Diabetes Doesn't Define You

What does diabetes have to do with me?

Diabetes has everything to do with you.  Ever try doing exercise, taking a test, going on a job interview, play Wii without thinking about your diabetes?  If you haven't thought about your diabetes before doing any of those activities I'll bet you were not at peak performance.  And who wants to look bad playing guitar hero?  Not me.

I am one of those people who don't mind the term "diabetic"  heck I even did video about it LINK HERE… but anyways my point is I am at a point in my life where I am comfortable with my diabetes.  I am very lucky to say that.  One of the reasons I got to this point is because I think of my diabetes all the time, and how I can make it better or easier.

Diabetes stress anyone?  Have you heard of that term before?  What does that mean to you?  My personal definition of Diabetes Stress is - not giving yourself enough time to properly prepare for a diabetic situation.  Or maybe that is less of a definition and more the outcome if you don't properly prepare yourself in a diabetic situation. 

This is something you can limit.  By preparing.  Here are some simple steps to prepare yourself better.

•    Have extra pump supplies (if on a pump) in your car at all times.  Infusion sets, insulin cartridges, and batteries.

•    Have something to treat a low blood sugar, in your car, at school, by your bed at all times.

•    Ask every time you get your insulin and test strips how many refills you have left.

•    Always ask your yourself before going anywhere… what would be the worst thing (diabetes related) that could happen, and do I have a solution for that.

But just doing these simple steps you just might be able to relieve some of the diabetes stress that comes when you don't expect it.  When you take the time to really think about your day, and what that means to your diabetic needs, the days get easier.  You are more prepared!  Being prepared means less stress and happy faces!

So do yourself a favor and think of yourself with diabetes…  and smile!  When I do, I don't frown anymore, I am actually excited.  I tell myself how can I do it better, not how better it would be without it!