Type 1.5 it is

So an update on the complicated diabetes case that has taken over our family. Ben has been officially diagnosed with type 1.5 diabetes. I had never heard of this until about a week ago when all this had blown up in our faces. Here is a little bit about type 1.5:

Type 1.5 is one of several names now applied to those who are diagnosed with diabetes as adults, but who do not immediately require insulin for treatment, are often not overweight, and have little or no resistance to insulin. When special lab tests are done, they are found to have antibodies, especially GAD65 antibodies, that attack their beta cells. This sort of diabetes is sometimes called Slow Onset Type 1 or Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults or LADA.

The doctor found the presence of this GAD antibody in Ben's blood, which as stated above, happens in individuals with Type 1 diabetes. Because of this, he will be on Insulin and oral medication. According to the dr. he will most likely be completely on insulin within the next four years. This GAD antibody is attacking Ben's pancreas as we speak. The doctor said his pancreas has taken quite a hit and will continue to until it gives completely out. What makes Ben such a complicated case is that he required insulin immediately and his body is making very little insulin, as well as the late onset. He is coping well and has a very very good attitude about keeping it well managed....my coping on the other hand is a different story.