Having been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 4 years of age, over 28 years ago, I've seen some incredible innovations take place in the world of diabetes, including the establishment of new ways to control and monitor glucose levels.

Embracing challenges

Over the last few years, I've had the opportunity to travel, live in different countries around the world, experience diabetic care in different locations and undertake endurance challenges. A snapshot of these challenges includes cycling from Ireland to Gaza (6000km) in 40 days and an open water kitesurf crossing from France to Ireland, a distance of 375 nautical miles.

It’s through these experiences that I've had the biggest life lessons, putting myself in uncomfortable conditions, preparing and training to overcome all barriers. Looking back on all of this, what has been constant for me during both travels and challenges is my reliance on my support team - my wife, family, friends etc.

I suppose the challenges I've undertaken have been a self-verification that I could do something many couldn't. I always believed diabetes was a chink in my armour. The outcome of these challenges presented me with an opportunity to vocalise my diabetes and work with others living with diabetes to show that the condition doesn’t have to hold us back. 

A brand-new perspective

On August 30th this year, my wife and I welcomed our first born into the world - Harris Quinn. It was in the mental preparation for Harris's arrival that my concerns were drawn to the responsibility as a new dad and the anxiety of what a 'low' would potentially bring.

I consider my type 1 diabetes to be very well controlled but there will always be a risk particularly with my new world of sleep deprivation, combined with work. I knew I needed to keep my eye on the ball.

These concerns also played on my wife’s mind; as new parents, we wanted to make sure we had confidence in each other to do the best for our new arrival. 

Diabetes tech is more than a back-up

I'm a big advocate of technology and change. The FreeStyle Libre system has been life-changing for me, from both a physical and efficiency perspective to manage my diabetes well and, just as importantly, a mental perspective.

The implications of a low on a person living with diabetes and their loved ones shouldn't be swept away. In the past, hypoglycaemia for me either happened in the middle of a physical challenge or at home after a long day at work. Following such an event, I would have to mentally reset myself, trying to provide confidence and reassurance to the loved ones around me too, that everything was ok.

The FreeStyle Libre system, which allows me to simply scan the sensor on my arm, so see the data and know what’s going on with my glucose levels, takes away uncertainty or anxiety and I can share the readings instantaneously with my wife.

Life for me is built around routine; I run every morning and I limit my carb intake during the day. The arrival of Harris has disrupted this routine and I appreciate the wealth of data from my Flash glucose monitor even more; the trend arrows and graphs have been incredibly useful, providing confidence and peace of mind for myself and my wife. 

Eoghan Quinn works in the renewable energy sector, loves extreme sports challenges and is a FreeStyle Libre ambassador. You can follow Eoghan @EoghanQuinn1