Joey
Type 1 Diabetes Success Story
The following video illustrates how quickly Joey progressed in the first 10 months after being diagnosed with T1D
Joey was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at five years old in August of 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Even during potty training, he never wet the bed,” said his mother, Yazerin. “So, when he started suddenly wetting the bed, I knew something was wrong.” He was also extremely thirsty, fatigued, and lost weight. Joey’s pediatrician immediately recognized these symptoms as signs of T1D and performed an A1c test, which showed elevated blood sugar levels. He referred them to the pediatric diabetes clinic at the UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center, where the diagnosis was confirmed.
Joey was admitted to the hospital for a three-night “crash course,” where she was taught all of the T1D survival skills needed to treat him once they returned home. “I was overwhelmed with so much new information,” she said. “It was a lot to consume in a short period before we could go home, but I told myself, ‘I can do this.’ But at the same time, I was nervous and scared. At first, it was challenging.”
Yazerin always knew that “it takes a village to raise a child,” but now understands that “raising a child with T1D takes a team.” She’s extremely grateful for Joey’s diabetes care team, including his endocrinologist, Dr. Leslie Soyka, the diabetes nurse educators, social worker, and child life specialists.
Joey had a challenging hospital experience when he was first diagnosed. He was terrified of all procedures and was often inconsolable during them. A child life specialist was an important part of his care team. Child life specialists provide age-appropriate therapeutic activities and procedural support.
“Everyone, including the front desk receptionists, has been phenomenal helping us learn and understand everything,” Yazerin said. “They’re all so kind and patient, answer my questions, and address all of my concerns.”
She appreciates the educational videos provided during their hospital stay, which cover topics ranging from an introduction to insulin and glucose monitoring to recognizing and treating hypoglycemia & hyperglycemia, managing sick days, checking for ketones, and other related topics. “Watching those videos helped teach me so much of the information I had to learn,” she said. “Now, I can go online and re-watch them as needed for a refresher on any particular subject.”
Yazerin realizes new situations will continue to arise, but she never hesitates to ask the care team. “They’re always willing to help, encourage, motivate, and teach me!”
His school nurse played a crucial role in his initial success.
The list of “firsts” will continue. Yazerin and Joey took their first vacation since his diagnosis, including their first plane ride. He also started playing basketball and baseball. They rely on their diabetes care team to help them navigate new experiences and any additional needs that arise as they continue through their new normal of life with T1D.