Hello to the HelloType1 family!

My name is Anh Thơ. I’m 25 years old and have been living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) since I was 21—a life-changing milestone I will never forget. The disease entered my life about eight months after giving birth to my first child, beginning with what seemed like minor symptoms: excessive thirst and constant drinking.

Due to the impact of the pandemic, I wasn’t diagnosed in time. Just one day later, I fell into a deep coma. When I woke up in the hospital, I learned that I had gone through a life-threatening episode and had been diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperkalemia, and acute kidney failure.

Learning and Adapting to a New Reality

At first, I didn’t fully understand what this disease meant. I naively believed that “taking medicine would cure it.” But when my husband broke down in tears and told me that this was a lifelong condition—and that he feared losing me—I finally began to take my diabetes seriously.

The real turning point came when I became pregnant with my second child. I started learning more and discovered that diabetes isn’t just about consuming sugar or carbs—it’s also influenced by emotions, hormones, and postpartum factors. This time, I took an active role: I monitored my blood glucose with a continuous glucose monitor and worked closely with doctors to ensure a stable and healthy pregnancy.

Living Positively – The Key to Mental and Physical Well-being

Today, I’ve come to realize that diabetes itself isn’t as frightening as the complications that arise from poor management. I’ve embraced a healthier lifestyle: balanced nutrition, regular exercise, emotional regulation, and—most importantly—maintaining a positive mindset. I truly believe that optimism and discipline are the “medicine” that help me live healthier and happier every single day.

If I didn’t tell you, you probably wouldn’t even know I have diabetes. That’s proof that with the right self-care, we can live just like anyone else—maybe even more positively and inspiringly.

A Message of Gratitude and Hope

I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the HelloType1 community for creating a loving, knowledgeable, and deeply compassionate space for people like me living with T1D. The events, meet-ups, and shared stories have empowered me and so many others.

I hope there will be more opportunities to join hands with HelloType1 in future programs—not only as a source of support, but also as motivation for each of us to live joyfully, care for our health, and stay proactive.

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, but about learning to dance in the rain.”

Once again, I wish the HelloType1 family good health, happiness, and endless positive energy to share with the community!