Blind Diabetic: 'Diabetes Is Difficult, But Doesn't Need To Be A Disaster'

click to expand

By Libby Smith

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo (CBS4) - Matthew Weed is writing a book on his laptop. The computer talks to him through a screen reading program called JAWS. Weed is blind and has been most of his life.

"What I hope people will get from the book really is that it doesn't take a lot to make a big difference, and to have an impact on people's lives," Weed told CBS4.

Dr. Matthew Weed (credit: CBS)

Weed relies on others to help him achieve extraordinary goals, like rollerblading. He also relies on others to help him manage his Type 1 diabetes, a diagnosis he got when he was 1-year-old.

"There really aren't tools and technology for me to be able to do these things independently," Weed said.

Someone has to track his food and exercise, read his glucometer, and load his insulin syringes.

"One becomes very aware of logistics. Everything becomes about logistics," Weed explained.

Matthew Weed gets help checking his blood sugar level. (credit CBS)

While the logistics are complicated, Weed called diabetes manageable, even when you can't see.

"Diabetes is difficult, but it isn't and doesn't need to be a disaster," Weed said.

He speaks about his journey with Type 1, and supports the American Diabetes Association. He'll be walking the 5K at Tour de Cure with a little help from a guide.

Matthew Weed roller blades with a guide. (credit: Matthew Weed)

The American Diabetes Association's Tour de Cure is Saturday, Sept. 24 at Salisbury Park in Parker. This year's event includes a 20K family-friendly bike ride, a 50K ride, a 100K ride and a 100-mile century ride, a 5K fun run/walk, and a festival.

LINK: American Diabetes Association's Tour de Cure

Libby Smith is a Special Projects Producer at CBS4. If you have a story you'd like to tell CBS4 about, call 303-863-TIPS (8477) or visit the News Tips section.