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Welcome to Just a Little Suga’!

JALS15

Welcome! My name is Ariel and I’m the Type 1 diabetic blogger behind Just a Little Suga’!

Just a Little Suga’ is a personal blog with an expansive focus, seeking to shed light on the experiences of diabetics on the margin (i.e. individuals of color, vulnerable populations, marginalized communities affected by diabetes). Although I have lived with type 1 diabetes for 10 years, my perception of this disease is greatly colored by my grandmother, a type 2 diabetic who succumbed to complications two years ago.

Following her passing, I was desperate to find a compassionate community of diabetics who could empathize with my grief and encourage me to take better care of myself. I also began to critically reflect on my condition and how factors such as race, culture, family, and education impacted my perception of diabetes.

In my pursuit of a diabetes tribe and as a black woman, I seldom found individuals who looked like me. On platforms whose goal it was to raise diabetes awareness, and to educate and support those with this disease, I never understood why the voices of people of color were few and far between. We too, are the face of diabetes. And as statistics reveal, we are also in dire need of support, access, and education.

My hope is that Just A Little Suga’ will begin to address that. By sharing my story, and highlighting other folks of color coping with and tackling diabetes, I hope to establish a community focused on living well. Ultimately, I have two goals:

  • Motivate myself and others to be resilient in the face of diabetes
  • Enlighten the friends/families of diabetics so they’ll be encouraged to better support them.

I hope you’ll join me on this journey and understand that life with diabetes is more than just a little suga’.



13 responses to “Welcome to Just a Little Suga’!”

  1. LaToya says:

    Great way to be the change you want to see in the world. I’m not a diabetic, but my family has been effected by the disease. I’m looking forward to seeing what you have in store for the blog! Congratulations!

  2. JL-C. says:

    Way to go Ari! I applaud you and your blog initiative – Just A Little Suga. Looking forward to seeing your growth and more than happy to share your blog throughout my network. Perhaps, on my website, if you wish.
    I will always stand in the gap for you that you walk in your healing which will manifest itself and suddenly for you are God’s Little Lioness and you are fearfully and wonderfully made, protecting your health from sickness and disease, for my Beloved, I wish above all that you may prosper and be in good health, even as your soul prospers.
    Healed Woman of GOD! <3

    • AJL says:

      Thank you for your kind words and prayers. Definitely, feel free to share with your network. My aim is to create a community, all help is appreciated.

  3. Lakisha says:

    So proud that you are taking a stand!

  4. Samura1229 says:

    Good morning all I was just tagged in a post on face book about this blog. I believe it’s a great idea. I have not done my best with taking care of myself as it concerns my diabetes and I hope this outlet will motivate me to do better. I am type 2, started out as gestational during my first 2 pregnancies and then remained after my 3rd and last. It became even more difficult after my divorce which became final 2 months after my mother passed from complications from her diabetes. This fight has been along and hard road as I juggle life as a single mother of 3 and trying to manage diabetes.

    • AJL says:

      Thank you for your comment and your honesty. It’s greatly appreciated. We’ve all had moments where we haven’t done our best, but I think in sharing your story, you’re already one step closer to being and doing better. I commend your strength and your willingness to keep fighting despite the many obstacles that have come your way. You are phenomenal. I hope that you do find this space encouraging and continue to connect and share regarding your diabetes journey.

      Ariel

  5. Mary K Reed says:

    So glad to see you making this positive difference

  6. Ketty says:

    This is really great Ari! Thank you for starting the conversation!

  7. Hamiebai says:

    This is great Ariel so inspirational may the good Lord reward you aboundantly