My family is my world. They are everything to me. I come from an extremely supportive family and I realize how lucky I am to have that in today's world. I am very close with my mom, dad, sister, and grandma. They are the sole reason why I was able to get through my diagnosis and to this day still be thriving. My mom particularly deserves a lot of the credit for her tireless work towards helping my get through this. Her role was pivotal to my success. Needless to say, when I got diabetes at 14, it brought all of my family even closer.

I'll never forget how my family reacted as each of them learned of my diagnosis. I was with my mom in the doctor's office when my pediatrician gave us the prognosis. We were both in shock, but my mom kept her composure, at least on the outside. I think it was most difficult seeing my dad for the first time. I had been in the hospital for a day or so and he was returning from an out-of-town business trip. I'll never forget when he walked around the corner and into my hospital room. It brings tears to my eyes even to this day. Seeing my dad finally "broke me" and the flood gates were FULLY OPENED. Like I said though, they have always been extremely supportive and I am very lucky to have had that.

My family, these days, consists of myself and my girlfriend. As I have mentioned in some of my previous posts, she and I are planning on moving together sometime hopefully in the next few months. She is also wonderful, caring, and extremely supportive. Brynn helps me out tremendously. She always wants to learn more and she regularly goes out of her way to adjust to my needs. She is in this fight with me all the way!

I've learned that diabetes and family go hand-in-hand. This disease is a powerful thing and sometimes handling it alone may seem impossible. That's why it's so important to have a support staff and appreciate how they help with your daily ups and downs.

I want to say thanks to all of my family and that I love all of you guys very much.