Life's Sweet Challenge
On World Diabetes Day (14th Nov), we meet Stephanie Gisborne, a diabetes nurse at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, who not only battles type 1 diabetes personally but also empowers her daughter and patients to thrive despite the condition.
Stephanie Gisborne is a dedicated diabetes nurse whose expertise extends beyond professional care. Living with type 1 diabetes herself, she navigates the daily challenges of the condition.
Her personal strategies for managing the autoimmune disease, where the pancreas produces little or no insulin, include a healthy diet, regular gym visits and outdoor activities, ensuring that the chronic condition does not consume her life.
Stephanie's daughter, Evie, diagnosed at the tender age of one, is now 13, and lives with the same debilitating disease that can lead to a host of health complications if not managed properly. These include heart issues, nerve damage and kidney failure.
"I literally live and breathe it 24/7," said the 40-year-old mum of two from Heswall.
Despite the constant presence of diabetes in her life, she feels "super lucky" to have access to a hybrid pump, which automatically adjusts insulin delivery based on continuous glucose monitoring.
This device has been a ‘game-changer’ for her, taking over some of the micromanagement involved in maintaining blood glucose levels.
“A lot of hard work and commitment is needed though,” she said. “I try to be positive about the illness because we can still live a normal happy life. Research is progressing all the time.”
Her role as a diabetes nurse at Arrowe Park Hospital, is deeply influenced by her first-hand experiences.
"Despite being new in this role, I already had a good understanding of diabetes," she said.
With 15 years of experience in dialysis care and her own 24-year journey with diabetes, Stephanie can empathise with her patients on a professional level, as a patient, and as a carer for her daughter.
"I feel when I tell people I’m diabetic, they also engage differently with me as they know I understand how they may be feeling,” she said.
The challenges are manifold though. The routine of carb counting, managing blood sugar levels, and responding to alarms from her, and her daughter's pump can be taxing. Yet, her motivation remains strong, fuelled by the awareness of potential long-term complications of diabetes if not well-controlled.
“Seeing diabetes complications in real life make you aware that unfortunate things really do happen. I think if you are not exposed to it, you can turn a blind eye.”
For newly diagnosed patients, Stephanie's advice is heartfelt and practical.
"Always take your medication," she said, stressing the importance of blood glucose control to prevent future problems. She also advocates for engaging with the diabetes care team and seeking support from community resources like 'Talking Together Wirral' or 'The Wren Project' for those struggling to accept their diagnosis.
“Not everyone adapts well, so share the burden and don’t do it alone,” she said.
Of course, there is a difference between type 1 and 2 diabetes. The first is an autoimmune disease where the body cannot produce insulin, while type 2 involves insulin resistance and often develops due to lifestyle factors.
For those who want to eat better and avoid type 2 diabetes, Stephanie offers sage advice. She encourages lifestyle changes such as losing extra weight, increasing physical activity, and incorporating healthy plant foods and fats into the diet. "Changing your lifestyle could be a big step toward diabetes prevention," she said, highlighting the importance of proactive measures to stave off type 2 diabetes.
“Making a few changes in your lifestyle now may help you avoid the serious health complications of diabetes in the future, such as nerve, kidney, and heart damage. It is never too late to start.”
Stephanie's story is not just about managing diabetes; it is about thriving despite it. Her personal and professional insights offer invaluable guidance to those affected by diabetes and serve as a reminder that with the right support and technology, life with diabetes can still be full and happy.
