Diabetes isn’t just a diagnosis; for some, it’s a generational story, a legacy that intertwines with personal experiences and cultural perceptions. For Lubna Aslam, a diabetes advocate and individual living with type 2 diabetes, this journey spans three generations. Her story, shared during Diabetes Awareness Month by Diabetes Canada, highlights the importance of knowledge, community, and empowerment in managing this condition.
A Legacy of Lived Experience
Lubna recalls her first encounters with diabetes through her grandmothers. As a child, she watched her maternal grandmother boil glass syringes and administer insulin. These early memories laid the foundation for her understanding of diabetes, shaping how she approached her own diagnosis years later.
At 37, she was diagnosed with prediabetes, and by 38, it progressed to type 2 diabetes. The initial symptoms—chronic fatigue and exhaustion she attributed to the demands of parenting—were more than just life’s stresses. A visit to the doctor revealed the underlying cause: diabetes.
Breaking Down Stigma
For Lubna, navigating life with diabetes meant confronting not just the medical condition but also the stigma surrounding it. She speaks openly about the stereotypes people with diabetes face, from misconceptions about responsibility to misplaced blame.
Her message is clear: “When we don’t talk about things we live with, we feed into the stigma.” By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to embrace transparency and empower themselves with accurate information.
Knowledge Is Power
Managing diabetes starts with access to reliable resources. Lubna encourages individuals to turn to trusted sources like Diabetes Canada for guidance. In a world filled with misinformation, understanding the realities of living with diabetes and the science behind its management is crucial.
She emphasizes honoring the emotional weight of a diagnosis. While it’s normal to feel overwhelmed, the journey doesn’t end there. “Don’t stay down,” she says. Instead, focus on learning, connecting with others, and finding strength in community.
Thriving with Support
With over 4 million Canadians living with diabetes, Lubna reminds us of the vibrant network of individuals, healthcare providers, and researchers dedicated to supporting those with the condition. From accessing resources to leaning on friends and family, diabetes management is not a solo endeavor—it’s a collective effort.
Her advice to those newly diagnosed: take time to process, connect with knowledgeable organizations like Diabetes Canada, and understand that managing diabetes isn’t just possible—it’s an opportunity to thrive.
Join the Conversation
This Diabetes Awareness Month, Lubna invites others to “make time to spill the diabetes.” Sharing stories not only fosters understanding but also builds a supportive community that champions awareness and acceptance.
By raising your voice, connecting with others, and embracing your journey, you can help reshape the narrative around diabetes. Share your story on social media using #SpillTheDiabetea and #DiabetesAwarenessMonth to join the movement.
Diabetes isn’t just about managing blood sugar; it’s about reclaiming your life, breaking down barriers, and building a brighter future—one story at a time.
Join us and Diabetes Canada with their Spill the Diabetea initiative to raise awareness of Diabetes
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