10. Kalex, Kylene and Lauren: Black, Diabetic and Proud

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I speak to Kalex, Kylene and Lauren. All three are black and living with type 1 diabetes. The backdrop to this episode is where we find ourselves in the world at the time of recording. This episode was recorded towards the end of June 2020. George Floyd’s death in May 2020 shocked the world and highlighted the problems back people face with systematic and institutional racism in all areas of society. This includes the education system to the workplace and in healthcare environments. Growing up I always wondered if my experiences as a black person living with type 1 diabetes was just limited to me but I never spoke to others in my position. I’m not 24 years into my type 1 journey and a member of the diabetes community which has allowed me to have this conversation. This episode isn’t just about me fulfilling a childhood dream this episode is so much more. This episode is four black people living with type 1 diabetes and sharing our experiences. There are both shared and unique experiences amongst the four of us. All my guests were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as adults which came with its own challenges which we discuss in our chat. We also talk about health discussions within the black culture and experiences within the health care system as a black person. Our conversation then leads to the diabetes community where we discuss diversity within the diabetes community and we talk about what it is like for us as black people in today’s society. I appreciate Kalex, Kylene and Lauren sharing their experiences. Where you can find my guests on social media: Kalex on Instagram hereKylene on Instagram here and on Twitter hereLauren on Instagram hereIf you would like to ask a question or be a guest on the show then you can email Daniel at [email protected]. I read all my messages and might include your question in a future episode. You can find Daniel on Instagram: Dan | Type 1 Diabetes Blogger (@t1d_dan) and Twitter: Dan (@t1d_dan)A bit about the show and hostThe Talking Type 1 podcast by Daniel Newman brings to you interviews from members of the diabetes community sharing their journeys of the ups and downs of living with type 1 diabetes. You’ll hear from those who live with type 1 diabetes, provide care to those living with type 1, healthcare professionals and experts in their field. The interviews will be an open and honest insight into life with type 1 diabetes that you can relate to and also provide the opportunity to learn more about the condition. Daniel will share his insights into his life living with type 1 diabetes. Daniel has lived with the condition along with for over 23 years. He also lives with diabetic retinopathy and received a kidney transplant in 2018. Remember to hit subscribe.