Mason was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when he was just 16 months old, an age when most children are still learning to walk and talk. This life-changing diagnosis was overwhelming for our family, as it came with a steep learning curve to manage his health while ensuring he could still have a happy and fulfilling childhood.
Mason's resilience shone through from the start. He quickly adapted to finger pokes, injections, and later the technology that became part of his daily life. Managing type 1 diabetes in such a young child was challenging, especially during the toddler years when communication and understanding are limited. It required constant vigilance, sleepless nights, and a shift in our family dynamic to ensure Mason's health and safety.
More recently, Mason was diagnosed with Celiac Disease, which added another layer of complexity to his care. Despite this, he has faced the challenges head-on and continues to thrive, embracing the changes necessary to live well with both conditions.
These diagnoses have taught our family the importance of adaptability, advocacy, and unconditional support. They have strengthened our bond, as we’ve all rallied together to ensure Mason has every opportunity to pursue his passions and live his best life. Watching him grow into a courageous, confident, and self-reliant young boy has been one of the most inspiring aspects of our journey as a family.
In his spare time, Mason loves to play basketball and swim, enjoying the mix of teamwork and personal challenge these activities provide. He also has a creative side, often spending time drawing and immersing himself in music. Additionally, Mason is deeply motivated to help newly diagnosed kids with type 1 diabetes, sharing his experiences to offer encouragement and support. Whether he’s being active, artistic, or supportive, Mason’s enthusiasm and positivity shine through in everything he does.
Another significant challenge Mason has faced is dealing with bullying and seeking acceptance from peers who may not fully understand his condition. As a young child managing a visible and often misunderstood illness, Mason has occasionally encountered kids who teased him for wearing his diabetes device or taking breaks to check his blood sugar. These moments were hurtful and left him feeling isolated, as he just wanted to be like everyone else.
The stigma around his medical devices and the frequent need for intervention during school or social activities have sometimes made Mason feel "different" in ways that are hard for other kids to grasp. This has been emotionally taxing, especially when he has had to explain his condition repeatedly or defend himself against unkind remarks.
Our family has worked hard to empower Mason with the confidence to educate others and advocate for himself. Over time, he has developed the courage to share his story, helping friends and classmates understand what living with type 1 diabetes means. While acceptance is still an ongoing journey, Mason's resilience and openness have turned many challenges into opportunities for building understanding and deeper connections with those around him.
One thing people might not know about Mason is his incredible empathy and intuition when it comes to others. Despite the challenges he faces, Mason has an uncanny ability to sense when someone is struggling or feeling left out and goes out of his way to make them feel supported and included.
He’s the first to offer a kind word, share a laugh, or lend a helping hand, especially to kids who are newly navigating the world of type 1 diabetes. His compassion and natural leadership often leave a lasting impression on those around him, making him not just a fighter for himself but also a champion for others.
One thing I wish people knew about diabetes, especially Type 1 Diabetes, is that it’s not caused by diet or lifestyle, and it requires constant, ongoing management. Many people mistakenly believe that T1D can be "fixed" or that it’s something that can be controlled by just eating the right foods or taking a break from insulin.
Living with diabetes means being vigilant every day—constantly checking blood sugar, adjusting insulin doses, managing the physical and emotional toll, and dealing with unexpected highs or lows. It can be exhausting, but it’s part of the daily reality for those living with this chronic condition. Understanding this ongoing struggle, and offering support, education, and empathy, can make a huge difference in the lives of those affected by diabetes.
Wearing diabetes devices has had a profoundly positive impact on Mason's life. They have given him much greater independence and control over his type 1 diabetes management. It has allowed him to participate in sports, swim, and be active without the constant worry of manual injections or checking his blood sugar every few hours.
For our family, the reassurance these devices provide has been invaluable. We can track Mason’s blood sugar remotely, which gives us peace of mind when he's out playing basketball, swimming, or just being active. These devices have not only helped Mason feel more confident and in control, but they have also allowed him to live a fuller, more active life while managing his diabetes with greater ease.
The biggest challenge of wearing diabetes devices is managing physical discomfort and occasional technical issues. While these devices significantly improve diabetes management, there are moments when they can cause irritation or soreness on the skin, especially with the adhesive patches and the insulin pump site. Sometimes, the sites need to be changed frequently, which can be frustrating or painful for Mason.
Another challenge is the potential for device malfunctions, such as sensor errors or pump issues, which can lead to incorrect readings or interruptions in insulin delivery. These situations require quick troubleshooting, and when they happen, they can be stressful, especially if Mason is out at school or participating in activities. The need for constant monitoring of the devices and the worry that something might go wrong can add an extra layer of stress, particularly when it comes to ensuring that his blood sugar stays within a safe range.
Despite these challenges, Mason has learned to be resilient, and he’s become increasingly adept at managing the devices and resolving any issues that arise. The benefits of the devices far outweigh the difficulties, but it’s important to acknowledge the ongoing challenges that come with living with and managing a chronic condition like type 1 diabetes.
Mason would tell someone who is newly diagnosed with diabetes first, to know that they're not alone. Type 1 diabetes can feel overwhelming at first, but over time, you’ll gain a better understanding of how your body responds, and you'll find your rhythm in managing it. It’s okay to feel frustrated, scared, or even angry at times—those feelings are valid. The journey isn’t easy, but it’s one you can navigate, and you’ll learn to adapt and grow stronger because of it. Second, be patient with yourself. Diabetes management requires constant adjustments, and there will be days when things don’t go as planned. Don’t be too hard on yourself when things don’t go perfectly—it’s part of the process. Focus on small wins and progress, not perfection. Mason would also encourage them to reach out for support when you need it. Whether it's from family, friends, or a community of people who understand what you're going through, finding your support network is crucial. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, share your struggles, and celebrate your successes, no matter how small they seem.Finally, remember that diabetesdoesn’t define you.It’s part of your life, but itdoesn’t take away from all the amazing things you can achieve. Keep being kind to yourself, stay motivated, and never be afraid to ask for help when needed.You’re capable, andyou’ll find your strength as you go.
Mason is modeling in the Pump Couture Fashion Show because he believes in raising awareness about type 1 diabetes and supporting efforts like D-Camps that provide essential resources and experiences for kids living with diabetes. D-Camps is such an important organization that creates a space for kids to thrive, connect with others facing similar challenges, and gain independence in managing their diabetes.
By participating in the fashion show, Mason hopes to contribute to fundraising efforts that make these camps possible and accessible for as many kids as possible. It's an opportunity to not only raise awareness about type 1 diabetes but also show support for a community that empowers kids to live their lives to the fullest. He wants to help bring attention to the need for greater support, education, and resources for families and children living with diabetes, all while having fun and showcasing creativity in fashion.
Mason has attended D- Camps, and it has had a significant impact on his diabetes management and overall experience. D-Camps provides a unique environment where kids with type 1 diabetes can come together, share their experiences, and gain valuable skills in managing their condition in a supportive and empowering setting.
One of the reasons the program is so important is because it helps kids build confidence in managing their diabetes independently. At D-Camps, Mason learned to take charge of his diabetes care in a safe, controlled environment. He was able to interact with other kids who understood his challenges, which not only gave him a sense of belonging but also motivated him to take more responsibility for his health.
The camp also provided him with the opportunity to connect with expert staff who gave him advice and tips that have helped improve his daily diabetes management. From adjusting insulin doses to dealing with highs and lows, D-Camps gave Mason the tools and knowledge to feel more confident in his ability to handle the ups and downs of living with type 1 diabetes.
For our family, D-Camps was a chance to see Mason thrive and gain more independence. It helped him realize that diabetes doesn’t have to limit his experiences or his ability to enjoy life to the fullest. The friendships and lessons he gained at camp continue to shape his attitude toward managing his diabetes, and the impact of that experience will stay with him for years to come.
Show your support by helping Mason raise funds and support more kids attending D-Camps!
Thank you for your support.
#PumpCoutureFashionShow
