We will assume that your partner has given you the basic details on the exact physical condition of diabetes. Either that, or through your own curiosity you would have found many web sites that can tell you in more detail than we ever could.

But what does diabetes mean to you? Diabetes can be a very unpredictable condition. It varies from person to person and it's impact on your partners body can change over time. You are in a very unique position as a partner, because even though physically you don't have diabetes, it may feel at times as though you do! An understanding of what to do in emergencies (i.e. how to give a glucogen injection) is essential, although hopefully rarely used. As a partner,  you are a direct source for support, encouragement and an outlet for frustrations - all common within a relationship, but 'enhanced' by one of you having diabetes.

Diabetes is a condition that requires self-care. In other words, your partner has to do most of the things necessary to take care of their condition. You must be supportive of correct measures, but remember your partner is still human. "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink!"