Aminath Shaha Shamoon, Teenager with Type 1 Diabetes | MV+ People

“Having diabetes doesn’t stop you from doing anything. You can still be active and do everything you want without any feeling of isolation”

Aminath Shaha Shamoon, a 16-year-old living with Type 1 diabetes, along with her mother, Fathimath Firasa, shared insights into their journey of managing the condition since Shaha was diagnosed at the age of five. Her mother reflects on the early days of fear—particularly overcoming a personal fear of needles to administer up to 12 daily pricks for blood glucose tests and insulin doses—and how patience and family support helped them navigate the initial challenges.

They explain that while living with Type 1 diabetes does not stop anyone from pursuing an active life, it requires continuous planning and shared effort. Managing meals involves calculating carbohydrates and taking insulin, while the family chooses to adapt their own eating habits alongside Shaha—such as opting for baked items over fried snacks—to ensure she never feels isolated or left out.

As Shaha grew older, her parents gradually taught her to manage her condition independently, enabling her to take full responsibility for her tests and insulin injections by age 11. Despite facing physical fatigue at times, Shaha stays active in school sports, playing netball and competing in inter-school tournaments, proving that the condition does not limit her potential.

Looking to the future as she prepares for her A-Levels, Shaha aspires to become a doctor so she can inspire and support other children living with diabetes. In addition to her schoolwork, she is also an avid volunteer for the Diabetes Society of the Maldives, actively participating in screening events and awareness activities to assist others just as she was supported throughout her journey. Through resilience and unwavering family support, her story serves as an empowering reminder that Type 1 diabetes is not a barrier to achieving one’s goals and living a fulfilling, active life.