Shavon’s Story: From Childhood Diabetes to Empowered Healing
Interviewee:
Shavon – Scene Health Member and Diabetes Advocate
Interviewer:
Adimika Meadows Arthur – Founder & CEO, Health Tech 4 Medicaid
Early Struggles
Diagnosed with diabetes at age 8, Shavon recalled the difficulty of being told she could no longer enjoy the same snacks as her sister. While her parents tried to explain, the restriction felt isolating. “I pouted,” she admitted. “It was hard, even though they tried.”
A Traumatic Turning Point
Years later, uncontrolled diabetes led to a collapse, burns, hospitalization, emergency surgery, and a trach. “It was scary—I couldn’t talk,” she said. Her stay in rehab was deeply isolating. “I felt like a number.” But one physical therapist’s words stayed with her: “These people will keep you here if you don’t move.”
Learning to Advocate for Herself
In the rehab center, Shavon had to fight for her health without a voice—literally. She learned to text her family for help, kept snacks on hand to avoid dangerous sugar crashes, and began reclaiming her autonomy, even in a system that treated her passively.
Finding Support Through Scene Health
Scene Health helped her regain structure and focus. “They gave me tools, but more than that, they gave me hope I could eventually get off these medications,” she said. With support from Scene, she incorporated water aerobics, line dancing, and balanced nutrition into her daily life.
Healing the Mind, Body, and Soul
Shavon began a daily routine of affirmations, breathing exercises, and journaling. “I write what I believe I shall have. I call it into existence. Then I act on it.” She emphasized the value of small steps and celebrating each milestone on the journey to wellness.
Advice to Others
“You don’t have to do everything at once,” she said. “Take one small step. Then another. And celebrate every win.” Shavon’s motivation comes from her mother’s experience with diabetes and her desire to create a different path for herself. “I don’t have kids to care for me later in life. I want to take care of myself now—so I can be here, live well, and thrive.”
This story reflects one individual’s lived experience and is shared for educational and inspirational purposes only.
