One excellent recent interview I stumbled upon by actor Stephen Wallem, who plays a character with type 1 diabetes on Nurse Jackie, shares some very interesting insights into living with the chronic condition. It was featured on the Diabetes Health website, and you can read the full version here.
The actor definitely has a lot to say – he admits that it is somewhat easier to deal with diabetes in his profession, since acting in front of the camera allows you many breaks in between takes where you can check your blood sugar and eat if you need something.
However, he also shares that just like most other people, he also has days where he feels down and close to giving up: “I have days when I’m right on target, and other days when I get frustrated and want to throw in the towel, and I’m in denial, and I eat terribly. And that I pay for it later because my blood sugar is all over the place,” he says.
As I am sure many can relate, he also reveals that he used to be embarrassed about telling people about his condition, because he didn’t want to stick out and be treated different – and even used to hide his medical bracelet. His role on the show, however, helped him face up to his condition and be more open with it to people. What is more, it inspired him to get involved in the search for a type 1 diabetes cure:
“Being part of the picture in a campaign to help treat and cure diabetes is important to me. I can help other people with diabetes know that everybody has ups and down with the disease.”
Wallem also talks about developing diabetic retinopathy and other struggles he has had to face – but sees it as a positive sign that diabetes is being talked about a lot more in today’s society than when he was growing up.
His last point is especially true – more and more people are learning about diabetes, and although many misconceptions remain, it is up to us to educate people and push for more attention for the cause.
– Stoyan
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