By Randall and Emma Barker

Randall and Emma Barker have the unique experience of being a father and daughter both navigating life with Type 1 diabetes (T1D). With over two decades separating their diagnoses, they reflect on their unique journeys living with the disease, which includes how diabetes management has changed over the years, including understanding the effect diabetes can have on eye health and the importance of receiving a dilated eye exam from an eye doctor each year. Diabetes hits different now in several ways, many of which are encouraging for the diabetes community.

Randall’s Story

My life changed more than 30 years ago when I received my T1D diagnosis at 10 years old. It was a big mental and physical adjustment. A big difference that I reflect on is the tools that are available today that didn’t exist back then. It used to take me 3-4 minutes to get a blood sugar read, but now thanks to countless technological advancements, it can take just a few seconds! More people have a general knowledge and understanding of the disease than they used to. When I was first diagnosed, many people didn’t know too much about the disease, and especially not T1D. A common misperception was that you would get diabetes from eating too much sugar – many people still think that today, among other things, which is why it’s so important for me to get involved and educate others about the disease.

Another thing that many people don’t know about is the various complications that can stem from diabetes, such as vision loss. Anyone with diabetes is at risk for developing diabetes-related eye disease. I struggled to manage my diabetes for a time and was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, which required eye surgery. Over the years, I’ve needed a few surgeries and now my health is a huge priority in my life.

I’m fortunate to work with organizations like the American Diabetes Association^® whose mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. As an eye health Champion for their Focus on Diabetes^® initiative, I am grateful to have a platform to raise awareness through my own story, and to pass that torch on to my daughter, Emma.

Emma’s Story 

Like my dad, I was diagnosed with T1D at the age of 10. Even though I was familiar with diabetes because of him, it was still new to me. I remember asking the doctor when I could get my insulin pump (there is normally a year long process before transitioning to one), but because I had my dad to guide me, I was lucky enough to get one sooner. Living with diabetes can be challenging, but in many ways, it’s easier today – from the insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor to even the types of insulins that are used. I have experienced “tech burnout” where I would rather use something other than my pump, but I am grateful for the advancements that make life a little easier.

My dad and I also talk a lot about the rising cost of insulin. This is an ongoing issue, but advocacy groups recognize this and we’re hopeful that one day people won’t have to worry about cost or rationing their insulin. Everyone should have access to the medicine they need. Another thing I’ve learned from my dad is the importance of prioritizing your eye health. Many people may not know about the connection between diabetes and eye health, but diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in American adults. To prevent vision complications associated with diabetes-related eye disease, my dad has taught me about the importance of receiving a dilated eye exam each year in addition to making healthy lifestyle choices.

So much has changed, even from when I was first diagnosed, and it’s exciting to think about what the future of diabetes management holds. You always have to ‘do’ diabetes – it’s a 24/7, 365-day thing, but there are opportunities to make the experience better.

Working Together to Make a Difference

Living with diabetes can feel lonely and isolating at times, but the diabetes community is very active today and community is something that has had a big impact on Emma and Randall. Growing up, Randall had the help of a neighbor with Type 2 diabetes to learn about diabetes, and he and Emma have participated in camps over the years to learn and gain independence in their diabetes journey. Social media has also been transformative, and for people living with diabetes today, it is much easier to connect with one another, ask questions and share experiences.

“What we’ve learned over the years is that while diabetes is always changing, your health must always be a priority. Emma being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes was obviously not what I wanted for her but having a close family member living with diabetes has allowed us to become each other’s biggest supporters. As every person living with diabetes knows, there are highs and lows, but Emma and I want to show others that even though diabetes hits different today, we can hit back,” Randall says.

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Randall Barker Bio

Randall has lived with Type 1 diabetes for more than 30 years and uses his personal experience to encourage others to prioritize their diabetes and eye health. Based in Texas, he enjoys photography and loves to spread awareness of diabetes and connect with people across the country.

Emma Barker Bio  

Emma is a 20-year-old college student and has lived with Type 1 diabetes for 10 years. She enjoys making coffee at her job and her hobbies include bowling and taking care of her two cats.