Community Focus questions: Name: Andrea Claasen Age: 7 Diabetes: Type 1 Clinic: N1 City When were you diagnosed with diabetes? On the 18th November 2013.“She was drinking water and juice excessively, losing weight, always hungry, and she wasn’t herself,” says Zerilda (mother). How has diabetes changed your life? “It’s brought a lot of structure to our lives,” Zerilda explains. “It was overwhelming at first, but it’s already become a way of life. Despite the challenges, it has changed our lives for the better.” One of the biggest lessons was learning to cook differently – steaming vegetables instead of frying them, and recognizing that the diabetic diet is what we should all be eating every day: a healthy diet. How do you manage your diabetes daily? Andrea is lucky to be at a school that really cares about diabetes. “We wouldn’t be able to manage without the support from her teachers,” Zerilda says. “They are able to test her blood sugar and inject her lunchtime insulin, and they call me if they have any questions.” While at first diabetes seemed to rule their lives, both say that it has now become much easier.
What are the main challenges? “Getting the injections!” says Andrea. “I used to be scared of injections, but I’m not any more.” How do you overcome these challenges? Zerilda explains that they focus on the end result and why it’s important to take injections every day. “Carb counting was a challenge at first,” she says, “but now we’re used to it. And Andrea is so good – she doesn’t cheat, and we work together. We also have great support from family and friends.” Do you exercise regularly? “I love doing tae bo!” says Andrea. She keeps active and always takes part in physical education at school – as long as she has a snack before or after.
“Despite the challenges, it has changed our lives for the better.” What’s the best diabetic advice you’ve been given? “Diabetes is not a perfect science,” says Zerilda. “It’s trial and error – you have to find solutions for yourself. If you compare, you’ll despair.” www.westerncape.gov.za
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