A global symbol for diabetes

A global symbol for diabetes

Tonight's thoughts come from me as I try to relate to this life long battle I am having with diabetes, I have always known it is a tough disease but could never imagined the battle diabetics wage everyday of their life. Since the summer of 1968 my mother has had to contend with disease and the side affects it causes. And now after nearly 41 years she still holds the upper hand in her battle. Although it is not easy. People who got diabetes at her age and at that time in history did not win the battle too often. She has and she will beat this disease, although she may not beat some of the other battles she is having. She is 77 years old now and she is able to take significant less of the two insulin's that we both take, her eyes are good and her feet although sore at times still have some feeling vs me who has no feeling on the bottom of my feet. Today, 41 years later she is in great physical shape and has some of the best numbers she has ever had. 12 years ago I had my doctor check my blood sugar (not something that is routinely done), and as I guessed I had a full blown case of diabetes. I actually believe as I look back I probably got diabetes in high school but didn't understand what was happening to my body. Most recently I have had a big flare up that led to my resigning my position at Savories Catering. Since then I have sold my home & move to La Crosse to live with my brother and to help take care of my mom. I thought maybe this would help my situation out, but that did not happen. My A1C has gone to 9.9 from 7.2 which is not good. 7.2 is above the goal of 7.0. It is not uncommon for me to have sugars that range from 350 to 500 where normal range is 80 to 120. I fight this each day and I try to do it with a smile. The pricks on the fingers to get blood to measure 4 to 6 times a day don't hurt as much and the idea of giving myself shot has now become common place. The lab attendants have become friends as they are always drawing blood to see where we are at with the disease. I write this not for people to feel sorry but for everyone to understand what a diabetic goes through each and everyday. Early diagnosis of this disease is important. If your feet burn, you are always thirsty, you feel run down for no reason and if you feel like you are in a fog after eating carbs you may want to get a quick check up. The technology on the treatment of this disease is coming along due to the many groups that are out there raising money. My kids walk for cures for Breast Cancer and I commend them and have let them know how proud I am of them. My brother has rode his Harley in the Thunder Ride to raise money for a cure of diabetes. This was his 6th year. It is my goal to ride next ti him next year. So to summarize my thoughts 1) Diabetes is a tough disease, 2) early diagnosis is important, 3) know and understand the signs of this disease and 4) support the cure if you have the time or money to do so. Till later ....