Hey there, fellow mamas and mamas-to-be!
Today, I would love to share with the journey that ended up in my (I'm Julija, nice to meet you!) creation of HIgedi, the #1 social app aimed at connecting women dealing with the challenges of gestational diabetes. We aspire to be more than just an app; we are building a community where support, care, and friendship reign supreme.
But first, a little background on HIgedi. It's not your typical gestational diabetes tracker; it's a safe haven where you can meet others on a similar path, ask for advice, engage in discussions, share your successes and setbacks, and, most importantly, find and offer support. Whether you're a newbie to the world of gestational diabetes or a seasoned pro, HIgedi welcomes you with open arms.
Now, let's take a trip down memory lane to relive the incredible journey that led me to create HIgedi. In February 2021, I received the exciting news of my pregnancy. It was an IVF pregnancy, primarily due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Little did I know my life was about to take an unexpected turn.
In April 2021, at just week nine into my pregnancy, I received a startling warning to monitor my glucose levels because my fasting reading was higher than expected. This revelation was a shocker since I was thin as paper, had no family history of diabetes, and maintained a healthy lifestyle. Yet, gestational diabetes knocked on my door.
By May 2021, the diagnosis was confirmed, and I began my journey with gestational diabetes. It turns out that gestational diabetes isn't as rare as one might think, affecting more than 1 in 10 pregnancies. It's not about lifestyle or family history; it's tied to the placenta.
From May 2021 to October 2021, I managed my gestational diabetes through diet control, which meant lots of self-learning and a significant shift in my eating habits. Throughout this period, my supportive husband, family, and friends were there for me, but I longed for someone who truly understood what I was going through.
Fortunately, I was able to stay diet-controlled without medication. However, in October 2021, another challenge arose when I was diagnosed with preeclampsia, leading to a scheduled induction at week 38.
On October 21st, 2021, my "sugar baby" was born, with perfect sugar levels for both of us, bringing immense relief. And on October 23rd, the day I headed home from the hospital, I indulged in my favorite jar of ice cream.
Even after my pregnancy journey had ended, my fascination with gestational diabetes continued. In May 2022, the idea for HIgedi was born. I realized that not everyone had the same support system I did, and I empathized with those who felt isolated.
From May 2022 to July 2022, I conducted extensive research and planning. Development began in July 2022, with lots of hard work and testing leading to the app's launch date in late December 2023.
HIgedi might have its quirks at first, but it's a labor of love designed to connect women facing the challenges of gestational diabetes. Your feedback is invaluable as I strive to make it a truly useful platform for everyone in need. Let's support each other and continue building this community together.
Gestational diabetes may be challenging, but remember that you don't have to do it on your own. Let's support each other 🫶
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