Local family shares journey with Type 1 Diabetes at Lions Club meeting

November is Diabetes Awareness Month. During the Lennox Lions Club meeting, members heard from Gus VonHaden (pictured at right) and his mother, Morgan. In November 2016, at six years old, Gus was diagnosed with diabetes. Prior to his diagnosis, his parents began noticing changes such as increased sweating, sudden bed wetting, a sweet smell, and increased water intake. The family even noticed some weight loss and knew something wasn’t right. Morgan contacted doctors and at first it was thought these changes were Gus’ reaction to several things going on in his life or stress induced — the family had brought home their third child just four months prior and were preparing to move to a new house. However, Morgan and her husband knew to be persistent. When doctors finally tested Gus’ blood sugar, it was 700. Doctors wasted no time and before leaving the hospital that day, Gus and his parents were taught how to do insulin shots.

Today, Gus goes to the doctor every three months to check his growth and progress. Because Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition, Gus’s care team also monitors him annually for other related autoimmune conditions like celiac disease and thyroid issues.

Gus now uses a Dexcom continuous glucose monitor (CGM) which allows both his parents and the school nurse to have access via their phones to monitor his levels. Gus will receive alarms via his phone if an extremely low or high blood sugar level is detected. Eating carbs increases your blood sugar, while drinking water or taking insulin helps lower blood sugar levels. Using a Dexcom allows Gus to be able to eat whenever he wants. He also wears an Omnipod insulin pump. Without a pump and the Dexcom, Gus would only be able to eat every few hours.

As a safety measure, Gus carries a bag with his supplies wherever he goes. In his bag, he has a nasal spray called Baqsimi (glucagon nasal powder) that can be used if his blood sugar drops dangerously low and he becomes unresponsive. It’s as simple as any nasal spray and is lifesaving.

Both Morgan and Gus stressed how thankful they are to have a support network of family, friends, and other diabetics. Sharing their story may help others, too. To learn more about diabetes, visit the American Diabetes Association at diabetes.org.