Arnaud, a volunteer firefighter in Switzerland, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 17. Type 1 diabetes is a condition in which the body's pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. At the time of his diagnosis, Arnaud was removed from active duty by his fire station, as both his superiors and doctors were concerned about the challenges of managing his condition while performing the physically demanding tasks of firefighting. To manage his diabetes, Arnaud uses a small sensor placed directly on his arm that continuously monitors his blood sugar level. This device allows him to check his blood sugar in just a few seconds. Additionally, he wears an insulin pump, a medical device that delivers insulin through a thin tube connected to a catheter inserted near his hip. This system allows him to adjust his insulin doses precisely based on his physical activity and food intake. Arnaud faces significant challenges when his blood sugar levels become too high (hyperglycemia) or too low (hypoglycemia). Symptoms of hyperglycemia include sweating, difficulty concentrating, tremors, and a risk of fainting, along with constant thirst and frequent urination. Hypoglycemia, on the other hand, causes a sudden drop in energy, requiring immediate action to raise his blood sugar levels. Initially, Arnaud was denied the chance to return to active firefighting by the medical board. However, after a year of persistent effort, he successfully demonstrated that he could manage his diabetes effectively, even during intense firefighting operations. Arnaud became the first firefighter in Switzerland with type 1 diabetes to be authorized to enter burning buildings. To ensure his readiness for interventions, Arnaud constantly checks his blood sugar levels. If he detects a potential drop in blood sugar that could lead to hypoglycemia within the next hour, he takes preventive action. In his locker, he keeps a supply of cereal bars, sugar tubes, and emergency equipment, always ensuring he has quick-acting sugar available before putting on his gear. Arnaud acknowledges the immense mental burden of managing type 1 diabetes. Without insulin, he cannot survive, which means he must constantly anticipate and plan for all aspects of his condition. He calculates his sugar reserves, plans where he will sleep, ensures he has enough insulin, and carries a backup sensor. This constant vigilance leaves him feeling like he can never fully relax or be completely rested. Some online users have criticized Arnaud for being "irresponsible," suggesting that his diabetes could endanger his team. Arnaud counters that he has a deep understanding of his condition and that his protocol is based on strict preparation. He always takes sugar in advance and monitors his levels precisely, leaving no room for chance or error. While Arnaud sometimes wishes he didn’t have diabetes, he acknowledges that the condition has shaped him into the person he is today. He has transformed this medical challenge into a source of motivation. Every achievement brings him immense pride, as he knows the extra effort required to achieve it. Successfully reaching his goals while living with diabetes has given him a strong sense of confidence and purpose.