Stacey Simms’ second child, Benny, was just under two years old when she suspected he might be showing signs of Type 1 diabetes. As a former health reporter for WBTV news in Charlotte, Stacey knew enough to suspect diabetes and called her pediatrician. The pediatrician agreed to see Benny to “rule out” diabetes… but it turned out Stacey was right – and they left the doctor’s office with a diabetes diagnosis.

Today, Stacey hosts the Diabetes Connections podcast, where she highlights news in the diabetes world to help other families who are managing a diabetes diagnosis. During our chat, Stacey shared helpful information about the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, how she knew her son was ready for autonomy (going to friends’ houses and pizza parties suddenly became scary!), and her advice for moms who are dealing with a pediatric diabetes diagnosis.

I was also surprised to hear Stacey say that the price of insulin is increasing, and she encourages us to follow and support a campaign called #insulin4all to help ensure families and adults don’t have to ration their insulin, which is crucial to health and life for many people.

If someone you love is managing diabetes, check out Stacey’s podcast, Diabetes Connections, or follow her online at @staceysimms. She’s also releasing a book soon, entitled “The World’s Worst Diabetes Mom.” Is that a great title or what!?

You can follow me online at @InfluentialMotherhood on Instagram and Facebook – I’d love for you to say hello! For more episodes and inspiring stories of moms making a difference, visit www.influentialmotherhood.com.