Jimmy sat on the edge of his bed, staring at the empty wrappers of granola bars and juice boxes piling up on the nightstand. He wiped sweat from his brow, feeling exhausted despite having done nothing all day. His stomach rumbled again, and he reached for another snack, unable to shake the persistent hunger gnawing at him.
"Why am I always so hungry?" he muttered, frustration creeping into his voice.
Mom glanced at Jimmy, noticing his pale face and the dark circles under his eyes. "Jimmy, you’ve been drinking water nonstop and you’re always tired. I think something’s wrong. We need to see the doctor," she said gently. Jimmy nodded, too drained to argue, his thoughts swirling with confusion and anxiety.
Jimmy[/@ch_1] and his mother, holding a clipboard.]
Dr. Lewis leaned forward, voice calm but serious. "Jimmy, your tests show you have type 1 diabetes. This means your body isn’t making insulin, which helps use sugar from food for energy. That’s why you’re so thirsty, hungry, and tired," he explained. Jimmy felt a chill run down his spine as he tried to process the news.
Dr. Lewis[/@ch_3].]
"How did this happen? Did I do something wrong?" Dr. Lewis shook his head reassuringly. "No, Jimmy. Type 1 diabetes happens when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-making cells. It isn’t your fault, and nothing you did caused it," he said. Mom squeezed Jimmy’s hand, offering a small smile of comfort.
Jimmy[/@ch_1] and Mom listen as Dr. Lewis demonstrates.]
"You’ll need to check your blood sugar and take insulin every day," Dr. Lewis instructed, showing Jimmy how to use the monitor. "With the right care, you can feel better and do everything you love. Ignoring it, though, can make you very sick—too much sugar in your blood can hurt your eyes, kidneys, and even your heart," he warned. Jimmy nodded, determination flickering in his eyes as he realized what was at stake.
Jimmy[/@ch_1] sits at his desk, the glow of his bedside lamp illuminating a new journal. The room feels quieter, but more hopeful.]
Jimmy scribbled down thoughts and questions, feeling a strange mix of fear and relief. He knew he couldn’t ignore his diabetes, but with his mom’s support and the doctor’s guidance, he felt ready to face the challenge. As he set the journal aside, Jimmy looked out the window, the stars blinking above—a reminder that even in the darkest times, hope could shine through.
