Samantha Walsh has lived with type 1 diabetes for over five years since 2017. After her T1D diagnosis, she was eager to give back to the diabetes community. She is the Community and Partner Manager for T1D Exchange and helps to manage the Online Community and recruit for the T1D Exchange Registry. Prior to T1D Exchange, Samantha fundraised at Joslin Diabetes Center. She graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a Bachelors degree in sociology and early childhood education.
Like the self-discovery and adventure of discovering new playmates, I discovered management of T1D at about age four. My parents urged, “Have at it!” And I have been enjoying the discovery and adventure ever since. 🎡🎢🏅
I spent 2 weeks in hospital(that was typical back then in 60’s) I had classes everyday and day I got home my parents said I knew more than they did so at 8 I did my own shots etc.
It was a gradual process for me – Diagnosed age 7 and hospitalized for 1-2 weeks, once home my parents gave me my shots and managed my care. I started self-injecting the next summer when I went to diabetes camp, where I learned lots with other kids. My counselors and parents and MD oversaw and helped with the DM management and the tasks of daily (and nighttime) care. By the time I was 11 I was easily able to go to friend’s party’s and stay overnight. From 12-15 years I attended summer camp in Gainesville, Texas (Camp Sweeney) as a camper and junior counselor where I gained the bulk of my knowledge and understanding regarding my DM self management. My parents always supported me while encouraging me to learn to take responsibility for my own care and know when to seek the care and support of others.
Like the self-discovery and adventure of discovering new playmates, I discovered management of T1D at about age four. My parents urged, “Have at it!” And I have been enjoying the discovery and adventure ever since. 🎡🎢🏅
I spent 2 weeks in hospital(that was typical back then in 60’s) I had classes everyday and day I got home my parents said I knew more than they did so at 8 I did my own shots etc.
I was 22 years of age.
It was a gradual process for me – Diagnosed age 7 and hospitalized for 1-2 weeks, once home my parents gave me my shots and managed my care. I started self-injecting the next summer when I went to diabetes camp, where I learned lots with other kids. My counselors and parents and MD oversaw and helped with the DM management and the tasks of daily (and nighttime) care. By the time I was 11 I was easily able to go to friend’s party’s and stay overnight. From 12-15 years I attended summer camp in Gainesville, Texas (Camp Sweeney) as a camper and junior counselor where I gained the bulk of my knowledge and understanding regarding my DM self management. My parents always supported me while encouraging me to learn to take responsibility for my own care and know when to seek the care and support of others.
As soon as I was disgnosed and on insulin.