On this episode we will hear from Chelcie Rice. Chelcie was born and raised in Toccoa, Georgia, the same place where James Brown's career began and also where the HBO series Band of Brothers took place.

Chelcie was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in 1988-89 at 25. He began having the typical symptoms of frequent urination and weight loss. His roommate at the time noticed it all and asked him to set up an appointment with a urologist. The urologist diagnosed him with T1D at the same hospital that he worked at. Being diagnosed at 25, during the 1980's there was limited information that was given and available at that time, especially not for support.

Around 2005 Chelcie first experienced retinopathy in his left eye but not having the financial resources he trucked along for a while. Eventually, his retina completely detached in his right eye. Going through this did place him in a dark space for a while but he continued to press on.

Today, Chelcie is a true advocate for people living with chronic health conditions. He has had the opportunity to be on health forums all from telling his own story. He's been to conferences all over the U.S and even to Europe. Chelcie understands that his circle is greater than what he sees. It's

all around to lift him up and always just a phone call away when he is in need of a conversation.

What keeps him motivated is being able to reach people, have conversations and standing on purpose because community has equally helped him out along his journey.

Chelcie's family has always been supportive of him since his diagnosis. He witnessed the strengths of his parents and grandparents through many different situations in life.

Chelcie openly talks about how many people in the US, and specifically POC feel as though health care professionals are basically members of authority and many do treat them as though they're a figure of authority and it is hard to share with them intimate details or concerns.

Advocacy may start with advocating for himself, but it is definitely not where it ends. Chelcie's grit and determination

to aid others has no barrier. He not only stands against systems that deprived him, but he stands up for you, so that

you get the knowledge and respect that you too deserve.

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