Mum devastated after daughter diagnosed with same life-changing condition as her

A mum was devastated to learn her daughter has the same condition that affects her 24/7. Stephanie Gisborne, from Heswall, Wirral, lives with type 1 diabetes and has navigated the daily challenges that come with it for years now.

The 40-year-old said she finds it best to manage her autoimmune disease, where the pancreas produces little or no insulin, by eating a healthy diet, regularly visiting the gym, engaging in outdoor activities, and ensuring that the chronic condition does not consume her life.

She told the ECHO: “I literally live and breathe it 24/7. A lot of hard work and commitment is needed, though. I try to be positive about the illness because we can still live a normal, happy life. Research is progressing all the time.” Stephanie's teenage daughter, Evie Taylor, also lives with the same debilitating condition.

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Diabetes can lead to a host of health complications if not managed properly, including heart issues, nerve damage and kidney failure. With this in mind, Stephanie, a mum-of-two, was apprehensive when Evie was diagnosed at just one years old.

She said: “I was clearly devastated when she was diagnosed, but I was grateful for my personal experience, knowing it was a condition that could be managed to lead a normal life.”

Stephanie’s experience with diabetes, however, does not stop there. She is a diabetes nurse at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, where she prides herself on empowering patients to thrive despite the condition.

She added: “As a nurse, I’m aware of the complications it can bring, and living with a chronic condition is never easy. However, we strive to make the best of the situation and are thankful for the NHS, which provides us with the necessary technology and insulin daily. 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.

Stephanie shared her experience in light of World Diabetes Day, held annually on November 14. The day highlights the importance of being diagnosed early, as “it can save lives, prevent a media emergency, and reduce the risk of life-changing complications later".

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This year's theme looks at how access to diabetes care empowers better health for all. Over the next 12 months, the emphasis is being placed on improving global access to educational resources and healthcare solutions, especially in regions facing disparities in medical support.

Stephanie said 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. The “game-changing” device takes over some of the micromanagement involved in maintaining blood glucose levels.

Stephanie said: “Seeing diabetes complications in real life makes you aware that unfortunate things really do happen. I think if you are not exposed to it, you can turn a blind eye. Not everyone adapts well, so share the burden and don’t do it alone.”