Lucia Wright is a happy, confident 16-year-old who loves her family, friends, drama, science and making the most of her newfound independence.
Lucia Wright. © West Australian Newspapers Limited
But it hasn’t always been that way.
At the age of 11 she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, a lifelong chronic disease. She had been lethargic and sick for some time when she was rushed to hospital and told her life would change forever.
What followed were years of multiple daily needles, finger pricks, late nights, and a whole lot of stress for both Lucia and her family.
Thankfully, new diabetes technology is now helping the teenager to keep on top of her condition and be more independent – at the same time easing the disease burden on her family.
Two years ago, Lucia was involved in the landmark trial investigating the benefits of the Hybrid Closed-Loop (HCL) system – a device which, in a step towards an artificial pancreas, automatically works out how much insulin she needs.
Lucia said being involved in the study gave her an opportunity to transition from injections to a closed-loop system, in a supported environment.
The frequent injections and finger-pricks I had to do every day were really tiring and were always on my mind.
Lucia Wright
“The hybrid closed-loop is like a support system – it helps keep my glucose levels within the normal range and takes a lot of the stress of diabetes off my shoulders. I don’t have to be thinking about it 24/7.
“I still have to manage my diabetes, but the system has given me some control back in my life to do the things I love. All the stuff a normal teenager wants to do, like go to the beach, hangout with friends, I can do with confidence thanks to this new technology.”
Did you know?
- T1D is a chronic autoimmune disease that results from the immune system attacking the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas.
- Currently, T1D cannot be prevented but it can be managed by administering insulin, monitoring glucose levels, having a healthy, balanced diet, and getting regular physical activity.
- In WA, about 160 children are diagnosed with diabetes every year.