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Parenting with Type 1 Diabetes By Michael McLoughlin, host of the We Are T1D Podcast
Published: July 6, 2025
Being a parent is challenging.
Being a parent with Type 1 diabetes? That’s a whole new level of mental, emotional, and physical exhaustion.
In this week’s solo episode of the We Are T1D Podcast, I open up about what it really feels like to be a T1D dad — trying to show up, stay strong, and keep blood sugars in check while making memories that matter. It’s raw, it’s personal, and it all took place during my son Riley’s 13th birthday at Thorpe Park, in a sweltering 33°C heatwave.
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🩸 The Struggles of Being a T1D Parent at a Theme Park
Type 1 diabetes doesn’t take the day off — not even for birthdays.
From the moment we arrived at Thorpe Park, I was managing blood sugar spikes, crashes, hypos, migraines, and overwhelming guilt — all while trying to ride every rollercoaster with Riley. That’s what makes this story worth telling. It’s not about the chaos of theme parks — it’s about what we do as diabetic parents to make memories for our kids, even when we’re running on empty.
I was dizzy after every ride. Treating lows with Lift chews. Then crashing again. Rinse and repeat.
👨👦 What It’s Really Like Being a Dad with Type 1 Diabetes
One of the hardest parts of being a T1D dad is the emotional guilt that comes with not always feeling like your full self. Sometimes you’re high and snappy, or low and spaced out. You want to give your best to your children, but your condition forces a compromise.
At one point during the day, I turned to Riley and said, “Mate, I can’t do it anymore.”
His response? “No worries, Dad.”
That hit me right in the heart. No frustration. Just understanding. That’s what makes being a parent so beautiful — even when you’re struggling, your kids often just get it.
🎟️ How to Use the Merlin Ride Access Pass for Type 1 Diabetes
If you’re a diabetic visiting UK theme parks like Thorpe Park, Alton Towers, Chessington, or Legoland, the Merlin Ride Access Pass can make a huge difference — especially if you experience hypo unawareness or unpredictable blood sugar swings.
Here’s how to apply:
✅ Visit the Merlin Ride Access Hub
✅ Submit proof of your medical condition (I used my diabetes consultant letter and insulin usage info)
✅ Once approved, the pass lasts 12 months and gives access to shorter queue lanes for up to 4 people
It’s a practical tool — not a cheat code. Don’t hesitate to use it. T1D is invisible, but very real.
❤️ A Message to Every T1D Parent: You’re Doing Enough
If you’re a mum or dad managing diabetes while parenting — whether you’re at a theme park or just trying to survive a normal Tuesday — you are doing enough.
Even when your patience runs low.
Even when your blood sugars hijack your mood.
Even when you feel like you’re failing.
Your kids won’t remember the perfect sugar levels.
They’ll remember that you showed up. That you tried. That you were there.
Our pancreases might not work…
But our hearts? Fully beating. Fully present.
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📧 Email: wearet1dpodcast@gmail.com
📸 Instagram: @t1d_mike | @t1d_jack | @wearet1d
🌐 Website: www.wearet1d.com
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