This afternoon, we were at the local science museum, waiting for a show to begin in the planetarium, and we'd heard the announcement loud and clear.
"Ladies and gentlemen, once the show has started, you may exit the planetarium, but you may not re-enter. For security puposes, the doors will be locked to those in the Science Center outside of the planetarium."
Two minutes later, just as the show began to play, Madeline tapped me on the shoulder and said, "I have to go potty."
Just before we'd entered the planetarium, we'd suggested all three kids use the restroom. "I don't have to go," Madeline had insisted.
"Can you hold it? Or do you have to go badly?" I asked.
"I really, really, really have to go," she whimpered.
"Besides, this is boring," she muttered under her breath.
I knew it! Her bladder wasn't calling. She just wanted out. Funny girl, my Madeline is!
We didn't leave.
About twenty minutes later, Jack whispered, "I feel low."
At that very moment, the planetarium was dark, not like movie-theater dark and not like middle-of-the-night dark. It was pitch black. As dark as dark can be! There was not one star shining above us. We could not see a thing. Not a thing!
"What should we do?" Gregg asked me in a hushed tone, knowing that if we went outside to test Jack, we wouldn't be able to get back in.
We'd tested Jack before the show started, and he was at 138, but that didn't mean he couldn't have dropped.
Jack's D kit sat on Gregg's lap, but even as the stars began to shine again, there was still no way Gregg could see well enough to test Jack.
About 90% of the time Jack says he feels low, he actually is low, and he'd fought a 58 and a 63 already today.
Considering the day's trend, we decided to assume another low and figured we could correct a high after the show, if need be. Gregg unzipped the D kit, felt around for a package of fruit snacks, found one and then gave it to Jack, who gobbled its contents.
We watched the remainder show. Madeline fidgeted and chatted throughout, but I couldn't blame her. The show really was boring. It put Jack and Max to sleep, and I almost dozed off myself.
After the show had ended and we'd woken the boys and left the planetarium, Madeline still didn't need to use the restroom, and Jack was just fine. We tested him immediately and 170 popped up on glucometer.
We'd made it!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
The Silver Lining
Every dark cloud has a silver lining. Today was a reminder of that.
We attended the 2009 JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes awards ceremony. There, we were presented with a few awards, like the above Gold Fundraising Award, which we received for raising over $18,000 for JDRF.
While the recognition for our efforts was nice (as we poured our hearts and souls into our Walk campaign!), the ceremony wasn't really about receiving accolades. To us, it was about friends, family and support. Our awards are merely symbols of the donations that came from people who care about a cure, who care about us, and who were willing to help us help Jack.
To all who donated, walked with us, and raised funds for JDRF on behalf of Jack's Pack, thank you from the bottoms of our hearts! Your support means the world to us!
We sat through today's event surrounded by friends, truly wonderful people whom we never would have met, if it hadn't been for diabetes.
If there is anything positive about Jack's disease, it is that we've made these special friends.
To all we saw today--the Roses, the Birminghams, the McGraws, the Coveys, the Gabbays and the Baxleys--and to all of our other D friends (including those of you we've never met in person), we treasure your friendship!
Diabetes may be our darkest cloud, but it does have its silver lining!
P.S. Please excuse this post's horrendous photography! I had to use my cell phone camera, as the card reader I use to download pics from my camera to my computer are victims of last week's water heater catastrophe. My office was hit hard with water damage, and I currently can't access my desk drawer, where I keep my card reader. I can't wait to have my house back!
Friday, February 26, 2010
TGIF
It's been a doozy of a week.
On Monday, one of our water heaters broke and leaked 50 gallons of water into the house, damaging carpeting, padding, drywall, baseboards and built-in cabinetry. Major messes! We've had no hot water in the kitchen, laundry room or master bathroom all week long, and our office and master bedroom closet have been off limits, while the carpeting dried and contractors ripped apart the rooms. Major hassles! And the house smelled like a wet dog for two days, while the carpeting was wet. Major stink!
On Wednesday, Jack went for his quarterly visit with the endocrinologist. His A1C was 8.1, the highest it's ever been. It usually ranges between 7.1 to 7.6. I realize some parents would be thrilled with an 8.1, but I felt crushed. Major concern!
On Thursday, family peace went out the window. Jack became so obsessed with reaching the next level on his Super Mario Bros. Wii game, that he turned into a monster, demanding that no one else in the house utter a sound while he was playing, complaining that noise was distracting him. I talked to him, and yet, he still kept getting upset over distracting sounds. Several times, I warned him to change his tune. He ignored my warnings and then whacked his brother when Max asked him a question. Major trouble! Bye bye Mario!
Later on in the afternoon, at his t-ball practice, Max attempted to retaliate, chasing his brother with a baseball bat. I took away the bat, and Max stuck his tongue out at me. Leaving practice, on the walk from the baseball field to the parking lot, Max ran ahead, too far ahead and wouldn't stop running. I finally got a hold of him, swept him up in my arms, and carried him to the car kicking and screaming. Major tantrum!
I went to bed, wondering what had gotten into my boys. They generally get along so well.
Today, things began to improve. My boys' behavior returned to normal, and a new water tank was installed. Major relief!
Nonetheless, TGIF! I'm so glad the weekend is finally here. I am ready to relax and recharge.
Next week is bound to be better!
On Monday, one of our water heaters broke and leaked 50 gallons of water into the house, damaging carpeting, padding, drywall, baseboards and built-in cabinetry. Major messes! We've had no hot water in the kitchen, laundry room or master bathroom all week long, and our office and master bedroom closet have been off limits, while the carpeting dried and contractors ripped apart the rooms. Major hassles! And the house smelled like a wet dog for two days, while the carpeting was wet. Major stink!
On Wednesday, Jack went for his quarterly visit with the endocrinologist. His A1C was 8.1, the highest it's ever been. It usually ranges between 7.1 to 7.6. I realize some parents would be thrilled with an 8.1, but I felt crushed. Major concern!
On Thursday, family peace went out the window. Jack became so obsessed with reaching the next level on his Super Mario Bros. Wii game, that he turned into a monster, demanding that no one else in the house utter a sound while he was playing, complaining that noise was distracting him. I talked to him, and yet, he still kept getting upset over distracting sounds. Several times, I warned him to change his tune. He ignored my warnings and then whacked his brother when Max asked him a question. Major trouble! Bye bye Mario!
Later on in the afternoon, at his t-ball practice, Max attempted to retaliate, chasing his brother with a baseball bat. I took away the bat, and Max stuck his tongue out at me. Leaving practice, on the walk from the baseball field to the parking lot, Max ran ahead, too far ahead and wouldn't stop running. I finally got a hold of him, swept him up in my arms, and carried him to the car kicking and screaming. Major tantrum!
I went to bed, wondering what had gotten into my boys. They generally get along so well.
Today, things began to improve. My boys' behavior returned to normal, and a new water tank was installed. Major relief!
Nonetheless, TGIF! I'm so glad the weekend is finally here. I am ready to relax and recharge.
Next week is bound to be better!
Monday, February 22, 2010
Birthday Bawl
One of the girls in Jack's class invited him to her birthday party, which took place yesterday.
On Saturday, when we were at Chick-Fil-A with Jack's buddy Max, the birthday girl's mother called and left this message.
(Yes, I actually transcribed the message word for word, so that I could blog about it.)
I called her back, thanked her and assured her that Jack would be just fine eating the same things the other guests would be eating.
The next day, when we arrived at the party, I introduced myself and thanked her in person. I wanted her to know just how very much I appreciated her kindness. I started to tell her how I was so blown away by her message that it made me teary-eyed, and as I was saying the words "teary-eyed," I suddenly felt my eyes begin to sting. The tears were about to roll again.
"Don't cry! Don't cry! Don't cry!" I told myself.
I'm generally not a crier...not in public, any way. It takes a lot for me to cry, but yesterday, I couldn't help myself.
My eyes weren't just a little watery, as they were when I was listening to the phone message. They were flooded. I was momentarily overwhelmed by my emotions. I couldn't help myself. Down came the tears, not for long, but long enough to make this other mom uncomfortable. She looked away from me and down toward Max, who went to the party, too. She changed the subject, asking Max if he'd like a piece of birthday cake.
"Oh, you're such a sap!" Gregg chuckled, trying to make light of the situation.
"She gets this way when it comes to Jack and his diabetes," he said to the birthday girl's mom.
Gregg made me laugh, which helped.
Yet, I felt like such an idiot, standing there in a very crowded Peter Piper Pizza, with Jack's classmates and their parents buzzing about, talking to this woman I'd never met before, crying, because she showed some kindness to my son, who means the world to me and whose disease pains me.
Fortunately, I was able to quickly pull myself together and stop the waterworks. Still, I felt embarrassed and I'm sure she thought I was nuts or an emotional basket case.
The rest of the party went just fine. Jack had a great time and ate the pizza and the chocolate cake with the strawberry filling and cream topping (the combo of which sent his numbers into the 300s for hours--ugh!) .
It was a typical Peter Piper Pizza birthday party, but one I won't soon forget.
On Saturday, when we were at Chick-Fil-A with Jack's buddy Max, the birthday girl's mother called and left this message.
(Yes, I actually transcribed the message word for word, so that I could blog about it.)
"Hi, this is B. Thank you so much for RSVPing to come to M's party. I just wanted to let you know in advance that I have ordered a cake from Albertson's, and it's going to be chocolate with strawberry filling and a cream topping. If Jack needs something different, I would be so delighted to pick him up a different type of cookie or fruit or anything that he would like to make him feel very included. I'll be going to the store tomorrow morning before the party. So just let me know. I just want to make sure he's comfortable and he's able to participate. We'll only be ordering cheese pizzas at Peter Piper Pizza. So hopefully, he can have a wonderful time. Thank you again for helping us to celebrate M's birthday."As I listened to her message, hearing her kind words and the warmth in her voice, I began to get all teary-eyed. I was so taken back by her thoughtfulness. I don't know her and I don't know how much she knows about Jack or diabetes, but I thought her offer was just the nicest thing.
I called her back, thanked her and assured her that Jack would be just fine eating the same things the other guests would be eating.
The next day, when we arrived at the party, I introduced myself and thanked her in person. I wanted her to know just how very much I appreciated her kindness. I started to tell her how I was so blown away by her message that it made me teary-eyed, and as I was saying the words "teary-eyed," I suddenly felt my eyes begin to sting. The tears were about to roll again.
"Don't cry! Don't cry! Don't cry!" I told myself.
I'm generally not a crier...not in public, any way. It takes a lot for me to cry, but yesterday, I couldn't help myself.
My eyes weren't just a little watery, as they were when I was listening to the phone message. They were flooded. I was momentarily overwhelmed by my emotions. I couldn't help myself. Down came the tears, not for long, but long enough to make this other mom uncomfortable. She looked away from me and down toward Max, who went to the party, too. She changed the subject, asking Max if he'd like a piece of birthday cake.
"Oh, you're such a sap!" Gregg chuckled, trying to make light of the situation.
"She gets this way when it comes to Jack and his diabetes," he said to the birthday girl's mom.
Gregg made me laugh, which helped.
Yet, I felt like such an idiot, standing there in a very crowded Peter Piper Pizza, with Jack's classmates and their parents buzzing about, talking to this woman I'd never met before, crying, because she showed some kindness to my son, who means the world to me and whose disease pains me.
Fortunately, I was able to quickly pull myself together and stop the waterworks. Still, I felt embarrassed and I'm sure she thought I was nuts or an emotional basket case.
The rest of the party went just fine. Jack had a great time and ate the pizza and the chocolate cake with the strawberry filling and cream topping (the combo of which sent his numbers into the 300s for hours--ugh!) .
It was a typical Peter Piper Pizza birthday party, but one I won't soon forget.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
T1 for Two
Diabetes has been a part of our lives for over two years now, but last night marked a new experience with the disease.
We took care of one of Jack's favorite friends, Max, who also has T1D, while Max's parents enjoyed a date night.
I've blogged about Max before, like on this post.
This was the first occasion where we've spent time with Max without his parents, and we were thrilled to have him with us for the evening.
Fancy schmancy people that we are, we went to Chick-Fil-A for dinner.
As we took out the boys' two D kits to test their blood sugar levels, before serving them their chicken nuggets and fruit, the significance of what we were doing immediately struck both Gregg and me. It was one of those "wow" moments.
"This is kind of weird," Gregg commented.
"I know. It is," I responded. "It's a first. We've never cared for anyone with diabetes other than Jack."
There we were with two D kits, pulling out two alcohol swabs, two meters, two bottles of test strips and two lancing devices. We didn't test one boy's blood sugar, as we normally do. We tested two boys' blood sugar.
Then, we counted carbs for two, before giving two shots of insulin.
"This is what it must be like to have more than one child with diabetes," I remarked.
While the supplies and the motions were all familiar, doing doubles felt surprisingly different.
It was a reaction we didn't expect. After all, as of last night, we'd had 866 days of diabetes under our belts. That equates to more than 8,000 finger pokes and 4,000 insulin injections. We'd done this stuff literally thousands of times before.
But, the thing was, until last night, we'd only done this stuff for Jack.
We know Jack's diabetes. We don't know Max's diabetes. Everyone with D is different. Yet, we wanted to take the very best care of Max.We took care of one of Jack's favorite friends, Max, who also has T1D, while Max's parents enjoyed a date night.
I've blogged about Max before, like on this post.
This was the first occasion where we've spent time with Max without his parents, and we were thrilled to have him with us for the evening.
Fancy schmancy people that we are, we went to Chick-Fil-A for dinner.
As we took out the boys' two D kits to test their blood sugar levels, before serving them their chicken nuggets and fruit, the significance of what we were doing immediately struck both Gregg and me. It was one of those "wow" moments.
"This is kind of weird," Gregg commented.
"I know. It is," I responded. "It's a first. We've never cared for anyone with diabetes other than Jack."
There we were with two D kits, pulling out two alcohol swabs, two meters, two bottles of test strips and two lancing devices. We didn't test one boy's blood sugar, as we normally do. We tested two boys' blood sugar.
Then, we counted carbs for two, before giving two shots of insulin.
"This is what it must be like to have more than one child with diabetes," I remarked.
While the supplies and the motions were all familiar, doing doubles felt surprisingly different.
It was a reaction we didn't expect. After all, as of last night, we'd had 866 days of diabetes under our belts. That equates to more than 8,000 finger pokes and 4,000 insulin injections. We'd done this stuff literally thousands of times before.
But, the thing was, until last night, we'd only done this stuff for Jack.
And, Max's parents had put their trust in us. We know that leaving their son under our supervision was a big deal. We D parents don't just leave our kids with anybody. We can't.
Just last month, we left Jack at Max's house for a play date, and it was a very big deal. (You can read about it here.)
Having Max with us felt like a lot of responsibility. It was responsibility we gladly took on, a responsibility we hope to take on again and again in the future, as we absolutely adore Max. He is an awesome little guy, and our kids have a blast with him.
The responsibility wasn't a bad thing or a scary thing, just a new and different thing. We felt confident in our abilities to care for Max. We knew what to do and how to do it. And we texted back and forth with Max's parents throughout the evening. We let them call the shots (no pun intended!).
But we were in uncharted territory tonight with a new level of accountability.
I asked Gregg, "Do you think this is how others feel when they care for Jack? Does the 'wow factor' strike them too? Do they have this same heightened sense of concern and responsibility? Or, is it because we live with diabetes and know the seriousness of the disease, its complexities and its unpredictability that we grasp the significance of caring for Max?"
Gregg said he'd been wondering the same.
This may be one of those "you had to be there" stories. Maybe not, if you've ever cared for someone else's child, who has a serious health condition.
After dinner, we returned home, where the kids played, before Max's parents arrived to pick him up. As I watched the boys laughing and talking about guy stuff, like Star Wars and Bioncles, I couldn't help but smile, as it had been a wonderful night.
We look forward to future fun and good times with these two type 1 kids. Only the next time we take on two, it won't feel so fresh.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Where's Jack?
Jack was nowhere in sight.
The kids with whom he walks home from school every day had already arrived at the entrance gate that separates our neighborhood from our kids' school fields.
"Where's Jack?" I asked.
"We didn't see him," said Jack's best friend Griffen.
"He wasn't at our meeting spot," said Griffen's sister, Cailey.
Panic set in. My heart started to pound.
From the gate, I scanned the fields. I couldn't see Jack anywhere.
I continued to wait, hoping and praying he'd appear instantly, trying to remain calm, taking deep breaths and chatting with my friend Nancy, Griffen and Cailey's mother.
Ten minutes passed and still no Jack.
"Maybe he went with Madeline to her Girl Scout meeting," I wondered aloud.
Of course, this was the one day when I left my cell phone at home. I couldn't call Madeline's Girl Scout troop leader or the school office, while I remained at the gate.
I debated my options and decided my best move would be to go home and call Madeline's troop leader. I wanted to believe that Jack forgot he was supposed to walk home instead of going to Madeline's meeting, which is what he usually does. (Max and I usually meet Madeline AND Jack at the meetings. The boys play with other girls' siblings during the meetings. Today, I had decided to switch things up a bit and have Jack walk home.)
So I ran home and called Madeline's troop leader, Jami.
"Hi Jami, it's Heidi. By any chance, is Jack there at the meeting?"
"No, should he be?" she answered.
"He's was supposed to have walked home, but he didn't show up at the gate."
"I'll send Jenna out to look for him," offered Jami. Jenna is Jami's daughter, who knows Jack.
"Thank you!" I said with a sigh of relief. "I'll drive right over to the school, but if she finds him, please call me. Thanks again!"
My heart was really pounding now.
As I gathered Max, my purse, my keys and my cell phone, intending to race over to the school, my phone rang. It was Nancy.
"I found Jack!" Nancy exclaimed. "He's in my car. I'm driving him to your house. I'll be right there."
Oh, thank G-d! Sweet relief!
I called Jami to tell her Jack had been found, so she could stop Jenna's search and rescue mission.
Then, I ran outside to meet Jack. I was so happy to finally see him. I held back tears, so as not to upset him. I wanted to hold him tightly and never let him go.
"He's really upset," Nancy cautioned me. "I was just about to drive home when I saw him. He got worried when you weren't at the gate."
Oh, poor kiddo, he was just as panicked as I was!
Jack always tests his blood sugar level before he leaves school and walks home at the end of the day. This afternoon, he couldn't find his test strips. They weren't in his diabetes kit. They'd apparently fallen out. So, he searched his classroom until he found them and then performed his blood check, causing him to leave school late.
With my other kids, a late arrival or no-show would be cause for concern, but it wouldn't be quite as scary, because neither of them has diabetes. With Jack, I have to be concerned with much more than just general safety.
Jack is a creature of habit. He is regimented. He follows directions. He always walks straight home after school. He never lingers. His absence at both the gate and the Girl Scout meeting meant that something was wrong.
I couldn't help but consider scary scenarios. What if Jack went low or high and collapsed? What if he's lying on the ground somewhere? What if he seized? What if he went into DKA? What if he can't communicate that he needs help?
Thank goodness, the only problem was a missing bottle of test strips.
After Tuesday's lockdown and today's disappearing act, all I can say is diabetes complicates everything.
The kids with whom he walks home from school every day had already arrived at the entrance gate that separates our neighborhood from our kids' school fields.
"Where's Jack?" I asked.
"We didn't see him," said Jack's best friend Griffen.
"He wasn't at our meeting spot," said Griffen's sister, Cailey.
Panic set in. My heart started to pound.
From the gate, I scanned the fields. I couldn't see Jack anywhere.
I continued to wait, hoping and praying he'd appear instantly, trying to remain calm, taking deep breaths and chatting with my friend Nancy, Griffen and Cailey's mother.
Ten minutes passed and still no Jack.
"Maybe he went with Madeline to her Girl Scout meeting," I wondered aloud.
Of course, this was the one day when I left my cell phone at home. I couldn't call Madeline's Girl Scout troop leader or the school office, while I remained at the gate.
I debated my options and decided my best move would be to go home and call Madeline's troop leader. I wanted to believe that Jack forgot he was supposed to walk home instead of going to Madeline's meeting, which is what he usually does. (Max and I usually meet Madeline AND Jack at the meetings. The boys play with other girls' siblings during the meetings. Today, I had decided to switch things up a bit and have Jack walk home.)
So I ran home and called Madeline's troop leader, Jami.
"Hi Jami, it's Heidi. By any chance, is Jack there at the meeting?"
"No, should he be?" she answered.
"He's was supposed to have walked home, but he didn't show up at the gate."
"I'll send Jenna out to look for him," offered Jami. Jenna is Jami's daughter, who knows Jack.
"Thank you!" I said with a sigh of relief. "I'll drive right over to the school, but if she finds him, please call me. Thanks again!"
My heart was really pounding now.
As I gathered Max, my purse, my keys and my cell phone, intending to race over to the school, my phone rang. It was Nancy.
"I found Jack!" Nancy exclaimed. "He's in my car. I'm driving him to your house. I'll be right there."
Oh, thank G-d! Sweet relief!
I called Jami to tell her Jack had been found, so she could stop Jenna's search and rescue mission.
Then, I ran outside to meet Jack. I was so happy to finally see him. I held back tears, so as not to upset him. I wanted to hold him tightly and never let him go.
"He's really upset," Nancy cautioned me. "I was just about to drive home when I saw him. He got worried when you weren't at the gate."
Oh, poor kiddo, he was just as panicked as I was!
Jack always tests his blood sugar level before he leaves school and walks home at the end of the day. This afternoon, he couldn't find his test strips. They weren't in his diabetes kit. They'd apparently fallen out. So, he searched his classroom until he found them and then performed his blood check, causing him to leave school late.
With my other kids, a late arrival or no-show would be cause for concern, but it wouldn't be quite as scary, because neither of them has diabetes. With Jack, I have to be concerned with much more than just general safety.
Jack is a creature of habit. He is regimented. He follows directions. He always walks straight home after school. He never lingers. His absence at both the gate and the Girl Scout meeting meant that something was wrong.
I couldn't help but consider scary scenarios. What if Jack went low or high and collapsed? What if he's lying on the ground somewhere? What if he seized? What if he went into DKA? What if he can't communicate that he needs help?
Thank goodness, the only problem was a missing bottle of test strips.
After Tuesday's lockdown and today's disappearing act, all I can say is diabetes complicates everything.
Outsmart Diabetes
I couldn't help but notice it. Standing there on the top of the magazine rack, it was in my face.
As I waited for my turn to purchase some groceries, I tried to digest the words glaring at me from the newest Prevention Guide.
I tried to distract myself. I glanced at the surrounding publications. I read the headlines blaring the latest news from The Bachelor and telling me that Jen is trying to lure back Brad. I focused on the photos of easy-to-make, weeknight casseroles. I turned the other way and looked to see if any sugar-free bubble gum was on sale. I pulled out my cell phone and called Gregg.
But the magazine grabbed my attention again and again.
Outsmart Diabetes
REVERSE DIABETES With Food!
The headlines hit me in the stomach. Outsmart diabetes? Reverse diabetes with food? If only we could...
It's the whole type 1-versus-type 2 situation again. It's no wonder so many outside of the T1D and medical communities think type 1 and type 2 are the same disease. It's no wonder I'm repeatedly asked, "Will Jack outgrow diabetes?" Or told, "Don't worry. It'll get easier." Or, "Wouldn't he be fine, if he just stopped eating sugar?"
Type 1 and type 2 diabetes, oh, how I wish these two conditions didn't share a name.
What's in a name? In this case, difference, confusion, misunderstanding and, at times, judgment and upset.
Jack has type 1 diabetes and there's no outsmarting it. There's no reversing it with food. There's no cure.
And there's no easy way to explain to a six-year-old boy, whose life is filled with highs and lows, finger pokes and insulin injections, carb counting and precautions, why his type of diabetes can not be reversed.
I know headlines like those above are always out there. We're confronted frequently, but for some reason, that particular Prevention Guide got to me. I'm just glad Jack was in school when I shopped for groceries today. At least the headlines didn't get to him, too.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Pleased to Meet You
Calling all D moms and dads!
Hello, I'm Heidi. I have a six-year-old son, Jack, who has type 1 diabetes.
There we are pictured above with our family at the 2009 JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes. (Jack is on the lower left. His sister Madeline stands next to him. My husband Gregg holds our youngest, Max.)
I'd like to meet you.
I love the connection D parents share. No one else can offer the same level of support and understanding as another parent of a child with type 1 diabetes.
I enjoy reading D blogs. The stories of the ups and downs with diabetes (and life in general) captivate and comfort me. It's great to hear how I'm not the only one, who's miscalculated the carbs in a cupcake, fought the 400s and 500s for seemingly no reason, who's endured yet another sleepless night, or who's terrified of sending her kid to a birthday party alone. It's also super to see the success stories.
I get a lot out of knowing adults with T1D, too.
D friends make D life all the better!
I don't know a lot other D bloggers. So, over the past few weeks, I've been making an effort to put myself out there, commenting on others' blogs, saying hello and introducing myself. I've been so appreciative, when others have done the same to me.
If we haven't yet "met," please comment and introduce yourself, regardless of whether you have your own blog. I'll be delighted and honored to meet you! And if you do have a blog, I'm sure I'll enjoy reading it, too!
P.S. I'm in the process of creating another blog. I'll keep this Jack's Pack blog strictly related to our JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes fundraising efforts and will write about general life with diabetes on the new blog. Once it's up and running, I'll announce the new blog. In the meantime, I'm compiling my blog roll. So be sure to let me know if you'd like to be listed.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
This Mom's Mantra
"He's safe. He would be fine in any situation. He's smart. He would know what to do. Don't worry."
That's what I told myself, trying to quell my concerns.
Yesterday, I volunteered in Madeline's classroom. Afterward, in the school parking lot, as I entered my car, I heard the principal's voice over the campus loud speaker.
His message went something like this, "Teachers, prepare your classrooms for a modified lockdown."
"Uh oh," I thought. "A lock down? Wonder what's going on."
I figured it was too late to re-enter the campus. From the tone of the announcement, it sounded as if the school gates and doors were being locked immediately.
I drove home and then all sorts of what-if worries flooded my head.
"What if a true danger is present? What if the danger persists and the lockdown extends into the evening? What if Jack needs insulin? The insulin is in the nurse's office, not in his classroom. What if he's low, what if he's hungry, what if he needs to use the restroom, what if, what if, what if..."
We had established a lockdown plan for Jack before he entered kindergarten last year. We got him a cell phone to carry in his school D kit at all times. The plan was that he, his teacher or the adult in charge could use the cell phone to alert us in the event of a lockdown. We could then call the police, if Jack's condition warranted a rescue.
We don't want Jack using his cell phone on a regular basis. There's no need. He's only six. We generally make calls for him. So he never touches his cell phone.
I wondered, "Would he remember to use it in a lockdown situation?"
"Does his teacher remember the cell phone exists? His teacher is so together and on top of things, he must remember, right?"
"The nurse would do something. She knows Jack's needs. She cares. She wouldn't let anything happen. She's always taken excellent care of him. She's the BEST!"
I thought about contacting Jack's teacher, the nurse or the school office, but if there's a full-blown lockdown, then the school phones can not be used. So I'd only reach voice mail. I tried to put the lockdown out of my mind and go on with my day.
I just had to trust those in charge. I had to trust Jack's abilities. I had to have faith. I had to believe my mantra.
"He's safe. He would be fine in any situation. He's smart. He would know what to do. Don't worry."
The lockdown turned out to be temporary. Jack and Madeline returned home safe, sound and happy.
We chatted about lockdown procedures. I felt relieved, when Jack said, "Mom, duh! I have a cell phone. I could call you, if I needed to."
Duh! What was I thinking? Silly me!
I put the what-if worries out of my mind... until I began thinking about an email that had arrived earlier from Jack's teacher, informing me that he would be absent today. A new set of what-if worries flooded my mind.
Jack's teacher is truly terrific. We feel so lucky. He understands Jack's needs and the importance of being vigilant. He takes good care of Jack. We trust him.
When he's not there, we can't help but worry. Having a substitute teacher means Jack will spend the day under the supervision of someone who has not been trained in diabetes management and who may not understand that Jack NEEDS to test his blood sugar NOW, that he MUST consume fast-acting glucose NOW, that he NEEDS to visit the restroom NOW, that he can get a drink of water NOW, that he can NOT wait another five minutes until the quiz is over or until recess time or whatever.
So all day today, I've been telling myself that today is like yesterday. Jack knew how to handle a lockdown, and he would know what to tell a sub, and the sub could obtain confirmation from the nurse.
Nonetheless, I've been repeating my mantra all day long.
"He's safe. He would be fine in any situation. He's smart. He would know what to do. Don't worry."
Tonight, however, we'll talk about teachers with Jack. We'll remind him that he can ask to go to the nurse and the nurse can advocate for him. She would come to his aid in a heartbeat.
Nonetheless, I'm sure the next day I learn about a lockdown or substitute teacher, I'll still need to remind myself, "He's safe. He would be fine in any situation. He's smart. He would know what to do. Don't worry."
That's what I told myself, trying to quell my concerns.
Yesterday, I volunteered in Madeline's classroom. Afterward, in the school parking lot, as I entered my car, I heard the principal's voice over the campus loud speaker.
His message went something like this, "Teachers, prepare your classrooms for a modified lockdown."
"Uh oh," I thought. "A lock down? Wonder what's going on."
I figured it was too late to re-enter the campus. From the tone of the announcement, it sounded as if the school gates and doors were being locked immediately.
I drove home and then all sorts of what-if worries flooded my head.
"What if a true danger is present? What if the danger persists and the lockdown extends into the evening? What if Jack needs insulin? The insulin is in the nurse's office, not in his classroom. What if he's low, what if he's hungry, what if he needs to use the restroom, what if, what if, what if..."
We had established a lockdown plan for Jack before he entered kindergarten last year. We got him a cell phone to carry in his school D kit at all times. The plan was that he, his teacher or the adult in charge could use the cell phone to alert us in the event of a lockdown. We could then call the police, if Jack's condition warranted a rescue.
We don't want Jack using his cell phone on a regular basis. There's no need. He's only six. We generally make calls for him. So he never touches his cell phone.
I wondered, "Would he remember to use it in a lockdown situation?"
"Does his teacher remember the cell phone exists? His teacher is so together and on top of things, he must remember, right?"
"The nurse would do something. She knows Jack's needs. She cares. She wouldn't let anything happen. She's always taken excellent care of him. She's the BEST!"
I thought about contacting Jack's teacher, the nurse or the school office, but if there's a full-blown lockdown, then the school phones can not be used. So I'd only reach voice mail. I tried to put the lockdown out of my mind and go on with my day.
I just had to trust those in charge. I had to trust Jack's abilities. I had to have faith. I had to believe my mantra.
"He's safe. He would be fine in any situation. He's smart. He would know what to do. Don't worry."
The lockdown turned out to be temporary. Jack and Madeline returned home safe, sound and happy.
We chatted about lockdown procedures. I felt relieved, when Jack said, "Mom, duh! I have a cell phone. I could call you, if I needed to."
Duh! What was I thinking? Silly me!
I put the what-if worries out of my mind... until I began thinking about an email that had arrived earlier from Jack's teacher, informing me that he would be absent today. A new set of what-if worries flooded my mind.
Jack's teacher is truly terrific. We feel so lucky. He understands Jack's needs and the importance of being vigilant. He takes good care of Jack. We trust him.
When he's not there, we can't help but worry. Having a substitute teacher means Jack will spend the day under the supervision of someone who has not been trained in diabetes management and who may not understand that Jack NEEDS to test his blood sugar NOW, that he MUST consume fast-acting glucose NOW, that he NEEDS to visit the restroom NOW, that he can get a drink of water NOW, that he can NOT wait another five minutes until the quiz is over or until recess time or whatever.
So all day today, I've been telling myself that today is like yesterday. Jack knew how to handle a lockdown, and he would know what to tell a sub, and the sub could obtain confirmation from the nurse.
Nonetheless, I've been repeating my mantra all day long.
"He's safe. He would be fine in any situation. He's smart. He would know what to do. Don't worry."
Tonight, however, we'll talk about teachers with Jack. We'll remind him that he can ask to go to the nurse and the nurse can advocate for him. She would come to his aid in a heartbeat.
Nonetheless, I'm sure the next day I learn about a lockdown or substitute teacher, I'll still need to remind myself, "He's safe. He would be fine in any situation. He's smart. He would know what to do. Don't worry."
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Get to Know Heidi
Okay, Shamae, I was going to wait to write about me until after I launched my new blog, but your post got me thinking... :-)
1. I grew up in Albany, NY, and though I’ve lived in Arizona since 1992, upstate NY will always be home. I don’t miss the winters, but I do miss living there. I miss the people, greenery, the small towns and proximity to New York City, New England and Canada. There are times when I wish we were raising our children there, but then I think of the winters and I’m glad we’re here.
2. I graduated from Hampshire College, which most would consider “alternative.” Don’t let my suburban, soccer mom, minivan-driving image fool you. I have an artsy, crunchy, tree-hugging side, too.
3. I hate to dress up. I’m most comfortable wearing t-shirts/sweaters, jeans and casual shoes (ballet flats, sneakers, Ugg boots). As a teenager, I was a clothes horse. Today, fashion is not my thing. My wardrobe is tiny. My friends and family see me wearing the same outfits over and over again.
4. I choose quality over quantity. I buy good shoes and then wear them into the ground. I buy a purse and then use it for several years.
5. I majored in mass media studies and minored in art history in college. I went on to study journalism in graduate school and became a writer and editor. I also became an insurance agent, working with my husband, who owns an insurance agency. In retrospect, I realize I would have done well as a graphic designer, a potter, a photographer, a pediatrician or an attorney. I know, it’s a strange mix, but each of those careers would suit me well. I’m a wanna-be artist. I love kids and think I have what it takes to be a good kids’ doc. I am thorough and detail-oriented, and I have a super memory. If I had to do it all over again, I don’t know what field I’d choose to study.
6. And while I can’t do it all over again, I can still pursue interests. This semester, I returned to school and am taking a graphic design class. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a very long time, and I’m happy to finally be doing it. I’ve always put the kids’ needs before mine, but now that all three are in school, I can finally carve two hours out of my weekly schedule to take this class.
7. I am an organized, neat-freak. I hate clutter. I want my house to be clean at all times. Yet, with three kids, two cats and a busy schedule, it’s not always possible to keep our home tidy and spotless. I can handle a few dust bunnies, crumbs underneath the kitchen table or baskets of clean clothes waiting to be folded for a few days, and then I go stir crazy and must clean, even if that means staying up to 1am to do so. However, I don’t care about unmade beds. We rarely make the beds in our house. If I had a lot of money, I’d hire a live-in maid.
8. My son might be type 1, but I am type A.
9. I hate mustard. If I am served a sandwich that has even the tiniest bit of mustard on it, I won’t eat it. I can’t.
10. I start each day with a can of Diet Coke.
11. I love vegetables and dislike most animal proteins. I spent a couple of years in my 20s as a vegetarian and could easily return to vegetarianism…if it weren’t for the fact that I enjoy a good burger, filet mignon and pastrami sandwich.
12. I love to cook and bake and try new recipes. I think I’m a better baker than a cook. When Jack was diagnosed with diabetes, one of my first fears was that I wouldn’t be able to share my love of baking with him. That was back when I didn’t know much about the disease. Now, he’s my happy helper in the kitchen, as are Madeline and Max.
13. I am a techno-geek. I appreciate how technology makes my life easier.
14. Many types of dogs, including basset hounds, Doberman pinschers, German shepherds, rottweilers and pit bulls, scare the heck out of me. Some day in the near future, I would like to get a small dog, though. I’d really like to get a diabetes dog for Jack.
15. I constantly tell my kids to “do the right thing.” I always strive to do the right thing myself. I try to always be friendly, kind and giving to others. I am honest. If you ask for my opinion, I’ll tell you the truth. I hate lies, cheaters, nastiness, wrongdoing of any sort, injustice and discrimination.
16. I’m a loyal friend, and I keep secrets. If you share something private with me and ask me to keep the information to myself, I will.
17. I am a city girl at heart. New York is my favorite city. I love its energy, diversity, architecture, people, museums, shopping, restaurants, Broadway and more. I hate living so far from NY.
18. I am not an outdoorsy person at all. I’d rather walk on my treadmill than take a hike. I have no interest in camping. (Though, the idea of sitting around a fire, telling stories and roasting marshmallows is appealing.) I prefer a swimming pool over a pond, lake or ocean. Arizona’s wildlife—snakes, scorpions, javalina, mountain lions—frightens me.
19. I have one sibling, my brother Chad, who is two years younger than I. Growing up, he was both my best friend and worst enemy. Today, he is only a best friend and I love him more than he will ever know.
20. Jack is a mini version of my brother. He looks like Chad. He’s built like Chad. He acts like Chad. He thinks like Chad. He speaks like Chad. He shares Chad’s sense of humor. It’s a little creepy at times. I feel as though I’m raising my brother. But I love the familiarity, too.
21. Growing up, I always wanted a sister (in addition to my brother). After I had Madeline, I had hoped to have a second girl to give her the sister I never had. However, two boys followed Madeline, and now I can’t imagine my life without them.
22. I love being the mom of young kids. Our youngest, Max, is now four and he scores high on the cuteness scale. I wish I could stop time and keep him little. I am going to miss this stage when he outgrows it.
23. I never sit still. There’s always something to be done, and I’d rather do it today than put it off until tomorrow, because tomorrow will only bring more tasks. My “To Do” is always a mile long. I always have a lot going on.
24. I prefer non-fiction. I’d rather read a memoir or a recipe book than a novel. I love reality TV and documentaries. I love reading blogs.
25. My life revolves around my family. I am blessed with a fabulous husband and three great kids, who bring me joy and make me proud. My parents are the best in the world. I absolutely adore my brother, his wife and their three kids. My in-laws are terrific, and I have aunts, uncles and cousins I love dearly, too. I am a lucky girl!
1. I grew up in Albany, NY, and though I’ve lived in Arizona since 1992, upstate NY will always be home. I don’t miss the winters, but I do miss living there. I miss the people, greenery, the small towns and proximity to New York City, New England and Canada. There are times when I wish we were raising our children there, but then I think of the winters and I’m glad we’re here.
2. I graduated from Hampshire College, which most would consider “alternative.” Don’t let my suburban, soccer mom, minivan-driving image fool you. I have an artsy, crunchy, tree-hugging side, too.
3. I hate to dress up. I’m most comfortable wearing t-shirts/sweaters, jeans and casual shoes (ballet flats, sneakers, Ugg boots). As a teenager, I was a clothes horse. Today, fashion is not my thing. My wardrobe is tiny. My friends and family see me wearing the same outfits over and over again.
4. I choose quality over quantity. I buy good shoes and then wear them into the ground. I buy a purse and then use it for several years.
5. I majored in mass media studies and minored in art history in college. I went on to study journalism in graduate school and became a writer and editor. I also became an insurance agent, working with my husband, who owns an insurance agency. In retrospect, I realize I would have done well as a graphic designer, a potter, a photographer, a pediatrician or an attorney. I know, it’s a strange mix, but each of those careers would suit me well. I’m a wanna-be artist. I love kids and think I have what it takes to be a good kids’ doc. I am thorough and detail-oriented, and I have a super memory. If I had to do it all over again, I don’t know what field I’d choose to study.
6. And while I can’t do it all over again, I can still pursue interests. This semester, I returned to school and am taking a graphic design class. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a very long time, and I’m happy to finally be doing it. I’ve always put the kids’ needs before mine, but now that all three are in school, I can finally carve two hours out of my weekly schedule to take this class.
7. I am an organized, neat-freak. I hate clutter. I want my house to be clean at all times. Yet, with three kids, two cats and a busy schedule, it’s not always possible to keep our home tidy and spotless. I can handle a few dust bunnies, crumbs underneath the kitchen table or baskets of clean clothes waiting to be folded for a few days, and then I go stir crazy and must clean, even if that means staying up to 1am to do so. However, I don’t care about unmade beds. We rarely make the beds in our house. If I had a lot of money, I’d hire a live-in maid.
8. My son might be type 1, but I am type A.
9. I hate mustard. If I am served a sandwich that has even the tiniest bit of mustard on it, I won’t eat it. I can’t.
10. I start each day with a can of Diet Coke.
11. I love vegetables and dislike most animal proteins. I spent a couple of years in my 20s as a vegetarian and could easily return to vegetarianism…if it weren’t for the fact that I enjoy a good burger, filet mignon and pastrami sandwich.
12. I love to cook and bake and try new recipes. I think I’m a better baker than a cook. When Jack was diagnosed with diabetes, one of my first fears was that I wouldn’t be able to share my love of baking with him. That was back when I didn’t know much about the disease. Now, he’s my happy helper in the kitchen, as are Madeline and Max.
13. I am a techno-geek. I appreciate how technology makes my life easier.
14. Many types of dogs, including basset hounds, Doberman pinschers, German shepherds, rottweilers and pit bulls, scare the heck out of me. Some day in the near future, I would like to get a small dog, though. I’d really like to get a diabetes dog for Jack.
15. I constantly tell my kids to “do the right thing.” I always strive to do the right thing myself. I try to always be friendly, kind and giving to others. I am honest. If you ask for my opinion, I’ll tell you the truth. I hate lies, cheaters, nastiness, wrongdoing of any sort, injustice and discrimination.
16. I’m a loyal friend, and I keep secrets. If you share something private with me and ask me to keep the information to myself, I will.
17. I am a city girl at heart. New York is my favorite city. I love its energy, diversity, architecture, people, museums, shopping, restaurants, Broadway and more. I hate living so far from NY.
18. I am not an outdoorsy person at all. I’d rather walk on my treadmill than take a hike. I have no interest in camping. (Though, the idea of sitting around a fire, telling stories and roasting marshmallows is appealing.) I prefer a swimming pool over a pond, lake or ocean. Arizona’s wildlife—snakes, scorpions, javalina, mountain lions—frightens me.
19. I have one sibling, my brother Chad, who is two years younger than I. Growing up, he was both my best friend and worst enemy. Today, he is only a best friend and I love him more than he will ever know.
20. Jack is a mini version of my brother. He looks like Chad. He’s built like Chad. He acts like Chad. He thinks like Chad. He speaks like Chad. He shares Chad’s sense of humor. It’s a little creepy at times. I feel as though I’m raising my brother. But I love the familiarity, too.
21. Growing up, I always wanted a sister (in addition to my brother). After I had Madeline, I had hoped to have a second girl to give her the sister I never had. However, two boys followed Madeline, and now I can’t imagine my life without them.
22. I love being the mom of young kids. Our youngest, Max, is now four and he scores high on the cuteness scale. I wish I could stop time and keep him little. I am going to miss this stage when he outgrows it.
23. I never sit still. There’s always something to be done, and I’d rather do it today than put it off until tomorrow, because tomorrow will only bring more tasks. My “To Do” is always a mile long. I always have a lot going on.
24. I prefer non-fiction. I’d rather read a memoir or a recipe book than a novel. I love reality TV and documentaries. I love reading blogs.
25. My life revolves around my family. I am blessed with a fabulous husband and three great kids, who bring me joy and make me proud. My parents are the best in the world. I absolutely adore my brother, his wife and their three kids. My in-laws are terrific, and I have aunts, uncles and cousins I love dearly, too. I am a lucky girl!
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Kickin' and Crankin' Kick-Off
What a fun morning we enjoyed!
We celebrated the kick-off of Kickin' and Crankin' for Kids and a Cure at the grand opening of Sunday Cycles.
Thank you to all who joined us!
I want to give a few shout-outs to some special people:
I also want to wish Joe Berman, the owner of Sunday Cycles and a sponsor of Kickin' and Crankin, all the best with his new venture! If anyone in the Phoenix area intends to purchase a new bike, go see Joe!
We celebrated the kick-off of Kickin' and Crankin' for Kids and a Cure at the grand opening of Sunday Cycles.
Thank you to all who joined us!
I want to give a few shout-outs to some special people:
- Coach Alex Sachs, for whom we will be forever grateful
- Phoenix City Councilwoman Peggy Neely (District 2), who delivered a great speech and cut the Sunday Cycles grand opening ribbon
- Laura Rivers, Ashley Benedetto and Gabrielle Thorp, who represented JDRF at the event
- Our friends Jeanne, Matthew and Max Birmingham, whose friendship we treasure
- Jodi Powers and Annie Lloyd Bachand, who own Community Public Relations, who promoted today's event and who are working hard to make Kickin' and Crankin' a success
I also want to wish Joe Berman, the owner of Sunday Cycles and a sponsor of Kickin' and Crankin, all the best with his new venture! If anyone in the Phoenix area intends to purchase a new bike, go see Joe!
There's Phoenix City Councilwoman Peggy Neely, speaking to the crowd. You can see Joe Berman, standing on the far left. Coach Alex stood front and center with her bike. Behind her, you can sort of see Gregg (in the white shirt), Madeline (peeking out from under
Gregg's arm) and Max (the little one up front in the olive shirt).
Councilwoman Neely graciously posed for pics,
before cutting the ribbon.
That's Jack with Coach Alex and the bike she'll ride across America.
D moms unite!
That's Jeanne Birmingham standing next to me and Coach Alex.
Jeanne's son Max also has type 1 diabetes.
Coach Alex introduced Jack to her dog, Oliver.
As part of their grand opening fun,
Sunday Cycles provided a big bounce house for the kids.
Jack jumped and jumped and jumped
and then went low a few times.
There's Gregg testing his blood sugar level.
Jack treated his lows with juice, while hanging out with his buddy Max Birmingham, who knows all too well what a low feels like. I love how Max propped his hand on Jack's shoulder.
These boys are so cute together!
Friday, February 12, 2010
Happy Valentine's Day
Happy Valentine's Day
My dear readers,
I want to wish you all
a very Happy Valentine's Day!
May you feel loved and happy!
And may you enjoy the day!
With love and appreciation,
Heidi
P.S. If you're looking for a cute, easy, quick V-day craft to do with your kids, copy Madeline's card from above. As you can see, the flower petals were made from hearts.
Speaking Out and Speaking Up
A week or so has passed since the Oprah debacle. Have no idea what I'm talking about? What Oprah debacle?
Here's the gist: Oprah dedicated an episode of her show to diabetes. She dubbed the disease "America's silent killer" and, along with her medical expert Dr. Mehmet Oz, primarily discussed type 2 diabetes.
Now, before I go any further, I have to tell you that I did not watch the diabetes episode. But it caused such an uproar in the online type one diabetes community and I've read so much about it that I feel familiar enough to talk about it here and speak out against Oprah and Dr. Oz.
From what I gathered, they didn't spend enough time differentiating between type 1 and type 2. They led viewers to believe that all types of diabetes are the same disease, that diabetes is the result of poor lifestyle habits, that diabetes can be prevented and that diabetes can be reversed or controlled with diet and exercise.
While all that might be true for type 2, it's far from the truth for type 1. The adults and kids like Jack, who have type 1, have an autoimmune disorder. Their disease is NOT the result of poor habits. Their disease could NOT be prevented nor can it be reversed. They can not control their diabetes through diet and exercise alone.
So many people think that the difference between type 1 and type 2 is the age of onset, because type 1 is also known as juvenile diabetes. So people believe that it's the same disease, but you have type 1, if you're diagnosed in childhood, and you have type 2, if you're diagnosed in adulthood. Not true!
Types 1 and 2 are different diseases. But Oprah and Dr. Oz didn't explain that sufficiently, and in their attempt to help viewers, they actually hurt the type 1 community with their misinformation and lack of information.
In the wake of this Oprah debacle, I've found myself feeling even better about Kickin' and Crankin' for Kids and a Cure. (I announced Kickin' and Crankin' here.)
Of course, from the get-go I've been excited about this campaign. After all, its goal is to help Jack's Pack raise $75,000 for JDRF.
While the fundraising aspect is tremendous, the community service aspect is just as fabulous. As Coach Alex bikes across the country, she'll stop in numerous towns and cities, where she will raise awareness about type 1. (She will also teach Soccersize--soccer + exercise--and promote overal health and fitness to families.) Before, during and after her route, she will be featured in newspaper articles and magazine stories as well as on television and radio shows, talking about type 1 and the Kickin' and Crankin' project.
Coah Alex happens to be an EMT, and she's helped us care for Jack, so she knows about type 1. Nonethelss, before she heads out onto the road, Gregg and I will educate her further. She will also learn from other sources. We'll arm her with literature, too.
I feel as though, with Coach Alex, we will make a difference. We will effect change. We will educate, inform and dispell myths. We will let people know what the disease is and what it isn't. We'll publicize the warning signs. We'll make it known that type 1 and type 2 are not one and same. In the process, we'll help adults and kids like Jack. The more people know about type 1, the better.
I realize that not everyone has a Coach Alex, who will garner national attention and reach oodles of people. But we all have a voice and we all have an audience, and even if that audience is small, we can still make a big impact. Over the long haul, if we keep educating, then maybe:
_________________________________
That being said, I want to move on and talk briefly about the kick-off event for Kickin' and Crankin' for Kids and Cure, which will take place this Saturday, February 13th at the grand opening of Sunday Cycles in Phoenix.
Sunday Cycles is a brand-new bike shop and one of Coach Alex's sponsors. Their grand opening celebration will be a fun-filled day with giveaways, raffles, door-buster specials, free hot dogs, live music, face painting, balloons and bike demos. Plus, bike companies and accessory vendors will be on hand to sample and show off the latest gear. All of you cycling enthusiasts won’t want to miss this event!
There will also be a United Blood Services Blood Drive.
While the grand opening will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, we plan to arrive at Sunday Cycles for the ribbon-cutting ceremony and Kickin’ and Crankin’ kick-off at 10:30 a.m.
Please join us! Stop by, say “hi,” eat, play, donate blood and take advantage of freebies and huge one-day savings.
Here’s the info:
Sunday Cycles
3321 E. Bell Rd., Ste. B 3, Phoenix
Southeast Corner of 32nd St. and Bell Rd.
(480) 440-2142
http://www.sundayproshop.com/
After Sunday Cycles, head on over to Tasti D-Lite for more fun and free dessert! (See my previous post for more information.)
Here's the gist: Oprah dedicated an episode of her show to diabetes. She dubbed the disease "America's silent killer" and, along with her medical expert Dr. Mehmet Oz, primarily discussed type 2 diabetes.
Now, before I go any further, I have to tell you that I did not watch the diabetes episode. But it caused such an uproar in the online type one diabetes community and I've read so much about it that I feel familiar enough to talk about it here and speak out against Oprah and Dr. Oz.
From what I gathered, they didn't spend enough time differentiating between type 1 and type 2. They led viewers to believe that all types of diabetes are the same disease, that diabetes is the result of poor lifestyle habits, that diabetes can be prevented and that diabetes can be reversed or controlled with diet and exercise.
While all that might be true for type 2, it's far from the truth for type 1. The adults and kids like Jack, who have type 1, have an autoimmune disorder. Their disease is NOT the result of poor habits. Their disease could NOT be prevented nor can it be reversed. They can not control their diabetes through diet and exercise alone.
So many people think that the difference between type 1 and type 2 is the age of onset, because type 1 is also known as juvenile diabetes. So people believe that it's the same disease, but you have type 1, if you're diagnosed in childhood, and you have type 2, if you're diagnosed in adulthood. Not true!
Types 1 and 2 are different diseases. But Oprah and Dr. Oz didn't explain that sufficiently, and in their attempt to help viewers, they actually hurt the type 1 community with their misinformation and lack of information.
In the wake of this Oprah debacle, I've found myself feeling even better about Kickin' and Crankin' for Kids and a Cure. (I announced Kickin' and Crankin' here.)
Of course, from the get-go I've been excited about this campaign. After all, its goal is to help Jack's Pack raise $75,000 for JDRF.
While the fundraising aspect is tremendous, the community service aspect is just as fabulous. As Coach Alex bikes across the country, she'll stop in numerous towns and cities, where she will raise awareness about type 1. (She will also teach Soccersize--soccer + exercise--and promote overal health and fitness to families.) Before, during and after her route, she will be featured in newspaper articles and magazine stories as well as on television and radio shows, talking about type 1 and the Kickin' and Crankin' project.
Coah Alex happens to be an EMT, and she's helped us care for Jack, so she knows about type 1. Nonethelss, before she heads out onto the road, Gregg and I will educate her further. She will also learn from other sources. We'll arm her with literature, too.
I feel as though, with Coach Alex, we will make a difference. We will effect change. We will educate, inform and dispell myths. We will let people know what the disease is and what it isn't. We'll publicize the warning signs. We'll make it known that type 1 and type 2 are not one and same. In the process, we'll help adults and kids like Jack. The more people know about type 1, the better.
I realize that not everyone has a Coach Alex, who will garner national attention and reach oodles of people. But we all have a voice and we all have an audience, and even if that audience is small, we can still make a big impact. Over the long haul, if we keep educating, then maybe:
- more people will be inclined to donate to JDRF (and other worthy diabetes-related, charitable organizations)
- more money will be directed toward research into the causes, treatments and cure
- more lives will be spared because the disease's warning signs will be known and detected
- more doctors will test undiagnosed patients' blood sugar levels instead of passing off symptoms as those of the flu
- more people with type 1 won't be subjected to others thinking their disease could have been prevented, is the result of their poor habits or can be reversed or controlled with diet and exercise...
_________________________________
That being said, I want to move on and talk briefly about the kick-off event for Kickin' and Crankin' for Kids and Cure, which will take place this Saturday, February 13th at the grand opening of Sunday Cycles in Phoenix.
Sunday Cycles is a brand-new bike shop and one of Coach Alex's sponsors. Their grand opening celebration will be a fun-filled day with giveaways, raffles, door-buster specials, free hot dogs, live music, face painting, balloons and bike demos. Plus, bike companies and accessory vendors will be on hand to sample and show off the latest gear. All of you cycling enthusiasts won’t want to miss this event!
There will also be a United Blood Services Blood Drive.
While the grand opening will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, we plan to arrive at Sunday Cycles for the ribbon-cutting ceremony and Kickin’ and Crankin’ kick-off at 10:30 a.m.
Please join us! Stop by, say “hi,” eat, play, donate blood and take advantage of freebies and huge one-day savings.
Here’s the info:
Sunday Cycles
3321 E. Bell Rd., Ste. B 3, Phoenix
Southeast Corner of 32nd St. and Bell Rd.
(480) 440-2142
http://www.sundayproshop.com/
After Sunday Cycles, head on over to Tasti D-Lite for more fun and free dessert! (See my previous post for more information.)
Saturday, February 6, 2010
D-licious
Jack: That was so good!
Max: Yummy! I want more!
Madeline: Can we go back there again?
There you have it: my kids' reviews of Tasti D-Lite. We visited the Valley's newest frozen dessert shop today, and Gregg and I totally agreed with the kids. We loved every spoonful of our Oreos 'n Cream dessert, and much to Madeline's delight, we will no doubt visit Tasti D again and again.
You should try it, too. If you stop by next weekend, you'll be able to try Tasti D for free. As part of their grand opening celebration, the shop will be giving away free small Tasti cups and cones. (See location and grand opening information below.)
There are some cool aspects of Tasti D-Lite. First, the shop's owners are our friends, Jennifer and Jonathan Kaufman, who are members of Jack's Pack. They've donated to JDRF in Jack's honor and they've participated in the Walk to Cure Diabetes, too. They're good people. They intend to donate a portion of the proceeds from their grand opening weekend to 13 children's charities, and they plan to routinely hold fundraisers to benefit various organizations.
Second, the frozen dessert is neither ice cream nor frozen yogurt. It doesn't contain enough butter fat to be considered ice cream, and it doesn't contain yogurt or yogurt cultures. It's just rich, creamy goodness, and you can enjoy it without guilt. Get this: a four-ounce serving of most of the flavors has 80 calories (or less) and fewer than 2 grams of fat and 14 grams of carbs. That makes it a very D-friendly dessert! (D meaning diabetes, of course, but it could also be D for diet in this case.)
I have to tell you that Jonathan and Jennifer did NOT ask me to write this review or promote Tasti D-Lite on this blog. They're not paying me either. Heck, I'm not even getting a free cone for this. ;) I've just appreciated all that they've done to help us help Jack, and now it's my turn to help them. Besides, Tasti D-Lite offers a nice alternative. It's low-fat, low-cal and low-carb, but high-flavor. As Max said, yummy!
See for yourself! Visit the shop:
Tasti D-Lite
15425 N. Scottsdale Rd., Ste. 200, Scottsdale
Shops at Zocallo
NE corner of Scottsdale Rd. & Greenway-Hayden Loop
(480) 292-7901
www.tastidite.com/scottsdale
Free Tasti! Grand Opening Celebration:
Friday, February 12th - 1 to 5pm
Saturday, February 13th - all day
Sunday, February 14th - 1 to 5pm
In addition to free small cups and cones, there will be plenty for kids: bouncies, face painting, entertainers, game truck, and more. On Saturday, there will also be free kids' meals from Chipotle.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Get the facts straight, People
Have you heard about Casey Johnson? She was the 30-year-old heiress to the Johnson & Johnson fortune, who died unexpectedly last month.
Today, the Los Angeles County Coroner announced that Johnson died from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and People magazine posted an article on Johnson's death here.
Naturally interested, I read the article, and it bothered me.
The article states, "Johnson had suffered from severe diabetes since childhood."
Severe diabetes??? She had type 1. When is type 1 diabetes not severe??? Is it ever easy??? The statement is so misleading. It could easily be misinterpreted by those who don't know that there are two types of diabetes and that those two types are very different diseases. Type 1 is an autoimmune disorder. Type 2 is a metabolic disorder. Type 2 can be prevented. Type 1 can not. And type 1 is never ever anything, but severe, harsh, difficult, challenging, demanding and serious.
To say that Casey Johnson "had suffered from severe diabetes" makes it seem as if her condition was particularly bad, and that could lead someone to think that Jack and all of the others battling this blasted disease have a less severe case. No matter who you are, if you have type 1 diabetes, it's severe. That's just the nature of the beast.
The article additionally stated, "Shortly after her death, a law enforcement source told People that hypodermic needles were found in the home, and they suspected Johnson partied the night before she died and neglected to take her insulin. No illicit drugs were found."
If Johnson wasn't using an insulin pump, of course, she would have possessed hypodermic needles. She would have needed those needles for her insulin administration.
I don't know much about Casey Johnson. Maybe she was a partier. Maybe despite the fact that no illicit drugs were found in her home, she wasn't sober the night before she died and maybe she did neglect to take her insulin. But maybe she didn't party that night and maybe she was sober. DKA can strike hard and fast, and if not treated quickly enough, it is lethal. If Johnson had been alone, she may not have been able to have helped herself. Because of her high blood sugar, she may have been absolutely out of it and in no shape to have sought treatment all on her own.
Regardless, the way the story reads, it suggests something wasn't Kosher, that hypodermic needles perhaps shouldn't have been there, and that's just not necessarily true.
I'm guessing Ken Lee, the author of the article, knows nothing about type 1 diabetes, and I don't expect him to be an expert. Nor do I expect his editors to be experts. But I do expect them to conduct a little research and report the facts in a way that's not misleading. I expect the plain, unadulterated truth.
I know I'm being a bit sensitive here. After all, type 1 diabetes is a subject close to my heart. However, I am a writer and editor by trade. I have spents years and years writing magazine articles and editing publications. In my humble opinion, this story was poorly executed. It's just bad journalism. While People is not exactly some high-brow publication, it's not total tabloid trash either. Or is it? Next time, get the facts straight, People!
Today, the Los Angeles County Coroner announced that Johnson died from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and People magazine posted an article on Johnson's death here.
Naturally interested, I read the article, and it bothered me.
The article states, "Johnson had suffered from severe diabetes since childhood."
Severe diabetes??? She had type 1. When is type 1 diabetes not severe??? Is it ever easy??? The statement is so misleading. It could easily be misinterpreted by those who don't know that there are two types of diabetes and that those two types are very different diseases. Type 1 is an autoimmune disorder. Type 2 is a metabolic disorder. Type 2 can be prevented. Type 1 can not. And type 1 is never ever anything, but severe, harsh, difficult, challenging, demanding and serious.
To say that Casey Johnson "had suffered from severe diabetes" makes it seem as if her condition was particularly bad, and that could lead someone to think that Jack and all of the others battling this blasted disease have a less severe case. No matter who you are, if you have type 1 diabetes, it's severe. That's just the nature of the beast.
The article additionally stated, "Shortly after her death, a law enforcement source told People that hypodermic needles were found in the home, and they suspected Johnson partied the night before she died and neglected to take her insulin. No illicit drugs were found."
If Johnson wasn't using an insulin pump, of course, she would have possessed hypodermic needles. She would have needed those needles for her insulin administration.
I don't know much about Casey Johnson. Maybe she was a partier. Maybe despite the fact that no illicit drugs were found in her home, she wasn't sober the night before she died and maybe she did neglect to take her insulin. But maybe she didn't party that night and maybe she was sober. DKA can strike hard and fast, and if not treated quickly enough, it is lethal. If Johnson had been alone, she may not have been able to have helped herself. Because of her high blood sugar, she may have been absolutely out of it and in no shape to have sought treatment all on her own.
Regardless, the way the story reads, it suggests something wasn't Kosher, that hypodermic needles perhaps shouldn't have been there, and that's just not necessarily true.
I'm guessing Ken Lee, the author of the article, knows nothing about type 1 diabetes, and I don't expect him to be an expert. Nor do I expect his editors to be experts. But I do expect them to conduct a little research and report the facts in a way that's not misleading. I expect the plain, unadulterated truth.
I know I'm being a bit sensitive here. After all, type 1 diabetes is a subject close to my heart. However, I am a writer and editor by trade. I have spents years and years writing magazine articles and editing publications. In my humble opinion, this story was poorly executed. It's just bad journalism. While People is not exactly some high-brow publication, it's not total tabloid trash either. Or is it? Next time, get the facts straight, People!
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Whoopee!
Jack woke up this morning with a fever of 101.4. He was also coughing a lot and complaining of a stomachache. So we tested to see if any ketones were present in his urine. A quick dip-stick test showed a trace amount.
(For those of you unfamiliar with T1D, ketones are the result of the body burning fat for energy. For a person with diabetes, ketones can be the result of prolonged high blood sugar and insulin deficiency, and they can appear with an illness. The presence of ketones can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a potentially life-threatening condition.)
We treated the fever and ketones, fed him fluids, gave him lots of TLC and continued to test his urine throughout the day.
Jack was a trooper, totally fine with repeating testing, because Jack likes to test his ketones. Can you guess why? Keep in mind that he's a boy...because he gets to pee in a cup. Yep, my boy thinks it's fun--lots of fun--to pee in a cup.
"I'm peeeeeeeeeing in a ccccuuuuup!," he sang this afternoon.
Seeing his brother's glee, Max decided he wanted in on the action. "I have to pee, and I'm not going to use the potty."
The next thing I knew, he fetched himself a cup and then unsnapped, unzipped and dropped his drawers to copy his brother and do his thing.
"I'm peeeeeeeeeing in a ccccuuuuup!," he mimicked with a big grin.
It's often the little things in life that bring us the most joy, huh?
We tested Max's urine, too, and I am happy to report that both boys are ketone-free.
Now, if Jack could just remain ketone-free and lose the fever, cough and stomachache, we'd be in good shape.
(For those of you unfamiliar with T1D, ketones are the result of the body burning fat for energy. For a person with diabetes, ketones can be the result of prolonged high blood sugar and insulin deficiency, and they can appear with an illness. The presence of ketones can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a potentially life-threatening condition.)
We treated the fever and ketones, fed him fluids, gave him lots of TLC and continued to test his urine throughout the day.
Jack was a trooper, totally fine with repeating testing, because Jack likes to test his ketones. Can you guess why? Keep in mind that he's a boy...because he gets to pee in a cup. Yep, my boy thinks it's fun--lots of fun--to pee in a cup.
"I'm peeeeeeeeeing in a ccccuuuuup!," he sang this afternoon.
Seeing his brother's glee, Max decided he wanted in on the action. "I have to pee, and I'm not going to use the potty."
The next thing I knew, he fetched himself a cup and then unsnapped, unzipped and dropped his drawers to copy his brother and do his thing.
"I'm peeeeeeeeeing in a ccccuuuuup!," he mimicked with a big grin.
It's often the little things in life that bring us the most joy, huh?
We tested Max's urine, too, and I am happy to report that both boys are ketone-free.
Now, if Jack could just remain ketone-free and lose the fever, cough and stomachache, we'd be in good shape.
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