Rory
Rory is a sporty teen from Palmerston North who loves table tennis, football and volleyball. He was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just six years old. It was an unforgettable day — he was picked up from school, sent for tests, and admitted to hospital.
In the lead-up to his diagnosis, Rory had started feeling constantly thirsty, sleeping poorly, and wetting the bed. These unusual changes prompted a visit to the doctor. Finding out he had type 1 diabetes was a big shift, especially at such a young age.
Managing the condition has meant adapting daily routines, from finger-prick tests to being mindful of what he eats. Some moments were particularly tough, like missing out on sleepovers with friends, or not being able to eat certain foods like as pizza, which disrupted his levels. But over time, Rory has learned how to manage his diabetes in a way that fits into his life.
He doesn’t let the condition define him. Staying active, getting involved, and not overthinking it has helped him stay positive. Rory also wants to challenge a common misconception that type 1 diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar. It’s not, and he hopes to raise more awareness through his role as a Cure Kids ambassador.
For other young people living with a health condition, Rory has a simple message: “Don’t let it limit you, have fun, and enjoy the things you love. Food is amazing, and just because you have diabetes doesn’t mean you need to be on a restrictive diet.”
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SophieA urine test showed glucose, and a subsequent finger prick blood test showed elevated blood glucose.
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