My Diabetes "Dream Team"

While attending a conference today for Type 1 diabetics, the keynote speaker continually addressed the idea that blood sugar logs are first and foremost for yourself, and secondly for your health care provider. I've mentioned before that during my teenage years with diabetes, when a doctor would ask for a written log of a week or two's worth of blood sugars, my instinct was to lie and fabricate blood sugars that clearly were not accurate. I think there are several factors that have since changed my outlook on sharing this information with my "dream team" of health care providers, including a more mature outlook on long-term diabetes care, a greater understanding of the disease, an increased sense of self-confidence, and a support system of doctors, family, and friends that I care about and trust.

As most of us are probably familiar with the term, "It takes a village .... " this phrase truly epitomizes what I have come to value as THE most important factor in controlling a disease that is so commonly associated with an array of health risks that I know will most likely never affect me. I'd like you to meet my "Dream Team":

Chris Sadler, Physicians Assistant - When I moved from the Bay Area to San Diego, I was determined to maintain contact with an Endocrinologist from up North because for the first time he truly understood my personal struggles. Once I realized this wasn't a reality I could continue for very long, I was referred to Dr. Einhorn's office in San Diego. It was here that I started to see Chris on a regular basis and he continued to be the understanding, supportive, and educated doctor I needed. He is incredibly involved in the diabetes community, always has great advice, and continues to keep me updated (without pressuring me too much) on cutting edge diabetes technology. Today we had a chance to catch up at the TOYCD conference.

Dr. Thomas Moore, Perinatalogist - Now don't get too excited everyone, but when the time is right, of course my husband and I would like to start a family. Having type 1 diabetes certainly does not make this feat impossible and working with Dr. Moore and his wonderful side-kick and diabetes educator, June Fowler, makes the idea of managing type 1 diabetes and pregnancy a lot less concerning. With their help and positive attitude I have achieved better blood sugar management, that eventually will lead to smooth pregnancies. It was so great catching up with them today at the TOYCD conference!

Those who work to make our lives a better place ... I would really like to include a dedication to members of our society who really do work to create solutions for those of us who struggle with the day to day management of diabetes. Today I had a chance to meet Bobby Deen (Food Network star's son, Paula Deen) who works to create recipes for diabetics. During a personal conversation we bonded over having mothers in the food business and the reality that a well-balanced diet and healthy lifestyle should truly be a reality for everyone, not just those with diabetes.

And last but not least, my husband and family. My husband never asked for the added stress and worry that comes with having a spouse with diabetes. His never-ending patience and thirst for knowledge are only two of the many attributes I fell in love with. His support knows no limits when it comes to me, and especially my health. I have also really enjoyed bonding with my family and finally becoming comfortable with sharing information with them as well. It took me over 10 years to be able to openly discuss my struggles and triumphs, and I am thankful for the interest they take and the love and support they give.

My husband, Pearce, and me.

My amazing family (Anthony, Mom, Me, Megan, Dad)

Nana - You have never given up on me. I appreciate you more than you know.

Today I no longer feel the urge to lie. I also do not feel the urge to tattoo the phrase "I have diabetes" on my forehead, but that's not to say that I have also not come to appreciate the journey I have taken to get where I am today. Additionally, I know there is even more to this journey that I have yet to discover. I am certainly not perfect and continue to have my moments of frustration and anger ... as well as extreme high and low blood sugars. Almost every single one of these people has seen me either cry, break down, or turn into a monstrosity of anger and stubbornness. While I am not proud of some of these moments, I sure do appreciate that no one has given up on me. And for that, I am thankful.

Old School

Seeing a vial of medication and needles brings back memories from long before my diagnosis. I remember sitting in the pediatrician's office at age 10 and deciding between me and my sister who was going to get their shots first. I watched the nurse draw the clear liquid from the bottle and waited for the sting. I loved and hated to watch the events unfold of these injections each time. And of course I cried like a baby.

When I was diagnosed and sitting in the hospital bed with a tray of diabetic materials around me (needles, alcohol swabs, test strips, insulin, etc.) I did what I knew how to do: be a good student. I carefully watched the nurse educators describe each object. I was excited in a way to learn more about the purpose of these things. And I so badly wanted to be good at the task that lay before me. I took to my assignments quickly and in a matter of minutes knew how to test my blood sugar, draw insulin from a vial, and carry out an injection. The motions were easy. The emotions are another story ... 

For 13 years I relied on a bottle of insulin, alcohol swabs, and needles. The clear liquid must remain at or below room temperature at all times, but never frozen. The needles are one-time use and must be disposed of according to medical standards. And the alcohol swabs leave your skin feeling dry and irritated. And all of it simply became a part of my daily routine.

It's been 10 months since I've given myself an injection now. I've kept a few needles for "just in case" and the bottles of insulin stay in the fridge and are only used every few days to refill the pods for my insulin pump. Long gone are the days of 4-8 injections per day and feeling the sting of those tiny needles making their way under my skin.