes (T1D) parent understands. Beyond Type 1 knows exactly what you mean.

1. When your kid was first diagnosed with type 1 and you were all like …

2. The first time you go on vacation and pack all the diabetes related supplies you need.

3. Trying to open a juice box in the dark when treating a low.

4. When all you want to do is go to sleep but your kid’s blood sugar is like a rollercoaster.

5. You’ve been up all night but have to get stuff done the next day and all you want to do is sleep.

6. It’s been like eight terrible days in a row, so you raid your kid’s low stash so you can eat your feelings.

7. When you NAIL that bolus for the pizza they just ate.

8. “Is it the GOOD kind of diabetes or the BAD kind?”

9. When people tell you that they know of a natural cure for type 1.

10. When you FINALLY meet another parent of a kid with T1D in real life.

11. When some stranger sees you checking blood glucose (BG) or giving insulin in public. You are like JUST TRYING TO KEEP YOUR KID ALIVE THANK YOU.

12. When someone gives you unsolicited and terrible advice on how you could be doing a better job (also they know nothing about type 1).

Meet other parents who get it and join the Beyond Type 1 app today!

WRITTEN BY Sara Jensen, POSTED 04/26/17, UPDATED 07/25/23

As the creative director for Beyond Type 1 from the very beginning, Sara is responsible for our arresting visual design and branding. Her son Henry was diagnosed with type 1 at the age of 5 in 2013 and has grown into a powerful ambassador for diabetes issues. In addition to Beyond Type 1, Sara also works for world-class interior designer Genevieve Gorder as creative director. She is passionate about foster adoption, Beyond Type 1, good food and humor. She lives on a tiny island in the middle of a big ocean. And she has stories, lots of them.