Sandra Gruca
Type 1 Diabetes Success Story
Sandy was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1984. Her competitive nature was evident as a successful collegiate softball player. She continues to play and now coaches softball. Sandy is motivated to manage her diabetes and not allow it to define her. After many years, she finally agreed to use an insulin pump, for which she credits the healthy birth of her three children. Then, she eventually tried a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), which she calls “a game changer.”
Sandy’s determination to properly manage her diabetes was fueled 12 years ago when her middle child was diagnosed with T1D at the age of four. She stays connected with others living with type 1 diabetes through the online community “Glu,” where she offers and receives wisdom and support. Sandy acknowledges some days are better than others; however, diabetes requires diligence and “takes no days off.” One day, when she was feeling particularly down, she commented to someone about how he always seems upbeat. His response, “optimism is a choice,” resonated with her, and she accepts that each day will provide an opportunity to start fresh.
Sandy credits her diabetes care team, who “truly understand how difficult self-management can be and they respect those of us living with it every day.” When she first met Dr. David Harlan, he asked for permission to enter her cell phone number into his phone. She agreed, never thinking he would use it. However, the day after starting a new medication, Sandy received a call from Dr. Harlan, on "a Saturday morning nonetheless," to see how she was managing. She says it was during that conversation with Dr. Harlan that she finally began to feel that she wasn't alone in her battle against diabetes. "For that, I will be forever grateful."