A second-grade student is rather different from her classmates, all because of the devices she has to bring to school for her diabetes.
In an effort to make her feel better, her teacher and classmates came up with a project that will help her cope with the condition.
Devin Dyer's Diagnosis
Devin Dyer was just four and a half years old when she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2014. She has since gotten used to carrying the Dexcom, a device that monitors her blood sugar, and an insulin pump, which allows Devin to get the insulin she needs.
However, it still gets quite exhausting for a young child to deal with, especially that she constantly had to wear the devices even when she is in school. At the beginning of the school year, Devin's teacher asked the students to share the things they liked and disliked, and when it came for Devin's turn, she said that she disliked her diabetes.
Dexcom Purse And Belt Project
When the class had to learn about measurements, the students were tasked to work together to create purse designs for Devin's Dexcom. The activity allowed the children to learn about measurements, work together to create designs, and experiment with various materials such as old clothes, Velcro, duct tape, and ribbons.
Incredibly, the students made multiple purse designs for Devin's Dexcom, and they even made a belt design when the children realized that boys could also get type 1 diabetes and would have to carry a Dexcom as well.
According to Devin's mother, the class project was a fun experience for her daughter and her classmates' enthusiasm to help made Devin feel that she was not alone in fighting her condition.
Type 1 Diabetes: What Is It And What Are The Symptoms
Also called juvenile diabetes, type 1 diabetes is a condition wherein the pancreas of the patient does not create insulin, the hormone that helps glucose move into the cells. Without it, glucose remains in the bloodstream and could eventually lead to problems in the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, gums, and teeth.
Symptoms of type 1 diabetes include urinating often, feeling very thirsty, weight loss without making an effort, hunger and tiredness, tingling sensations or losing feeling in the feet, getting sores that heal slowly, and dry, itchy skin. It is often children who get diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, but it can also happen at any age.
Once diagnosed, a patient will have to take insulin for the rest of their lives and to constantly monitor and ensure that their blood sugar level is not either too high or too low.
