The Power of Peer Support

OK, I'll admit it. I used to think that "support groups" were only for people with addictions or those who needed help. For my first 16 years with diabetes, I had the "lone wolf" syndrome and figured I was just fine on my own, thank you very much. I didn't have any friends with diabetes or anyone in my life that could relate personally, so I just did the best I could and kept quiet about it because there was nobody that really "got it" anyway. But on the inside, I was scared. My HbA1C wasn't great and I just didn't know how to make it better and still live life in my own way.

I started volunteering with the CDA and JDRF because it was an opportunity to make a difference, and also because it put me in touch with people who could relate to the daily challenges of diabetes. Upon invitation from a friend, I went to check out the Type I Injectors group (here in Vancouver where I live), and what I discovered is that a "support group" is just a group of people who share something in common - and getting together every month is something I actually look forward to!

There is an amazing freedom and humor around diabetes that exists among people who know what it's like and live it every day. And when we meet, it's like hangin' with pals. New people are welcomed with open arms, and everyone just has a desire to make a difference. There's no "preaching" or one-sided view of anything, as each of us knows that no two bodies are alike and the management of this illness is an imperfect science. At the same time though, I've learned some great strategies to better manage my blood sugars, and even been inspired by some of my peers who have actually managed to get their HbA1C into the .06 range - a feat I have yet to achieve!

My wish is that everyone can find this kind of peer support, and that is one of the main reasons we created www.PeoplewithDiabetes.ca - to provide a platform for us to communicate - to ask questions, and share wisdom & experience with one another.

Whether it's online or in-person, I highly recommend connecting with others because there is a strength and comfort that comes from knowing you are not alone.

Join us online or create your own group, but most importantly - know that you are part of a community that's much bigger than you. Welcome!

Cheers and a Smile,