Girlfriend with diabetes moving to London

[partneringwithd]

Hi everyone, my girlfriend has t1 since childhood and she is considering moving to London from India. What should she know and how should we prepare for this? As a couple with diabetes, what problems do people usually face living by themselves away from family? What kind of support can one expect from the NHS? Also, how good is the NHS? (No offense but no one goes to govt hospitals where i come from). As her boyfriend and probably the only person she know here, what should i know/do to make sure our life is as comfortable as possible? I would be really grateful if i could speak to someone over the phone as i'm very concerned (perhaps a bit too much?) about her health and well being here. If any couple has had similar experiences or if you are just a couple living with diabetes, i would love to give you a call.

 

[Ljc]

You could try contacting our helpline
+443451232399

 

[partneringwithd]

Thanks! but looks like the helpline is closed today.

 

[Northerner]

Thanks! but looks like the helpline is closed today.

It will be open on Monday 🙂 As she is only considering moving here then I imagine you don't need to know immediately 🙂 Also, we do not recommend members make contact with others until a friendship is established. On the whole the NHS is very good for people with diabetes 🙂

 

[partneringwithd]

Got it. I'm also asking because I want to know what i'm getting into if we end up together. While i understand that t1 isnt a death sentence, i want to know the severity of it so that i can judge if I will be able to manage and support her the rest of her life. I know you might think i'm being shallow because i'm basing my decision on something she has no control over rather than my love for her. I do want us to end up together but i just dont know how difficult it is to manage t1 here. Am i overestimating the problem that t1 causes? I'd be happy to read peoples experiences of marrying someone who hadt1/t2 before they were married

 

[Northerner]

Got it. I'm also asking because I want to know what i'm getting into if we end up together. While i understand that t1 isnt a death sentence, i want to know the severity of it so that i can judge if I will be able to manage and support her the rest of her life. I know you might think i'm being shallow because i'm basing my decision on something she has no control over rather than my love for her. I do want us to end up together but i just dont know how difficult it is to manage t1 here. Am i overestimating the problem that t1 causes? I'd be happy to read peoples experiences of marrying someone who hadt1/t2 before they were married

I think much will depend on how she has managed her diabetes herself over the years since her diagnosis as to how much support she may need - she may just need a little understanding. People with Type 1 can live full and healthy lives, just like anyone else, if they understand their condition and are able to maintain good control of their blood sugars. We have many members here who have had diabetes for decades without serious problems, and in many ways they may be healthier than their peers because of the regular checks we receive on the NHS - as long as you keep your appointments! 🙂 Might be worth having a read of the Diabetes Etiquette card so you can gain a better understanding of issues and how you can help (and also avoid becoming overprotective 🙂)

We've had many members here over the years who have grown up with Type 1, got married, and had children - mostly it just needs a little extra care and planning 🙂

 

[partneringwithd]

Well, she is quite disciplined when it comes to take care of herself and manages her Type 1 pretty well and i know she will continue to do so. And yes, i will take your advise on not being overprotective.Thank you!