TYPE 1 diabetes does have its challenges but Meadow Springs resident Sandon Isle (12) does not let it stop him from achieving his goals and living life to the full.
Sandon was diagnosed a year ago after his parents noticed he was excessively lethargic and thirsty during a hockey game.
Mother Kym, who has lived with type 1 diabetes for nine years, recognised the symptoms and a blood glucose test was confirmation.
“Sandon has quickly accepted his diabetes and I think this has a lot to do with observing me live with the condition,” she said.
“He already draws up his own insulin and has taken the onus on himself to test regularly and pay attention to what his body needs.”
Sandon, who attends Frederick Irwin Anglican School, has always played sport, taking up hockey at seven and playing as many as three sports at a time, including basketball and football.
Diabetes hasn’t held him back and he played for the WA schoolboys hockey team this year. Sandon finds that this level of exercise helps him manage his diabetes.
Parents Kym and Brett, said it could be challenging that the community often lacked an understanding of type 1 diabetes.
But they have found Sandon’s school to be very supportive by educating other students about diabetes.
“The teachers and students have provided amazing support for our son,” she said. “They look after him and are learning more about the disease.”