I, too have been a Type 1 diabetic for 36 years. I've been on an insulin pump for 18 years...what a HUGE improvement over the old methods of either taking a shot every time you eat or planning out your exact carb intake for the day so you can fit it to your "prescribed" insulin doses for the day!!!!
I have had some weight issues throughout my life...but I have also dealt with eating disorders for the majority of that time as well. Diabetes made many of these eating disordered behaviors available to me that aren't available to "normal" people and some other behaviors much easier-such a strong focus on diet as well as a vigilant eye on carb intake. Unfortunately, this came at a price. My A1Cs were obviously out of control-between 13-14, and I ended up in the hospital more than once due to SEVERE ketoacidosis.
At this point, all I can do is say that I'm extremely lucky that I've gone for these 36 years without any permanent complications. i did have some eye and kidney issues due to my terrible control, but they have resolved themselves now that I've pulled myself together.
In the last 6 months I've lost about 20 pounds...the RIGHT way...eating less and working out more....and not eating less in my usual drastic way. I've maybe another 10-20 pounds to lose, but I've gotten to a point where losing a ton of more weight isn't a huge issue...it'd just be a nice bonus!
Along with that weight loss has come a HUGE decrease in my insulin intake...I came from about 100 units a day to an average of about 40 units a day and my last A1C was 6.2. Nice.
Fitbit has helped so much!!! What a motivating tool! I can't imagine living without one now.....
