A Birthday Wish I Wish I Could Permanently Blow Out the Candle For
- Julia Flaherty
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
If you've been following along with Chronically Climbing, you might already know I have been living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) since January 2004.
It's hard to believe I'm coming up on 22 years. I continue to process this disease each and every day. I find myself accepting moments, rather than the disease state itself, because it can be so frustrating working so hard without any relief or resolution.
The Ups and Downs of T1D
T1D comes without breaks or forgiveness.
It can be harsh but also rewarding, as it teaches you early on how to take care of yourself, be present, and intentionally enjoy each day. Life is fragile. T1D reminds you of this through every high and low blood sugar, accompanied often by similar emotional swings.
I'm no stranger to those ups and downs...
I've experienced many ups and downs over the years. I went through the stages of grief before finally leaning into my diagnosis. Today, I feel more connected to the diabetes community and space than ever, and I wouldn't want it any other way.
My Primary Goal is to Serve People with Diabetes
My life revolves around diabetes in every way that matters, from my daily personal routine to my work life. My primary goal is to serve people with diabetes, making a positive, lasting impact on the community and driving meaningful changes.
Over the years, I've primarily achieved this through storytelling, and now I offer health and wellness coaching services as the owner of Chronically You. Through all three pillars of Chronically You, my philosophy lies in being a positive realist.
This is a mantra I live by daily as someone with T1D. I believe it's the most level-headed, practical, and optimistic approach I can take while managing this condition—letting knowledge of my disease empower me rather than burden me.
Giving Back this National Diabetes Awareness Month (NDAM)
This month, I am proud to partner with Breakthrough T1D on a personal level as a NDAM champion to raise funds that directly support Breakthrough T1D's mission. I know you have many options for where to donate to support diabetes research. I kindly ask you to consider donating to Breakthrough T1D, as they forge the path in this field.
Over the years, I've participated in many Breakthrough T1D events, ranging from walks and galas to support groups, and now I'm gearing up for my next adventure: a bike ride! I was supposed to bike with Breakthrough T1D the same year the COVID-19 pandemic started.
Although my plans were upended, my dedication to supporting the T1D community remains strong. I have a lot to cross off my bucket list with the diabetes community, and I hope to meet and connect with more of you along the way as we work towards similar goals!
T1D is not an easy condition to live with, and I hope to see a cure in this lifetime. I've wished for it every birthday. By the end of my life, I hope to have a new wish to replace it, as I envision a future where my current one has been fulfilled because of the amazing things I see advocates, organizations like Breakthrough T1D, and creators doing to make this dream a reality.
The Power of Community
When we come together as a community, I truly believe we can accomplish great things! Please support my personal fundraising goal of $1,000 for National Diabetes Awareness Month (NDAM) 2025.
Join my team, Chronic Climbers. If you can't donate, no worries! Sharing the link is also helpful.
Thank you for showing up this NDAM. I will be sharing my story on social media, as usual, during this month and beyond to continue to drive awareness of what it's like to live with T1D.
If you'd like to follow along on my adventure and learn more, find me on Instagram or TikTok. I'm really looking forward to getting to know you on these platforms and swapping stories!
Disclosures:
1. General & Medical Disclaimer
Disclaimer: The information shared in this post reflects my personal experiences living with type 1 diabetes. It is provided for general educational and storytelling purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.
2. Coaching Services Disclaimer
Health Coaching Notice: Chronically You, LLC provides health and wellness coaching services designed to support clients in developing sustainable lifestyle habits, self-awareness, and mindset tools. Coaching is not a substitute for medical care, mental health counseling, or therapy. All coaching services are educational and supportive in nature, and clients are encouraged to continue working with their healthcare providers.
3. Affiliate / Partnership Disclosure
Partnership Disclosure: My participation as a National Diabetes Awareness Month (NDAM) Champion with Breakthrough T1D is a personal, unpaid initiative. This fundraising effort is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or financially connected to Chronically You, LLC or its coaching services. I am not receiving compensation for this partnership or for sharing related links. All donations made through the linked fundraiser go directly to Breakthrough T1D.
4. Transparency & Endorsement Statement
Transparency Statement: Any reference to organizations, products, or events in this post is based on my personal experience and is shared for informational purposes only. Mentions do not imply formal endorsement, sponsorship, or partnership by Chronically You, LLC unless explicitly stated. I value transparency and will always disclose any paid collaborations or affiliate relationships where applicable.
