TypeOneNation

The Friday Five - May 24, Memorial Day

Gina — Fri, 24 May 2013 19:13:00 GMT

Hi Everyone,

I want to just start out by saying that all of us here on the TypeOneNation team send our support, thoughts and prayers to the victims of the Tornado in Oklahoma earlier this week.

Are you prepared for natural disasters?
Having an emergency plan is crucial for people with T1D. The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists has a diabetes emergency plan available online, and JDRF has a downloadable emergency checklist and special dealing with T1D in Times of Crisis newsletter that is very helpful as well. You can access both here.

Join in the discussion
We currently have a forum already discussing emergency preparedness in the event of any type of disaster. It’s something we (all of us affected by T1D) should all be prepared for. Share your thoughts and concerns with the rest of the group here.

Memorial Day weekend the un-official start of the summer!
Summer is such a fun time of the year, and I really enjoy being outside, going to the beach or just relaxing on my deck. But, warm weather can cause you to become dehydrated and rather quickly if you are having high blood sugars. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids! Know the signs of heat exhaustion. Check out this forum for Heat and Sun.

On behalf of JDRF and everyone here at TypeOneNation, we would like to thank all of our veterans. We would also like to wish everyone a safe and Happy Memorial Day holiday weekend.

Happy Friday!

Gina
TypeOneNation Community Manager

C's Life With D: Seven

Mon, 20 May 2013 23:12:19 GMT

A lot can happen in 7 years. Here's my story. C's Life: http://cslifewithd.blogspot.com/2013/05/seven.html...(read more)

The Friday Five - May 17

Gina — Fri, 17 May 2013 19:36:00 GMT

Hello Friends,

Mother’ Day is over but we are celebrating our Mom’s of TypeOneNation all month long, on our newly launched T1D Tuesday blog! Be sure to check it out every week to see a new guest blogger!

In case you missed it this week...

Yoga
If you are a yogi, JDRF is looking for information from people with T1D who practice yoga with a CGM and/or a pump who experience issues with temperature interference. Find out more here...

College Life
A member asked what the best way to tell your roommates in college that you have T1D, if you had a similiar issue please respond here.

Daily Living
 Does your blood sugar spike after eating? Share your experience with other members.

New Member 
Eric, our new friend from Colorado and volunteer at the Rocky Mountain JDRF Chapter just joined us, send him a proper TypeOneNation hello!

Vote before May 28!!
JDRF and Ford Customer Service Division (FCSD) are joining forces to help raise awareness and funds for type 1 diabetes (T1D) research through the "Our Everyday Heroes" Race Car Design Contest for JDRF. Vote for Your Favorite Finalist Today through May 28, 12 noon EDT!

And that's your Friday Five for this week! Hope you enjoyed it!

Happy Friday!

Gina

The Friday Five - May 10, Mother's Day

Gina — Fri, 10 May 2013 18:45:00 GMT

Hello All!

As a brand new mom myself, and in the spirit of Mother’s Day Weekend, I am featuring 5 new fabulous moms and moms-to-be! Let’s give them a great big TypeOneNation congratulations!!!

New Moms

JenS  
Jen started her road to pregnancy in 2011, frustrated and stressed about getting to a healthy baby range a1c number. But she overcame all of her obstacles and had a healthy baby girl this past October ! Congrats Jen!!

Rebekah S
Rebekah just had her first beautiful baby boy on Valentine’s Day! She writes about her labor and delivery experience here. Spoiler Alert! There is also the cutest photo of her new little munchkin when he was born! Check it out!!

Moms-to-Be

Jessicamanning
Jessica just found out she was pregnant in February, and has only had diabetes less than a year! She’s currently entering her 2nd trimester and looking for advice from others on what their blood sugars numbers were like then. If you can help that would be great!

Meg1786
Meg is in her 28 week of pregnancy and having a girl! She is due in August! She’s also curious about whether or not other moms had a natural delivery, were induced or had a c-section.

carebear70
Say hello and give a huge congratulations to Carebear! She just found out she was pregnant recently! She also has some concerns about pregnancy with T1D, so lets help her out!

CREATE A WORLD WITHOUT T1D, USING THE POWER OF MOM

"Share your T1D pregnancy success stories" is a wonderful thread if you are planning on becoming pregnant or already pregnant. Definitely give it a read! Also, don’t forget to share your own pregnancy success story with the rest of the ladies.

There you have it, the Mom's edition of Friday Five!

Hope all the moms out there have a wonderful mother's day!

Happy Friday!!

~Gina

Dear Me (Moira McCarthy) 16 years ago: We've got this down!

Gina — Tue, 07 May 2013 01:20:00 GMT

T1D Tuesday is a new blog series on TypeOneNation.org that features guest bloggers who are sharing their voices of how T1D affects their life. For the month of May we are celebrating Mother's Day and will be recognizing three fantastic moms!

Our second featured guest blogger this month is Veteran D-Mom Moira McCarthy, she goes back in time and writes a letter to herself about what she has learned being a mom of a T1D child.

• • •

If only I could know then what I know now…. This is my 16th mother’s day as the mother of a child with diabetes. How much I’ve learned. That got me thinking: what would I tell myself if I could go back in time to that first Mother’s Day with T1D on board. Here’s my attempt.

Dear Mother of a Child with Type 1 Diabetes:

It’s me: you! I mean you’re me. Or I’m you. Anyway, I know this is a scary, emotional, confusing Mother’s Day year. That’s why I’m writing from the future. Because there are some things you need to be told and that you need to embrace. Some are confusing. Others are complicated. Some you might laugh at, and others are just so simple. I want you to consider them all; because I really do think knowing all this will make this long road easier.
 The first thing is basic, and yet so hard for you to know at this time. But know it. Here it is:

You and your child are going to be just fine.

You really are. I’m not saying it’s easy, but it all goes well. Those tears you cry at night (and sometimes in the supermarket … or at the bank … or at soccer practice?) when you think about how things have changed for your child? When you mourn losing the freedom you and your child once had? They are okay and natural, but work toward moving past them. Because, as I said, you’re going to be fine. Know that. Embrace it. And know these tidbits too:

*You child will lead you. I know: you are scared and worried. But look at your child. She’s not. She wants to jump right back on that bike and zip around the neighborhood. Here’s a tip: let her, both literally and symbolically. Move past your fears and let your child embrace joy in all of its forms. That’s going to be one of the single best things you can do. Because holding your child back because of fear is only going to beget … a fearful child. You once dreamed of them laughing and playing and not having a care in the world. Well, open that dream back up. Because your child can and will have that kind of life, even with T1D along for the ride. If only you let them.

*Embrace your “Family.” Because they are out there. Now, know this: blood does not always make the family you want and need. If someone you are related to lets you and your child down, fear not. Because out there in this big world is an entire D community that will be your family, for now and forever. Friends you meet planning JDRF events or at support groups or on line or just plain at the store (when you spot their child’s pump tubing! Don’t worry – you were right to hunt them down in the rice and spices aisle): these people will make up an entirely new family for you and your child. And while you’ll never say you’re glad for T1D, you’ll be thankful every day for these friends that truly are family. Don’t forget to thank them, all the time.

*That which does not kill you …. Look, this isn’t easy. You’re going to have days that flow along like a charm. But you’re going to have days (okay heck, you’re going to have weeks. Okay, really: it might even be years at that teen point) but anyway, you’re going to have times that feel like diabetes is picking you up and smashing you as hard as it can on the pavement (and doing the same with your bond with your child), you and your child and your bond are just like those oysters growing in the bay at the end of your street.

Because here is what is cool about oysters: if you drop one and break the shell or crack it a bit, that shell grows back twice as thick and twice as strong. Over and over and over again. The oyster has the ability, while doing that, to stay sweet on the inside. And that’s you, as well as your bond with your child. I promise you: every single time you feel your heart break a little, its just getting stronger. Years from now, you will marvel at how close and strong you and your child are.

*You and your child will lead in ways you could never have imagined. I’m not saying this would not have happened without T1D in the house, but T1D is in the house and here is what it will do: It will bring you and your daughter face to face with national leaders who will listen to you and vote on important bills that will change the world of diabetes. Your daughter will speak before Congress twice, and at the DNC. Both of you will learn more about advocacy and government and non-profit fundraising than you can imagine now. And it will empower you. One day down the road, your daughter will raise her hand and bravely step up to take part in a human clinical trial for something called “bionic pancreas.” So much good is coming from all this: I promise you that.

*It’s all going to be okay. Don’t let each high scare you. Don’t die a little with each low. Don’t cry when insurance agents upset you. Don’t think the world will end if you have to change endos. Because this life with T1D might not be what you pictured when you set out to become a mom, but it might just make you tap into more amazing parts of being a mom than most could ever imagine.

So save this letter. When you’re feeling down, read it. And remember it’s me (you) telling you (me) this. I’d never lie to me. I promise.

Oh and PS: Invest in something called Facebook. And instagram. Just trust me on that way. Also: The Hills was all scripted.

Love,

Me

• • •

Moira McCarthy Stanford is a long-time JDRF volunteer who was ChairMom of Children's Congress 2005 and 2007 JDRF International Volunteer of the Year. She is author of "The Everything Parent's Guide to Diabetes" and "Raising Teens With Diabetes: A Parent Survival Guide." She also runs the popular blog, Despite Diabetes.

Veteran D-Mom - Moira McCarthy

Gina — Tue, 07 May 2013 01:17:00 GMT

Our second featured guest blogger this month is Veteran D-Mom Moira McCarthy, she writes some excellent tips on how to get through your child's diagnosis.

• • •

When friends outside of this D world ask, I like to describe the moment your child is diagnosed with T1D like this:

Imagine a child you love – your own or a Godchild or a nephew or a friend’s cute kid – gets a boo-boo. You scoop them up in your arms to sooth them, until the boo-boo fades.

But with T1D: it never fades. As a mom, you are stuck in that moment of “Oh no!” forever.

The challenge as a mother is this: you must, must find a way to move past your own fear, sadness, grief, anger and desperation and instead move to a place of empowerment. For your child. You must kiss the boo-boo, brush them off and put them down to run off and play again. In other words, the mother of a child with T1D must do, with a smile on her face, the opposite of what her natural mommy instincts tell her to do.

I admit that finding that place and that way has been one of the most challenging and yet rewarding things I’ve ever done. After all, we in this world all know that T1D is lousy. It challenges our loved ones not just every day, but every hour. It’s not understood enough (yet!) by the world and so sometimes, we don’t get all the support and understanding we might need. It often defies logic: plan for a meal or an event, take the past blood sugars into account, count the carbs and carefully bolus: the result is seldom spot on. And that, with the tools we have now, must be good enough.

All that is not easy for a parent to swallow, and as a mom, it was not for me.

But I think there are some things to take to heart. This Mother’s Day month, I’m celebrating how far my daughter and I have come in this life with T1D on board. With that, some things I’ve learned from experience and yes, from mistakes. I hope moms to kids with T1D of all ages will learn from what I’ve learned.

*That airplane rule should be your mantra: There’s a reason they tell you to put your own oxygen mask on before your child’s: if you are not strong and healthy and in control, you are of little good to your child. The same goes in this diabetes life. We moms suffer from stress, depression, exhaustion and a combination of them all. We do it in the name of our child. After all, we’d give our lives for them in a heartbeat, right? But that’s not the way to save them. The best way a mother can help her child is to help herself first. I learned this early on. Exhausted, scared and yes, depressed, I wasn’t doing my daughter any good. So I reached out and got help. I talk to our endo about how I could be more rested and still take good care of my child. I talked to a counselor about how I could channel my anger, grief and fear and move onward. And I found friends who could support me and who understood me. I took time for me, just me, and I savored it. Book group, spa visits, a walk on the waterfront every other night: I chose things that I loved to do and did them, no excuses, despite diabetes. In time, I felt myself get stronger, and that made me stronger for my child. This must be done.

*Empower your child’s dreams and desires. It’s quite normal to want to say “No! You must stay close to me at all times to be safe!” Diabetes is scary for us parents. But you know what, if we don’t project that onto our children, it won’t be for them. And we should not. I learned, over time, to say to myself “What would my decision be without diabetes on board?” when my daughter wanted to do something (sleepover, party, ride bike to store, go to beach, go on date, it goes on and on). If my answer would be yes without diabetes, then yes it had to be. This meant putting my own fears aside and letting her spread her wings. It meant harboring, hiding and overcoming my own selfish worries so she could thrive in life with fewer worries of her own. To this day I embrace the believe that I’d rather my child “Get busy living” and almost anything else. I somehow found a way to not share (or even hint at) my own fears, and as a result, she’s pretty fearless in this life. Do I still worry? Yep, but I’ll never admit that to her. And my delight at her ability to rock life helps me overcome it. Daily.

*Laugh daily – with your child whenever possible. Life with T1D can be soooooo stressful. That’s why we have always insisted on finding a good laugh no matter what is going on. The ability to joke and laugh even in the toughest of moments has made our mother-child bond stronger, I think. And raising my child to see that humor can defuse even the worst of situations has been a valuable tool to hand down to her. Plus, its good for your soul to laugh.

I’ve been Lauren’s mom for nearly 22 years, and her D-Mom for nearly 16. This Mother’s Day month I’m going to reward myself for helping her grow up without fear, with determination and with happiness and humor. Despite diabetes. Now that’s a great way to heal a boo-boo.

• • •

If you are interested in becoming a featured blogger contact Gina at gina@typeonenation.org.

New Mom - Gina Capone

Gina — Mon, 06 May 2013 23:42:00 GMT

Our first featured guest blogger is New Mom and TypeOneNation's very own community manager, Gina Capone! Take it away Gina!

• • •

When I was a kid I always remember how hard my mom worked to raise my sister and I, and was always there for us when we needed her. She was always the one up early to help us get ready for school, make dinner, help us do homework...ok, well maybe not homework I think she pushed that task on my father..but she definitely made sure we did it (ha ha) She made sure we had good friends, and always stood by us in any activities or hobbies we wanted to take part in. She was always much more concerned with how me, my sister and dad were before herself.

When I first found out I had diabetes my mother was the first person that I wanted to talk to and needed. She always knew how to make everything better. Unfortunately, she couldn’t erase my diabetes but, she did everything she could to help me get through my diagnosis. She also helped to make my life so much easier by cooking me three square meals a day, counting the carbs for me, double checking that I took the right amount of insulin and making sure I exercised, even though that was a hard one to keep track of haha. My mom did these things because she obviously knew she couldn’t take my diabetes away but, by knowing what I was eating and doing she could be sure that I would live a healthy life with T1D.

Now that I have a child of my own, I can truly appreciate the amount of effort she put in to raising my sister and I and what it is like for a mother to love her child so much that she would do anything for them. My mother suddenly passed away 10 days after the birth of my son, but she taught me so many skills that I will cherish, but most of all about how to be a loving mother... and for that I will always be forever grateful.

My road to motherhood with T1D was not exactly an easy one. But I felt like a mom the moment I found out I was pregnant, I was living for two now! My a1c was not the recommended level for pregnancy and that was really scary but my husband and I worked TOGETHER to bring it down to that level and rather quickly.

After years of struggling with my diabetes, everything suddenly felt so easy. I was able to check every two hours, correct, bolus and eat on time without it bothering me anymore. For the first time since my diagnosis my head was completely clear of all the negativity I once had toward living a life with diabetes, and it was all because of a little baby growing inside of me!

Becoming a mom has been one of the most rewarding, fun and exciting times of my life and because of my son I have been able to heal, from a once so broken person inside and full of hate for a disease I never wanted. I was given the best gift I could ever have asked for. This Mother’s Day I would like to say thank you to my son for helping me to smile everyday to love unconditionally and saving my life!

Happy Mother’s Day to all the Mom’s out there and especially to mine who I hope is smiling down on me from up above!

• • •

Gina Capone is T1D since November 2000, and founder of the Diabetes Talkfest blog and The Diabetes Resource.

If you are interested in becoming a featured blogger contact Gina at gina@typeonenation.org.

C's Life With D: The Three Best Letters in the Alphabet

Mon, 06 May 2013 01:21:59 GMT

What happens when you set a goal and reach it? Let me tell you ;) Read the details at C's Life: http://cslifewithd.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-three-best-letters-in-alphabet.html...(read more)

The Friday Five - May 3, Camps

Gina — Fri, 03 May 2013 17:03:04 GMT

Hello and Happy Friday!

Summer is quickly approaching and for kids with T1D and their parents this is the perfect time to figure out which d-camp you would like to go to. I recently read in this article over on the JDRF website that there are over 400 diabetes camp programs around the world! Wow! I really had no idea there were so many! Diabetes camp is definitely a great way for kids with diabetes to feel less alone!

For this Friday Five, we are featuring 5 diabetes camp threads on TypeOneNation! Enjoy!

Camp Independence
This group is for kids that have gone to Camp Independence in San Antonio, TX. If you have gone to Camp Independence or are thinking about going this is a great place for you to connect with others!

Camp NYDA Alumni Group
Were you an alumni of Camp NYDA? If so, you can reconnect with your old camper friends in the Camp NYDA group!

What age did you send your child to camp?
A member asked if 11 years old was too young to send their child to diabetes camp, what do you think? See what others are saying in the camp group!

Clara Barton 
Have you gone to the Clara Barton camp in North Oxford, Massachusetts ? A member needs some feedback!

Where did you go to camp? 
Which diabetes camp have you or your child gone to and where is it located? Post your favorite d-camp and why you liked it so much in the comments below!

Bonus !!!
JDRF is proud to have a great partnership with Lilly Diabetes. We are excited to share this great free resource of the Lilly Diabetes Camp Care Package. Check out this site for more information: http://www.lillydiabetes.com/pages/lilly-camp-care-package.aspx

Hope you enjoyed my Friday Five Camp edition, if you have suggestions for future Friday Five entries email me at gina@typeonenation.org

Have a great weekend!
Gina

My Story

AskmasterAshley — Fri, 03 May 2013 03:18:35 GMT

I have a blog on a different site but this seems like a good place to share my story of when I was diagnosed and share a little bit about myself. I was diagnosed at the age of 17 which was a huge bummer at first. It was March 26,2012 the first day of spring break when I was supposed to get my driver's license. I had gotten sick and taken to the doctor's office where he had told my mom to take me to the hospital because he thought that I was a diabetic. When we got to the hospital and I checked in they took my blood and covered me in multiple blankets. I had a bunch of different doctor's go into my room and smell the air and walk out. I had no idea what was going on at the time; then a final doctor came in and had sat down and told my parents that there was a fruity smell coming off of me. the doctor had tapped my shoe and told me that I was one sick girl. At this point in time i had so many thoughts going through my head but the loudest thought was in response to the doctor; I was thinking...well I'm in the hospital and I have an IV in my arm of course I'm sick. I had to be transferred to another hospital where I spent 4 days learning everything I needed to adjust for my new lifestyle. I had been in DKA and we all know how bad that is. I had found out that I was 2 days away from going into a coma and dying. Once i better enough to think clearly the first person I wanted to tell was my best friend. Well that was how I was diagnosed a little longer than I thought it was going to be. Now for little bit about myself. I'm pretty shy but once I get to know you I'll talk to you all day. My favorite color is lime green and I'm going to college thousands of miles away from home to become a special effects makeup artist. I look at my life as positively as I can and i refuse to let my diabetes get in the way of my life. I try to be different from everyone else but sometimes it very hard. thanks for taking the time to read this very super long post.

The Friday Five - April 26 - Travel

Gina — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 14:56:00 GMT

Hi All!

The weather here in NY for the past few days has been BEAUTIFUL! With summer quickly approaching, I would like to share some information about vacationing with T1D in this week’s Friday Five! Travel with T1D can sometimes be a little tricky but, if you are prepared it will be a piece of cake! (Make sure you bolus!)

Letters and Prescriptions
One thing you should ask your physician for is a prescription for “backup” supplies and a glucagon pen that you can fill before you leave, and a letter of medical necessity to get through airport security. You may not need to use it but it’s always good to be prepared.

Air Travel
I have heard some stories about major pat downs through airport security but, personally I've only dealt with minor TSA issues over the years of living with T1D. They have never asked for a letter or medical necessity but, I always have one just in case. I always make sure to carry my supplies with me and never check them in because your bags could get lost or postponed en route. If you are air traveling over the summer, I highly recommend checking out the forum thread TSA and Travel with Diabetes, it is really helpful and tells you exactly what you need to know to get through airport security problem-free!

Road Trips
Map out your route and note places along the way where food and/or pharmacies will be. Make sure your car is in good working order. Build an emergency stockpile: spare tire, jack, and tire iron, gasoline; flares; thermal blanket; extra cell phone battery; cell phone battery charger. Always be ahead of the weather (and traffic) reports. All local television news stations broadcast them both regularly—usually several times an hour—as do many local radio stations. Click here to see more tips about Road trips from other people living with T1D, and here is a forum post as well.

Heat and Sun
Summer is such a fun time of the year, and I really enjoy being outside, going to the beach or just relaxing on my deck. But, warm weather can cause you to become dehydrated and rather quickly if you are having high blood sugars. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids! Know the signs of heat exhaustion. Check out this forum for Heat and Sun.

Forum
We have a great travel and diabetes forum where you can get tips and tricks about vacationing and traveling with T1D. Anything from cold weather places to extreme travel, it’s a must see forum! Be sure to join the conversation! Share your comments and feedback from your own personal experience.

From all of us at TypeOneNation, we wish you safe travels!

Have a great weekend,
Gina

The Friday Five - April 19

Gina — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 18:08:00 GMT

Hi Everyone,

Before I get to the Friday Five, I would like to just say that our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by this week’s tragic events in Boston. Please... stay safe!

It is never easy when one gets diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, and if you are an adult, it can be extremely stressful. I can say this from my own experience. I was diagnosed with T1D in November 2000, at the age of 25. Everything that I once knew in life I had to relearn, and things in my life that were once very easy seemed to be very difficult. I was very angry and in major denial for years. The only person that I knew with T1D was my mother’s sister, and she was already battling kidney failure from years of uncontrolled blood glucose levels, due to the of lack of knowledge and technology at that time.

I really had no one to compare myself to besides my Aunt and I started to feel very isolated and alone. I became very depressed and feeling as though my Aunt’s path was going to be mine as well. I had no one at the time of my diagnosis at the hospital or doctor’s office telling me that it was going to be ok, or that there were other people out there just like me who were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as an adult. So, when JDRF launched the Adult Type 1 Pak earlier this week I was ecstatic!!! Finally, a resource to help Adults with T1D! A pak I wished I had when I was first diagnosed!

Here are five resources for Adults who were just diagnosed with T1D

Adult Type 1 Pak
The pak will include important resources and information to educate, support, and inspire adults, age 16 and above. In collaboration with JDRF's generous Industry Partners - Diabetes Care by Bayer, Medtronic Diabetes, and Novo Nordisk, The Adult Type 1 Pak is now available through local JDRF chapters and is free of charge! Read more about how you can get your Pak today!

Newly Diagnosed Group and Forum
We have two separate sections on TypeOneNation for those who were or are newly diagnosed, The Newly Diagnosed Group, which is pretty active, as well as the Newly Diagnosed Forum, whichever place you choose to contribute to is a great way to connect with others that are just diagnosed!

Coping with Diabetes
Being diagnosed with T1D can be extremely hard and stressful, the Coping with Diabetes group is a place where you can gain a lot of support from others who have gone through or are going through the same feelings as you. Join in on the conversation.

Young Adults
 If you are a young adult just diagnosed with T1D, I am sure you have a lot of questions about life, love, work and other types of daily living questions, The Young Adult Group is your place to connect!

Diet & Nutrition 
Looking for tips and tricks about diet and nutrition? I would check out the Diet and Nutrition Group there are some great conversations and sharing happening right now!

I hope you all enjoyed my Friday Five this week!

Have a great weekend, and Happy Friday!

~ Gina
TypeOneNation.org Community Manager

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Have suggestions for The Friday Five? Email me, I would love to hear from you gina@typeonenation.org

PS: Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to JDRF so that they can keep continuing to change the lives of all those affected by T1D. https://secure3.convio.net/jdrf3/site/Donation2?2376.donation=form1&df_id=2376

persistently high at night

Weide — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:16:55 GMT

hi, for some reasons, my son's sugar at night kept shoot up to over 16 regardless how much insulin we gave him. woke up at 9 in the morning. He is turning 6 this month, not sure that is related to his age or something else. He is taking NPH for the day and at night. Lunch and afternoon readings are good, so the insulin is working. Everyone experienced something like that? What should we do?

Thanks in advance

C's Life With D: The Greatest Trick

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 04:10:41 GMT

Do you suffer from depression? Me too. Read about it at C's Life: http://cslifewithd.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-greatest-trick.html...(read more)

The Friday Five - April 12

Gina — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 19:19:00 GMT

Hi Everyone and Happy Friday!

When you are an adult with T1D not only do you have to face the everyday challenges of managing your diabetes at work and home, you also have to deal with lack of awareness from the general public. But, you are not alone!

This month’s Friday Five posts are dedicated to Adult T1D resources! Here we go!

JDRF’s Toolkit for Adults
The latest edition of JDRF’s Adult Type 1 Toolkit is a valuable resource for all adults with the disease. There is a video to watch with details on what’s inside of the toolkit, check that out here. No matter which stage in life you are on consider this toolkit your diabetes guide. Download your toolkit today!

Interactive Adult Type 1 Toolkit
Right here on TypeOneNation we have created an interactive online road map to help you navigate the various stages of adult life with type 1 diabetes. If you are newly diagnosed or have diabetes for years it will help address a lot of the issues adults live with on a daily basis. Join the group.

Adult Type 1 Group
The Adult group is a very active group, and it is a great way for you to connect with others living with T1D. Join the conversation!

JDRF Chapters
If you are looking to get involved with your local JDRF chapter find yours here.

Adult T1D Member of the week!
Please send over a warm hello to Ebgineer, his 25th diaversary was on April 10.

And that is the Friday Five for this week! Hope you enjoyed it!

Have a great weekend, and Happy Friday!

~ Gina
TypeOneNation.org Community Manager
www.typeonenation.org
Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TypeOneNation
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Have suggestions for The Friday Five? Email me, I would love to hear from you gina@typeonenation.org

PS: Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to JDRF so that they can keep continuing to change the lives of all those affected by T1D. https://secure3.convio.net/jdrf3/site/Donation2?2376.donation=form1&df_id=2376

C's Life With D: The one where you get really excited

Sat, 06 Apr 2013 01:12:58 GMT

Do you remember how much fun you had at your high school prom? Was your high school prom torturous? Did you even go to prom? Would you have enjoyed prom more if there was alcohol and diabetes and dancing and glitter and cupcakes? Why not make that happen? A 21 and over event happening in Chicago in 2014 can REALLY use your expertise and talents to make it an absolutely spectacular event. If you have a connection with D, you're invited. Even if you don't have a connection with D, you're...(read more)

The Friday Five - April 5

Gina — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 18:01:00 GMT

Hi Everyone!

When you live with T1D you can sometimes feel as though you are going through life on one of the craziest roller coaster rides you’ve ever ridden. You follow what your doctor tells you by eating right, taking your insulin, checking your blood sugar and exercising...But, your blood sugars are never consistent and it drives you crazy, RIGHT??? DIABETES STINKS! No doubt about it, and you aren’t alone, we all go nuts from this day to day diabetes business. Thinking about diabetes 24/7 can definitely take a toll on the person living with T1D as well as their caretakers.

So, this week it’s personal! I have gathered up 5 resources for emotional support...

Managing Emotions after Diagnosis
Coming to grips with the emotional challenges of a new diabetes diagnosis can be an overwhelming experience for families. At a time when patients and parents are at their most vulnerable, they must quickly overcome the initial shock of the diagnosis, learn complex information, make considerable lifestyle changes, and help develop new attitudes and behaviors. Diabetes experts Katie Marschilok, R.N., Joseph Solowiejczyk, R.N., M.S.W., C.D.E., and Barbara Anderson, Ph.D., help you navigate the emotional shoals families face with a new diagnosis and talk about how to get to the “coping stage.” Read More >>

Depression
You don’t have to feel alone or helpless, we have a forum dedicated to depression, where we all band together to help each other! Let’s talk about it! Join the discussion

Staying Postive
Sometimes it can be so hard to stay positive when you live with T1D, others from the community are sharing how they do it in the Staying Positive forum. Do you paint, write a poem, go on a shopping spree? Tell us how do you do it here!

Sick of Diabetes
Are you sick of diabetes? Me too! And so are all of these people as well, in the Sick of diabetes group... Check it out.

Pyschosocial Burdens of T1D
Recently JDRF brought together a group of leading experts in the behavioral and mental health fields to discuss psychological and social issues people with type 1 diabetes (and their families experience. Numerous insights were shared about the reasons why psychosocial, mental health, and quality-of-life issues often receive limited attention during the routine care visits of people with T1D. I personally think it is so important to continue the conversation with JDRF on issues like eating disorders, depression and anxiety and how the healthcare field can better help people dealing with these issues on a daily basis. Let’s continue the conversation here on the JDRF Advocacy blog.

There you have it the Friday Five emotional support edition!

Please share any comments, questions or your own tips below in the comments section!!

Happy Friday!!

Gina

The Friday Five - March 29

Gina — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 17:03:00 GMT

Hi Everybody!!!

For many people, this time of year means Spring Break! And while some are partying this week without a care in the world, others with T1D may be preparing for a fun spring break vacation to stay healthy.
Here are my 5 spring break Gina tips from my own personal experience – use them now or any time of year when on vacation!

Here are my 5 spring break Gina tips! From my own personal experience going on vacation, in no particular order!!

Beach Vacation
When you are planning to go on beach vacation one of my MUST HAVES in my suitcase is that I don’t forget to pack an insulated bag! You can put all of your necessary items in it, and they have bags that wrap around your body which you can carry anywhere. Also, don’t forget to pack your sunscreen! Here are a bunch of different posts about beach vacations.

Don’t forget to eat!!
A way you can help your blood sugars to stay in range during vacation is to MAKE SURE YOU EAT! I went away once and skipped breakfast and didn’t realize that I was going to do more walking than usual, and when I got to the beach my blood sugar had dropped into the mid 30s. It was just awful! If you know you are going to skip a meal make sure you pack snacks in your bag so you can munch on them if you know you are going to do some walking or swimming! Now, when I go away I always make sure to eat things higher in protein and carbs, lesson learned!

Airport
Make sure that your supplies are easily accessible in your carry-on bag because you WILL get checked, and they look through EVERYTHING! It will save you the hassle! Check out the forum post about travel and diabetes.

Supplies
Remember to pack glucose tabs, glucagon, pump supplies, syringes in case your pump stops working, glucose meter, strips and an extra meter in case it gets lost, wet or stolen. Snacks, juice, batteries, note from doctor, prescriptions, ketone strips, ketone meter if you have one, and any other medicines you need. I always over pack my supply bag because you never know if you need more so I bring a least 4 weeks of supplies! OK I know its crazy but, with all the natural disasters we have been having lately, it just gives me peace of mind knowing I have it.

HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE!!!
When you are bathing in the sun and/or swimming a lot you can become dehydrated, and if you are running high blood sugars that will be a double whammie! So be sure to drink lots of water to stay hydrated! Oh and don’t forget to bring a hat to prevent sunstroke!

Bonus tip!

Alcohol
There is a great post from a college student with diabetes who wrote to the Online Diabetes Support team about drinking with T1D. Check it out here. Also, on that same page there are great tips on drinking with diabetes.

There you have it the Friday Five Spring Break Edition!

If you are planning on going on vacation I hope my personal tips will help you to plan a safe trip!

What are your vacation or spring break tips? Post them in the comments below!!

Happy Friday!!

Gina

My Life In a Medical Nutshell (My physical and physiological problems)

007meeka — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 16:39:49 GMT

Hello all who are reading this,

Right now, I just want to start out by giving you some background information about me. I am a Teenager, diagnosed when I was 11. I have no right to complain because of having the disease when other people have had it longer than I have, but I do have a right to complain that it hasn't been easy. The thing is, when you have had diabetes all of your life, it's easier to have the habit of checking your blood sugar and taking your insulin. Especially because you learned at such a young age that it's just considered normal to you. But when you have been living your whole 11 years eating what you want without worrying what your number will be like and then having a dramatic change, it's not a habit that is easily developed.

When I was diagnosed three years ago and was in the hospital learning everything I would have to do and learning how to manage everything, I was fine. I had doctors around about every hour to check on me and nurses I could call if i needed any help. I honestly was scared to death when I learned it was time to go back home and try everything out on my own. Of course I had my parents to help me, but I honestly think they were in shock the whole time we were being taught what to do, so I had to re-teach them everything that I still wasn't fully educated with. It was a lot to take on. But I went through the day with a hard shell cased around me. My only thoughts were, "I have to be strong so my parents and family don't break." Let me tell you that those thoughts I had set me up for failure in the future. When we got back to my house, everything was OK. I checked my levels and they were fine. I took all of my syringes and equipment we received in the "you're on your own goody bag" and found a place to store everything. Then, it came to dinner time. I did everything right. But soon I decided to go to sleep, and had forgotten to take my Long Term insulin. My, mom woke me up and told me and I freaked out. I mentally fell apart because it was to big of a change for me to handle. Now, 3 years later, I'm still dealing with the change and still mentally breaking down a lot.

Two summers ago, my "team" of doctors and I decided I should try out the pump. This was a decision that took my diabetes downhill. I depended on the pump to do everything for me. I rarely checked my blood sugars and barely remembered to give my boluses. My A1C level spiked at my next appointment form a 5 to a 10, and my doctors were not happy. I was taken off the pump immedeatly . I was perfectly fine with it too! I was sick of people asking what the pink thing in my pocket was everyday.

Since I had the pump, I got in the bad habit of not taking care of myself. I was getting busy with sports, school, and most importantly music. In my mind, i just "didn't have the time." Around the time these bad habits developed it seemed like my parents had forgotten about everything. None of us were doing what we were supposed to and my A1C traveled from a 10 to 13. So now I'm sitting in a doctors office being yelled at because I am not a well oiled machine. They told me, "you have to do this and you have to do that,.", but the thing was, I'm a teen who thinks, "i don't HAVE to do anything." I, of course, was wrong. But I kept going with my bad habits.

So, on Wednesday, I had my 3-month check up and we found out my A1C had once again climbed. I went up to higher than a 14 and now my doctor was trying to scare me into stopping my bad habits. She told my mom that "not checking my blood sugar should result in privleges being taken away." My mom did not like that at all. She hates when other people give her parenting advice. I was really upset by my doctor who was constantly saying "you're going to die in an hour if you don't become perfect right now" and broke down, AGAIN. when the doctor left, I begged my mom not to take me back to school because I was an emotional wreck. She told me that being around my friends and having a set schedule would make me feel better. Even though she was right, I didn't want to believe her at all and I finally told her about how I felt that If i didn't stay strong then our family would fall apart. What she didn't understand was that I felt like I was a burden to everyone. Mainly because I had every three month appointments that lasted 2 1/2 hours, medical bills that had to be paid, prescriptions that had to be filled every month, and still even more problems to come and be dealt with.

One of those problems was depression. I was diagnosed with depression in November, 2012 when my mom called a therapist for me to talk to because I wasn't acting right. I felt like bursting into tears every second of the day and was getting really aggressive a lot. The therapist told me that it was depression and gave me a prescription of Fluxotine. So now, on top of having diabetes and that emotional stress, I had depression that wasn't going to make it any better. Finally, It was also discovered that I experience stress and anxiety attacks whenever I feel overwhelmed. It's not fun at all because I can't do anything about them, I just sit there and cry and freak out.

So there it is, my life story of medical crappiness that scares me every single day. I wake up feeling like the world is going to end, and fall asleep wondering if I'll wake up in the morning. The worst part of it all is that I have no one who I can talk to who understands all of this. I have people who try, but It's not the same unless they too have diabetes.

- Marieke dM

Poor Man Pump

Chris — Sun, 24 Mar 2013 03:20:48 GMT

So our boy Jesse has been a diabetic going on 5 yrs in November. Hes always had 2 morning needles. A rapid and NPH. The docs and nurses are now comfortable since we live just 5 minute walk from the school to do away with the NPH which has given us no consistent levels at all, to just straight Rapid injections at meals and 6 units of Levemir at bed. What a difference a week makes. His levels which would usually be anywhere between 15-22 mmol at dinner to no higher then 9. Hes had morning lows under 4 which is a big concern but with a drop of levemir this should be fixed. So thrilled for my boy..

The Friday Five - March 22

Gina — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 20:53:00 GMT

Hi Friends

This week Friday Five is all about students!

Students with Diabetes National Conference
If you are you a young adult between the ages of 18 to 30 who is living with type 1 diabetes? Nicole Johnson, Students with Diabetes Founder and JDRF International Board Member, invites you to the Students with Diabetes 2013 National Conference, taking place May 31-June 2 in Tampa, Florida. The weekend will be inspirational and educational – you’ll socialize, network, learn and have fun. And, if you have a sibling, boyfriend/girlfriend or best friend between the ages of 18 and 30, they’re invited also, as some of the educational activities are targeted at “type 3’s” who form the support network for people with T1D. Registration is open until May 17th – go to http://studentswithdiabetes.health.usf.edu/?page_id=584 to sign up.

School Advisory Kit
Have you downloaded the School Advisory Toolkit yet? It is a fantastic guide offering collaborative methods for educators and parents of children with diabetes to ensure that every child enjoys the best possible school experience!

School
Looking for others to talk about school related issues? Yup, we have a forum for that! The School forum is the place!

College
Are you in college or thinking about going to college? Get support on how to deal with having diabetes and college life here.

Featured Member
Send a warm hello to new TypeOneNation member LoLoG! She has been contributing to the school forum and we are glad to have her!

And there you have it... the Friday Five for this week! See you next time!

~ Gina

TypeOneNation.org Community Manager
Like us Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TypeOneNation
Follow us Twitter https://twitter.com/TypeOneNation

Have suggestions for The Friday Five? Email me, I would love to hear from you gina@typeonenation.org

70 days after being diagnosed…. not that I'm counting.

Aerial Stephen — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:58:14 GMT

It's been just over two months since I was hospitalized and diagnosed T1 and I'm still kickin' - so that's good news.

I'm pretty sure my honeymoon phase is over or at least 90% over, which I'm stoked about - which might sound really strange, but this just means I will be able to figure out all my insulin to carb ratios and such, which is pretty exciting - again, I'm strange. I had my first endocrinology appointment and I love my doctor! He's T1 also, so I feel like he knows what I've gone through and will go through already. He's been T1 for over 30 years and has no major complications and still kicks butt in lots of 5ks all year long - definitely an inspiration to me. His nurse staff is so amazing and they are there literally 24/7 for any late night phone calls or emails with questions or concerns I may have. What a relief.

I also found out my dentist is T1! Such a small world now that I'm plugged in to this community. He made a terrifying root canal so much less scary just by letting me know the anesthetics will make me feel like my sugar is dropping - and he was right. It felt like I was definitely below 40 all of a sudden so naturally I started panicking until the assistant helped me check my sugar - and it was still 113 haha. Pretty embarrassing!

I'm a double engineering major at the University of Central FL in Orlando, and my endo is a major part of the Health center there - which is awesome. He's also one of the founders of a T1 club that I need to check out. He also recommended I visit the Biofeedback center there, which is a project center that helps analyze and reduce anxiety/stress for students, all naturally. Now that I've been diagnosed and am constantly worrying or being paranoid that my sugars are too high or too low, I'm for sure putting Biofeedback on my agenda.

I also switched glucometers - looooving my new one touch ultra mini! My endo gave me two for free with test strips and carrying cases and all that jazz. I'm in bg heaven.

My friends and family has been overwhelmingly supportive also. My job has been understanding but seeing as how I'm a manager at a restaurant and have to take 5min breaks every other hour to check my sugar or chug a juice box, I can tell they're annoyed. I do wish my sugar levels wouldn't drop low when I'm working, but seeing as how I'm constantly running around all day there's probably not much I can do about that except for having decent breakfasts. I'm sure it will get better now that my honeymoon phase is ending.

So overall I feel blessed to be surrounded by such caring people and professionals that are willing to help me out with this whole Type 1 thing.

Thank you everyone here as well that have been answering all my questions! You have noooo idea how helpful this site has been! :)

Aerial

A Scary, Yet Not Entirely New Incident-Has anyone else experienced this?

Christina — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 04:28:00 GMT

Ok, here goes-

Yesterday morning, I drank too much sugary juice which shot my BS up to the 400's. (Yes, I know, but that's not what's concerning me right now). Its what happened after.

I gave myself 8 units of Novolog and went to lie down. Sometime after, I started to feel sick and dizzy, so I went into the bathroom.

The dizzy feeling got worse and my vision got dim, and I must have passed out for a minute I suppose.

I heard my parents asking what happened (they were downstairs and heard me fall) and was I ok? For some reason, I couldn't awnser them right away. I remember thinking "what just happened here?"

I have had similar episodes in the past, a few times a year, but not where I've actually passed out. Just nausea and the need to lie down. 10-15 minutes and it was gone. Not this extreme.

When I was able to stand up and clear my head I took my blood sugar. Just as I thought, it was not low. In fact it was about 222.

This is my thinking on what goes on: My blood sugar drops too fast and causes a false reaction. Or it did drop low and rebound?

Or some kind of reaction to the insulin itself?

I've been leery of making a big deal about this, but I am freaked out by it. I didn't hurt my head or neck . Or so it seems. Just being more careful than usual and trying to prevent another episode like that.

I"m thinking of calling my endo for a Monday appointment.

I'm just wondering "was this a real hypoglycemic episode or something else?" I've never heard of someone not needing a shot after passing out. Soon it will be my 9th 'anniversary' and I have never had something quite like what happend Saturday.

The Friday Five - March 15

Gina — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 17:21:00 GMT

Hello Friends,

JDRF has officially launched the new Pregnancy Toolkit this week, and as a new mother myself, I know first-hand how much support you need during a 9 month T1D pregnancy. I am extremely excited that there is a resource like this for people living with T1D who are thinking about pregnancy or already expecting parent! It is great to know that JDRF supports people in all stages of their T1D!

This week’s Friday Five will be dedicated to pregnancy...

JDRF Pregnancy Toolkit
The toolkit is a free resource that helps prepare people with T1D for pregnancy and childbirth, and offers a host of tools and resources to support them at every stage. Download the Pregnancy Toolkit.

What to know
Bethany has type 1 diabetes (T1D) and is pregnant with her first child. In this video she discusses some of the things that have been important to her throughout her pregnancy. Featuring JDRF's Andrea Hulke and Aaron Kowalski. Watch the video

Diabetes and Pregnancy Group
We have an extremely active diabetes and pregnancy group right here on TypeOneNation and if you have any questions, it is definitely the place for you! Check it out!

Looking for a Doctor
A member in the pregnancy group who is newly pregnant and new to the area of Chicago is looking for a OBGYN doctor. If you live in the area please send her a note!

Featured Member
Say hello and send over a huge congrats to our newly expectant mom Sara K! It is her first baby and she is very excited!!

And there you have it... the Friday Five for this week! See you next time!

~ Gina

TypeOneNation.org Community Manager
Like us Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TypeOneNation
Follow us Twitter https://twitter.com/TypeOneNation

Have suggestions for The Friday Five? Email me, I would love to hear from you gina@typeonenation.org

where is everyone!?

Mason James Cody — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 06:58:24 GMT

Title says is all