Eight-year-old Sierra Swaisland has a message for all parents and caregivers: to be aware of the symptoms of diabetes. “It’s very important that people recognize the signs,” says Sierra, who was diagnosed with Type 1 (juvenile) diabetes in 2001.
“My mom and dad noticed that I wasn’t running around as much as usual and that I was wanting to drink a lot.” Sierra had also lost weight, prompting her parents to take her to the doctor. A blood test revealed that Sierra’s blood sugar was dangerously high. Sierra was rushed to hospital where it was discovered that her pancreas had stopped producing insulin.
Despite having juvenile diabetes and requiring three injections of insulin a day, Sierra wants everyone to know that her life is “pretty normal.” She is an avid runner, and a youth ambassador for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Fortunately, Sierra’s parents realized that her lethargy, thirst and weight loss added up to more than a case of the flu or other common “bug” of childhood. Their quick action resulted in early diagnosis, allowing Sierra’s diabetes to be brought under control. For more information on juvenile diabetes, please contact your local chapter of the JDRF.