064: Raising an Advocate for Other Type 1 Diabetic Kiddos with Kendra Regas

When Kendra Regas’ son Andon was 5 years old, he had already been dealing with several allergies, including a peanut allergy. That in itself would be plenty for any parent to worry about.

Shortly after having his tonsils removed, Andon started wetting the bed. Soon afterward, Kendra booked an appointment to meet with the doctor. After describing the symptoms, the doctor said, “I think I know what it is, but I just hope it’s not.”

This led to many more tests, including spending 3 days in the hospital until it was confirmed that Kendra’s son Andon had Type 1 Diabetes. And with Type 1, this meant that Andon would need insulin for the rest of his life.

You’ll hear Kendra talk about how managing Type 1 Diabetes with a child and their siblings is like a family disease because it impacts the entire family. Any parent will tell you that kids love to have snacks. But with a child with Type 1 Diabetes, even the type of snack matters. Meals need to be structured at set times, and being aware of who is having a snack and when they’re having a snack has its own set of challenges.

But you’ll also hear how much her family, including Andon’s siblings, have embraced the diagnosis. She talks about how they have become advocates for other Type 1 Diabetic kiddos and how much they enjoy teaching others about what a day in their life is all about, which is just heartwarming.

Kendra and her family have a beautiful story to share, and I hope you enjoy hearing it as much as I did.

Key Takeaways with Kendra Regas

• How receiving a Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis quickly changed their world.
• The importance of keeping structured meal times and not eating whenever and whatever they want.
• Dealing with the amount of attention that Andon receives in comparison to the other kids.
• The difficulty in managing a child’s temptation to have extra snacks or candy.
• Finding comfort with other groups and families who are managing the same circumstances.
• The joy in seeing Andon and his siblings advocate for Type 1 Diabetics and their willingness to share and educate other kids their age.

Show Notes:

Get Full Access to the Show Notes by visiting: MatteasJoy.org/64.

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