Jackson, Mississippi — Marlee Brandon’s life changed dramatically after her one-year-old son, Bain, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, a condition that would require careful management and adaptation from the entire family. In a heartfelt reflection on her journey, Brandon shares the challenges, fears, and newfound responsibilities that emerged from this life-altering diagnosis.
Bain’s ordeal began just six days after his first birthday. Brandon noticed her son exhibiting unusual behavior: irritability and difficulty while teething. Initially, a visit to urgent care led to a diagnosis of a bilateral ear infection, but Bain’s condition worsened during the car ride home. He experienced severe vomiting, labored breathing, and extreme fatigue. This prompted an emergency room visit, where doctors quickly discovered that Bain was not just suffering from an ear infection but was also facing a critical condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis.
On August 16, 2024, Bain was officially diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The shock of the diagnosis hit Brandon hard. “You never expect a life-changing illness at such a young age,” she said, recalling the panic that filled her heart as doctors explained the gravity of his situation. Bain spent three days in the intensive care unit, where his blood sugar was stabilized, and Brandon and her husband, Chandler, began to learn the intricacies of managing their son’s diabetes.
Brandon admits that the early days of coping with Bain’s diagnosis were overwhelming. “It took time for me to find my strength,” she said. She faced the harsh reality that maintaining Bain’s health would often involve procedures that could cause him pain, yet it became apparent that this was now part of their daily life. The couple closely monitors Bain’s blood sugar levels, counts carbohydrates for every meal, and ensures he has a childhood filled with joy despite the challenges.
Reflecting on the signs that went unnoticed prior to the diagnosis, Brandon realized Bain exhibited symptoms typical of type 1 diabetes, such as frequent urination and increased thirst. However, as a first-time mother, she often dismissed these signs as normal developmental changes. “It’s hard when you don’t have a family history of diabetes,” she explained, noting that while autoimmune conditions are present in her family, type 1 diabetes was not something they were prepared for.
Since Bain’s diagnosis, Brandon has dedicated herself full-time to managing his condition, having left her job as a pediatric speech language pathologist. “People say your child can have a normal life, but that’s hard to believe when you can’t trust others to manage his diabetes as you would,” she emphasized. The day-to-day routines for her family have changed significantly, incorporating insulin management, frequent blood sugar checks, and careful meal planning.
Brandon’s commitment to Bain’s well-being extends beyond just physical health. She believes that knowledge is empowering and has started teaching him about his diabetes from a young age. Using her expertise in language development, she encourages Bain to understand his condition and communicate about it effectively. “Children can learn complex topics,” she noted, as she strives to foster confidence in her son regarding his health.
Moreover, the community surrounding type 1 diabetes has provided support and shared wisdom that is often missing from traditional medical care. Brandon highlights the importance of connecting with others who share similar struggles, which has fostered a sense of belonging and reassurance for her family.
As Bain grows, Brandon acknowledges her anxiety about transitioning responsibilities to others, particularly when he eventually attends school. “It’s difficult to let go of control when it’s about your child’s health,” she said, expressing her hopes for Bain to become independent while still managing his diabetes.
By sharing their journey, Marlee and Bain are not just raising awareness about type 1 diabetes; they are also paving the way for future discussions around pediatric health and the complexities of chronic illness management. Their story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of parenting and the resilience families must cultivate in the face of adversity.