Monday, May 2, 2011

An Evening to Remember

I remember first being diagnosed going to events all around Brantford and surrounding areas, thinking every time the motivational speaking stepped up to the podium, "I want to do that!" At that point in my life I had not yet seen what diabetes and the diabetes community had to offer, but deep down inside I knew that I was going to be apart of something, I was going to do something.

So, today was the day when I stood in front of hundreds of people and made a dream I had come true.  I was the motivational speaker of the night sharing my experience with a good portion of the diabetes community of Brantford.  I couldn't believe it as they called my name to come up, I even whispered to my sister, "this feels like a dream."

Once I got up there my nerves flew away, I saw each person as a person with a story of diabetes. People that loved people with diabetes, people that hated their diabetes, people that needed that motivation to keep on living with diabetes, whether type 1 or 2.

I held it together for the first half, until the slide that read, "support."  I looked over at my best friend Michelle and knew that the real aspect of diabetes was about to explode in front of all the people that watched me so intently.  As many could tell, support is the absolute biggest part of my diabetes that keeps me moving, writing and loving my life.  I love all my supporters so much from those who read my blogs to those who have to live with my highs and lows.

After the speech I felt so good. I felt like I had made a difference and most importantly proved that diabetes doesn't have me - I have diabetes.  I love my life and love where it has taken me and I know that no matter what I have an army of diabetics and supports behind me.

Thanks to all that attended! Special thanks to Abby (my sister) for being my clicker during my presentation, Michelle for taking photos and Joanne for filming. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa for coming as well! I know a lot more of my supporters wanted to come, but couldn't make it! You were there in spirit!

What a wonderful day!

Kayla

4 comments:

  1. Hi Kayla,

    I was manning a booth at tonight's event and I was blown away by your speech. You were incredibly articulate and inspiring. I would encourage you to continue speaking at events and sharing your story! It's definitely your calling.

    All the best you to!
    Lisa

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  2. All the best to you*

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  3. You were fabulous! Congrats! And keep up the amazing work, you truly are making a difference!

    Donna
    Team Diabetes

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