Just about everyone I know knows that I have diabetes. Even if people are not personally aquainted with me, they have usually noticed my pump or heard about my diabetes from someone else. (Upon talking to classmates for the first time, I usually find that they know about my diabetes already.)

So it was a bit strange yesterday when a girl I have become good friends with during this school year asked me what my pump was. My reaction - which was probably too dramatic and unwarranted - was to drop my jaw and reply in disbelief, "You really don't know?"

I thought she was joking or something..then I realized she was serious. My friend had never noticed me checking my blood sugar, or giving myself a bolus; no one had ever told her that I had diabetes. I quietly said, "I thought you knew," and explained that I had been a diabetic since I was nine.

Talk about a reality check! Who did I think I was, the center of the universe? Why would everyone know that I have diabetes? After all, it's not like people spend all their time thinking and talking about me...haha! Why was I so surprised?

I realized that maybe my pump is not as conspicuous as I have thought. I guess people don't stop and stare every time I test my blood sugar or give a bolus. How refreshing.

So, to other kids who may be afraid that everyone notices your diabetes, don't worry. Especially if this issue is keeping you from getting an insulin pump. Half the time, people are so concerned with themselves that they barely take a second glance when they spot a cell-phone-type device on your belt.

It is up to you to let others know or not know about your condition.