I am honored to be considered a Women of Inspiration. Thank you to Diabetes Sisters, Brandy Barnes, Shandra and all of the others for this opportunity.

I was diagnosed in my 20's with Type 1 diabetes. I had just flown in from Japan to New York. I had kind of figured out that I had diabetes before I left for Japan 4 days earlier, but did not feel the need to not go to work.

Once I received the official diagnosis, I stepped up to gather as much information about t it as I could. Although, Type 1 Diabetes was very prevalent in my family I was not familiar with the symptoms.

When I first moved to Southern California about 20 years ago, I knew no one except my fiancé/now husband. He introduced me to a friend from work and his fiancé. She had had Type 1 Diabetes since she was 18 months old. She was/is an RN, Certified Diabetes Educator and pump trainer. She has now had diabetes for 57 years and still going strong. I call her my guardian angel. I know someone sent her to be my friend and guide me through the tough times. SHE is MY inspiration.

My life with diabetes is a life I do not think would be any different had I not had diabetes-- except maybe for some of my charity work. I am a flight attendant for the largest airline in the world, I travel the world, I volunteer for charity events and I am currently seeking election in our Flight Attendant Union elections for Vice president for LAX AFA flight attendants. I was just a contestant on Wheel of Fortune on the Season 28 Premiere on Sept 13, where I won almost $30k in cash and prizes. I have 10 nieces and nephews and 9 great-nieces and nephews. My life is very full. Life does not get me down or hold me back.

Last May, I had the opportunity to attend the first DiabetesSisters Weekend for Women Conference. I flew from LA to North Carolina to be a part of it. It was a wonderful and amazing weekend! I had the opportunity to meet many wonderful women with diabetes of all kinds. It was lots of fun! Life keeps me active and focused. I try to do the best for myself and my diabetes and I also help my sisters with taking care of my mom's diabetes.

I am thankful for everything in my life. I have been blessed with an incredible husband for 18 years, my beautiful family, wonderful friends, a beautiful home, great job and so far good health. What more could I ask for. My life is better than I had ever expected. My only wish would be, there were more hours in the day to get more done and have more fun!