I was diagnosed after experiencing severe symptoms, including a blood sugar level of 33.5 mmol/L. My journey began with a hospital stay and a determination to understand and manage my condition effectively. I was diagnosed at 15 years old, during the COVID pandemic and lockdown in the UK. I presented with extreme thirst (for both milk and water - 32 bottles a day!), frequent urination, extreme weight loss (just 7 stone 2 lbs at time of diagnosis) and overall weakness. I vividly recall pulling myself up the stairs using my arms as my legs would give way. I was determined to regain control over my health after being told I 'Has diabetes and it isn't going to go away'. I recount how my dietician at the time of diagnosis said that pizzas were good as they contained fat and calcium in the form of cheese, one of many statements which made me discover what works for my diabetes for myself.

When I see fellow diabetics struggling, I feel compelled to offer my support and help, and have historically done this through my social medias, such as TikTok here. Follow Johnny on TikTok

I am currently in my third year of university, studying Microbiology and Immunology, where I have studied the intricacies of the human body and its response to diseases, including diabetes.

Through my current education, I have been able to research and understand more the biological mechanisms underlying both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and I am committed to using this knowledge to help others understand their diabetes, whether it is type 1 or type 2.