When Your Community Doesn't Understand: Navigating Ramadan with Type 1 Diabetes
Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, connection, and immense blessings. I deeply cherish this month, which brings me closer to Allah, fills my heart with peace, and reminds me of the beauty of faith. But for people living with type 1 diabetes, the challenge isn’t Ramadan itself—it’s the way our communities sometimes misunderstand our needs.
Feeling Like an Outsider in My Own Community
As a child, Ramadan in school was especially difficult. While my classmates would fast together, I was the only one who couldn’t. The moments before lunch were the hardest. I remember sitting there, feeling the eyes around me, knowing that everyone was fasting while I had to eat to manage my blood sugar. I felt like I didn’t belong, like I was an outsider in my own community.
One memory from school still lingers, even though it happened more than 15 years ago. A new teacher, unfamiliar with my condition, saw me eating during Ramadan. Without asking questions, she grabbed me in front of all the girls and took me to the principal’s office. I was humiliated. My heart pounded as I stood there, my sandwich still half-eaten in my hand.
The principal, who knew I had type 1 diabetes, calmly explained my condition to the teacher. She apologized, but the damage was done. From that day forward, I spent the rest of Ramadan eating my breakfast alone in the principal’s office. I would sit there, quickly finishing my food, feeling the embarrassment wash over me every time someone walked in and stared. I wasn’t doing anything wrong, but I felt like I was.
Yassmin as a pre-teen !
The Need for More Understanding & Support
This experience, and many others, taught me an important lesson: it is not Ramadan that makes things difficult—it is the lack of awareness and understanding from those around us. No one should feel ashamed for taking care of their health.
At the same time, I also believe in respecting the holy month. While people with type 1 diabetes should not eat or drink in front of others unnecessarily, they should never feel guilty if they need to. Health always comes first, and Islam is a religion of mercy and ease.
A little awareness goes a long way for teachers, employers, and communities. Simply understanding that not everyone can fast and showing kindness instead of judgment can make a huge difference.
Excited for Ramadan This Year
Despite the challenges I faced growing up, Ramadan is now a month I look forward to with love and gratitude. This year, it has come at a time when I need it the most—a time for prayer, reflection, and reconnecting with Allah. I am looking forward to praying and praying until my soul feels at peace.
To anyone who struggles with Ramadan and type 1 diabetes: you are not alone. Your health is a priority, and your connection with Allah is not defined by fasting alone. May this Ramadan bring us all peace, healing, and blessings.
Ramadan Mubarak.
