Praises, etc.
Gail,
I am so thankful the Lord gave me a sense of humor because it’s so easy to cry.
I’m a Toastmaster (highest level they bestow) and have a humorous speech I
entered in a contest and have won a few trophies on, called "Tolerating the
Sweet Life." I make fun of living with this *condition.*
On June 3 the director of the Perinatal Exposure Prevention Project of the
National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence organization of our area
wrote a letter to the Voice of the People stating: If we’re going to make any
progress with this population (chemically-dependent pregnant women) we need
torecognize that they suffer from a chronic disease not so different from
diabetes or hypertension.
My 21" rebuttal to that ridiculousness was printed in the paper today. How dare
she compare this *affliction* with druggies who chose their lifestyle. I have
also been compared to homosexuals who "also want their families to accept them."
There are support groups for recovering addicts, for recovering alcoholics, and
recovering homosexuals. If there is a support group for *recovering diabetics,*
I’M IN!!
Thanks for the ‘net pats, Gail.
Jan
April 24th, 2003 at 4:37 am
Dear Jan & Gail:
I’m so proud of both of you. "Old timers" you may be to diabetes and
pumping, but just think, one of the things diabetics didn’t look forward to
was an old age …consequently the misguided attitude about living for the
moment.
I can’t say I’m an old timer at 25 years with diabetes, but never ashamed of
it. I think my father is more fearful than anyone else in the family. He’s
76 and retired MD with type 2 and chooses for it to go away. When I decided
to take my life in hand and deal with my diabetes instead of it dealing with
me was a very positive step. I never stop teaching people who are willing to
learn. Being a nurse educator and the first health professional in my
hospital to have a pump has enlightened many in a very short time. Me with
my big mouth works very well. So many misconceptions about pumping and never
enough time.
As diabetics, we have to educate ourselves most of all, and then be willing
to share what we know. Little by little we can help change a few and maybe a
few more, but always think in positive steps.
I can understand the bitterness Jan, it’s a pain that’s always there, but
look at how much you’ve accomplished to make your life so much better!!!
Same with Gail. Your positive attitudes and humor make a serious impact on
everyone you touch. So matter what the circumstances that made you, look at
the good you do, like for Zack, and everyone else that logs on a reads our
"mail". Back to the books for me, Later, Joan:)