Interning to Support Others

By Cari Ledbetter

My name is Cari Ledbetter. I have had type 1 diabetes for 14 years, which led me realizing the passion I have for helping others with type 1 diabetes, and my internship with Diabetes Solutions of Oklahoma.

I recently graduated with a degree in Community/Public Health from the University of Central Oklahoma. I spent the majority of my college career working out in the community in the OKC metro helping organizations with health education for communities and populations in need.

Looking back over the years, I have had many experiences, both good and bad, when it comes to living with diabetes and managing it. There have been times when I felt great and on top of the world, and other times when I felt as if I were on my death bed while lying in the hospital. Most often times, I landed myself there from making a few unfortunate mistakes in taking care of myself.

I have learned so much through trial and error, and also from the help and support of my doctor, family, and friends. I truly believe that having these individuals available is a vital component in learning to live and manage type 1 diabetes, and I know I could have never made it to where I am now without each of them.

My ultimate goal is to help children and young adults with diabetes overcome and learn from the obstacles that they encounter. I know that this can be a less than perfect experience or a not so easy task to accomplish.

Realizing that type 1 diabetes is my true passion and following my heart to be a blessing to anyone I can will be an extraordinary experience. After a long search for an internship and possible future career with an organization that shares my vision for being a source of support for youth with diabetes and their families, I am happy to say that finding Diabetes Solutions of Oklahoma is a huge blessing and step in the right direction for my life.

I could not be more thankful to have such an opportunity to help this organization in their efforts and support for diabetes. I am looking forward to not only helping others with diabetes, but also learning more about myself and how I can better serve my community in supporting and educating others with type 1 diabetes and their families in this endeavor.