Western Pacific

Ashley Ng, Australia

When I was told that I had type 2 diabetes, I was in total shock and denial. I was only 19 and thought that diabetes only happened to older adults. Initially I wanted to hide my diagnosis from my family and friends. As I came to terms with the knowledge that I would have to be on medication for the rest of my life, I decided that I had to at least tell my family.

Being diagnosed with diabetes was a difficult adjustment both physically and mentally, but I credit it for helping me live healthier. It was helpful that my family have been very supportive throughout my journey. Together, we started eating healthier and being more active, which has also benefited their lives. Finding like-minded peers in the diabetes community and passionate and caring healthcare professionals has also been crucial to my diabetes care.

I recently became a mother to a beautiful baby girl. Planning for pregnancy with diabetes was challenging and hard work. I was in regular discussions with my diabetes doctor and educator to make sure my blood glucose levels and health were as well managed as possible.

Being pregnant with diabetes was even more challenging and scary than planning for it! I was constantly worried about how everything I was doing would impact my baby. I was very lucky to have a great healthcare team who monitored us regularly during my pregnancy and after the birth.

“Finding like-minded peers in the diabetes community and passionate and caring healthcare professionals has been crucial to my diabetes care.”

“The biggest thing now is to make sure that access to the basics, like insulin becomes available for everyone in the world.”

Tazul Islam
Bangladesh

Cyrine Farhat
Lebanon

Michael Donohoe
USA