Part 11 of the “What Does It All Mean?” series, a real-life reflection on living with Type 1 Diabetes, written by Dennis Goldensohn, who has lived with T1D for nearly 60 years.
By Dennis Goldensohn: T1D for nearly 60 years, advocate, and mentor
Research Then and Now
Most of us living with diabetes are always looking for ways to manage it better. Questions come up every day, and we naturally want answers. We see our general practitioners, endocrinologists, dietitians, and trainers on a scheduled basis. But what do we do in between those scheduled visits?
Many of us will reach for our cell phones, tablets, or computers and start searching for answers to our diabetes management questions. But can we be sure that the information we find is reliable, safe, and accurate?
Let me take you back about five decades. When we did research, there were certain protocols that were needed to support our findings. This usually required reliable sources, and they could not simply come from an encyclopedia! A bibliography was required, along with footnotes identifying the information and the source from which it was obtained. It sounds simple enough, but it took a lot of work.
Fast forward five decades, and finding information seems much easier. With a phone, tablet, or computer connected to the internet, information that once took hours or days to find is now available in seconds. One question can generate answers from multiple sources around the world.
Then comes the difficult part: deciding which information can actually help you better manage your diabetes. Not so easy after all!
The Challenge of Social Media Advice
Let us look at social media platforms. There are many online groups that focus on diabetes. I belong to around eight of them. Some share information from organizations such as Breakthrough T1D, the American Diabetes Association (ADA), Take Control of Your Diabetes (TCOYD), the Diabetes Strong Community, and others.
When visiting these groups, I pay attention to how they present topics that interest me. If I ask a question, I look closely at the answers. In many instances, I ask the same question in several groups to see whether the responses corroborate one another.
The real question is: where is that information coming from?
Sometimes it is simply someone sharing something they tried that worked for them. It may have worked for them, but it may not work for you! And can their advice be validated by reliable sources?
Can You Trust What You Find Online?
Now, let us look at web searches.
You open your browser and type a question about diabetes or diabetes management into the search bar. You hit the Enter key and suddenly have countless websites to visit. Now the responsibility falls on you to review those sites and decide which information is trustworthy.
If you pay close attention, you may notice that many websites repeat information they have obtained from other websites. But is the original source accurate, and can the information be verified?
This is where things get interesting. The internet gives us access to more information than ever before, but sometimes more information can create more confusion.
Another factor to consider is the date the information was published. Some articles may be ten or fifteen years old. During that time, new research may have shown that the original recommendations are no longer applicable. Advances in technology, medications, devices, and scientific understanding may have provided better alternatives and more effective answers.
Most importantly, who are the sources? Are they certified professionals, recognized experts, or leaders in their fields?
We should also remember that not every source has your best interests at heart. Sometimes information is presented in a way that encourages you to spend money before receiving the full story. That should always prompt a closer look.
If a website or organization appears in your search results, take a moment to verify who they are before accepting their advice. This can give you greater confidence that they are legitimate and trustworthy, not simply trying to sell a product or collect your personal information.
We must be aware of who we trust and understand their purpose. There are many websites and online domains that may have little interest in your well-being.
Be Your Own Best Advocate
If you want confidence that the information you have found reflects current best practices in diabetes management, discuss it with your healthcare team and compare it with trusted sources. As they say, “Measure Twice, Cut Once”!
Remember, you are your own best advocate. Taking the time to research questions about your diabetes is both important and empowering. Just do not believe everything you see, read, and hear.
The internet can be a powerful tool for learning about diabetes, but it should never replace critical thinking, trusted sources, and professional medical advice. Ask questions. Do your research. Verify what you find. Most importantly, remember that you are your own best advocate.
………………and that is what it all means!
What Is This Series?
At Diapoint, we believe that the most powerful education comes from real people and real lives lived with diabetes.
That’s why we’re proud to introduce a new blog series by Dennis Goldensohn.
Dennis has been living with Type 1 Diabetes for nearly six decades, diagnosed at just 16 years old, and now approaching 59 years of life with T1D, without complications. His journey is not only a testament to resilience but also to what is possible with the right mindset and support.
Beyond his personal experience, Dennis brings a lifetime of dedication to service and advocacy. He spent 45 years working in aerospace manufacturing, while also volunteering with organizations such as JDF, JDRF, Breakthrough T1D, DPAC, and the Diabetes Research Institute. Today, he continues to mentor young people navigating their futures, while sharing his lived experience with diabetes to support others.
His series, “What Does It All Mean?”, is exactly what it sounds like: a reflection on life with diabetes, beyond the numbers, beyond the devices, and beyond the daily routines.
Through this series, Dennis explores:
- The realities of living with diabetes every single day,
- The misconceptions and stigma people face,
- The history and progress of diabetes care,
- The power of community, advocacy, and teamwork,
- And ultimately, what it truly means to live a full, successful life with diabetes.
This is not just education. This is perspective and lived experience.
And above all, this is reassurance that yes, you can.
