To be honest it was a pretty big shock for my family. It was a totally new and unheard of topic for us. We first had to familiarise ourselves with the idea and do a lot of learning about diabetes. Right from the start, my parents were always there for me and they've never stopped believing in me. We've made progress together and have had no problems within our family as far as the diabetes is concerned. I would say that the most important thing to do is to accept the diabetes and know what you need to do: The main rule is to listen to your doctor. Then you can live a normal life.

You should always make sure you're eating the right things, getting the right amount of exercise, injecting the insulin as you should to keep your blood glucose levels under control. In order to deal with this illness, you need a certain consistency in your life. I check my glucose six times per day, always before and after I eat. With these checks, a balanced diet and a little exercise, you can lead a totally normal life. You don't have to be any different from anyone else, and you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

I've had an insulin pump for two years now and I'm really happy with it because it gives me a lot more freedom than before. Now I don't have to stick to a pre-set diet or lifestyle; I can live far more freely, just like a person without diabetes.
With or without the pump you can do anything you want, even if you have diabetes. You can play any kind of sport, even football. You can do all kinds of things and, of course, you can even have a girlfriend...

My advice to you: Above all, don't get a complex about having diabetes… In truth, diabetes can even have its positive sides, such as this tournament (the Junior Cup – DiabetesSM football tournament in Switzerland), where you can meet all kinds of athletes who are also living with diabetes.