I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Angie and I can tell you that she is passionate not only about the care of her own son, but also for providing helpful resources to other families who’s child has been newly diagnosed.

I’d like to introduce you to Angie Crawford.

Tell me something about your child.

Kendrick is three and loves to play baseball and basketball.

What is your child’s favorite 15 gram carb (or less) snack

Chocolate powdered almonds.

How do you manage diabetes?

• Insulin Pump
• CGM
• Carb Counting
• Daily Log
• Checking 7+ times a day
• Night Checks
• Ketone checks after 2 highs or when sick

What has been the biggest challenge?

Kendrick was diagnosed when he was 15 months old. It was a challenge to give him insulin in such small doses. It was very difficult to determine his BG without constantly checking because he couldn’t tell us when he was feeling bad. The day before he turned three back in July, he told me he was feeling bad and needed checked. He was low! I was so excited I almost cried. He hasn’t done it since, but I definitely have hope that he will recognize them soon.

How do you and your husband maintain your relationship?

When we were in the hospital at diagnosis, the nurse in charge told us that my husband and I make a good team. We talk it out and work on a conclusion. I ask him what he thinks, he asks me. We take turns doing night checks. I trust him, he trusts me. It’s a partnership. That prevents any resentment that could build up if one parent felt they carried most of the burden.

What have been your challenges sending your child to school? Triumphs?

Kendrick just started pre-school on September 6th. I met with his two teachers the evening before for training. I stayed at his school the first day. I stayed part of the second day, until I felt comfortable enough to leave. I am very lucky because I work from home and live a block away from the preschool. Kendrick’s teachers are wonderful and I feel comforted that they will do what they can to keep him in range.

What sports/activities does your child do and how does it work with diabetes?

With Kendrick being a toddler, his exercise isn’t really scheduled. The CGM helps tremendously. We know where he’s at most of the time.

What vacations have you taken and how did you deal with diabetes?

Being prepared!!  I get the location of the closest hospital and pharmacy. I figure out the food availability. When packing for vacation, whether it’s a weekend trip or a whole week, we pack everything from more than enough infusion sets, to extra battery caps!  My husband and I double check each other. I may forget 5 things of my own, but Kendrick is good to go!

Have you found a babysitter, and if so, how?

When Kendrick was diagnosed, my mother -in-law went to part-time. She keeps him for us two days a week. I’m very lucky!

How has diabetes affected your other children?

Um, there are the obvious things, like having certain food that’s off limits to everyone else. When I’m checking or calculating carbs, the other kids know they have to be patient until I’m done. They know Kendrick gets more attention, but not necessarily the kind anyone would want. But, most of all, it’s made our family closer and stronger.

How do you find time for yourself?

After supper I go on a walk with a friend. We sometimes vent, sometimes laugh, and have even cried. It’s whatever we feel like that day. It is the best release I have found.

What have you done to help your child become independent in their own care?

With Kendrick being so young, we are at the beginning stages. He did his first independent check when he was two. He does it when he wants to, but I don’t force it. He will get there. If we suspect that he’s high or low we ask him first. Then after we check and know where he is, we tell him to say it. “Mommy, I’m low!”

What research organizations do you support and why?

Right after diagnosis, I soon realized that there was little support in this area. A friend of mine also has a child with type 1 diabetes. We started a small group at our local church, Juvenile Diabetes of Central Illinois (JDSci). It has grown since then and we now meet at our local hospital every other month. Our group supports Dr. Denise Faustman as well as local needs. Dr. Faustman has cured diabetes in mice with a generic drug that’s in Phase II of FDA Trials. We support her because she has the best chance of reaching a cure the quickest, at this point in time. Anyone else that comes up with something is going to have to start at the beginning of the approval process. She’s well past that. Also, her drug is generic, so more diabetics will be able to afford it, including those in 3rd world countries who are denied good diabetic care. Our group is currently putting together helpful backpacks for newly diagnosed children at our local hospital. We feel that is an area where we can provide immediate help that is very necessary.

How do you deal with tough diabetes-related questions from your child?

Even though Kendrick is only three, he is sometimes vocal about his diabetes. If he is frustrated, I will agree with him. Then I try to explain why we still have to do the things we do. It’s in real simple terms like, “If mommy doesn’t do a site change, you will get sick. You can’t play baseball if you are sick, buddy.” Just recently a mom asked me if I find myself being softer on him than my other kids because he has to go through so much more. I told her it depends. I let Kendrick keep his pacifier longer than the others because I felt he needed that comfort. He always asked for it when we did a site change or he felt bad. As far as discipline goes, no. I feel the more disciplined Kendrick is, the better equipped he will be to manage diabetes on his own.

How has diabetes affected you financially? Have you been successful in getting the insurance coverage you need?

Our insurance is frustrating. The right hand doesn’t know what the left hand is doing.  We received a letter from them that we were approved for the pump.  We get the pump, start using it, then get another letter from them telling us we were denied and have to pay full price out of pocket. I had to fax them the approval letter I received from them because they didn’t have a copy! I also had a huge challenge getting the CGM. It took over a year. My advice to anyone that is not getting the coverage they deserve: fight, fight, fight!  With that being said, I am fortunate to have insurance. It’s a significant part of our budget, but we will sacrifice other things to give Kendrick the best care we can.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I am a part of a huge diabetic community. I’m a member of several online groups. I keep up with several diabetic facebook pages. I also talk with several other parents of type 1 diabetics. I learn so much from them. It’s such a great feeling, knowing there are others that totally get it!

Meet other D-Moms and D-Dads on Mondays.

{Meet a D-Mom} Angie Crawford is a post from: D-Mom Blog

The information provided here is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please read the disclaimer, disclosure, and privacy policy statements.

Mandy recently wrote the guest post {Diabetes at School} Private Schooling & Packed Lunches: The Happier, Happy Meal in which she shared a bit about sending her child to a private school and packing lunches. Mandy shares her story of single parenting a child with diabetes at And another thing…some of my rantings and experiences with my sons Dyslexia and Type 1 Diabetes.

I’d like to introduce you to Mandy of And Another Thing…

Tell me something about your child.

Trevor is a spunky, curious, hilarious and outgoing 9-year-old. He is a master Lego builder, with an imagination for creating that amazes me to no end. He is generous, loves animals and wears his heart on his sleeve.

What is your child’s favorite 15 gram carb (or less) snack

Meat and cheese roll up with two crackers.

How do you manage diabetes?

We carb count for every meal. And then use the total to figure his insulin on the sliding scale. Trev receives 4 shots a day: one Novolog shot for every meal, and Lantus at night before bed.

What do you know now that you wish you had known at diagnosis

Even though we caught what was happening fairly early, I wish that I had seen the major signs sooner. Trev lost a lot of weight. In the pictures before diagnosis he looks sickly and it just turns my stomach when I think about the fact I didn’t see his decline.

The interesting thing though, is that a year prior to his diagnosis I’d asked his pediatrician to run a thyroid and a glucose blood test. I was concerned he was always sleepy and seemed to have a high intolerance for extreme temps. They refused my request based on not wanting to “cause unnecessary stress to the child.” I wish I had pushed a little harder at that time instead of allowing the pediatrician to mask my mother’s intuition.

What has been the biggest challenge?

We struggle a great deal with diabetes protocol being followed when Trev is with his Dad. His Dad has a definite difference in opinion in regards to how type 1 diabetes is controlled.

How do you maintain relationships?

Trev’s Dad and I divorced in 2004 (Trev’s diagnosis was in 2008). I haven’t had a relationship since his diagnosis. Not too many men in my age group are thrilled with the possibility of responsibility…add special needs to that and they automatically assume I’m looking for someone to take care of us. This couldn’t be farther from the truth.

What have been your challenges sending your child to school? Triumphs?

Trev attends a private school. We have been very pleased with how the school has handled Trev’s diabetes. Due to insurance liabilities staff is not able to give insulin doses for lunch. The challenge in this is that my Dad or myself has to go to the school and supervise the lunch half hour to give the insulin dose every day.

What vacations have you taken and how did you deal with diabetes?

Last year Trev and I traveled to Phoenix, Arizona. It was his first airplane ride and was the first time I dealt with airplane security with diabetes supplies. It was pretty hard to stay on schedule because at the time Arizona was three hours behind Indiana time. In regards to his diabetes management, we stayed on Indiana time so there wouldn’t be an issue with lows.

Have you found a babysitter, and if so, how?

Trev has been able to stay with the babysitter he has had since he was 5 months old. His sitter has type 2 diabetes, I have trained her and she is excellent in managing his care. My Dad or I still go and take care of his lunches, by supervising and giving insulin daily though.

How do you find time for yourself?

Mostly I find quiet time in the evenings after Trev has gone to bed and between blood sugar checks. We live with my parents and so that frees me up to be able to visit a friend and watch a movie in time to be home for a sugar check. I read a lot when he is at his Dad’s and I also enjoy going to antique shops to browse (a little buying doesn’t hurt either).

What have you done to help your child become independent in his own care?

I talk about everything that I am doing while caring for Trev and his diabetes. I have shown him simple things to do and let him do them as often as I can. He can calibrate his own meter, he checks his own sugar, and he is beginning to be able to recite to me what he needs during high sugars and low sugars.

What research organizations do you support and why?

JDRF I attended the Diabetes Gala for the Indiana State chapter in April. It was amazing. Over $690,000 was raised for research for the cure. I was moved to tears several times during the evening. I met so many people who are affected by diabetes. Hope was present and accounted for that evening!

How do you deal with tough diabetes-related questions from your child?

Truthfully, pointedly, factually, openly and in words that he can understand. I never dismiss a question he has, and if I’m not sure how to answer him on the spot, I ask him for a little time to let me think of how I want to reply.

How has diabetes affected you financially? Have you been successful in getting the insurance coverage you need?

It has definitely been a struggle being a single mom. I carry insurance on Trev, and his Dad carries a secondary. However, it still is very expensive. I can’t even imagine doing this with no insurance coverage. In the beginning I did a lot of arguing with the insurance company. They were trying to push their own idea of what was appropriate supply- and medicine-wise for Trevor. I do not believe that insurance companies should ever be allowed to be in the position to dictate how a person’s medical care is established and put into motion. I told them as much.

Meet other D-Moms and D-Dads on Mondays.

{Meet a D-Mom} Mandy of And Another Thing is a post from: D-Mom Blog

The information provided here is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please read the disclaimer, disclosure, and privacy policy statements.

I met Linda online at least a year ago and although our children are different ages (hers is in high school and mine is in grade school), we connected with one another. Linda and I keep saying we are going to meet for a glass of wine…one of these days! You’ll see below why I’m seriously booking a ticket for her dream vacation.

I invite you to read about Linda, and then visit her blog A Cure for Tyler.

I’d like to introduce you to Linda of A Cure for Tyler.

Tell me something about your child.

Tyler is an energetic and enthusiastic military nut. He loves the history of the military and weapons. He can tell you what kind of gun a character on TV is using just by sight. Before his diagnosis, Tyler had plans of joining the military to serve our country. While he is disheartened that he cannot join now because of the type 1 diabetes, he has broadened his career choices to include other civilian weapon options and a possible career in video game design.

What is your child’s favorite 15 gram carb (or less) snack

Peanut butter balls. It’s a recipe that was given to me by Riley Hospital for Children 3 years ago. It’s peanutbuttery deliciousness!

Recipe:

• 8 Tbl cornstarch
• 8 Tbl peanut butter (we use creamy Skippy)
• 1 cup Rice Krispies
• 1 Tbs chocolate chips
• 2 packets of Equal
• 2oz. cold water

Put all ingredients in a bowl and mix together. Form into 8 round balls of equal size and refrigerate.

Each ball counts as 1 Carb and 1 Fat. They are easy to make and tasty, too! He also uses this during PE and sporting events when he goes low. Other 15 gram carb or less snacks he likes include scrambled eggs, string cheese with red apple, and red bell peppers.

How do you manage diabetes?

We  use the Animas Ping Insulin Pump. We are waiting for the FDA to approve the new CGM-Ping pump so that he can have the CGM sensor incorporated into his pump. That would be fantastic. The pump is currently in Europe and Canada and we will be excited when it finally gets to the USA!

What do you know now that you wish you had known at diagnosis

We didn’t have a positive experience with our diagnosis—it was rather a night terror due to one doctor with no bedside manner. It would have been nice to know that type 1 diabetes is manageable instead of being told that our son would have his feet cut off, go blind, and die before he grew old due to diabetes.

Diabetes is a part of Tyler but it doesn’t control him or define who he is. He can be anything he wants to be, and do anything he wants to do. A type 1 diagnosis doesn’t have to be a death sentence and I think knowing this upfront could have made the difference in planning his first few weeks as an enlightening experience  instead of dreading what happens next.

What has been the biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge for me has been educating people about type 1 diabetes. So many people don’t know the difference between type 1 and type 2 and assume that type 1 is related to overeating or eating too many carbs.  Most people don’t know what really happens to a pancreas in type 1.

How do you and your husband maintain your relationship?

From the get-go we have been a team. All three of us. We are all in it together. The 3:00 am checks are difficult, but we have a schedule in place and it rotates so that one week I have to get up four nights and the next week he does. Faith in God, Hope for a Cure but most of all Love for Tyler gets us through.

What have been your challenges sending your child to school? Triumphs?

When he was first diagnosed at age 12, we had a fabulous middle school-junior high school experience. The principal, school nurse and staff were on the ball and supportive. The transition to high school was difficult. There was no school nurse and the designated health aid was chosen because her husband was a type 2 diabetic. We had a lot of bumps in the road his freshmen year and I am hoping that his sophomore year goes better.

We do have a supportive principal and that helped get me through the year. His high school also wasn’t aware of the laws or federal funding laws for Section 504. After several attempts to get one for Tyler, the school is now aware and up to date on IDEA 2004 and Section 504 accommodations thanks to me. I am pretty proud of this accomplishment!

What sports/activities does your child do and how does it work with diabetes?

Tyler loves to play basketball and golf. So far, neither sport has been a problem. But for contact sports in PE, he takes the pump off.

What vacations have you taken and how did you deal with diabetes?

We have taken yearly vacations since his diagnosis. I plan and make sure we have enough supplies for the week and then I double what I think we’ll need. Better safe than sorry! Tyler carries his meter and an emergency kit filled with all supplies & snacks. I also carry an extra meter, supplies & snacks. Our cars also carry water and non-perishable food items in addition to our emergency/first aid kit.

How do you find time for yourself?

My peace and quiet comes in the wee hours of the morning. The time between when Tyler goes to bed and usually before the 3:00 am check. There have been times when I’m too exhausted to sleep and end up not going to bed until after the 3:00 am check, but I can usually get through the day on four hours of sleep.

I love to read whether it be via a book or on the Kindle. I’ve often told my husband that my dream vacation would be to go to a hotel with room service and a stack of good books and stay for a week; that sounds better than any  spa vacation to me!

What have you done to help your son become independent in his own care?

I think it helps that Tyler was independent in giving his own shots before his discharge from the hospital. We still help with carb calculations on restaurant food or high carb meals such as pizza, but for the most part Tyler has taken an active role from the first day he was out of ICU. He is truly an amazing kid!

One day at school, his pump beeped out of insulin and then he realized that he didn’t have a cartridge to draw up insulin for his pump. His health aid freaked out; Tyler did NOT. He stayed calm and focused and took an insulin syringe and drew up his insulin and filled out the old cartridge to get him through the day. He did exactly how I would have done it. I am so proud of him. He had the critical thinking skills so often lacking in today’s youth and analytically problem solved for a successful solution. Tyler ROCKS!

What research organizations do you support and why?

JDRF I’m a JDRF mentor and advocate. There needs to be a voice for downstate Illinois type 1 diabetic children and support!

Juvenile Diabetes Support of Central Illinois (JDSci) This is a support group in Central Illinois for local community involvement. I would like to see this group grow and become involved in C-U and the rural community for type 1 education and health fairs.

American Diabetes Association (ADA) The Decatur office has been really supportive and offered tremendous help with 504 issues.

The Faustman Lab I believe in their research and the fact that they are in human clinical trials. They are not afraid to stand up to the pharmaceutical companies and I believe they will find us a cure!

How do you deal with tough diabetes-related questions from your child?

Logically. Tyler knows he can come to me for anything. He usually tries to figure out things himself, but if it is particularly troubling for him, he knows that we will find a solution together.

How has diabetes affected you financially? Have you been successful in getting the insurance coverage you need?

It has been a strain, especially in the beginning. We finally were able to get on All Kids and pay decent premiums ($150/mo). All Kids has been a God send. Recently though, we received a letter telling us that All Kids would be dissolved and were told we need to find other health care insurance. Diabetes is the reason why we needed insurance in the first place; but now this program is going away. We hope that we can get affordable health care insurance in the next 6 months; but it is highly unlikely.

Thank you Linda for sharing your family’s story with diabetes. Readers can meet other D-Moms and D-Dads on Mondays.

{Meet a D-Mom} Linda of A Cure for Tyler is a post from: D-Mom Blog

The information provided here is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please read the disclaimer, disclosure, and privacy policy statements.

In the last couple of weeks I shared the news of the Lilly Diabetes and Disney partnership which includes the first (of many) children’s books about diabetes Coco and Goofy’s Goofy Day and a writing contest with an unbelievable prize.

Chatting with D-Mom Denise Jonas

I had the opportunity on the day of the Once Upon a Time Contest announcement to chat with D-Mom Denise Jonas for a few minutes.

Denise is the mom of stars Nick, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 13, Joe, and Kevin. The Jonas Brothers are known widely for their band and for their long run on the Disney channel.

So you may think that a diagnosis of diabetes might be so much easier for the parent of a singing sensation because she would have all the resources in the world available to her. But I have to say that listening to Denise recount those first few days, it was exactly for her as it was for each of us.

She spent several days in the hospital receiving education on how to care for Nick. Her only support in the beginning was the nursing staff. It was Joe and Kevin who went online looking for resources on how to move forward and find support and information.

When I told Q that I would be speaking with Nick Jonas’ mother Denise, I asked if she had any questions for her. She said, “Tell her that I’ve been on TV, in the newspaper, and on the radio because of diabetes just like her son.”

I told this to Denise (because I promised Q) adding that for my daughter and other kids with diabetes, it is great to see such a public figure out there and not hiding his diabetes. We occasionally catch a glimpse of his OmniPod (the same insulin pump that my daughter uses) and it is validating for her. Seeing a young star with diabetes makes it more “socially acceptable,” if that makes sense.

Denise said that when Nick was diagnosed he wanted to know who else had diabetes. Which celebrities? Most of the public figures they found were athletes.

She loves seeing her son Nick with young children with diabetes. She said he was too busy to go to diabetes camp because of his career, but that’s something he would have liked to do.

When asked why she wanted to partner with Lilly Diabetes and Disney on this project, she said that when Nick was diagnosed, education was limited. “How do you send your kid back to school or gymnastics or dance?” She thinks the new collaboration is practical, which is what moms need and want.

I have to agree with her on that. Coco and Goofy’s Goofy Day would have been such a great resource for our family after our daughter’s diagnosis. Especially since I was looking everywhere for the right book to read to her preschool class to no avail.

She says the new project is about “encouraging and inspiring.”

I appreciate that Denise took a few minutes out of her schedule to chat with me about receiving the diabetes diagnosis, her collaboration with Lilly Diabetes and Disney, and the Once Upon a Time Contest. She’s another example of a down-to-earth D-Mom who “gets it.”

When I told Q later on that I had had my chat with Denise, she said:

Does that mean I get to have a playdate with Nick Jonas?
Because that would be really cool.

Yes, Q. That would be really cool!

Further Reading

{Bookshelf} Coco and Goofy’s Goofy Day

Introducing Coco, MWD*

Lilly Diabetes and Disney Once Upon a Time Contest

Who She Is

More posts about children’s books.

Chatting with Celeb D-Mom Denise Jonas is a post from: D-Mom Blog

The information provided here is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please read the disclaimer, disclosure, and privacy policy statements.

I’ve been a friend of Sherry on Facebook and Twitter for quite a long time. She’s one of my go-to moms, especially when we both hop on at 2:00 am after a middle-of-the-night blood sugar check! (It’s 1:00 am her time.) Her daughter Jenna was just 9 weeks past her second birthday at diagnosis.

I invite you to read about Sherry, and then visit her blog Jenna’s Pet Monkey. You can also follow her on Twitter; she’s @Jennaspetmonkey.

I’d like to introduce you to Sherry of Jenna’s Pet Monkey.

Tell me something about your child.

Jenna loves paper. She loves creating things with paper. She has invented a craft activity that she calls “Tuck ’n’ Stuffs.” She draws a character on paper (or asks me to draw it), colours it, cuts it out using two sheets of paper, then she stuffs tissue between the two cut out shapes and tapes the edges together. She then plays with her characters like dolls! She is quite proud of this invention!

What is your child’s favorite 15 gram carb (or less) snack

Hard to list only one. Jenna loves popcorn, pretzels, cheese and crackers, pistachios, sunflower seeds, raw veggies, apple slices, watermelon, cantaloupe…but I guess if I had to pick just one item it would be yogurt.

How do you manage diabetes?

We use the Animas Ping pump. We aren’t ready to add a CGM to our techno-management team yet. I would love for the technology to improve more before we take that step.

What do you know now that you wish you had known at diagnosis

I wish I had been more aware of the ignorance and misinformation the general public has regarding type 1 diabetes. I might have been better prepared for the judgment my daughter and I have been subjected to over the past three years. Needless to say, one of my passions in life, aside from supporting the efforts to find a cure, is to educate the misinformed in an attempt to make the world a kinder place for people with type 1 diabetes.

What has been the biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge has been constantly trying to find balance in life. I am always trying to gauge my reaction in an effort to avoid overreacting. I try to be aware of how my responses to diabetes-related situations impact Jenna. I don’t want to be paranoid yet I don’t want to relax too much and let my guard down.

How do you and your husband maintain your relationship?

My husband and I share the management of Jenna’s diabetes. I am the parent that stays at home but that doesn’t mean that I am the only one getting up in the night. Neither of us are strangers to wee hour alarms to do checks. I am also a strong proponent of communication. We talk. A lot. It’s what gets me through the tough stuff in life. This is likely part of the reason why I felt compelled to start my blog. It is very much like therapy.

Your daughter’s name is Jenna, but what’s this I hear about a pet monkey?

The name of my blog was born from a moment I had just days after Jenna’s diagnosis when I was still trying to come to terms with this new challenge. We were on our way to another part of the hospital with our Diabetes Nurse Educator, waiting for the elevator, when I was sort of thinking out loud – “…It’s like our little Jenna now comes with a pet monkey that we have to feed, take care of and constantly keep out of mischief. Day and night. Forever.”  It was just my way of trying to put things into some sort of perspective. When I decided to start my blog just three months later it was the first thing I thought of as I was trying to come up with a name. My husband agreed that it had to be “Jenna’s Pet Monkey.”

What have been your challenges sending your child to school? Triumphs?

We have had a few informal meetings with staff at the school Jenna will attend next fall. For the most part teachers and other school staff have shown a considerable amount of interest and genuine concern for Jenna’s well-being. They seem eager to learn about her diabetes and how they can ensure her safety while at school. Having said that, the real test will be next September when she starts full time kindergarten.

What sports/activities does your child do and how does it work with diabetes?

Jenna loves swimming. I use swim time as an opportunity for her to go pumpless. Swimming is such good exercise that she really doesn’t need the basal insulin while she swims. We also enjoy family bike rides. Jenna loves riding her bike! Jenna also takes gymnastics. I usually try to give her time off from her pump during gymnastics as well. Jenna loves dancing at home so I foresee dance classes in her future as well.

What vacations have you taken and how did you deal with diabetes?

We are a family that loves road trips and we have put a lot of miles on our vehicles doing just that. I find the main concern with lengthy car rides is gauging her basals accordingly. With prolonged inactivity, Jenna usually requires at least a 40% increase in basal rates. We also try to keep the carb consumption down so finding snacks that are car-friendly and low carb is helpful. Of course, the usual worries of trying to ensure we have enough supplies and being prepared for the unexpected are always a concern with traveling.

Have you found a babysitter, and if so, how?

We haven’t found a babysitter yet. My husband and I don’t really get any date nights. When we go out, we do so as a family. For the most part it works for us. Although, I do miss golfing every now and then. A few weeks ago the girls’ grandma babysat while my husband and I golfed together for the first time since Jenna’s diagnosis! It was only 9 holes but we thoroughly enjoyed that two hours we spent together. It was my Father’s Day gift to my husband, but really, it was a gift for both of us.

How has diabetes affected your other children?

My oldest daughter, Jazmine, has had to watch her little sister go through a lot. But Jazmine is a very compassionate, smart kid and is an amazing and valuable part of Jenna’s support team. Jazmine is very in tune with Jenna’s situation and has been known to spot a low, initiate a blood sugar check and promptly inform me of the need for intervention. I have been careful to include Jazmine in most aspects of Jenna’s care. But still it has had its impact on Jazmine too. This disease affects every family member in one way or another. Jaz has had to understand that Jenna sometimes does require more attention due to her diabetes. Again, we encourage communication. I make an effort to spend some 1:1 time with Jaz now and then.

How do you find time for yourself?

This is a challenge, for sure! I was going to yoga classes twice a week for a long time. It was my escape. They were evening classes and my husband would be at home with the girls so I was able to have a worry free hour of exercise and relaxation twice a week. We have moved to a new city, however, and I have been trying to find an evening yoga class that I could participate in. I think I have found one for the month of August. I can’t wait!

What have you done to help your child become independent in their own care?

I am always encouraging Jenna to do what she can on her own. But I don’t want to make it a stressful experience. I let Jenna set the pace and praise her for every step toward independence she initiates. On the days she is feeling fed up and burnt out, I pick up the slack without shaming her or making her feel guilty. It is a hard disease to manage. She has a lifetime ahead of her doing it on her own. There’s no need to rush the independence issue. Jenna is aware of the importance of certain aspects of her diabetes management and she is proud of the strides she makes toward her independence. If the past three years is any indication, she will continue to a steady progression toward increasing independence.

What research organizations do you support and why?

We support JDRF and the DRI. They both have some exciting research projects and offer much needed support to families.

How do you deal with tough diabetes-related questions from your child?

We deal with tough diabetes-related questions as honestly as possible and with as much sensitivity as we can given Jenna’s age and level of understanding. I don’t think hiding the truth from kids is wise. They are far more perceptive than that. I want my girls to know they can trust me just as I want them to know how important it is for me to trust them. Honesty is crucial in establishing trust. This disease can be pretty scary. I don’t hide the darker side of diabetes from her, but I temper that honesty with a matter-of-fact approach and emphasis on what is being done to improve the lives of PWD. We work at staying positive and playing an active part in making things better for PWD with fundraising and encouraging a healthy, active lifestyle. If she asks a question, it deserves an honest answer. Jenna knows we will always be here to support her.

How has diabetes affected you financially? Have you been successful in getting the insurance coverage you need?

This is an expensive disease, no doubt. But we have been able to take advantage of our provincial government health care programs to offset some of the costs. We also have additional, work-related coverage that helps.

Healthcare in the US is privatized, meaning that most people have insurance through their employer. The cost of diabetes and access to doctors and medications/devices varies so widely depending on a family’s insurance coverage. Could you tell me about the healthcare system in Canada?

In Canada virtually all of our basic care costs are covered by provincial health care benefits. Dental and vision care are usually not covered by the government so employment benefits are necessary. Pharmaceuticals are also not covered by basic provincial plans except for the elderly and for indigenous peoples. Again, pharmaceutical coverage through work is required. Having said that, if a Canadian resident experiences financial hardship, there is coverage available. No one need go without necessary healthcare in Canada. Several provinces have, in recent years, enacted coverage for insulin pumps and pump supplies for children 18 years of age and younger. Ontario now covers insulin pumps for all type 1 diabetics regardless of age.

Meet other D-Moms and D-Dads on Mondays.

{Meet a D-Mom} Sherry of Jenna’s Pet Monkey is a post from: D-Mom Blog

The information provided here is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please read the disclaimer, disclosure, and privacy policy statements.

I instantly liked Denise “aka Mom of Bean” when I found her online. I felt like I had found a kindred spirit: our daughters are about the same age and both use OmniPod. I invite you to get to know Denise, and then visit her blog My Sweet Bean and Her Pod.

I’d like to introduce you to Denise of My Sweet Bean and Her Pod.

Tell me something about your child.

Bean is a very empathetic soul. From a very young age she has shown deep compassion for her friends and she even comforts her sister when she gets hurt!

Here's Sweet Bean and Her Pod!

What is your child’s favorite 15 gram carb (or less) snack

Bean LOVES cheese! I think she would have it at every meal and snack if I’d let her!! Her favorite is the Colby-Jack snack cheese; pair that with 10 Wheat Thins (14g carb) and you have a snack fit for a Bean!

How do you manage diabetes?

Bean has been using the Omnipod insulin pump since October 2010, just over four months after diagnosis. She was on MDI before that.

We count carbs, use carb factors, and weigh/measure her food. We’ve also gotten pretty good at SWAGing, though there are times we totally miss the mark!

Bean tests her BG 8-15 times a day, depending on the day.

We are in the ‘insurance approval’ phase of getting a CGM…hoping it doesn’t take too long!!

What do you know now that you wish you had known at diagnosis

I wish I had known that Diabetes doesn’t play by the rules!

I am a rule follower at heart.  If I do this, this, and this, then I expect the result to be that. So, if I count carbs, set an insulin/carb ratio, and correction factor, then I expect to see an ‘in range’ BG number!

Yeah, sooo not what actually happens! I have had to learn to “go with the flow” way more than my personalty usually allows in dealing with D. It’s been an adjustment, but a necessary one unless I want to move into a padded room!!

What has been the biggest challenge?

Our biggest challenge has been “educating” friends.

There is no way you can truly get what our day to day is like unless it’s your day to day as well. Those who don’t live with D, no matter how hard they try, can’t really understand it. We have a few friends who truly try to understand as best they can. They want more than ‘fine’ when they ask how we are doing.

Then there are others who either can’t or don’t want to understand. It doesn’t matter how many times they ask about something and I explain it, it just doesn’t sink in. It’s hard to find an answer to “How is she doing?” that isn’t either glossing over it all and saying “Oh, she’s doing well.” or has me spouting off information and sounding like Rainman!!

Challenging for sure, and quite eye-opening as well!

How do you and your husband maintain your relationship?

Our life is busy; add D into the mix and whoa, Nelly!

Ubergeek and I do our best to make the time for each other. It’s not an easy thing to do and we haven’t been stellar at it!  But whether it’s a quick dinner together before a board meeting at school or just hanging out watching a movie On Demand after the girls are in bed, we do our best to not let too much time pass in between “us time.”

What have been your challenges sending your child to school? Triumphs?

Um…how long do you have?!?!

Bean’s school doesn’t have a full time nurse; not even a part time nurse; more like a quarter time nurse, seriously. It was work to make it work, for sure.

In a very small nutshell the year went from me (with 2-year-old Bug in tow) going everyday to oversee her doing her own testing and injecting for lunch (with an insulin pen) for about 6 weeks, to TA or Secretary supervising her doing it, to me going for a couple of weeks to train them on how the Omnipod PDM worked, to TA or Secretary trying to keep up with Bean as she flew through the screens on the PDM to bolus herself.

We fought some battles that we felt were non-negotiable (like her being able to do her own injections because she was more than able to) and chose not to fight some (like pushing for a 504 plan when the person in charge of them at the district level passed away unexpectantly).

Over all the year went well, with only one instance where a low wasn’t treated correctly. Thankfully Bean was/is on top of her own care enough that she made the right choices, even at 55!

We are looking forward to working with a new principal and new nurse (with more hours) and having a 504 in place for the coming year.

What sports/activities does your child do and how does it work with diabetes?

Bean takes ice skating and horseback riding lessons, participates in dance, and is very involved in Drama Club at school.

Ubergeek or I are always at the lessons and dance practices to keep and eye on things.

Thanks to the “extend” feature on the Omnipod, Bean was able to test and dose for her after school snack for Drama Club days before the craziness of the end of the day made it impossible for TA or Secretary to supervise her.

What vacations have you taken and how did you deal with diabetes?

We flew to Atlanta to visit family for Christmas.  It’s a long trip, so in and of itself it can be challenging!

Other than having the carry on bag that was packed with D-stuff scanned three times and most of the items swabbed for explosive residue at one airport and Bean crashing to a 47 then spiking to the low 400s on the red-eye, it was a piece of cake!!

We didn’t do any pre-trip adjusting for the 4 hour time difference.  I just adjusted the time on her PDM when we had our first meal at my mother’s house and it all just fell into line from there.

Have you found a babysitter, and if so, how?

We are lucky to have Ubergeek’s parents close to us and the girls love to hang out with them! They are confident enough with D-stuff and with Bean being quite independent and me writing out and explaining detailed directions with carb counts for whatever she will be eating, we feel fine leaving them for several hours. Of course, we are always reachable by phone or text!

How has diabetes affected your other child?

Bug is your typical little sister who wants to do whatever her big sister is doing….including all things D. She has wanted to test (and we’ve tested her from time to time), has asked “mine turn?” when Bean would do her shots, put toys up to her arm and pretended they were pods, and has asked on more than one occasion as we are headed out the door where her kit is. She’s even gone so far as to insist that she “can so” go to camp with Bean because she has diabetes, too!

(And, no, she doesn’t and all of her BGs so far have been “normal.”)

How do you find time for yourself?

I generally just lock myself in the bathroom!! Does that count?

I’ll build in”‘extra time” around appointments and meetings to steal some alone time. I’ll also not go to the grocery store until Ubergeek gets home so I can go by myself.

Exciting, I know, but you take what you can get!!

What have you done to help your child become independent in their own care?

We have encouraged Bean to do all that she can as she is able and willing to do it. And she has been able and willing since pretty much day two.

She does her own BG testing, would give herself injections with an insulin pen when on MDI (I would do arm injections because she couldn’t reach), and now she flies through all the screens on the PDM to give herself a bolus via the Omnipod. Granted, we are always there to supervise and she has to tell us the amount of the bolus before she hits the confirm button to deliver it, but it’s pretty much all her.

We’ve always wanted this to be “hers” and not something we were doing “to” her. When she is the one in control of when the button is pushed to prick her finger or when she was the one injecting the pen needle, it wasn’t as big of a deal as when I would do it. So, in our minds, anything to make D less of a big deal and help Bean feel more in control we were all for!

She helps with pod changes, too, but isn’t to the point where she can do one by herself yet…although I’m sure that’s not too far off!

It’s bittersweet that she is able to count carbs and do all this D stuff…she’s 7!  I’m proud of her that she’s taking control of her care but at the same time I hate that she has to!

How do you deal with tough diabetes-related questions from your child?

There’s really only been one tough conversation…about a week or so after dx that involved crying on both our parts when she came to the realization that D wasn’t going anywhere and it may never be taken away from her, either through a cure or through God’s healing.

When she talks about D, we listen; when she asks about D, we do our best to answer in a way she can understand.

I know the questions will come; I hope and pray I am able to help Bean work through them.

How has diabetes affected you financially? Have you been successful in getting the insurance coverage you need?

We are blessed to have very good insurance coverage through Ubergeek’s work. We are able to pay for all of Bean’s supplies each month. Now, that’s not to say that there aren’t sacrifices made in other areas, because there are. And some months things can get quite tight, but it all works out, thank God.

You live way up north in Alaska. Is there care for a child with diabetes available?

Yes, we are in Alaska. Anchorage, specifically, which is the largest city in the state. We have Target and Walmart, but no peds endo.  I’m sure the one that sees adults in the clinic we go to (that doesn’t really see kids, but took Bean on as a new patient with no hesitation) would see us if we pushed for it. But, our NP and CDE do a fabulous job we haven’t seen the need to pull the endo in on anything.

(Note from Leighann: We have a Target and three Walmarts, but no peds endo!)

To get a better sense of Denise, if you haven’t seen it, you have to watch her parody video!

(E-mail subscribers click over for embedded video.)

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{Meet a D-Mom} Denise of My Sweet Bean and Her Pod is a post from: D-Mom Blog

The information provided here is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please read the disclaimer, disclosure, and privacy policy statements.

If you have seen photos of Grace, you will agree that she has such a great smile! Grace recently visited with her d-camp BFF and it makes me want my own daughter to have a diabetes BFF, too.

I invite you to read about Penny, and then visit her blog A Sweet Grace.

I’d like to introduce you to Penny of A Sweet Grace.

Tell me something about your child.

Grace loves to swim. She would swim all day, every day if she could. And she swims like a fish, ever since age 4. She should have a tail.

What is your child’s favorite 15 gram carb (or less) snack

Grace’s favorite snack is usually a fruit salad that we measure out to be about 15 grams. If that’s not available, she loves carrot sticks dipped in peanut butter. Then it’s onto 100-calorie packs of various varieties.

How do you manage diabetes?

Grace has been pumping with the OmniPod insulin pump since April 2010. She uses the PDM of the OmniPod as her meter. Her favorite ‘pricker’ is the Delica lancing device. She counts carbs. No CGM here, Grace refuses and it’s not a fight I am willing to have right now. I think she will wear a CGM when she gets older.

What do you know now that you wish you had known at diagnosis

I wish I had known about the wonderful support network that is the DOC (Diabetic Online Community). I felt so alone at her diagnosis in January 2009. I thought I was the only one with a six year old child who had Type 1. I soon realized that was not the case and jumped online a few weeks after diagnosis, easing myself into the DOC.

I wish someone, anyone, had been there to tell me it would all be OK. That there would be a new ‘normal’ in our lives, but that it would be alright.

What has been the biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge has been Grace growing and all the hormones that go along with it, resulting in shooting highs at night and prolonged bouts of highs over the course of weeks. The pump and mastering it has been its own challenge and the learning curve is steep for learning a pump, but honestly, the growth spurts have been our biggest nemesis throughout these past two years. I continue to learn how to handle them through increasing basal rates.

How do you and your husband maintain your relationship?

My hubby and I met when we were in 7th grade. That’s a long time ago. We know each other very well. We talk about everything honestly, we share in parenting all our kids and we share in the responsibility in managing Grace’s diabetes with Grace. Date nights do not happen, but we manage.

What have been your challenges sending your child to school? Triumphs?

Grace’s school has been nothing short of wonderful. Her school nurse is marvelous. Shout out to Mrs. Breslin! She has been onboard since Grace’s diagnosis in 1st grade and has learned all about shots, then when Grace went on the pump, came to pump training class with us to learn all about it. The school has created a wonderful 504 plan for Grace and they really do abide by it. I trust them with Grace’s care and know she is in great hands during the day. I am blessed to have such caring, knowledgeable people in her life at school.

What sports/activities does your child do and how does it work with diabetes?

Grace swims. Oh boy does she swim! We lower her basal by 30-40% during the time that she swims and then prolong that lowering for another 1-2 hours after she gets out of the pool. She also eats something before swimming so she goes into the pool being at least 150.

What vacations have you taken and how did you deal with diabetes?

Can you believe we did DisneyWorld 2 months after Grace was diagnosed? We had planned (and paid for) the trip for over a year, there was no way we were NOT going. We fretted about it – mostly about keeping her insulin chilled in Florida in March and the airplane security. We did it though and consider it one of the biggest accomplishments to date. We had a fantastic time and it let us know that we could do anything – if we could go to Disney with diabetes just after being diagnosed, there was nothing that could stop us from doing anything else she wanted to do. It was a marvelous trip that made a lot of memories.

Have you found a babysitter, and if so, how?

We have no babysitter! Grace is OK staying with her older sister for an hour or so, but no, no babysitter. It’s us, all the time baby.

How has diabetes affected your other children?

My oldest has autism and my middle child is a typical pre-teen. We have been through a lot with autism. We learned to roll with everything. We learned to enjoy every minute. And that helped us in dealing with diabetes in the family too. It was just another thing on the plate. I can honestly say that we accepted it pretty quickly and presented it to the kids as ‘it is what it is.’ We have already been through so much with autism, frankly, if you want my honest opinion, diabetes was not that devastating to us. That’s hard to write, but that’s the way it feels to me.

How do you find time for yourself?

I get out with my girlfriends. I take my kids 1:1 places with me. My husband takes the kids out solo so they have a chance to have a parent all to themselves. I quilt at night, I read, I blog. There is enough time for me.

What have you done to help your child become independent in their own care?

I really have found that if I let Grace take the lead, she wants to be independent, on her terms, when she is ready. That’s my best advice for a parent who has a headstrong child. Grace lets me know when she can do it herself and she does. She counts her carbs herself, adds them up, doses herself can do a complete site change on her own and can figure out things like temp basal rates. She is quite competent for her age. Whatever she has shown me she can do, I let her do.

What research organizations do you support and why?

I support JDRF and DRI. I like the research ends on both organizations.

How do you deal with tough diabetes-related questions from your child?

I am an honest and forthright woman. Some like that about me and some don’t. Oh well, I call it like I see it. I give her the honest answer, about everything, including diabetes. But I do it on her level and I give her what she asked for – the answer or where we can find it. The tough questions – about complications later in life, about care for herself, I answer on her level. I also encourage her to speak with other PWDs in her life and ask them.

How has diabetes affected you financially? Have you been successful in getting the insurance coverage you need?

Oh the long story or the short story? The short one? OK. Diagnosed, rejected from insurance company because of pre-existing condition, placed on our state’s CHIP program until Dec 1, 2010 when they moved her to Medicaid because, in their words ‘she is too expensive for CHIP.’ Exhausting and frustrating to say the least. Medicaid has refused her Novolog as ‘not medically necessary’ and fought about the number of test strips she should have. Nothing short of a nightmare. I have fought them at every turn and happy to report the score is currently Penny – 2, Medicaid – 0.

Anything else you’d like to say?

The DOC is what has saved me from a life of loneliness and diabetes and it has done so much more than that for Grace. I am thankful every day that I found a place that understands, supports, accepts and encourages us to do this every day. I am blessed beyond belief.

Further Reading

Novolog is not ‘medically necessary’ or the letter that made my head almost come off my body

We won! A round of Novolog for the house please!

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{Meet a D-Mom} Penny of A Sweet Grace is a post from: D-Mom Blog

The information provided here is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please read the disclaimer, disclosure, and privacy policy statements.

I’ve been enjoying getting to know Amy and her family through her blog. As I read her responses below, I found myself nodding over and over…and I’m sure you will too. I invite you to read about Amy, and then visit her blog Three Thirty Three.

I’d like to introduce you to Amy of Three Thirty Three.

Tell me something about your child.

Ellie is a fun-loving giggly girl. She is a younger sister to Maddi and an older sister to Ben. Ellie is creative and loves to spend time drawing, painting, reading and writing stories. She also loves to play outside with friends and ride bikes, play at the park and jump on our new trampoline.

What is your child’s favorite 15 gram carb (or less) snack

Beef sticks and goldfish crackers.

How do you manage diabetes?

MDI, carb counting and checking blood sugars 8-10 times a day. In June Ellie will start pumping with the OmniPod.

What do you know now that you wish you had known at diagnosis

I wish I knew how many blessings T1D would bring to our family. We are closer as Mother and Daughter, Ellie and her siblings have learned and practice compassion, my marriage gains strength from our working together on a single focus, and my community of friends has grown exponentially through the Diabetic Online Community.

What has been the biggest challenge?

Not being able to throw food on the table and just sit down to eat. The weighing, the measuring, the blood sugar testing and pre-bolusing all take extra time and often tries our patience at a time we just want to come together at the table to share our day.

How do you and your husband maintain your relationship?

By communicating! We put a white board on the fridge and update it with Ellie’s carb ratios and basal insulin doses. In the evenings and weekends, Ellie’s T1D care is shared evenly so no one person becomes overwhelmed. While Ellie participates in MUCH of her own care, we, as parents, like to help carry the burden.

What have been your challenges sending your child to school? Triumphs?

Standard of care. Some days the nurse calls me for every little thing and other days the nurse does not call and makes her own decisions. We do not have a 504 plan in place, however, and I believe that would change the discrepancies. We are homeschooling next year (all three kids) but when/if Ellie returns to the school district we will have a 504 plan.

What sports/activities does your child do and how does it work with diabetes?

Ellie does not participate in organized sports at this time. She did not prior to T1D and has continued with that decision to this point. Ellie prefers to be active in outdoor play, riding bikes and rollerblading.

What vacations have you taken and how did you deal with diabetes?

You will have to check back with us after the end of June! We are taking a land tour cruise of Alaska that will last 15 days, including travel. We will experience long car rides, airplanes, trains, buses and a cruise ship, ALL for the first time with T1D. We have prepared this far by obtaining a medical letter from Ellie’s endocrinologist, stockpiling supplies to have double what we need, reading up on TSA travel guidelines with special medical needs, and have contacted the hotels and cruise ship personnel of our needs for a sharps container and refrigerator.

Have you found a babysitter, and if so, how?

We are blessed to have a close family friend who has a daughter with T1D and has offered to watch Ellie, even overnight, when we need a babysitter. In addition, one of my very close friends has been ‘trained’ on Ellie’s care and is confident about meeting her medical needs in our absence.

How has diabetes affected your other children?

Our 6-year-old son, Ben, was jealous of the extra attention Ellie received at first, but has come to see the necessity of it and to accept there are times T1D must come first so we can safely continue whatever we were doing. My oldest daughter, Maddi (13), pulled back and didn’t want anything to to with watching Ellie or us perform T1D duties. I think her fear (if what could happen to Ellie) kept her from wanting to know the ins and outs of the day to day care. She has come around with time and now helps count carbs and figure insulin doses and even watches some of the injections.

Like I said earlier, the kids have gained compassion from this disease moving into our lives.

How do you find time for yourself?

Just like I did before T1D. I know what I need to give myself in order to be the best wife and mother I can be…time to decompress. Whether that is computer time, reading a book or taking a long bath; I recognize the signs of when I need a break (I get kind of ‘witchy’) and then TAKE the break.

What have you done to help your child become independent in their own care?

I told her that knowledge is the greatest tool in managing her T1D. The more she learns and the more she does on her own, the easier it will be for her to have the best health possible.

What research organizations do you support and why?

JDRF and Life for a Child

How do you deal with tough diabetes-related questions from your child?

Honesty is our policy. We take the time to sit down and answer her questions in words and examples she can relate to.

How has diabetes affected you financially? Have you been successful in getting the insurance coverage you need?

While we have good insurance, we still pay deductibles and co-pays every month and that has been a burden…but one we just have to accept and make changes in our budget to accommodate. We have had to make several phone calls and requests WAY too often to get the supplies we need. Trying to stay on top of prescriptions and advocate for what we feel Ellie needs is a constant and exhausting battle.

And in case you are wondering why Amy named her blog “Three Thirty Three,” you’ll have to read her sweet story of the significance of those three numbers.

Amy sent a few photos of her family and I just couldn’t choose a favorite, so I’m sharing them all with you!

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{Meet a D-Mom} Amy of Three Thirty Three is a post from: D-Mom Blog

The information provided here is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please read the disclaimer, disclosure, and privacy policy statements.

I invite you to read about Amy and her daughter Emma, and then visit her blog Way Too Sweet. If you are in the market for a pump pouch, you’ve got to check out her adorable creations at Too Sweet Boutique.

I’d like to introduce you to Amy of Way Too Sweet.

Tell me something about your child.

My little girl views life through sassy, fuchsia colored glasses! She is the happiest child I have ever known! She amazes me with her strength and bubbly, positive attitude every day. I have no idea where she came from… lol.

What is your child’s favorite 15 gram carb (or less) snack

Emma’s favorite snack is strawberries dipped in whipped cream! Delicious, healthy and minimal impact on blood sugar. Sweet!

How do you manage diabetes?

Emma has been pumping since she was 13 months-old. We added a CGMS when she was about 2 and have been using both, very happily, ever since. We use a Minimed pump/cgms combo primarily, (love it), but also use an Omnipod in the summer for some extra swimming freedom.

We carb count and test about 6 times a day on top of sensor readings which update every 5 minutes 24 hours a day.

What do you know now that you wish you had known at diagnosis

That we would survive, and even thrive!

The first year after her diagnosis… I wasn’t so sure. It was the most difficult year of my life. She was so little, and so sick with other issues at the same time. Ugh. It was so scary and I never slept at all and I lived in a constant state of fear and sadness.

Thank goodness we made it through and can now live full, happy lives in spite of the chaos.

What has been the biggest challenge?

Our biggest challenge has been adding other auto-immune problems on top of her diabetes. Emma has systemic auto-immune problems including kidney disease, hypothyroidism and asthma, to name a few. It’s been a lot to deal with and she takes a lot of meds that interact with her insulin and affect her blood sugar control.

Overall she is doing well, and most of the time life goes on as “normal,” but when she gets sick things get serious very quickly. It’s all good, until it’s not. We definitely live on the edge around here and that is a challenge.

How do you and your husband maintain your relationship?

My husband and try our best to make time for date nights and overnight getaways when we can. It’s not often, but we do know how important it is to keep some fun and romance in our marriage.

My husband also has type 1, so he is great with Emma’s care. I know many mom’s feel like they carry 100% of the burden of their child’s diabetes, and that is hard on a marriage. It helps so much that I have backup and that I can getaway for short amounts of time without worrying about her. He is amazing!

How do you find time for yourself?

I’d love to tell you that I get up at 5 am to do yoga or run 10 miles… but honestly, my me time is probably not ideal, and there is not much of it!

I do occasionally grab a Starbucks and walk around the outlet mall for a few hours, or have drinks with a girlfriend. I do make time to dye my gray roots and get a pedicure once a month, so that’s pretty good for a D mama!

How do you deal with tough diabetes-related questions from your child?

We are just now starting to get tough questions from Emma about her diabetes and health. I try to be honest, and incredibly optimistic, but it can be a hard balance. There are things she has to know, for her own safety, but I don’t want her to stress about things that are beyond her control either.

It is my goal to shelter her from as much of the brutal reality and future concerns as I possibly can.

I actually started sewing after Emma was diagnosed with diabetes. I had been a successful realtor, but suddeny had an insulin dependent infant, and going back to work was out. I needed a creative outlet, and she needed a better way to wear her insulin pump! Sewing became a passion right away, and the fact that I could create something that made life with D a little easier was a great reward.

I honestly never intended to have a “company”, I just planned to sew in my spare time and sell some cute things on Esty. When I started selling my handmade pump pouches I was blown away by the responses from D mamas, and the demand! Within a few months I had outgrown my Etsy shop and was moving to my own site, simply trying to keep up with demand and stay organized. That trend continues!

Too Sweet Boutique’s growth is completely driven by my customers. I am humbled and blown away by the feedback I find in my in box every day. I love knowing that what I do really makes a difference for other little pumpers and their mamas too! It really is Too Sweet!

Anything else you’d like to say?

I think it’s important to keep things in perspective. Diabetes is tough and relentless, but you can still live a full happy life and it’s important to embrace it and live it to the fullest. Even with diabetes, life really is sweet.

Meet other D-Moms and D-Dads on Mondays.

Meet a D-Mom: Amy of Way Too Sweet is a post from: D-Mom Blog

The information provided here is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please read the disclaimer, disclosure, and privacy policy statements.

I invite you to read about Valerie, and then visit her blog Type 1 With Tyler.

And if you like really pretty things, pop by her Etsy shop and drool over her camera straps.

I’d like to introduce you to Valerie of Type 1 With Tyler.

Tell me something about your child.

Tyler is an amazing, spunky and sweet boy who amazes us every day with is humor and bravery.

What is your child’s favorite 15 gram carb (or less) snack

Cheese and crackers!

How do you manage diabetes?

We are pumping with a Minimed Paradigm 722 pump.

What do you know now that you wish you had known at diagnosis

I wish I would have known then how far we would come and how diabetes management would become second nature to us. At the time of diagnosis it is all so overwhelming and scary, back then I could have never pictured myself handling it with such confidence.

What has been the biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge for me as a Mom is to take it one day, one test, one number at a time. I have worked hard at not worrying about the future and to handle each new challenge as it comes. Nobody knows what the future holds, and nobody can change the past, we can only control what is happening right now. I used to have anxiety about how diabetes may effect Tyler’s life and health in the future, now I strive to take it one day at a time and to love and enjoy our lives just the way they are.

How do you and your husband maintain your relationship?

We don’t really put any big effort into maintaining our relationship on a regular basis. We are lucky to love each other and to have the same attitude towards our life and marriage. We are in it for the long haul and know that marriage is a journey, not a destination. Like many parents of type 1 kids, we don’t get many chances for date nights, and we live 2000 miles away from our extended families, when we do get time alone it’s a treat.

What have been your challenges sending your child to school? Triumphs?

Our challenges have mostly been in just getting insulin dosing right to be within range as much as possible so he is safe at school. We are lucky to be in a school district where the staff is extremely accommodating and pretty much let us determine our own protocol. The attitude and knowledge of the staff in this district was a huge factor in our decision to move here from California 5 years ago. When Tyler was in Kindergarten, we lived in a school district that refused to help with even BG checks.

What sports/activities does your child do and how does it work with diabetes?

Tyler loves sports, and plays baseball and flag football. It is always a challenge to manage diabetes. So far he is still young so we are with him at each game and practices are minimal since he plays in Rec league sports. With most things relating to type 1, we take each practice, game and activity as it comes. We check BG’s frequently, will disconnect from the pump or adjust basal rates and snacks accordingly.

What vacations have you taken and how did you deal with diabetes?

We have traveled a ton, including a 4 day cross country drive when we moved from California to Illinois. We are always prepared with extra everything. I pack more snacks, site changes, and emergency supplies than we could ever use in the time frame that we are gone, and we’ve never run into any problems while traveling so far.

Have you found a babysitter, and if so, how?

Not yet! I have a few friends and parents of Tyler’s friends that have helped out for short periods of time, but we don’t have a traditional sitter. My boys are 10 and 13 years old, it won’t be long before we start leaving them home alone for a few hours at a time.

How do you find time for yourself?

I am lucky to have not had a traditional full time job since my oldest was born 13 years ago. I am able to find time while the boys are at school to decompress and spend time on things I enjoy doing. I am also lucky to have a husband who understands my need to get away from it all and I get away each year in October with friends for a girls long weekend. It is amazing how refreshed and recharged I feel after that weekend away.

What have you done to help your child become independent in their own care?

Diabetes camp! Tyler will be going for the third year this summer and I can not say enough how wonderful it has been. He came home last summer at age 10 doing his own site changes! We take every opportunity we can to teach him about his diabetes care and encourage him to do as much of it he can himself. We supervise and always explain why it’s so important, not just how to do the tasks.

I just love Valerie’s outlook and positive attitude. She literally lives 15 minutes from us and I hope our families meet soon!

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Meet a D-Mom: Valerie of Type 1 With Tyler is a post from: D-Mom Blog

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