"Welcome to the club." A phrase marking an initiation no one asks for. Our entry fee? A terrifying diagnosis through DKA.
Our first born had just started high school. Yes! We made it with only four more years until graduation. Unfortunately, many of the signs were overlooked as effects of all the experiences and changes during this developmental milestone.
Extreme thirst was the first sign. Living in Texas, it's not uncommon to be super thirsty. Plus there was much more walking long hallways climbing up and down the stairs getting to classes. Then unexpected weight loss crept in slowly over time. Chalking it up to the start of high school, and the stress of freshman life seemed like a good excuse because her appetite was steady. Waking up in the middle of the night to use the restroom started interrupting a full night's sleep, and daily exhaustion got a pass due to that lack of sleep.
In early February, the flu hit in the midst of all the symptoms and kicked her body into high gear creating a perfect storm sending it into DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis).
Three little letters, one big diagnosis.
In short, it's a life threatening medical emergency that requires immediate care, and if left untreated can be fatal. DKA happens when the blood becomes too acidic, and breaks down stored fat for energy because the body is not producing the insulin it needs to to use blood glucose for energy.
Nurses explained it to us using this analogy. Insulin is the key to open the door to glucose. Without the insulin, the cells cannot use the glucose for energy which is why the body starts to break down fat and muscle contributing to the weight loss. Even though glucose is abundant in the body, the cellular doors remain shut without insulin acting as the key. Because the body cannot process this sugar for energy, the starving cells force the body to burn fat instead, causing a buildup of toxic ketones. This influx of ketones makes the blood dangerously acidic.
The flu overlapped many of the symptoms she was having so it was hard to decipher what was flu and what was truly happening. Her body had just enough energy to fight off the virus, but didn't bounce back normally which sent red flags soaring.
This perfect storm led to an urgent care visit immediately followed by an ambulance transport to the pediatric intensive care unit of a local children's hospital. This is where the endocrinologist said to her, "You have Type 1 Diabetes."
Next came three anxious days filled with multiple visits by the endocrinology team. They led us through trainings on blood sugar control, sick-day management, counting carbs, balanced nutrition, continuous glucose monitors, and insulin delivery. Why? Because Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease that requires insulin for survival. Remember the key? No key, no open door.
Too much sugar did not cause it. Believe me, I asked and researched it over and over and over again. All I really know is that life in February 2026 shifted, and the last six months haven't fully been the same.
Those three challenging February days in the hospital were rough, but I felt God by our side. Through it all I prayed like a warrior. I had no choice but to keep praising. A body He created, a child He granted. I knew He was and still is in control. In Hebrews 13:5 God says, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." He didn't, and He hasn't. I dare say He even left a little clue knowing which PICU room we would be housed in for the duration of our stay.
J.C. I see you!
In hindsight, all the signs were there: extreme thirst, unexpected weight loss, frequent urination, and exhaustion. Other signs masked by the flu included nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and confusion. These symptoms can happen separately for various reasons, but if you or someone you know starts getting them all together and maybe this all sounds familiar to you, seek medical attention. I am not a doctor, nor can I give medical advice. I am just a mom sharing her story of our experience to raise awareness for T1D.
For more information about DKA visit the article linked at the American Diabetes Association.
If you stayed this long, thank you! Remember, Jesus loves you.
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