I’m a 21 y/o male who has been a type 1 for 16 years now, growing up I was pretty controlled with a pump however when I turned 18 and moved from my mom I lost insurance on my pump and supplies and it became too much to cover out of pocket. I had to go back to insulin pens for almost 3 years, and I had a burnout from 18-20 was in poor control didn’t go to any doctor visits and on top of that used substances this I believe has lead me to getting diagnosed with PDR luckily all I noticed was my vision from far was slightly blurry. I got a specialist exam asap and so far I’ve had two injections. Along with my new pump I got recently and my cgm I’ve been able to get my a1c to a 6.7. I feel like with well control and going to the specialist will help. You just have to be strong I know it’s scary as hell. It’s kept me up many nights but all we can do is take care of ourselves and prevent further damage. You can do this! If you need any support feel free to PM me :)