Guest contributor Cherise Shockley is a U.S. Army veteran, Diabetes Social Media Advocacy founder and Roche digital social media manager
For 20 years, I have lived with diabetes as a civilian, a military veteran, the wife of a military member of 24 years who was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes while on duty, and the mother of a “bonus” daughter who experienced gestational diabetes and was eventually diagnosed with LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults).
I have always been vocal about my observations and experiences about living with diabetes; I’ve even been referred to as an ‘OG’ within the online diabetes community. During these decades, I’ve seen many changes in diabetes, such as the development of new classes of medicines, technologies for tracking blood glucose, telemedicine, and more visibility about the cost burden of diabetes.
But much hasn’t changed. While awareness about diabetes has grown, family, friends, employers, colleagues, and healthcare providers still lack understanding and appreciation for the full-time job of living with diabetes. According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than half of people with diabetes report they have experienced diabetes stigma — in the family, school, workplace and even in healthcare settings. And in the military, if you are insulin-dependent, it is possible to be discharged under the assumption that you will not be able to fulfill your duties.
We talk a lot about dignity in the military. This feeling of giving and accepting self-respect also plays a well-documented role in healthcare; being treated with dignity is associated with positive outcomes. Diabetes is no different. A recent study in India, which is experiencing a shift in diabetes prevalence from urban to rural areas, found a Diabetes With Dignity (DWD) initiative effective in improving quality of life and diabetes knowledge, keys to preventing disease progression and complications.
I believe it is possible for all of us living with diabetes to give and receive more dignity in our everyday lives. All it takes is a few shifts applied with the rigor the military is known for:
Ask your healthcare provider to see you as a whole person instead of just your numbers, like your weight, Time-in-Range, or A1C. Share a bit about the person you are, which could include family dynamics, responsibilities, wins, and frustrations. If you are a veteran or on active duty, ask your HCP to consider your experiences on duty and to listen for issues, such as emotional health, that may need attention.
At work, speak up if there’s something you need, such as a safe space to test your blood sugar. Many employers have added diabetes support initiatives to the health benefits they offer, so ask your benefits manager if your company has taken these steps yet.
Remind your friends and family that they can trust you and others living with diabetes to know their bodies. They’ll know if it’s OK to have a slice of birthday cake. Be an active listener.
For you, know there is a community of people online and in person who are there to support you. If you are struggling with diabetes, let your diabetes care team or physician know. It’s OK to say you’re not OK, but don’t get stuck. Remember to use all available tools and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Inspiration from the military about giving and receiving dignity can apply to life with diabetes. What’s more, it can be empowering. Let’s start now.
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