Kendall Browning, of Land O’Lakes, Fla., is a 13-year-old teenager with Type I Diabetes. Although this disease has affected every aspect of her life, she continues to educate herself in order to feel healthier. In January 2014, Kendall began using a new t:slim Insulin Pump which has made her life much easier. It is technologically advanced in assisting her with daily maintenance. Kendall’s independence and quality of life has increased because of this device.
There are many supplies that a diabetic needs to have on a regular basis. Kendall has a solid knowledge base of what is needed for her daily maintenance and is responsible for letting her parents know of the supplies she is in need of. Helen Browning, Kendall’s mother said “I take my daughter once a week to Walgreens to purchase her necessary medical supplies. It is an overwhelming and never ending task.”
At this point in Kendall’s life she has come to the realization that diabetes management is a full-time job. “This was not a disease I wanted, nor requested, and not one that I can ignore,” said Kendall. Kendall must maintain a healthy lifestyle, which incorporates proper monitoring of medication, frequent exercise, and daily blood sugar monitoring. Kendall also has to maintain a low stress level each and every day so her sugar does not spike. Even though this is an ongoing life responsibility, Kendall approaches it with perseverance, strength and responsibility. Even though Kendall is only 13-years-old, she continues to participate in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) “Walk to Cure Juvenile Diabetes” for T1D. This year the walk will take place on April 12, 2012 at Fort DeSoto Park, in St. Petersburg, Fla.
She is awesome…but it affects the entire family. The awareness of her behavior has to be of concern to all… This can reflect her sugar level also. She has a very supportive and loving family.