Friday, February 18, 2011

I really can eat that!

This post is for my dad, and he probably won't ever read it!!

 My dad was the person that helped me with my diabetes throughout my life.  He was the one who knew what I could and couldn't eat, and pushed me, and pushed me hard to remain in control ( that was difficult during my teenage years, other kids rebelled  with drugs, and alcohol, I rebelled with my diabetes).

 Back in the day when I first was diagnosed with diabetes, things were different.  It use to take me 3 minutes to test my blood sugar...and it was a whole process of wiping, blotting, and rewiping.  I use to have to do 5 or so shots a day, and was on an "exchange system."

 Boy, those were definitely the days!   Now, it takes 5 seconds to test my blood, and they have these amazing things called pump to help deliver your insulin ( still get blown away by how awesome that is).

 And with that, they have learned how to help diabetics count carbs.  This is amazing, and incredible!  What it means, basically, is that diabetics can eat pretty much how everyone else can!  TRULY, they can....it just takes a bit more math and calculating.

 When I say that, I should emphasize that ALL of us shouldn't be having ten candy bars a day, and 15 pizzas.  We all should be making healthy choices, no matter what our situation, but it is NOT the END OF THE WORLD if we want a piece of pie, as long as it is in moderation and figured out.

 The reason why this entire post is dedicated to my daddy is that for my entire life, he helped me, watched me, made me eat right.  HE was really strict with me....

 HE was diagnosed about a year ago with type 2 diabetes, and well, it has opened his eyes.  He now understands how frustrating it is for people to judge your every move and every little thing you CONSIDER eating!  He has learned with me that if I do know the carbs and the ratios, I can have some sweets every now and then...

 It is just one of my big pet peeves ( as posted in other of my posts) that people don't think diabetics can have anything but salad .  So, I just wanted to write this post to get it out there.  We are all more alike than you think...trust me.  I have had diabetes for almost 25 years, and have been in good control.  Don't get me wrong, I have by no means been perfect and have had some serious struggles ( having a child and gaining 65 pounds in the process, and being in the ICU--- being one of them---another post for a different day)...I have been there, I just wanted to vent about food today. The truth is, I have not had anything sweet for a really long time ( been trying really hard), and today is one of those days where I need something sweet.

 So, quit judging my eating this candy bar today, and realize that it just might be ok.....

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

I just need insulin

So we moved in July...And moving from a different state means you need new doctors (and pretty soon if you have diabetes).

I already complained about this earlier.  IT took us a LONG time to get some health insurance...which means no seeing doctors for a LONG time...

 We finally get on medicaid ( yeah, if you are on medicaid, you can only imagine how hard it is to pay for supplies), and in order to see the doc, it takes you waiting at least 4 hours to be seen.  I don't know about you, but I don't have that kind of time.

 Not only am I busy with keeping my kiddos in order, I am almost out of insulin.  ( I couldn't go to the doc for months).  We are talking I am TYPE 1 diabetic, with an insulin pump.  If my pump accidentally turns off for an hour, I can almost end up in a hospital.

 This is bad, very bad.  I am not someone who can just control by diet and exercise ( that is not how type one is).  Not having insulin isn't something you just"deal with"...IT is dire, it is absolutely necessary, and going with out doesn't just make you feel a little sick, it could kill...and just after a few hours.

 So, why then, oh why, do they make it so hard to get?  Why do I have to go through so many hoops?  I have been insulin dependant diabetic for almost 30 years!!  Moving doesn't change anything ( except insurance).  I am still me, and still need all my meds.  What worked for me in one state, will work for me in another ( medicine wise--unless of course everyone in the state is an idiot and doesn't get the necessity of insulin).

 Please someone, I JUST NEED MY INSULIN!