tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36411517776950449162024-03-04T21:09:49.976-08:00Our Diabetic WarriorA family's journey battling Type 1 Diabetes and Celiac DiseaseOur Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.comBlogger155125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-70454107159052281172014-07-15T10:31:00.002-07:002014-07-15T10:31:34.048-07:00Amusement Park Fun While Being Gluten FreeDiabetes alone can be difficult at an amusement park, but when you add in gluten free, it can definitely be a challenge for any teenager that has an endless appetite! A lot of amusement parks are getting better at offering some gluten free options, but its really a good idea to check before hand. It will definitely help to make a more enjoyable time. Besides, isn't the food part of the fun???<br />
<br />
I recommend calling ahead to see if the amusement park offers a microwave to use. When we visit Cedar Point, they have microwaves available in their first aid stations.<br />
<br />
This is what I pack for our day trip:<br />
<br />
* bag of Madras Lentils by TastyBite - This is a delicious lentil chili that can be microwaved right in the bag. You could top some gluten free amusement fries with it or dip Fritos or tortilla chips in it. This is also a good protein source:)<br />
* individual bags of chips, doritos, fritos, etc…<br />
* Kind bars<br />
* individual Nutella packets with bag of gluten free pretzels<br />
* fresh cut fries at certain places (be sure to ask that the fryer is dedicated for the fries only!)<br />
* nuts<br />
* small flavored rice cakes - my son likes the chocolate<br />
* at Cedar Point, you can enjoy gluten free fries, hamburger or hot dog (without bun), pizza, chicken fingers, cotton candy, and specific flavors of Dippin' Dots.<br />
NOTE: If you are going to eat Dippin' Dots, I highly suggest asking them to scoop from the original flavored bag and not the containers that they serve from. I often see the flavors get mixed. Know that Birthday Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough or Cookies n Cream are NOT GLUTEN FREE!<br />
<br />
Don't be afraid to ask questions or to ask servers to change their gloves before handling your food. <br />
<br />
Disclaimer: Please double check all package labels to make sure they are gluten free as they sometimes change.<br />
<br />Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-21455445486305072162013-10-05T20:55:00.000-07:002013-10-05T20:55:22.403-07:00Pump UpdateWell, this week we got the results from Andrew's first A1C after starting the pump. The results are 6.1!!! I was actually surprised since it was 6.7 right before we started the pump. I have seen some rising numbers, but the pump is knocking them down right into place.<br />
<br />
I cannot say enough how much we are both enjoying the pump! The things that the pump can do is simply amazing. We used our dual wave the other day for the first time when he ate pizza. A dual wave allows you to give 1/2 the insulin upfront and then the other 1/2 over 4 hours. Any diabetic will tell you that pizza is usually a nightmare when it comes to blood glucose numbers. It tends to spike your blood sugar hours after eating it. If you give all the insulin up front, you run the risk of going low. Having the ability to spread it out over several hours helps tremendously.<br />
<br />
If anyone reading this is debating whether or not to go on a pump, I give it 2 thumbs up!Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-75011855687201162902013-07-31T12:13:00.000-07:002013-07-31T12:15:05.446-07:00Going Live!We had four families in our pump class this morning. Two chose Medtronic, one chose Animas, and one chose the new T-Slim. I have to say that the new T-Slim is REALLY sleek looking. I can see that pump being very popular with the teens since it looks like a cell phone. It would be very discreet when dosing.<br />
<br />
One of the mothers was telling me that her, her daughter, and her son all were diagnosed in 2012 with diabetes all within 6 months of each other. WOW! I cannot even imagine coping with that all at once.<br />
<br />
When the meeting started, we had to provide the nutritionist with the amount of carbs that we would like to set for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks for the next week. We only have a +/- 2 either way. This will help to keep things consistent and give us a better feel when making adjustments. I have to call in to the hospital with numbers each morning and call immediately if Andrew has more than 2 lows in one day.<br />
<br />
Well......of course.........our first blood sugar check 2 hours after starting the pump was a low of 54! We were able to treat and enjoy a lunch out on the town. Andrew had a baked fish sandwich on a gluten free bun, steamed broccoli and a glass of milk. <br />
<br />
Our afternoon test was 80, so we'll see where it goes. It's anyone's guess when it comes to diabetes.Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-81573739966531812202013-07-27T12:12:00.001-07:002013-07-27T12:12:36.466-07:00Starting from scratch....AGAINAndrew has had diabetes for over 2-1/2 years now. He's been on daily injections from the beginning. Since he enjoyed an AMAZING honeymoon and did not require long acting insulin, the pump was not something we needed. That was until now.<br />
<br />
We chose the Medtronic 723 pump. The Medtronic rep came to our house last week and explained everything. Everything was ok until we had to physically attach the infusion set to him. He didn't like the feel of it and proceeded over to the sofa where he started to softly weep. My heart just broke in two. It wasn't because it was uncomfortable to him (though that matters too), but it was because he is now required to have this piece of equipment attached to him 24/7. That, along with the "unknown" when we go live with insulin next week, brought me to tears.<br />
<br />
Starting the pump makes me REALLY nervous! I know the pump does all the calculations for us, but the thought of leaving my son's life in the hands of an electrical device makes me very scared. What if it malfunctions and delivers too much insulin?<br />
<br />
The only thing I know to do at this point is give it all to God. Please pray for guidance and protection over Andrew as we enter our "new" diabetic journey. We go live with insulin this upcoming week.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-41337840244117908792013-07-10T08:43:00.000-07:002013-07-10T08:44:46.519-07:00Introducing our New Pump!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs-I2Qvpplct6_VxcgIWPSYJUZYCl55bG99uheB37SLWcogi2rziidIuNMO3J5u5UWvK-9D7G30IULQFa7Tg3JJ6hD7dWFWWUtjWucBLsbQ8IXMo0jDWdZvvb0o-V2qTnz0WYf48SmWzM/s1600/th-5.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs-I2Qvpplct6_VxcgIWPSYJUZYCl55bG99uheB37SLWcogi2rziidIuNMO3J5u5UWvK-9D7G30IULQFa7Tg3JJ6hD7dWFWWUtjWucBLsbQ8IXMo0jDWdZvvb0o-V2qTnz0WYf48SmWzM/s1600/th-5.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">MiniMed 723</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We are pleased to announce that we chose Medtronic for Andrews 1st insulin pump. We really struggled between the Animas and the Medtronic. There were two things that helped to make our final decision:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>the Continuous Glucose Monitor option available on the Medtronic </li>
<li>how you bolus. The main thing I did not like on the Animas is that you had to manually enter the bolus amount. I had visions of 2.5 turning into 25.</li>
</ul>
<div>
All of the insulin pumps have wonderful options; therefore, it's really up to the individual using it. I just wish I could pick and the choose the options I like from all of them and make my own custom pump. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We will be starting with saline in a couple of weeks before we go live at the end of July. I will keep you updated on our progress. </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-16082002882517382792013-06-22T08:21:00.002-07:002013-07-10T08:46:13.463-07:00Was it the Vaccination?Last night I awakened suddenly in the middle of the night with the thought of Andrew's recent vaccinations. If you've been following my blog, you know that Andrew had a wonderful 2-1/2 year honeymoon. He was on extremely little amounts of insulin and NO long acting insulin. The doctors kept saying that he was definitely an unusual case.<br />
<br />
That was until....a couple of days following his meningitis and TDaP vaccinations.<br />
<br />
After those vaccinations, his blood glucose numbers went crazy! We could not get him under 200 in the mornings. Remember, this was after 2-1/2 years of being under 120 upon awakening and having NO long acting insulin. <br />
<br />
Needless to say, we are STILL struggling to get his blood glucose ratios figured out. People might say it was a coincidence, but I don't believe in coincidences. It is so puzzling that he would go from such a mild case of diabetes to full blown diabetes over night. <br />
<br />
Did those vaccinations kill off the rest of his pancreas? I can't prove it, but the numbers don't lie. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-63727840111765891512013-06-20T07:41:00.001-07:002013-07-10T08:46:59.562-07:00It's Pump Time! NEED ADVICEWell, it seems to appear that Andrew's honeymoon has come to an abrupt stop. We made it 2-1/2 years which I am completely thankful for. <br />
<br />
We started on Levemir about 2 weeks ago and though it's helping, I am definitely in shock seeing numbers up in the 200 and 300's. Insulin to carb ratios have been changing daily. <br />
<br />
With constant corrections having to be made, I am looking forward to moving towards a pump. We have a pump class next week and I'd like to get as much information I can before attending.<br />
<br />
Can you all please share with me what pump you/your child uses and why you chose it.<br />
<br />
Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-28963945792349077692013-06-06T19:03:00.002-07:002013-07-10T08:47:18.789-07:00Is it over?the diabetic honeymoon........<br />
<br />
They definitely call it a diabetic honeymoon for a reason. Andrew has only been on a small amount of quick acting insulin for the past 2-1/2 years. His numbers have remained under 150 for the most part. <br />
<br />
Until.....<br />
<br />
The past 3 weeks have included endless days of 200's and 300's. I'm dosing insulin like crazy and giving corrections that are not bringing his numbers down.<br />
<br />
Is it over???? <br />
<br />Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-60587732840500306662013-04-29T20:41:00.001-07:002013-07-10T08:45:51.774-07:00Celiac Endoscopy #2 We have been on such an emotional roller coaster since November 2010. Andrew was first diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and then celiac disease one month later.<br />
<br />
Since then, we've been scrupulous with keeping gluten out of our kitchen. With all of the precautions taken, Andrew's celiac antibodies are still not under the normal of <20. Granted, he started at around 134, but he should have been able to get under 20 eating gluten free. Right now his antibodies are 41.<br />
<br />
We met with a nutritionist and went over everything in our kitchen to see if there was something we were missing. We came up with absolutely NOTHING. However, restaurants can definitely be a place for cross contamination. We do eat out 2-3 times per week.<br />
<br />
Our plan of action is to repeat the upper endoscopy and see if his body is having damage done to his small intestines. There are some people that test positive for celiac antibodies and not have celiac. Since Andrew never had symptoms, we can never use that as a guide.<br />
<br />
If he does NOT have damage, we will use 41 as his normal marker. If he does have damage, then we will stop eating out for 2 months and retest his antibody levels. If he is still high after that, then we will have to look into other reasons for the elevated antibodies.<br />
<br />
<br />Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-71321456520960174282013-03-31T04:00:00.000-07:002013-03-31T04:00:01.636-07:00Happy Easter!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
CHRIST IS RISEN!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ4Pi0IFBtwOvOWL5Im1TM7bv993dkxnwJlZ9T4MHUCc2ueEVCSB3jI32Pcg_3wZdj1LhBSarbFdnv7BbbkEIrcFIOrODfwAUDb0IOrr8Ghtk0FoFS6CUXnTTn8IDI6KjAjcnM_tSTC_8/s1600/Easter-Wallpaper-Background-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ4Pi0IFBtwOvOWL5Im1TM7bv993dkxnwJlZ9T4MHUCc2ueEVCSB3jI32Pcg_3wZdj1LhBSarbFdnv7BbbkEIrcFIOrODfwAUDb0IOrr8Ghtk0FoFS6CUXnTTn8IDI6KjAjcnM_tSTC_8/s320/Easter-Wallpaper-Background-02.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
HAPPY EASTER</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>John 11:25-26</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die."</i></div>
Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-83285084786072736072013-03-23T07:29:00.001-07:002013-07-10T08:47:56.088-07:00Pizza Woes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRj2Gq0IjeSZPZBFvOAg9nxMrl-ycWk13sy2S_B66ZYUbGQ8uYQxSofqFddQXS13GsDPQgZSOjX9hDttf6r4F4fNi_fxqTlwA8FQWelgObS8u15xMEfjQiUtL18Tgg8KW8pv3WgeHGiLA/s1600/images-13.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRj2Gq0IjeSZPZBFvOAg9nxMrl-ycWk13sy2S_B66ZYUbGQ8uYQxSofqFddQXS13GsDPQgZSOjX9hDttf6r4F4fNi_fxqTlwA8FQWelgObS8u15xMEfjQiUtL18Tgg8KW8pv3WgeHGiLA/s1600/images-13.jpeg" /></a></div>
People look at this picture of a delicious hot pizza and start to salivate. As my son's artificial pancreas, I cringe because I know that his blood sugars are off on a crazy roller coaster ride for the next several hours. Add in a dessert if you're at a birthday party and it can spell DISASTER!<br />
<br />
If you add too much insulin up front, he'll go low. If you don't give enough, he'll go high. What is the perfect solution? If anyone reading this is on shots, please share your wisdom with me. <br />
<br />
Since Andrew is still honeymooning, his body can still sometimes bring down a high at night. The hard part is whether to correct or not. Some nights, his body does the work and other nights it doesn't.<br />
<br />
Until he qualifies for a pump, we'll just have to continue fighting the pizza blood sugar woes. The fight is on!!!!!<br />
<br />
<br />Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-10541720175822056582013-02-23T09:15:00.000-08:002013-07-10T08:49:46.418-07:00Things are a Changin'It has been just over 2 years since Andrew was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and celiac disease. Throughout his honeymoon, we've been able to only use fast acting insulin to control his numbers, and Carb counting has only included starchy carbs. His A1C was 7.6 at diagnosis and reduced to 5.0 over the past couple of years. So far, his morning fasting numbers have been normal (under 100) without long acting insulin.
Things have been changing this past week. It has really caught me off guard. His numbers have risen into the upper 200's. This is with the normal carb ratio of 1:30 (1 unit of insulin for every 30g carbs consumed), and his morning numbers have also started to rise between 100 - 120.
Full blown diabetes is staring me right in the face!
I always knew that his honeymoon would eventually come to an end, but now I'm feeling a little nervous. I've actually got in a nice groove with his "behaving" diabetes. I don't think I'm going to be liking the "other side"!
I guess the only thing I can do is wait it out a little. I will be contacting his endo. on Monday to go over this past weeks numbers. I'll keep you updated.
Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-68181613098033169362012-12-26T18:38:00.001-08:002012-12-26T18:38:38.183-08:00Mix UpsWe enjoyed dinner tonight at our favorite pizzeria. When our diabetic son's "diet coke" came, he mentioned that he wasn't sure if it was diet. I proceeded to take a little taste and couldn't make up my mind if it was diet or not. I sat it aside until I was able to ask the waitress. I explained that he was diabetic and it would be really bad for him if it was a full sugar soda (this is because I didn't dose him for it). She promised that she took it from the diet coke nozzle. OK... there was no reason for me to think twice at this point.
Andrew continued to enjoy his soda. When I asked him if everything was ok, he mentioned that the soda tasted quite sweet. At this point, he probably guzzled down about 1 cup full. I told him to set it aside and just drink his water.
The waitress came back and told us that someone actually put the wrong carton into the pop dispenser. Regular Coke was put in the Diet Coke spot. YIKES!!!!!! No wonder why he was 167 even before we started eating.
In the end, we now have to contend with the sugar from the soda and the sugar spike from the pizza. Something tells me this is going to be a long night!
Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-18993549639571844792012-10-29T08:57:00.000-07:002013-07-10T08:50:19.662-07:00Weather and Blood Sugar Levels<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLD6dgVk4JkwGcJi_MVEoO-JXWUqaMIeDTealezTOxxX96pDsOfwYrrhEkq8cPFxa8S21E_svW6UwISbuuNVbvdMMqdGdwA6vh6Yat92qDrqGEVGPiSgeZzVQ5V9BWc73aid6ReNun_1U/s1600/hurricane28n-8-copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLD6dgVk4JkwGcJi_MVEoO-JXWUqaMIeDTealezTOxxX96pDsOfwYrrhEkq8cPFxa8S21E_svW6UwISbuuNVbvdMMqdGdwA6vh6Yat92qDrqGEVGPiSgeZzVQ5V9BWc73aid6ReNun_1U/s320/hurricane28n-8-copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Our weather has been crazy the past couple of days due to the path of Hurricane Sandy. We're not going to get snow, but are expecting large amounts of rain and high winds.</div>
<br />
Yesterday, Andrew's numbers went up to 248 which NEVER happens! He didn't eat anything differently and received his normal amount of insulin.<br />
<br />
I'm wondering if this change in his blood sugar levels could be from the temperature changes? Does anyone here experience a shift if blood sugar levels when the weather shifts?<br />
<br />
Please pray for everyone that is in the path of this storm. I'm sure there will be a lot of flooding and power outages. Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-74983766945880856562012-07-31T19:17:00.000-07:002013-07-10T08:51:03.408-07:00Punch in the gutTonight at VBS the kids played a game of question/answer so they could get to know each other better. All of the kids made a large circle and passed around a beach ball with questions on it. Whoever caught the ball had to answer one of the question where their thumb was sitting.<br />
<br />
Andrews question was "If you could go backwards or forward, what would you change?"<br />
<br />
His answer: "I would go backwards so that I would have never gotten diabetes and celiac."<br />
<br />
PUNCH TO MY GUT!<br />
<br />
It's like no matter what, diabetes is ALWAYS in the picture. One thing I'm extremely thankful for is that he is not embarrassed of his diabetes. I've always been open with his testing and shots. He lays all his stuff out during snacks at VBS and I give his shot right there. <br />
<br />
The kids in his VBS are kids that he's known for sometime now which softens my heart because they don't judge him. They accept him for who he is......ONE AWESOME KID!<br />
<br />Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-73253976669988481792012-06-27T06:00:00.000-07:002012-06-27T06:00:07.489-07:00Aren't we on the same page?phone rings:<br />
<br />
me:"hello"<br />
<br />
American Diabetes Association (ADA): "Hi Mrs.?, this is so and so from the ADA. Do you know that (insert #) people die each and every year from the complications from diabetes?"<br />
<br />
me: "yes, I'm completely aware since my son has type 1 diabetes."<br />
<br />
You would think that at this time, the ADA would apologize and go on with their spiel, but NO!<br />
<br />
ADA: We're looking for donations.<br />
<br />
me: I do support diabetes, but I directly donate to JDRF since our son has type 1.<br />
<br />
ADA: Get's disgusted and snippy with me while asking again for a donation.<br />
<br />
This went on for a couple of times until I finally had to tell them to take me off of their calling list. Why did it have to come to this? Aren't we all still working towards the same thing - finding a cure for diabetes?<br />
<br />
<br />Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-89186238622214327472012-06-22T06:00:00.000-07:002012-06-22T06:00:04.291-07:00Mom, I don't.........We went to see the new Madagascar movie with the kids the other night. I would highly recommend the movie as it was very colorful and funny.<br />
<br />
After the movie, we decided to drop by TCBY for some yogurt. Andrew was not happy with that selection because the only celiac safe topping was slivered almonds. After the rest of us got our TCBY, we hopped back in the car and journeyed off to Houlihan's for a gluten free creme brûlée for Andrew.<br />
<br />
My little guy kept complaining that he was going to die because he was soooooo thirsty. When I picked up the creme brûlée, I requested a large glass of ice water. This cup must have held 4 cups of water.<br />
<br />
Back to the car, my little guy guzzled that thing down like nobody's business. He has been very thirsty for water lately. I have to admit that one of my "diabetes" antennas have started to tune in.<br />
<br />
As we're proceeding down the highway, my husband simply states, "Little guy, you have been drinking a lot of water lately."<br />
<br />
Little guy's response: "....and Mom, 'I DON'T HAVE DIABETES!!!!!!!'<br />
<br />
Obviously, the siblings have their own "diabetes" antennas. <br />
<br />
<br />Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-3733952275279205982012-06-18T06:00:00.000-07:002012-06-18T06:00:05.965-07:00The Scary Times with DiabetesDiabetes and celiac disease has been a part of our lives now for 1-1/2 years. They've gone along with us to doctor appointments, vacations, road trips, restaurants, grocery stores, clothes shopping, swimming, gymnastics, school, piano lessons, Awana, church, play dates, movies, bike rides, walks, trampoline, amusement parks, etc.......<br />
<br />
The point is that Andrew's diabetes has always been controlled in MY presence. <br />
<br />
A couple of weeks ago our daughter came down with stomach pains that required a visit to the local Children's ER. We just couldn't leave Andrew in a family members hands due to his insulin shots and celiac needs. Diabetes is just not something that comes with Cliff Notes. My husband could have stayed home with Andrew and his brother, but he wanted to be there for his daughter too. So, everyone loaded up in the car.<br />
<br />
This is the first time that I felt.....scared. Scared of the huge responsibility on my shoulders to take care of our son. Diabetes kicked me smack dab square in the stomach! I know that eventually Andrew will take on complete responsibility for his diabetes care, but he's not at that point yet. <br />
<br />
For now, I have to remind myself that I cannot control diabetes and the sticky situations that it sometimes puts us in. As for the what if's....... I need to give them to God. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-85460388419638642562012-06-13T06:00:00.000-07:002012-06-13T06:00:11.759-07:00Surviving Gluten Free at Hotels<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Staying in a hotel can be extremely challenging for people with celiac disease. Most hotels offer a buffet where there are too many opportunities for cross contamination.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I did several things to keep our son safe during our hotel stays.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>I purchased some Toast it bags before we left. Make sure that you definitely buy more than a 2 pack. At one hotel, I had sat them down on the table and the person cleaning the dining area picked them up and threw them away. Also, you might want to check with the hotel before you go to make sure that they have a regular toaster available. A lot of hotels use the kind that you place the bread on a little conveyor belt and it drops to the bottom when it's done. If this is the case, the toaster bags cannot be used. </li>
</ul>
<div>
There was also a time when the employee had to take the bags into their kitchen to use the regular toaster. I had to reinforce them that the bread stays IN THE BAG and to not touch the inside of the bag. Keep in mind that it might take more than 1 time in the toaster to get it toasted to your liking.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDlxLZK311mX_hgwaT64zOsvK0VTLzfVq-nRCbwDpdmx3h2A2ct2IcF0edgfU5ke7BCRzgeGEol8C10F4XSGn4HcmImda8Z4JTWyBSMlXbXYqF4WJz_XY-CuE3467vUz4tYSLfybtAnFM/s1600/41tmIF+1KPL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDlxLZK311mX_hgwaT64zOsvK0VTLzfVq-nRCbwDpdmx3h2A2ct2IcF0edgfU5ke7BCRzgeGEol8C10F4XSGn4HcmImda8Z4JTWyBSMlXbXYqF4WJz_XY-CuE3467vUz4tYSLfybtAnFM/s1600/41tmIF+1KPL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">I made sure that I could have a refrigerator and microwave in our room. Before we arrived at the hotel, I located a nearby grocery store and purchased a small carton on eggs and a bag of shredded cheese. Prior to the trip, I purchased a plastic microwave omelet container like the one shown below. If you will not have a microwave in your room, I would check to see if there would be one that you could use. Make sure you pack a little bottle of dishwashing liquid to wash it when you're finished.</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL8KnzRMAo6AZYzUhOvWNt6evZnh2Blcm4EEOdCPRRWsg2iB-omx2n24ZwLrHfsvAwtTLkb80LEwVgMjL_bEKT8CQ6Hi7Cv3phezlxZVXYrN5QVBI1fJtFXGgTiotSDixppyvufuI7kMk/s1600/47881n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL8KnzRMAo6AZYzUhOvWNt6evZnh2Blcm4EEOdCPRRWsg2iB-omx2n24ZwLrHfsvAwtTLkb80LEwVgMjL_bEKT8CQ6Hi7Cv3phezlxZVXYrN5QVBI1fJtFXGgTiotSDixppyvufuI7kMk/s320/47881n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">At the grocery store, I also purchased a quart of milk for cereal. I packed a box of Rice Chex, Splenda and plastic silverware.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li>Since Andrew has diabetes, I also packed some measuring cups and a food scale.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-90495041886118158652012-06-08T06:00:00.000-07:002012-06-08T06:00:14.195-07:00Diabetes at Amusement Parks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ciwfim1KR9Ofcs4Pp2dV5WX8gCMSQ9J3PC04PvPutJb5NmzuHDUUrLP3VHp9xWm_V5cYnHhUy3lX_M_XFAgc44t54TFNJmawQZlhhIS8mKZVBoY1lYzeHLaVbvz5RqLSM_FcXXjFK-E/s1600/IMG_7019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ciwfim1KR9Ofcs4Pp2dV5WX8gCMSQ9J3PC04PvPutJb5NmzuHDUUrLP3VHp9xWm_V5cYnHhUy3lX_M_XFAgc44t54TFNJmawQZlhhIS8mKZVBoY1lYzeHLaVbvz5RqLSM_FcXXjFK-E/s320/IMG_7019.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
I have to admit that I had a lot of anxiety before entering Busch Gardens. Andrew is a HUGE lover of roller coasters and I had visions of him having a low being hundreds of feet off the ground.<br />
<br />
Before we entered the park, we visited their Guest Services and asked if they offer anything special for diabetics.<br />
<br />
YES THEY DO!<br />
<br />
They take down some of your information and then present you with a paper that you are to show their employee at the entrance of the ride lines. The employee will tell you what time to come back. When you return at your designated time, they shuttle you into an express line that puts you toward the front of the line. I think the longest we ever had to wait was about 15 minutes.<br />
<br />
This is a wonderful privilege! We didn't have to worry about getting out of line to hunt down a restroom due to a high blood sugar. We also didn't have to worry that he would go low due to waiting too long. <br />
<br />
If you are planning on visiting any amusement parks over the summer, be sure to check with Guest Services upon entering and see if they offer a special pass for diabetics.Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-79111528845735498412012-06-04T13:51:00.001-07:002012-06-04T13:53:14.952-07:00The UPS and downs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3qJIY8PZtcdDpnAJMbe5fg0umzBwwlkLZX7FBhVK2TQI1oSJVkSyClXMnXSA9AM6iUxsAZ8Zcs7ZLpVj1Eu39APyDSpM9pHJ2pHkzbPRYpt5oAhq4VHDHIFUfLwbGTqEgG_X71wDoovM/s1600/images-4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3qJIY8PZtcdDpnAJMbe5fg0umzBwwlkLZX7FBhVK2TQI1oSJVkSyClXMnXSA9AM6iUxsAZ8Zcs7ZLpVj1Eu39APyDSpM9pHJ2pHkzbPRYpt5oAhq4VHDHIFUfLwbGTqEgG_X71wDoovM/s1600/images-4.jpeg" /></a></div>
We made it through another one of Andrew's diabetes appointments. I have to admit that I never enjoy going because the doctor is always harping on keeping his weight down to extend his honeymoon. I understand the doctors viewpoint and I agree with her, BUT it's tough hearing about it all the time. He has kept his 17 pounds off for 1-1/2 years now. I'm so proud of him!<br />
<br />
We had an intern doctor, a diabetic, see us before our regular endo.. He was able to teach Andrew to test the sides of his fingers versus the pads. I have been telling Andrew this for a long time now, but maybe a diabetic doctor will help since he understands first hand. <br />
<br />
Andrew is still having lows about 3 hours after he eats so we need to add in a free carb serving (15g) at 2 hours following every meal. The lows are causing ruckus with exercise. I'm going to sporadically check his glucose in-between meals to see how high he's spiking. We might have to change his insulin ratio.<br />
<br />
I don't know about you all, but I feel that I have to micro manage everything diabetes related! The doctors read the glucose numbers and proceed to ask me what he ate and when he ate it. I just cannot let myself get so wrapped up in the numbers. His current A1C is 5.1% so I know we're doing something right. Diabetes sometimes just likes to throw odd numbers in the mix for no reason at all....probably just to tick us off!<br />
<br />
Since Andrew's celiac antibodies are still not in normal range, they will retest them and call me with the results. They have gone down significantly since diagnosis, but they're taking their good sweet time.<br />
<br />
Overall, the doctor is happy with Andrew's progress. I just wish I could walk away feeling happy and not discouraged. I HATE that they constantly talk about him being overweight right in front of him. If you would look at Andrew, he does not look overweight. They go strictly on the BMI chart. I think the BMI chart should be discontinued because not everyone is the same stature. Someone with more muscle will show up as overweight because muscle weighs more than fat. Hmmmmm.....I feel a possible excuse for my next doctor's appointment coming on!lolOur Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-86201581801667142162012-05-31T06:00:00.000-07:002012-06-02T07:43:47.205-07:00Gluten Free at Raglan Road Irish Pub - Orlando<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQ0uR9y_9iUxYHPZmN5grAx0LdMuuTiMPVfeV4gPMeslldLS2eGhElB8NOps_DwxfPROf70meop2LHBdV3vOKzdLpJSmy46G0zXGh5fEfSOuAuTKtmVk2tKayD3TiRhF76NZrCeqLIsY/s1600/1331673667_temp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQ0uR9y_9iUxYHPZmN5grAx0LdMuuTiMPVfeV4gPMeslldLS2eGhElB8NOps_DwxfPROf70meop2LHBdV3vOKzdLpJSmy46G0zXGh5fEfSOuAuTKtmVk2tKayD3TiRhF76NZrCeqLIsY/s320/1331673667_temp.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Raglan Road Irish Pub, in Downtown Disney Orlando, was a special treat for all of us. The food was delicious and the riverdance performers were great entertainment.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNWbnvaBHOZF7bWV0JFwsKDM5Tx_CbvruHFQBNTSECv4B6R1mblgjCAHjxVqjlmTzj9Ic-qmwEi4MYrG54RBfRs_ABvmQ2NLC6iaFaynRGFNC9ywlemx5uv_Lv1Tm0dbq1wkaeYVZljTo/s1600/228202820-15182818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNWbnvaBHOZF7bWV0JFwsKDM5Tx_CbvruHFQBNTSECv4B6R1mblgjCAHjxVqjlmTzj9Ic-qmwEi4MYrG54RBfRs_ABvmQ2NLC6iaFaynRGFNC9ywlemx5uv_Lv1Tm0dbq1wkaeYVZljTo/s320/228202820-15182818.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I made our reservation prior to leaving for our vacation. They do book up quickly! After our drink order was taken, the chef came directly to our table and spoke to us about Andrew's gluten allergy. We didn't get past the gluten free fish & chips option so I'm not even sure what other gluten free options they offer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKxeTZbr-1NLTbEsKdpc-_5pIRXV25r0ng60kBpfvUgJ_bCdu7Z5mxKpDcrsO4wgQIuY2AZcU_Xidld902prapwwgZxnq9IMo7GzdJ9cVf9KTGkAHYTljvVFDRmhm8_LO5Zk34lUL7Tcs/s1600/gluten-free-fish-and-chips-500x334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKxeTZbr-1NLTbEsKdpc-_5pIRXV25r0ng60kBpfvUgJ_bCdu7Z5mxKpDcrsO4wgQIuY2AZcU_Xidld902prapwwgZxnq9IMo7GzdJ9cVf9KTGkAHYTljvVFDRmhm8_LO5Zk34lUL7Tcs/s320/gluten-free-fish-and-chips-500x334.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Their gluten free fish and chips consist of a beautiful fish fillet fried in champagne and garbanzo flour. Their fish and chips are fried in a designated gluten free fryer. The portion could have been larger, but it left room for dessert. Andrew said they were delicious!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The chef also made Andrew a side of steamed broccoli.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The rest of us ordered the regular fish and chips and they were also very DELICIOUS! I highly recommend Raglan!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-68502226298479669722012-05-24T08:01:00.002-07:002013-07-10T08:51:23.445-07:00Wordless Thursday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyNbryzjITuhG__ZKpEyd_M9LVNW0x9ylB-UGQTFnSxgIKYlPqonT98asNhnazEDyBCUFOHo82hcZBYdtMNRDoCyiGTwBsnhylSxdRQjcVLkEqMTvfYLmQUhjIpu2-XxAa9knD-Ryp0HE/s1600/IMG_7172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyNbryzjITuhG__ZKpEyd_M9LVNW0x9ylB-UGQTFnSxgIKYlPqonT98asNhnazEDyBCUFOHo82hcZBYdtMNRDoCyiGTwBsnhylSxdRQjcVLkEqMTvfYLmQUhjIpu2-XxAa9knD-Ryp0HE/s320/IMG_7172.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
We NEED a cure!</div>
Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-60275988044792407322012-05-18T06:00:00.000-07:002012-05-18T06:00:12.696-07:00Gluten Free at Planet Hollywood - Orlando<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9n8y7UsbF_W_IT3QJIK0oRQz_GcyE-WIgR4bzWhQE0ufn1Ab9E4ihnBZFIWsddqU-eCWAJcukmYfAjbWTQdWMSJMTmb4dOK98sFsWXfylxNvi9m2MZHwewHg26yDpCXLgqRL3yqia7E/s1600/PLANHOLLY_1_998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9n8y7UsbF_W_IT3QJIK0oRQz_GcyE-WIgR4bzWhQE0ufn1Ab9E4ihnBZFIWsddqU-eCWAJcukmYfAjbWTQdWMSJMTmb4dOK98sFsWXfylxNvi9m2MZHwewHg26yDpCXLgqRL3yqia7E/s640/PLANHOLLY_1_998.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3zgiS4KTt2KotpZ7I8cwrwAU4sMe07fFITJup6SLUyUAyfGHQZjMl2ZnBzVj210wdDY5oJZ8BEjJjA092WSxgDYKYhMFTJU_BeC8wSVdDTFds3W2N-zW6B29rlaZ61NcFvEwnQZZFcog/s1600/374_2687.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3zgiS4KTt2KotpZ7I8cwrwAU4sMe07fFITJup6SLUyUAyfGHQZjMl2ZnBzVj210wdDY5oJZ8BEjJjA092WSxgDYKYhMFTJU_BeC8wSVdDTFds3W2N-zW6B29rlaZ61NcFvEwnQZZFcog/s320/374_2687.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Planet Hollywood is a neat restaurant worth visiting if you are a movie buff. Just beware of the loud music.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As soon as we were seated and told the server that our son had a gluten allergy, he immediately had the chef come to our table. The chef asked what Andrew liked to eat. They could have done a cheeseburger with a gluten free bun, but he wasn't in the mood for that. He really wanted nachos, but the chips were fried in the same fryer as wheat.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
He decided on the gluten free chicken fajitas. It consisted of grilled chicken over onions and peppers, white rice, cheese, lettuce and corn tortillas. I asked it to come without white rice because it would do too much havoc on Andrew's blood sugar.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>WARNING:</b> THIS IS THE WHEAT VERSION!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If your dish looks like this DO NOT eat it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2O0I-ExSsTmidISZAHuq0G1d7vzbOdtF69Rs62MuR5OanAFoO64qpaLeiUlbsDrpdAVJwYGNXDyNYu8fiW_fhQ1Ov-BHn4sND9K_pl76gNxht3za8fkzTYtA5Jy5dwDzTeTZ10VtJX6c/s1600/images-3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2O0I-ExSsTmidISZAHuq0G1d7vzbOdtF69Rs62MuR5OanAFoO64qpaLeiUlbsDrpdAVJwYGNXDyNYu8fiW_fhQ1Ov-BHn4sND9K_pl76gNxht3za8fkzTYtA5Jy5dwDzTeTZ10VtJX6c/s1600/images-3.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The pictured dish showed up at our table and before Andrew could even get his fork to his chicken, a lady came sprinting out from the kitchen and grabbed it from him. The rice that was on his dish was not white, it was a seasoned WHEAT rice! Thank goodness he's not crazy about rice and didn't taste it right away. That would have been a horrible thing to have a bad reaction on the 1st. day of vacation.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The new dish showed up perfect, without rice, and Andrew absolutely LOVED it! Their corn tortillas were very thin and yummy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3641151777695044916.post-36460395563942408632012-05-11T09:31:00.000-07:002012-05-11T09:31:55.532-07:00Mother's Day Poem to all you Wonderful D-MOMS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK7choxj_V7G2_Gaf2ICsWzzBnUls3ZT35DAZpxmDNhiIr07fCiTg-X0eQGDKrWaojieSLDfd-1M91Hs3VW6S9zHCaC3axmQap8nVokm14zfFZBAHLNvPo6ga7xh29Cs3ftO0qijb1tFU/s1600/happy-mothers-day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK7choxj_V7G2_Gaf2ICsWzzBnUls3ZT35DAZpxmDNhiIr07fCiTg-X0eQGDKrWaojieSLDfd-1M91Hs3VW6S9zHCaC3axmQap8nVokm14zfFZBAHLNvPo6ga7xh29Cs3ftO0qijb1tFU/s320/happy-mothers-day.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
A poem in memory of the author, Gary Hempleman, for all children with diabetes.</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>She walks down the hallway in silence so deep,</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Keep watch over him, as her little one sleeps.</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>With meter in hand, she opens his door,</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Making sure not to wake him as she crosses the floor,</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>She sits on his bedside and brushes his hair,</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>As he dreams of shooting baskets, without a "D" care.</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>She holds his hand softly; his fingers so small,</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>As she watches and wonders why "D" came to call.</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>While she watches him sleeping, so peaceful and warm,</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The forces inside him fight a constant "D" storm.</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Will he ever be free of shots and blood testing?</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>She sits and she wonders as she watches him resting.</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The beep of the meter breaks the silence of the night;</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>A small drop of blood tells if everything's right.</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The seconds count down to the final display,</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I hate this damn meter; i want to throw it away.</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The number is fine, one down, a lifetime to go,</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>As he turns in his sleep, will he ever know?</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Why does this "D" happen to someone so small?</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My son is my hero, but my baby most of all.</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>She turns at his doorway, looking back one more time,</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>It's a nightly routine of the very worst kind.</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>She walks down the hallway and time passes by,</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>As she sits in dark silence and quietly cries.</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I have to stay strong, and for him i will fight,</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>We'll battle this "D" with all of our might.</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I'll teach him to master and conquer this foe,</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This "D" will not stop him, i promised him so.</i></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Gary 2001</i></div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #4b5d67; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I would like to wish you all D-moms a beautiful Mother's Day! Thank you so much for being a part of my support group. May God bless you all!</div>
</div>
<div style="color: #4b5d67; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>Our Diabetic Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16393427566036373398noreply@blogger.com2