Many people think that being diagnosed with diabetes is, socially, the end of the world. In some ways, yeah, it is! The hardest adjustment for me was connection. I did not know many people with diabetes, and could not ask someone going through similar circumstances what it was like. I had tools that helped make diabetes an easier part of my life, but nothing to replace the importance of someone saying “I understand.”
At the age of twelve, I received and insulin that was supposed to help me regulate my diabetes through constant drips and and calibrations for food and exercise. I thought that because this little machine took care of my diabetes, I didn’t have to. What a mistake! There is no CURE for diabetes, just tools like and insulin pump, to make it easier to live with.
For anyone out there feeling like the shots, pokes, meter readings and doctor’s visits aren’t worth it, I know how you feel! There is no cure or reason for why certain people are diagnosed with diabetes, and it is hard to make a connection when you feel like you are the only one. That is why I find website so helpful – you are never alone. As things change in life, diabetes is always there, but knowing that someone else is there also means that there is a community of support.
(Check out what diabetes community programs are offered through your hospital or local health center, chances are, people living with diabetes are closer than you think!)
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That is great that you were able to connect with others that have been through different aspects of the same disease. That is a great point that I forgot to mention- although there support groups for each type of diabetes, making connections with others is a great idea! Diabetes doesn't just affect those that have it either. Families, friends, coworkers, etc. - they are all affected and it is great if you are able to make a connection with them!
I have not been involved with the American Diabetic Association website because my family has had an active role in past years with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. However, I will check it out based on your recommendation- thanks!
More blog entries to come, I post on fridays!
-Kendsie (]]>[email protected]]]>)
April 26, 2008 - 6:04pmThis Comment
Thanks for sharing your story! I know so many people, mainly in my family who are in their 50s and 60s now, who are diabetic. I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, and these family members helped me through that frustrating and scary time, even though they were older and not pregnant! It was difficult going through something that you feel no one else understands, and at the same time, I caught just a glimpse into their daily lives as they are living with diabetes (I say a "glimpse" because my diabetes went away after delivering my baby, but I am now at an even increased risk for developing diabetes!).
I'm sorry that you have to live with this disease; the best I could describe it was extremely frustrating and inhibiting for myself. You sound like you are handling it well, and have an amazing perspective! Have you found the American Diabetes Association community message boards or website helpful? (Just pure curiosity, no affiliation or anything). We'd love to hear more about you and your story!
April 26, 2008 - 2:53pmThis Comment
Thanks for your question, Tina.
April 25, 2008 - 5:53pmIn my life, my mom has been the most encouraging person. When something goes wrong, she knows how to handle it. She is always telling me that she wishes she could take the finger pokes for me. I find this so unnecessarily compassionate and I really appreciate all of the things that she does to make it easier for me to live with diabetes!
I think that all parents of diabetics are the ultimate advocates. They are on the front lines of wanting to know as much information about this disease as possible. They are always wanting the best for their children, and I have spoken to many parents that find it hard to watch their child give him/herself a shot or not eat cake on their birthday. I think that parents have to have a lot of strength to raise a diabetic child, and I know that I am very thankful for all of the work my parents have put in to trying to find a cure.
This Comment
Thanks for sharing your story and encouraging others to take care of themselves. Hearing about your struggles and triumphs is always helpful for others to know because as you mentioned in your article, sometimes people feel like they are the only ones. Did you find someone in your life who was encouraging as well? Someone you might call an advocate?
April 25, 2008 - 9:20amThis Comment