30 Facts about Type 1 Diabetes

I would like to thank all of you who made it all 30 days with me. I have ALL 30 Diabetes Facts listed below. They can also be found on the tab at the top of the page. Feel free to link up and share as much and as often as you would like. I definitely had a lot to SAE this month.

Diabetes Fact #30: Diabetes sucks, but, we have the BEST support network EVER.

Diabetes Fact #29: It is important to know and understand the signs of a HIGH blood sugar for a person with T1 Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #28: The siblings of people with T1 Diabetes are AMAZING.

Diabetes Fact #27: Knowing the signs of a LOW blood sugar and how to treat the low can save someone's life!

Diabetes Fact #26: Adults and children with T1 Diabetes are incredibly BRAVE and STRONG.

Diabetes Fact #25:A Diabetes diagnosis can put strain on the marriage of the person with T1 (for adults) or for the parents of the child diagnosed.

Diabetes Fact #24:Complications from out of range blood sugars with T1 Diabetics are very real and very worrisome to those living with the disease (and their parents/loved ones).

Diabetes Fact #23:The only thing constant with Diabetes, is that nothing stays the same.

Diabetes Fact #22:Diabetes is a family disease and affects every person in the family, near and far.

Diabetes Fact #21:Having Type 1 Diabetes means finger pokes 8-10 times per day (or more) and YES that means using BLOOD to do this.

Diabetes Fact #20:Despite always injecting the proper amount of insulin, people with type 1 Diabetes face many other factors that can adversely affect efforts to tightly control blood sugar levels. These factors include stress, hormonal changes, periods of growth, physical activity, medications, illness/infection, fatigue, and EVERYTHING they do or don't do every.single.day.

Diabetes Fact #19: T1 Diabetes is a 24/7/365 disease. It NEVER sleeps and neither do the parents of the children who have it (or the T1 people themselves).

Diabetes Fact #18: T1 Diabetes can happen to ANYONE, it is not necessarily hereditary. This means that yes, it CAN happen to YOU or to someone YOU know.

Diabetes Fact #17: People with T1 or T2 Diabetes (and their caregivers) are more likely to experience depression than their peers without Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #16: The out of pocket cost of managing T1 Diabetes is EXPENSIVE.

Diabetes Fact #15: Having Type 1 and getting an illness (especially a tummy bug) CAN be dangerous.

Diabetes Fact #14: Without insulin, a person with T1 Diabetes would DIE within ONE week.

Diabetes Fact #13: Type 1 Diabetes usually strikes children, adolescents, and young adults, but it CAN be diagnosed in adults as well.

Diabetes Fact #12: It is important for families of Diabetic children or the people with Diabetes themselves to genuinely try to understand what we go through, to learn about Diabetes along with us, and to support us through encouraging comments.

Diabetes Fact #11: Diabetes is ALL consuming. It is NOT our life, but it is a HUGE part of it.

Diabetes Fact #10: Parents of children with Diabetes HATE when people say "I could NEVER do it!" when referring to the management of their kid's disease. In reality, YOU could, and WOULD do it if you HAD to. We probably had the same thoughts as you and now look at us, doing it 24/7.

Diabetes Fact #9: The term "Juvenile Diabetes" is outdated. We now call it "T1 Diabetes" or "Insulin Dependent Diabetes". People with this type of Diabetes will NEVER outgrow it. EVER. They will have this relentless disease until a CURE is found.

Diabetes Fact #8: A cure would be great, but a long life without complications is a close second for people with T1 Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #7: Diabetes kills more people each year than cancer and AIDS combined. It is serious. We NEED a cure!

Diabetes Fact #6: While people with T1 Diabetes strive for blood glucose (BG) numbers from 80-120, it is NOT uncommon to see numbers MUCH lower or MUCH higher. There are SO many factors that go into each number and it is very challenging to see readings that are “in range” for EVERY reading.

Diabetes Fact #5: Type 1 Diabetes strikes 15,000 children every year in the US. That's 40 children per day. On July 10, 2008 The Superhero was one of the 40. Today, it could be YOUR child, or someone you know. This is why it is SO important to take the time to learn about the disease.

Diabetes Fact #4: Type 1 Diabetics may take insulin through syringes, insulin pens, or insulin pumps. What they use is a reflection of their choice and/or finances, NOT disease severity.

Diabetes Fact #3: People with Diabetes CAN eat anything they want as long as they match the carbohydrates with insulin.

Diabetes Fact #2: T1 Diabetes is NOT caused by eating too much sugar or being over weight. It IS an autoimmune disease and cannot be prevented.

Diabetes Fact #1: T1 Diabetes CANNOT be treated with medication. The only way to manage T1 Diabetes is with insulin. Without insulin, T1 Diabetics would die. Period.

*Disclaimer: I am a mom of a T1 Diabetic child. I am NOT a doctor. I just play one in real life. Please do not take anything in this post or any other post on this blog as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns of your own, please seek advice from your doctor.*

The BEST support network EVER

(NaBloPoMo Day 30, whew!)

When The Superhero was diagnosed with T1 diabetes, we knew our lives were going to change. We had NO IDEA just how much things would change.

Our lives became so consumed with diabetes that it became difficult to have relationships with the friends in our lives. Our life was so much different than theirs. Of course we still love those friends, things are just different now.

Before The Superhero was even released from the hospital my dad had found Children With Diabetes and sent the link my way. I signed up and started reading while The Superhero was still in ICU. I felt a connection to the people and posts I was reading.

I also found a local yahoo group for families with T1 Diabetes. This is an online group of families living in our area that post messages to each other online and have meet ups in person once in a while.

Over time, I started "friending" many of the D Mamas on facebook and we got to know each other more and more. The connection continued to grow as I posted and read status updates about blood sugars, site changes, insulin, hospital trips, etc. I never felt like any of us were complaining, we were just looking for the "I have been there" or the "Sorry you have to deal with that" or the "Sorry he/she has been high/low all night and you got no sleep" comments.

It meant A LOT to have the support from other families who knew exactly what every day and every night were like for us in our house.

Then I read some posts with links to BLOGS. After reading a few of them (Wendy, Beth, and Leigh) I decided to start my own. Then Wendy got me joining in on Sunday chats with some of the other D Mamas and I felt such a strong connection to these women scattered throughout the US and Canada.

I became friends with all of them through facebook too. We have formed such a strong bond with one another and I feel incredibly Blessed to have each one of them in my life.

We share Christmas Cards. We have gift exchanges. We have participated in a kids gift exchange. We check on each other when someone goes MIA for a while. We pray for each other. We give virtual (((HUGS))) and support each other like I could never have imagined.

D Mamas are always there when you need them. Someone is always available through text or chat. And D Mamas ALWAYS support each other in times of need.

And it is ALWAYS fun when we get to meet in person!

I posted about a play date with Wendy and her girls, which was mostly fun.

I also posted about a gathering among some other D Mama Bloggers.

Laura posted about the first time she met Joanne.

Laura posted about a play date with Joanne and Jessica.

Wendy posted about her WDD meet up with several D Mamas. Heidi posted about WDD as well.

Wendy posted about her awesome D Mama meet up in VEGAS with Shamae and Megann.

Wendy posted about several local D Mama meet-ups. Our local support in AZ is pretty awesome, I think you ALL should move here. :-)

Wendy posted about a D pot luck even in which she forgot the INSULIN. Thank goodness for D Mamas who can come to the rescue!

Joanne posted about how much she loves the DOC.

Heidi posted about how Every Dark Cloud has a Silver Lining.

Hallie posted about meeting Lora and her meet up with Misty.

Hallie also posted about meeting The Princess and I in September.

More posts about the AWESOMENESS of the DOC (Diabetes Online Community):

Lora posted about how blogging helped lift a fog.

Meri posted about the friendships she has found inside her computer.

Nicole posted about the DOC being one of their biggest supporters.

Laura also posted about the DOC being her biggest supporter.

Heidi posted about her online friends she has never met.

I honestly don't know how I would get through each day without them. Lots of love to you all!

I hate that we have diabetes in our lives, but I LOVE that we are lucky enough to have the BEST support network, EVER.


Diabetes Fact #30: Diabetes sucks, but, we have the BEST support network EVER.

Diabetes Fact #29: It is important to know and understand the signs of a HIGH blood sugar for a person with T1 Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #28: The siblings of people with T1 Diabetes are AMAZING.

Diabetes Fact #27: Knowing the signs of a LOW blood sugar and how to treat the low can save someone's life!

Diabetes Fact #26: Adults and children with T1 Diabetes are incredibly BRAVE and STRONG.

Diabetes Fact #25:A Diabetes diagnosis can put strain on the marriage of the person with T1 (for adults) or for the parents of the child diagnosed.

Diabetes Fact #24:Complications from out of range blood sugars with T1 Diabetics are very real and very worrisome to those living with the disease (and their parents/loved ones).

Diabetes Fact #23:The only thing constant with Diabetes, is that nothing stays the same.

Diabetes Fact #22:Diabetes is a family disease and affects every person in the family, near and far.

Diabetes Fact #21:Having Type 1 Diabetes means finger pokes 8-10 times per day (or more) and YES that means using BLOOD to do this.

Diabetes Fact #20:Despite always injecting the proper amount of insulin, people with type 1 Diabetes face many other factors that can adversely affect efforts to tightly control blood sugar levels. These factors include stress, hormonal changes, periods of growth, physical activity, medications, illness/infection, fatigue, and EVERYTHING they do or don't do every.single.day.

Diabetes Fact #19: T1 Diabetes is a 24/7/365 disease. It NEVER sleeps and neither do the parents of the children who have it (or the T1 people themselves).

Diabetes Fact #18: T1 Diabetes can happen to ANYONE, it is not necessarily hereditary. This means that yes, it CAN happen to YOU or to someone YOU know.

Diabetes Fact #17: People with T1 or T2 Diabetes (and their caregivers) are more likely to experience depression than their peers without Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #16: The out of pocket cost of managing T1 Diabetes is EXPENSIVE.

Diabetes Fact #15: Having Type 1 and getting an illness (especially a tummy bug) CAN be dangerous.

Diabetes Fact #14: Without insulin, a person with T1 Diabetes would DIE within ONE week.

Diabetes Fact #13: Type 1 Diabetes usually strikes children, adolescents, and young adults, but it CAN be diagnosed in adults as well.

Diabetes Fact #12: It is important for families of Diabetic children or the people with Diabetes themselves to genuinely try to understand what we go through, to learn about Diabetes along with us, and to support us through encouraging comments.

Diabetes Fact #11: Diabetes is ALL consuming. It is NOT our life, but it is a HUGE part of it.

Diabetes Fact #10: Parents of children with Diabetes HATE when people say "I could NEVER do it!" when referring to the management of their kid's disease. In reality, YOU could, and WOULD do it if you HAD to. We probably had the same thoughts as you and now look at us, doing it 24/7.

Diabetes Fact #9: The term "Juvenile Diabetes" is outdated. We now call it "T1 Diabetes" or "Insulin Dependent Diabetes". People with this type of Diabetes will NEVER outgrow it. EVER. They will have this relentless disease until a CURE is found.

Diabetes Fact #8: A cure would be great, but a long life without complications is a close second for people with T1 Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #7: Diabetes kills more people each year than cancer and AIDS combined. It is serious. We NEED a cure!

Diabetes Fact #6: While people with T1 Diabetes strive for blood glucose (BG) numbers from 80-120, it is NOT uncommon to see numbers MUCH lower or MUCH higher. There are SO many factors that go into each number and it is very challenging to see readings that are “in range” for EVERY reading.

Diabetes Fact #5: Type 1 Diabetes strikes 15,000 children every year in the US. That's 40 children per day. On July 10, 2008 The Superhero was one of the 40. Today, it could be YOUR child, or someone you know. This is why it is SO important to take the time to learn about the disease.

Diabetes Fact #4: Type 1 Diabetics may take insulin through syringes, insulin pens, or insulin pumps. What they use is a reflection of their choice and/or finances, NOT disease severity.

Diabetes Fact #3: People with Diabetes CAN eat anything they want as long as they match the carbohydrates with insulin.

Diabetes Fact #2: T1 Diabetes is NOT caused by eating too much sugar or being over weight. It IS an autoimmune disease and cannot be prevented.

Diabetes Fact #1: T1 Diabetes CANNOT be treated with medication. The only way to manage T1 Diabetes is with insulin. Without insulin, T1 Diabetics would die. Period.

*Disclaimer: I am a mom of a T1 Diabetic child. I am NOT a doctor. I just play one in real life. Please do not take anything in this post or any other post on this blog as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns of your own, please seek advice from your doctor.*

Symptoms of a high

(NaBloPoMo Day 29)

While it is important to know the symptoms of a LOW blood sugar, I think it is also important for people to understand a little more about HIGH blood sugars.

Again, from the JDRF site:

High Blood Sugar: Definition, Symptoms

High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, occurs when the body has too much food or glucose, or too little insulin. The following are all potential reasons that a person with type 1 diabetes might have high blood sugar:

• Not enough insulin taken
• Eating more than usual
• Eating earlier than usual
• Eating food with higher glucose content without injecting extra insulin
• Injecting insulin at a site on the body where the absorption rate is slower
• Missing or skipping an insulin dose
• A clog in insulin pump tubing
• Less exercise than normal
• Stress
• Illness or injury
• Other hormones
• Medications

High blood sugar generally does not immediately put the person with type 1 diabetes in danger. However, high blood sugar levels over long periods of time can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, blindness, kidney failure, and amputation.

Very high blood sugar levels can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), or a "diabetic coma." DKA occurs when the cells can't get the energy they need from glucose, and the body begins to burn fat and body tissue for energy. This causes the release of byproducts called ketones, which are dangerous when released at high levels. Ketones become like poison to the body and are passed in the urine as they build up in the blood.

A person with type 1 diabetes and high blood sugar may exhibit one or more of the following symptoms:

• Thirst (dehydration)
• Frequent urination
• Blurry vision
• Stomach pain
• Increased hunger
• Nausea
• Drowsiness, lethargy, exhaustion
• Confusion
• Sweating
• Fruity, sweet, or wine-like odor on breath
• Vomiting
• Inability to concentrate
• Weight loss (a longer-term symptom) that eventually leads to coma

So, what do people with T1 need to do when their blood sugar is higher than normal?

Click HERE to read what JDRF recommends.


When The Superhero is high, he needs insulin.

We typically give insulin through his pump, unless it is suspected that his site is the problem. In that case we would use a syringe to administer his insulin.

We monitor his blood sugar closely to make sure he comes down, SAFELY.

We check for ketones as needed to prevent DKA.

When The Superhero is high, he is MEAN. I don't just mean, ordinarily not nice, I mean MEAN. He turns into a monster.

He drinks a lot.

He pees a lot.

He sweats a lot.

He is MEAN. (didn't I say that?)

M.E.A.N.

I try to cut him a little slack for his behavior when he is high for a lengthy period of time. I know he has a hard time controlling his behavior. I try to make sure The Princess is not around him too much, or she will get hurt. Seriously.

Then we just WAIT it out. And hope/pray the BG comes down so he can be back to his normal self.


Diabetes Fact #29: It is important to know and understand the signs of a HIGH blood sugar for a person with T1 Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #28: The siblings of people with T1 Diabetes are AMAZING.

Diabetes Fact #27: Knowing the signs of a LOW blood sugar and how to treat the low can save someone's life!

Diabetes Fact #26: Adults and children with T1 Diabetes are incredibly BRAVE and STRONG.

Diabetes Fact #25:A Diabetes diagnosis can put strain on the marriage of the person with T1 (for adults) or for the parents of the child diagnosed.

Diabetes Fact #24:Complications from out of range blood sugars with T1 Diabetics are very real and very worrisome to those living with the disease (and their parents/loved ones).

Diabetes Fact #23:The only thing constant with Diabetes, is that nothing stays the same.

Diabetes Fact #22:Diabetes is a family disease and affects every person in the family, near and far.

Diabetes Fact #21:Having Type 1 Diabetes means finger pokes 8-10 times per day (or more) and YES that means using BLOOD to do this.

Diabetes Fact #20:Despite always injecting the proper amount of insulin, people with type 1 Diabetes face many other factors that can adversely affect efforts to tightly control blood sugar levels. These factors include stress, hormonal changes, periods of growth, physical activity, medications, illness/infection, fatigue, and EVERYTHING they do or don't do every.single.day.

Diabetes Fact #19: T1 Diabetes is a 24/7/365 disease. It NEVER sleeps and neither do the parents of the children who have it (or the T1 people themselves).

Diabetes Fact #18: T1 Diabetes can happen to ANYONE, it is not necessarily hereditary. This means that yes, it CAN happen to YOU or to someone YOU know.

Diabetes Fact #17: People with T1 or T2 Diabetes (and their caregivers) are more likely to experience depression than their peers without Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #16: The out of pocket cost of managing T1 Diabetes is EXPENSIVE.

Diabetes Fact #15: Having Type 1 and getting an illness (especially a tummy bug) CAN be dangerous.

Diabetes Fact #14: Without insulin, a person with T1 Diabetes would DIE within ONE week.

Diabetes Fact #13: Type 1 Diabetes usually strikes children, adolescents, and young adults, but it CAN be diagnosed in adults as well.

Diabetes Fact #12: It is important for families of Diabetic children or the people with Diabetes themselves to genuinely try to understand what we go through, to learn about Diabetes along with us, and to support us through encouraging comments.

Diabetes Fact #11: Diabetes is ALL consuming. It is NOT our life, but it is a HUGE part of it.

Diabetes Fact #10: Parents of children with Diabetes HATE when people say "I could NEVER do it!" when referring to the management of their kid's disease. In reality, YOU could, and WOULD do it if you HAD to. We probably had the same thoughts as you and now look at us, doing it 24/7.

Diabetes Fact #9: The term "Juvenile Diabetes" is outdated. We now call it "T1 Diabetes" or "Insulin Dependent Diabetes". People with this type of Diabetes will NEVER outgrow it. EVER. They will have this relentless disease until a CURE is found.

Diabetes Fact #8: A cure would be great, but a long life without complications is a close second for people with T1 Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #7: Diabetes kills more people each year than cancer and AIDS combined. It is serious. We NEED a cure!

Diabetes Fact #6: While people with T1 Diabetes strive for blood glucose (BG) numbers from 80-120, it is NOT uncommon to see numbers MUCH lower or MUCH higher. There are SO many factors that go into each number and it is very challenging to see readings that are “in range” for EVERY reading.

Diabetes Fact #5: Type 1 Diabetes strikes 15,000 children every year in the US. That's 40 children per day. On July 10, 2008 The Superhero was one of the 40. Today, it could be YOUR child, or someone you know. This is why it is SO important to take the time to learn about the disease.

Diabetes Fact #4: Type 1 Diabetics may take insulin through syringes, insulin pens, or insulin pumps. What they use is a reflection of their choice and/or finances, NOT disease severity.

Diabetes Fact #3: People with Diabetes CAN eat anything they want as long as they match the carbohydrates with insulin.

Diabetes Fact #2: T1 Diabetes is NOT caused by eating too much sugar or being over weight. It IS an autoimmune disease and cannot be prevented.

Diabetes Fact #1: T1 Diabetes CANNOT be treated with medication. The only way to manage T1 Diabetes is with insulin. Without insulin, T1 Diabetics would die. Period.

*Disclaimer: I am a mom of a T1 Diabetic child. I am NOT a doctor. I just play one in real life. Please do not take anything in this post or any other post on this blog as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns of your own, please seek advice from your doctor.*

Diabetes Siblings: The Princess

(NaBloPoMo Day 28)

Special Sib of a D-Kid Day is an event/day that was created on Facebook to honor/celebrate the siblings of those living with T1 Diabetes.

It is not uncommon for Diabetes and the children living with it to overshadow their non-Diabetic siblings. This is something as parents of children with Diabetes we would never intentionally do, diabetes tends to take over our lives.

None of us love any of our kids any more or less than the others. I am thankful THIS day has been set aside to talk about the SPECIAL Siblings, and in our case, The Princess.

I am going to share about The Princess in 2 parts because I don't want Diabetes to take over what I write about her, but I think it is important to include the D part too.

How Diabetes affects The Princess...

She knows no life without Diabetes. I often think she thinks that SHE has Diabetes. She is always wanting me to check her "ginger" (finger). She gets MAD if I don't when she requests it. I usually give in and check her. (and yes, all numbers have been in range, whew!)

If The Superhero is low, she wants juice or fruit snacks too. I usually give in to this one as well.

And sadly, there are times when Diabetes HAS to come first. If I am changing a site, treating a combative LOW, etc. She tends to get pushed aside and HAS to wait until I am done. I hate this, but there are times when Diabetes has to come first.

She knows all of his supplies. She knows what his Dexie is and can go get it out of his room if he forgets it in there in the morning or at nap time. She will see his "black kit" for checking his finger and know exactly what it is. She can even see supplies of OTHER people when we are out with D families and know what they are, even if The Superhero is not around!

She gets sad when The Superhero is not feeling well due to a low. She rubs his back while I hold him. She is adorable when it comes to all of the D stuff. I just hope we never really have to do any of it for her too!


Some non-Diabetes things that make us LOVE our Princess.

She is ADORABLE.

She has a GREAT smile.

She laughs A LOT and makes us laugh too.

She has the cutest little voice.

She is SUPER smart, too much for her own good sometimes.

She is a MONKEY.

She LOVES taking her clothes off. ALL.THE.TIME. It is annoying, yet cute at the same time.

She is BEYOND INDEPENDENT. And apparently just like I was at this age, I survived, so I am sure she will too!

She has a LOVE/HATE relationship with shoes. She loves whatever is the newest pair. And won't leave the rest on her feet.

She LOVES babies. A. LOT. (dolls and real ones)

She loves tutus. And twirling.

She loves hair bows. And flowers.

She loves to get dirty.

She loves swimming.

She loves to cuddle, when SHE is in the mood.

She did not learn to talk until after 18 months old. And now, she can say SO many words, she amazes me every day.

She loves her brother, even if they don't always get along.

She is drama.

She has TEARS that can break your heart!

She gives the BEST squeezy hugs, EVER.

She is simply, amazing.

And The Superhero is LUCKY to have her as his D Sibling.


Diabetes Fact #28: The siblings of people with T1 Diabetes are AMAZING.

Diabetes Fact #27: Knowing the signs of a LOW blood sugar and how to treat the low can save someone's life!

Diabetes Fact #26: Adults and children with T1 Diabetes are incredibly BRAVE and STRONG.

Diabetes Fact #25:A Diabetes diagnosis can put strain on the marriage of the person with T1 (for adults) or for the parents of the child diagnosed.

Diabetes Fact #24:Complications from out of range blood sugars with T1 Diabetics are very real and very worrisome to those living with the disease (and their parents/loved ones).

Diabetes Fact #23:The only thing constant with Diabetes, is that nothing stays the same.

Diabetes Fact #22:Diabetes is a family disease and affects every person in the family, near and far.

Diabetes Fact #21:Having Type 1 Diabetes means finger pokes 8-10 times per day (or more) and YES that means using BLOOD to do this.

Diabetes Fact #20:Despite always injecting the proper amount of insulin, people with type 1 Diabetes face many other factors that can adversely affect efforts to tightly control blood sugar levels. These factors include stress, hormonal changes, periods of growth, physical activity, medications, illness/infection, fatigue, and EVERYTHING they do or don't do every.single.day.

Diabetes Fact #19: T1 Diabetes is a 24/7/365 disease. It NEVER sleeps and neither do the parents of the children who have it (or the T1 people themselves).

Diabetes Fact #18: T1 Diabetes can happen to ANYONE, it is not necessarily hereditary. This means that yes, it CAN happen to YOU or to someone YOU know.

Diabetes Fact #17: People with T1 or T2 Diabetes (and their caregivers) are more likely to experience depression than their peers without Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #16: The out of pocket cost of managing T1 Diabetes is EXPENSIVE.

Diabetes Fact #15: Having Type 1 and getting an illness (especially a tummy bug) CAN be dangerous.

Diabetes Fact #14: Without insulin, a person with T1 Diabetes would DIE within ONE week.

Diabetes Fact #13: Type 1 Diabetes usually strikes children, adolescents, and young adults, but it CAN be diagnosed in adults as well.

Diabetes Fact #12: It is important for families of Diabetic children or the people with Diabetes themselves to genuinely try to understand what we go through, to learn about Diabetes along with us, and to support us through encouraging comments.

Diabetes Fact #11: Diabetes is ALL consuming. It is NOT our life, but it is a HUGE part of it.

Diabetes Fact #10: Parents of children with Diabetes HATE when people say "I could NEVER do it!" when referring to the management of their kid's disease. In reality, YOU could, and WOULD do it if you HAD to. We probably had the same thoughts as you and now look at us, doing it 24/7.

Diabetes Fact #9: The term "Juvenile Diabetes" is outdated. We now call it "T1 Diabetes" or "Insulin Dependent Diabetes". People with this type of Diabetes will NEVER outgrow it. EVER. They will have this relentless disease until a CURE is found.

Diabetes Fact #8: A cure would be great, but a long life without complications is a close second for people with T1 Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #7: Diabetes kills more people each year than cancer and AIDS combined. It is serious. We NEED a cure!

Diabetes Fact #6: While people with T1 Diabetes strive for blood glucose (BG) numbers from 80-120, it is NOT uncommon to see numbers MUCH lower or MUCH higher. There are SO many factors that go into each number and it is very challenging to see readings that are “in range” for EVERY reading.

Diabetes Fact #5: Type 1 Diabetes strikes 15,000 children every year in the US. That's 40 children per day. On July 10, 2008 The Superhero was one of the 40. Today, it could be YOUR child, or someone you know. This is why it is SO important to take the time to learn about the disease.

Diabetes Fact #4: Type 1 Diabetics may take insulin through syringes, insulin pens, or insulin pumps. What they use is a reflection of their choice and/or finances, NOT disease severity.

Diabetes Fact #3: People with Diabetes CAN eat anything they want as long as they match the carbohydrates with insulin.

Diabetes Fact #2: T1 Diabetes is NOT caused by eating too much sugar or being over weight. It IS an autoimmune disease and cannot be prevented.

Diabetes Fact #1: T1 Diabetes CANNOT be treated with medication. The only way to manage T1 Diabetes is with insulin. Without insulin, T1 Diabetics would die. Period.

*Disclaimer: I am a mom of a T1 Diabetic child. I am NOT a doctor. I just play one in real life. Please do not take anything in this post or any other post on this blog as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns of your own, please seek advice from your doctor.*

Christmas Card Exchange EXTENSION

Some of you may have seen the post by Cindy @Eaten Alive about the Christmas Card Exchange she was going to put together. She has decided to combine her idea with mine and we will have ONE list. :-)

She had posted a deadline of December 1st, so I will extend the deadline to that date for anyone to sign up. As of today we have a little over 20 people participating! This is going to be fun!

If you have not signed up yet, please go HERE and fill out the form.


*Disclaimer: I am a mom of a T1 Diabetic child. I am NOT a doctor. I just play one in real life. Please do not take anything in this post or any other post on this blog as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns of your own, please seek advice from your doctor.*

Symptoms of a low

(NaBloPoMo Day 27)

As we near the end of National Diabetes Month, I thought it would be important to share the signs of a LOW blood sugar (signs of a High blood sugar will come on Monday).

For those of you without Diabetes in your family, these signs could still come in handy. You may see someone with Diabetes exhibit these signs and they may need YOUR help.

I know in the school where The Superhero goes they mentioned letting all the staff know about his Diabetes so they could help him if he were found wandering on campus.

You never know when this info might come in handy, so PLEASE continue reading and then stick these signs in the back of your mind.



From the JDRF website:

Low Blood Sugar: Definition, Symptoms

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is the most common and most dangerous condition for many people with type 1 diabetes. Very low blood sugar may lead to insulin shock, which can be life threatening if not promptly treated. Low blood sugar occurs when the body has too little food/glucose or too much insulin.

The following are all potential reasons that a person with diabetes might have low blood sugar:

• Too much insulin taken
• Eating less than usual
• Eating later than usual
• Insulin was injected at a site on the body where the absorption rate is faster than usual
• Injecting extra insulin after forgetting about a previous dose
• More exercise than normal
• Illness or injury
• Other hormones
• Medication interaction

The following is a list of general symptoms that indicate low blood sugar (the person with type 1 diabetes may exhibit one or more of these):

• Dizziness
• Nervousness
• Personality change/irrational behavior
• Blurry vision
• Shakiness
• Nausea
• Crying
• Sluggishness
• Sweating
• Poor coordination
• Hunger
• Lightheadedness
• Irritability
• Drowsiness
• Erratic response to questions
• Inability to concentrate

Severe symptoms (symptoms as listed above, plus):

• Convulsions
• Unconsciousness

Some people can "feel" their lows and treat them without worry. Others (such as The Superhero, due to age) do not always feel their lows. And some people develop Hypoglycemia Unawareness in which they can no longer detect their lows.

If a person has a low blood sugar, he/she needs to consume carbohydrates to bring the low up to a safe blood sugar. The carbohydrates can be anything from juice or glucose tablets to candy or milk.

Typically, with a low blood sugar you would want to have a "fast" acting carbohydrate in order to get the blood sugar up more quickly. It may also be good to add some complex carbohydrates or some protein to help keep the blood sugar stable once it rises.

If a person with T1 diabetes is unable to treat their own low blood sugar due to unconsciousness, it is important for there to be someone trained (and willing) to use glucagon to save the person's life.



It is not uncommon for the Superhero to be combative when he is low (and others with Diabetes as well). He will FIGHT you on eating/drinking carbs until you force them in him and he starts to feel better.

There have been times when I have had to draw some juice into the end of a straw and force it in his mouth. And this usually leads to both of us covered in juice, but his blood sugar starts to come up quickly and he is more willing to finish the juice box with no problems. I hate when this happens, it can be SCARY!


Diabetes Fact #27: Knowing the signs of a LOW blood sugar and how to treat the low can save someone's life!

Diabetes Fact #26: Adults and children with T1 Diabetes are incredibly BRAVE and STRONG.

Diabetes Fact #25:A Diabetes diagnosis can put strain on the marriage of the person with T1 (for adults) or for the parents of the child diagnosed.

Diabetes Fact #24:Complications from out of range blood sugars with T1 Diabetics are very real and very worrisome to those living with the disease (and their parents/loved ones).

Diabetes Fact #23:The only thing constant with Diabetes, is that nothing stays the same.

Diabetes Fact #22:Diabetes is a family disease and affects every person in the family, near and far.

Diabetes Fact #21:Having Type 1 Diabetes means finger pokes 8-10 times per day (or more) and YES that means using BLOOD to do this.

Diabetes Fact #20:Despite always injecting the proper amount of insulin, people with type 1 Diabetes face many other factors that can adversely affect efforts to tightly control blood sugar levels. These factors include stress, hormonal changes, periods of growth, physical activity, medications, illness/infection, fatigue, and EVERYTHING they do or don't do every.single.day.

Diabetes Fact #19: T1 Diabetes is a 24/7/365 disease. It NEVER sleeps and neither do the parents of the children who have it (or the T1 people themselves).

Diabetes Fact #18: T1 Diabetes can happen to ANYONE, it is not necessarily hereditary. This means that yes, it CAN happen to YOU or to someone YOU know.

Diabetes Fact #17: People with T1 or T2 Diabetes (and their caregivers) are more likely to experience depression than their peers without Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #16: The out of pocket cost of managing T1 Diabetes is EXPENSIVE.

Diabetes Fact #15: Having Type 1 and getting an illness (especially a tummy bug) CAN be dangerous.

Diabetes Fact #14: Without insulin, a person with T1 Diabetes would DIE within ONE week.

Diabetes Fact #13: Type 1 Diabetes usually strikes children, adolescents, and young adults, but it CAN be diagnosed in adults as well.

Diabetes Fact #12: It is important for families of Diabetic children or the people with Diabetes themselves to genuinely try to understand what we go through, to learn about Diabetes along with us, and to support us through encouraging comments.

Diabetes Fact #11: Diabetes is ALL consuming. It is NOT our life, but it is a HUGE part of it.

Diabetes Fact #10: Parents of children with Diabetes HATE when people say "I could NEVER do it!" when referring to the management of their kid's disease. In reality, YOU could, and WOULD do it if you HAD to. We probably had the same thoughts as you and now look at us, doing it 24/7.

Diabetes Fact #9: The term "Juvenile Diabetes" is outdated. We now call it "T1 Diabetes" or "Insulin Dependent Diabetes". People with this type of Diabetes will NEVER outgrow it. EVER. They will have this relentless disease until a CURE is found.

Diabetes Fact #8: A cure would be great, but a long life without complications is a close second for people with T1 Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #7: Diabetes kills more people each year than cancer and AIDS combined. It is serious. We NEED a cure!

Diabetes Fact #6: While people with T1 Diabetes strive for blood glucose (BG) numbers from 80-120, it is NOT uncommon to see numbers MUCH lower or MUCH higher. There are SO many factors that go into each number and it is very challenging to see readings that are “in range” for EVERY reading.

Diabetes Fact #5: Type 1 Diabetes strikes 15,000 children every year in the US. That's 40 children per day. On July 10, 2008 The Superhero was one of the 40. Today, it could be YOUR child, or someone you know. This is why it is SO important to take the time to learn about the disease.

Diabetes Fact #4: Type 1 Diabetics may take insulin through syringes, insulin pens, or insulin pumps. What they use is a reflection of their choice and/or finances, NOT disease severity.

Diabetes Fact #3: People with Diabetes CAN eat anything they want as long as they match the carbohydrates with insulin.

Diabetes Fact #2: T1 Diabetes is NOT caused by eating too much sugar or being over weight. It IS an autoimmune disease and cannot be prevented.

Diabetes Fact #1: T1 Diabetes CANNOT be treated with medication. The only way to manage T1 Diabetes is with insulin. Without insulin, T1 Diabetics would die. Period.

*Disclaimer: I am a mom of a T1 Diabetic child. I am NOT a doctor. I just play one in real life. Please do not take anything in this post or any other post on this blog as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns of your own, please seek advice from your doctor.*

Brave Peeps

(NaBloPoMo Day 26)

People with T1 Diabetes, that being children or adults, are some of the bravest and strongest people around.

They poke their fingers anywhere from 6-10 (or more) times per day.

They administer insulin via shot or pump. (Hello, NEEDLES!)

And they do this day in and day out just to stay alive.

I am amazed every.single.time The Superhero gets a finger poke, a pump site change, or a Dexcom site change.

He usually does not flinch or cry AT ALL.

It is rare for him to have any reaction to any of this.

It is all "normal" for him now and he knows nothing different.

He is SO AMAZING. This is why he is my Superhero.


Diabetes Fact #26: Adults and Children with T1 Diabetes are incredibly BRAVE and STRONG.

Diabetes Fact #25:A Diabetes diagnosis can put strain on the marriage of the person with T1 (for adults) or for the parents of the child diagnosed.

Diabetes Fact #24:Complications from out of range blood sugars with T1 Diabetics are very real and very worrisome to those living with the disease (and their parents/loved ones).

Diabetes Fact #23:The only thing constant with Diabetes, is that nothing stays the same.

Diabetes Fact #22:Diabetes is a family disease and affects every person in the family, near and far.

Diabetes Fact #21:Having Type 1 Diabetes means finger pokes 8-10 times per day (or more) and YES that means using BLOOD to do this.

Diabetes Fact #20:Despite always injecting the proper amount of insulin, people with type 1 Diabetes face many other factors that can adversely affect efforts to tightly control blood sugar levels. These factors include stress, hormonal changes, periods of growth, physical activity, medications, illness/infection, fatigue, and EVERYTHING they do or don't do every.single.day.

Diabetes Fact #19: T1 Diabetes is a 24/7/365 disease. It NEVER sleeps and neither do the parents of the children who have it (or the T1 people themselves).

Diabetes Fact #18: T1 Diabetes can happen to ANYONE, it is not necessarily hereditary. This means that yes, it CAN happen to YOU or to someone YOU know.

Diabetes Fact #17: People with T1 or T2 Diabetes (and their caregivers) are more likely to experience depression than their peers without Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #16: The out of pocket cost of managing T1 Diabetes is EXPENSIVE.

Diabetes Fact #15: Having Type 1 and getting an illness (especially a tummy bug) CAN be dangerous.

Diabetes Fact #14: Without insulin, a person with T1 Diabetes would DIE within ONE week.

Diabetes Fact #13: Type 1 Diabetes usually strikes children, adolescents, and young adults, but it CAN be diagnosed in adults as well.

Diabetes Fact #12: It is important for families of Diabetic children or the people with Diabetes themselves to genuinely try to understand what we go through, to learn about Diabetes along with us, and to support us through encouraging comments.

Diabetes Fact #11: Diabetes is ALL consuming. It is NOT our life, but it is a HUGE part of it.

Diabetes Fact #10: Parents of children with Diabetes HATE when people say "I could NEVER do it!" when referring to the management of their kid's disease. In reality, YOU could, and WOULD do it if you HAD to. We probably had the same thoughts as you and now look at us, doing it 24/7.

Diabetes Fact #9: The term "Juvenile Diabetes" is outdated. We now call it "T1 Diabetes" or "Insulin Dependent Diabetes". People with this type of Diabetes will NEVER outgrow it. EVER. They will have this relentless disease until a CURE is found.

Diabetes Fact #8: A cure would be great, but a long life without complications is a close second for people with T1 Diabetes.

Diabetes Fact #7: Diabetes kills more people each year than cancer and AIDS combined. It is serious. We NEED a cure!

Diabetes Fact #6: While people with T1 Diabetes strive for blood glucose (BG) numbers from 80-120, it is NOT uncommon to see numbers MUCH lower or MUCH higher. There are SO many factors that go into each number and it is very challenging to see readings that are “in range” for EVERY reading.

Diabetes Fact #5: Type 1 Diabetes strikes 15,000 children every year in the US. That's 40 children per day. On July 10, 2008 The Superhero was one of the 40. Today, it could be YOUR child, or someone you know. This is why it is SO important to take the time to learn about the disease.

Diabetes Fact #4: Type 1 Diabetics may take insulin through syringes, insulin pens, or insulin pumps. What they use is a reflection of their choice and/or finances, NOT disease severity.

Diabetes Fact #3: People with Diabetes CAN eat anything they want as long as they match the carbohydrates with insulin.

Diabetes Fact #2: T1 Diabetes is NOT caused by eating too much sugar or being over weight. It IS an autoimmune disease and cannot be prevented.

Diabetes Fact #1: T1 Diabetes CANNOT be treated with medication. The only way to manage T1 Diabetes is with insulin. Without insulin, T1 Diabetics would die. Period.

*Disclaimer: I am a mom of a T1 Diabetic child. I am NOT a doctor. I just play one in real life. Please do not take anything in this post or any other post on this blog as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns of your own, please seek advice from your doctor.*