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Hi everyone,
I’m sharing something deeply personal in hopes of finding support.
I’d be so grateful if you could share this on your social media.
Even if you can't donate, your support in spreading the word helps me reach more people who may be able to. Thank you so much for your kindness. ❤️
Last month, my life changed drastically.
It began with painful mouth issues and rapid, unexplained weight loss.
I assumed the weight loss was related to the difficulty eating — but I had no idea something much more serious was happening inside me.
My body went into shock.
I was rushed to the ER at Mount Sinai Hospital, where I was diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis — a dangerous, life-threatening condition.
I had unknowingly entered a diabetic coma.
After 10 days in the hospital, I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes — a rare diagnosis for my age, as it’s usually seen in younger people.
My pancreas had stopped producing insulin, and my body had started breaking down muscle and tissue to survive.
I am now insulin-dependent, needing injections 4 to 5 times a day to stay alive.
Here’s where I urgently need help:
I currently have no health coverage in Ontario till I’m accepted for ODSP, and insulin alone costs over $800 without insurance, every 3-4 weeks.
I'm also struggling to cover basic living expenses like rent and groceries, which are even more important now that I need to follow a strict and healthy diet.
I'm unable to work at the moment while adjusting to life with Type 1 Diabetes and waiting for approval from ODSP (Ontario Disability Support Program) To gain access to Ontario Trillium Health Insurance.
I’m asking for $2,500 to help me get through the next few months.
This will go directly toward:
Purchasing the insulin and medical supplies I need to survive
Paying my rent
Maintaining a diabetes-appropriate diet
If you’re a friend, family member, or even a kind-hearted stranger, any amount helps.
Your support during this time means the world to me.
I’m hopeful that with help, I can stabilize my health and rebuild my life one step at a time.
A Note on Awareness
There’s a lot of misunderstanding around diabetes, and I’ve felt the weight of that stigma.
Many people don’t realize there are different types — and they affect people in very different ways.
Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease.
My body is no longer able to produce insulin — and I will need it for the rest of my life to survive.
This isn’t caused by lifestyle, diet, or sugar.
It can happen suddenly, and it isn’t reversible.
Type 2 Diabetes is much more common and often related to insulin resistance, which can sometimes be managed with diet, medication, or lifestyle changes.
But Type 1 is lifelong, and requires constant care and insulin management.
Part of managing my Type 1 Diabetes includes a very strict diet, but if you ever see me eating candy, please understand that it’s not because I’m being neglectful or giving in to cravings.
It’s actually part of my treatment plan to help bring my blood sugar back to a healthy level.
Sometimes, my body needs quick sugar to stay balanced and healthy.
I’m sharing this not only to help myself, but also to help others better understand what so many people with chronic conditions are living with every day.
Finding Purpose in the Hardest Place
During my hospital stay, the doctors and nurses gave me more than just medical care — they showed me compassion and kindness that I’ll never forget.
They reminded me of my worth when I felt at my lowest, and their support gave me hope.
Because of them, I’ve decided to pursue a career in nursing school with the goal of eventually becoming a diabetic nurse/specialist.
When I’m able to return to health, I want to be the one who provides the same care and comfort to others that I received.
Your support is helping me take that first step toward turning this difficult experience into something positive.
Thank you for giving me hope and a chance to rebuild my life. ❤️
With love and deep gratitude,
Leah Goldblum
Organizer
