Life on Insulin

Andrew J. Schreier was living a normal live until a life-threatening incident led doctors to diagnose him with type one (also known as juvenile) diabetes at age twelve.

Suddenly a childhood that had been filled with fun and happy times became defined by insulin injections and finger pokes. The change in his routine was stark:

For breakfast, he had two cups of Cheerios, one cup of milk, and a pinch of Equal sugar. Between breakfast and lunch, he had a small snack, and when lunch came around, he took his blood sugar level again and measured out his insulin. Before dinner, he'd take another blood reading and measure out more insulin.

While it was clear the disease was severe, he struggled to understand what it meant for his future. He'd find out soon enough, however, and he reveals the challenges he faced in this inspiring memoir.

Whether you've been diagnosed with diabetes or want to help a loved one struggling to deal with it, the advice from someone who has walked down the same path can help those with the disease live a "Life on Insulin."