Diabetes

I went to a seminar last night to find out about the future of type 1 diabetes. Those of you who know me already know I am a type 1 diabetic. My diabetes is under control, but I struggle everyday to keep it that way. There is a lot being done to try and find better ways of managing this disease. Most of you probably don't know that diabetes is an epidemic in our world, type 1 and type 2. This country really suffers because of our lifestyles. I came away from the seminar last night realizing how misunderstood this disease really is. It is a devastating disease, but with proper education, it can be managed.

I decided to go to the American Diabetes Association Website to see what kind of information they could offer. I think we all know the consequences of this disease. Not good. The information there is still the same, but they have added a new feature of people sharing their stories about diabetes and why we should fight to stop it. It is helpful to know I am not alone in my stuggles and I submitted my story. Don't know yet if they will post it, but I thought I would share it with you.

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes almost 10 years ago. I think they discovered it by accident, but all the sypmtoms were there. I had lost a lot of weight and my new husband was beginning to think I was a deadbeat becasue I slept a lot. Luckily I was never hospitalized because of my sugar levels. After visiting several different doctors and trying several kinds of medications, they put me on insulin and I was able to get my sugars under control.

After doing the routine checking my sugar levels and giving myself shots for a few months, I realized, this was how it would be for the rest of my life! Wow! What a shock! I think I went into a depression for a while, DENIAL, like most diabetics. I also realized quickly that I had to take control of my disease or I would die early.

Being a diabetic takes on a lot of responsibility. Dedication to checking my sugar, taking my insulin and thinking about how every piece of food that enters my mouth will effect my blood sugar. It is a lot of work. It can be very taxying on the mind, body and soul. Finally, after 10 years, I have realized this is my life and I embrace it. Everyday is a new day and I strive to make it the best by exercising and watching what I eat (even if it is a cookie or a piece of cake) and balancing my medication.

Along with being a diabetic, I am a dedicated wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend and care a lot about the way this disease effects the people around me. My family has been hit hard with diabetes. My parents both have type 2 along with my grandma. I fear there are many other people I know and love who may have or develop this disease with out realizing it! This is why we need to stop diabetes!

That is my story...and the following is information that you might find interesting if you want to learn more. I am a diabetes advocate and am going to try and learn more to help fight it!

The American Diabetes Association is launching a movement with one audacious goal - to Stop Diabetes.

Diabetes is a deadly disease that affects millions and yet, Americans still fail to take diabetes seriously. Through the movement to Stop Diabetes, the Association will elevate the sense of urgency around diabetes and educate the general public about the devastating physical, emotional and financial impact the disease takes on millions of American children and adults each and every day. In year one, our goal is to galvanize a million individuals to Share, Act, Learn and Give. Join me in making a difference today.

Visit http://stopdiabetes.com to learn how you can join the movement to Stop Diabetes.