This convention is about bringing together people affected by diabetes. Key speakers come from all corners of life and locale, sharing their knowledge on relevant topics. On convention day, Dr. Steve Edelman, founder and director of Taking Control Of Your Diabetes (TCOYD), lead the way into a successful conference on all things diabetes. His opening presentation set the mood for a care-free and info packed day at the San Diego Convention Center.

After battling through the parking lot outside the convention center (otherwise known as Harbor Dr.), I diverted to a nearby pay lot that swallowed up my ten dollars and gave me nearby access to the front steps. I entered the grand structure, passing the most effective and smiley traffic director in the building, quickly grabbing a seat in the front row of the conference room. I suddenly began to feel a little out of place.

I was surrounded by a sea of walking sticks, rolling walkers, and even an adorable elderly lady knitting a scarf in the seat adjacent to me. I know the majority of people with diabetes are older, with type-2 diabetes surfacing in most people after fifty years old, but I felt outnumbered and curious as to where my equals were. It was soon after, while walking around and, later, attending the "type-1" portion that I got a glimpse of some others like me. Funny enough- they looked like every day people. A couple of middle-aged ladies yucked it up in wait of the presentation, a young couple whispered secrets in the back row, and an older man sat poised ready to fire some questions at the speakers. Sure enough- I was normal after all, along with my counterparts huddled together in the small conference room away from the rest of the masses. And there was likely some type-3 supporters there too.

I listened to the latest knowhow on insulin pumping, an attorney talking about the rights of people with diabetes, I shuffled through some vendor booths and even got my last few questions answered by the Insulet rep. about omni-podding. More on the ensuing doctor visit to come regarding my venture into pumping insulin.

A major drag towards the end was some technical difficulties during the most anticipated section of the day. Minutes ticked by as the room of type-1 info seekers sat and waited to ask questions and gain some insight on a healthy and streamlined life with diabetes. Sure enough, the presentation got started- only to count down to the time when I had to leave.

I think my university was playing a cruel joke on me. The day of TCOYD, I had a school final and had to duck out early in order to take said test.

Next year, I hope to be there for the whole series. There was a mass of smart educators all excited to spill their knowledge on everything diabetes. Still featured in a small select group of cities, but growing strong, consider this name when next year's volley of conferences passes through the country.