Frazier has been a diabetic warrior since the age of 12. She is a young, vibrant woman with a fun personality and doesn’t let the illness define her, yet advocates for others and is making the effort to help younger generations on how to cope and live their lives. I interviewed Frazier and around that time she was in the hospital. She rides her sense of humor as a strength to keep her chin up during tough times. Support is everything! It’s not easy and it can be scary but it is important to be happy and take care of yourself.
What is your invisible illness?
Type one diabetes
When and how were you diagnosed?
I was 12 years old. I went in for a double ear infection, got lab work done and I was diagnosed with type one diabetes.
What were your struggles and fear after diagnosis?
At first I didn’t fully grasp the full weight of my disease. Later, I realized how much work it was going to take. I was in denial for a very long time and I thought that ignoring it would make it go away.
Frazier is very involved with Florida Diabetes Camp. She was a camper from 2005-2010, then became a volunteer. She helps the kids learn how to manage diabetes and shows them that they can do anything that non diabetics can. She wears an insulin pump to help regulate her sugars on a daily basis. “I have to count the carbs that I eat, then give myself a dose of insulin to keep my sugar at a normal level. My blood sugar goal is between 80-130. It’s a balancing game that is super important. If I let it get of our control I can end up in the hospital with a DKA, diabetic ketoacidoais. Which is why I’m here now.” (hospital)
What advice do you have for anyone going through a new diagnosis?
Get a good support system. It is very important to have people in your corner. Also tell your friends and close people around you that you have this disease. One day they might save your life.
What are your goals and dreams in life?
I want to be a mom. I have always love kids, even to the point that I geared my education towards a career that includes children.
Three things you cannot live without:
Coffee, diabetes supplies, friends and family.
Favorite Quote:
“I have diabetes, diabetes does not have me.”
