Me and diabetes: A lifelong balancing act

Today we will be hearing from Bluecrest Recruitment Manager, Marianna, about her experience of living with type 1 diabetes.

I’ve been living with type 1 diabetes since I was five. I’m now 32, and while the journey didn’t start out smooth (think more rollercoaster than scenic stroll), the turning point was acceptance. Type 1 diabetes isn’t something you outgrow or cure, it’s a lifelong condition. The trick is learning to live with it, not fight against it.

Managing diabetes is all about balance: blood sugars, lifestyle, mindset. If you don’t keep it in check, things can go sideways fast. But with the right tools, support, and attitude, you can absolutely thrive.

I work full-time, spend my free time with friends and family, hit the gym, read far too many books (no regrets), and generally try to live a healthy, balanced life. I eat well, I move often, and I rest when I can. Diabetes fits into all of that.. sometimes awkwardly, sometimes seamlessly.

Diabetes at work: The second job you didn't apply for

Let’s be real: diabetes is a full-time gig in itself. Carb counting before every bite, injecting insulin multiple times a day (and night), constant monitoring, correcting, adjusting , it’s like being your own personal health technician 24/7.

Thankfully, I’ve got tech on my side. My Dexcom sensor alerts me to highs and lows, and I wear one AirPod at work so I never miss a beep whilst handling my day to day duties. It’s saved me more times than I can count.

Work can be stressful, and stress can spike blood sugar. Busy days make it easy to forget to check levels. But I’m lucky, my workplace is incredibly supportive. My manager and colleagues know the signs to look out for and always give me the time I need to manage things properly.

Appointments are part of the package: diabetes specialist, ophthalmologist (eye checks are crucial), dietician, and my employer gives me the flexibility to attend them all. That support makes a world of difference.

How you can support a diabetic colleague or employee

Whether you’re a manager or a teammate, here’s how you can be a diabetes ally:

• Give time for appointments. These aren’t optional, they’re essential for long-term health and catching complications early.

• Allow space for management. Whether it’s treating a low/high, injecting insulin, or just taking a moment to recalibrate, that time matters.

• Know the signs. Every diabetic is different, but knowing what signs to look out for in your colleague or employee is important in being able to support them best.

• Be supportive. Diabetes isn’t always visible, and it’s not always easy. A little understanding goes a long way.

• Ditch the stereotypes. “Are you sure you can eat that?” is a classic! and not in a good way. Type 1 diabetics can eat what others eat, but it’s all about moderation and management. If you’re curious, ask questions.. we’d rather explain than be judged.

Diabetes is a part of my life, but it doesn’t define me. With the right mindset, good tech, and a supportive environment, it’s absolutely manageable and you can live your best life. And if you’re working alongside someone with diabetes... just know your support might be making more of a difference than you realise.

Need help? You can reach out to our corporate team on 0808 168 9219