Learn about what really matters to people living with diabetes around the world.
Insights, Stories & Perspectives
The #dedoc° blog features articles and opinion pieces written by our international network of diabetes advocates: the #dedoc° voices. From scientific conferences to the latest diabetes research and technology, from challenges faced by those living with diabetes to global disparities in healthcare, our #dedoc° voices cover it all.
Diabetes advocates wishing to contribute to the #dedoc° blog are welcome to submit a guest post using the link below.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch — we love to hear from you, and so do thousands of others!
All opinions are those of the authors.
Contact: blog@dedoc.org
From Lebanon to Montreal: My Lived-Experience Journey at ISPAD 2025
From Lebanon to Montreal, Pedro Al Derjani’s journey to ISPAD 2025 is about much more than attending a conference. In this personal reflection, Pedro shares how living with type 1 diabetes, his growing role as an advocate and a memorable conversation with #dedoc° founder Bastian Hauck helped him see the connections between lived experience, policy and change. As a #dedoc° Voice at ISPAD, he discovered the power of community, international collaboration and having people with diabetes meaningfully involved in the conversations that shape their lives. He returned home with new connections, new perspectives and an even stronger commitment to Nothing About Us Without Us.
Managing Diabetes Distress During the Holiday Season
The holidays bring joy, traditions, and long-awaited gatherings. But for people with type 1 diabetes, they can also heighten stress. Rich meals, disrupted routines, and unhelpful comments can intensify diabetes distress, the emotional strain of constant self-management. Blood sugar fluctuations are normal during this busy time, and perfection is neither possible nor necessary. Setting boundaries, taking breaks, and practicing self-compassion can make celebrations more manageable. Focus on progress, not perfect numbers, and reach out for support when needed. Most importantly, allow yourself to enjoy the season: diabetes doesn’t define you, and you deserve to savour moments that bring happiness.
Diabetes and Coeliac Disease: Tips for travelling while eating gluten free
Managing both diabetes and coeliac disease while travelling can feel daunting. But it doesn’t have to stop you from exploring the world! In this blog post, #dedoc° voice Sophie Miller shares her first experience travelling to Thailand, balancing blood sugars while also navigating gluten-free meals abroad. From translation cards and dietetic associations to suitcase essentials and flight meal hacks, Sophie’s practical tips highlight that, with a little preparation, it is possible to travel safely, gluten free, and still enjoy local culture and cuisine.