Diabetes Doesn't Define You

I was at a diabetes monthly meeting not too long ago. I had a lot of fun there. In this particular support group, there's always someone that has spare diabetes supplies to share. How wonderful to witness this, especially during the xmas holidays. However, I became very sad for a moment, because although it was such a beautiful thing that members are willing to share their blessings unconditionally; I also thought about the fact billions of people still have absolutely no idea what a diabetic has to go through, and just how vital diabetic supplies are to every diabetic (not just type 1).

I also thought about the fact that so many type 2 people, don't have the right to some of the same technologies as type 1 do because of stigma. Regardless of what type of diabetes you have, we are all fighting the same battle of trying to stay alive by any means necessary, period....

I've encountered so many people that take their diabetes for granted. Some of us litterally hoard supplies unnecessarily. I just wanted to say that, lets not forget our diabetic brothers and sisters lives that depend on the supplies we don't use. Think about how diabetic lives are devasted every day because of insurance issues. If you are blessed with extra supplies, share them. Nothing feels more beautiful than the opportunity to help someone in need.

-Yogi

I just wanted to share another readout from my CGM, this time for 24 hours. 

Notice all my sugars are between the two dotted lines.  That means nothing above 120 and nothing below 60.   This is pretty much a normal day for me. I didnt starve myself or anything, in fact I ate quite a bit. 

This type of control is difficult even for non-diabetics. So how do I do it?  Low Carb!  Specifically the paleo diet and it is easier then you think to achieve this.

I've been on vacation in Rhode Island this week.  The weather has been great so far!   A welcomed change from the rainy New England summer we are having.

There is a family staying at the cottage next to us.  They are a strong family, with great kids, and great routines.   The routine the family goes through before leaving the cottage is one I will learn from.  Whether it is the teenaged kids leaving to catch sea crabs, or the whole family leaving for dinner, they always ask each other the same question.  "Are you equipped?"

It is just a great phrase for me to use more often.  I usually ask myself, "Do I have everything?"  Not whether I am equipped or not.  As a type 1 Diabetic I need tobe equipped at all times.  My extra test supplies, infusion sets, insulin, and glucose tabs do nothing for me if I don't have them "equipped."   My supplies have to be close enough to me so that I can use them if needed. 

Suzanne did a great video of what she carries in her diabetic purse (see the video below).

I know there are a lot of diabetics out there (and I am one of those) who try to minimize what diabetes supplies I carry.  My pockets are only so big.  Not to mention I carry my pump 24/7 in mypocket.  If I leave the house I have my keys, wallet, and anything my wife wants me to carry? Did I say I have limited space?  So each inch is important. 

But if I choose to leave something at home it does me no good.  So I try to have my car be a mini diabetes storage unit.  That?s how I can get away having all the supplies I need. But if I am not taking my car, or I am traveling in a different way I need to bring more back up supplies.

So it?s a simple question, "Are you equipped?"  Yes or No.

-Bill