What is it really like to live with diabetes?

It begins with the date of diagnosis, especially for people with Type 1....

Diabetes is 24/7.

Spontaneity is affected.Think about driving a vehicle, running late for work, shopping at Costco.Diabetes permeates everything.

There are lots of health care appointments….

Moving from childhood to the adult world bringsnew issues……

And don’t forget the financial strain…..

The fear of hypoglycemia driveseverything…..

Never underestimate the power of one lowblood sugar.

Some actual examples:

• 50 year award

• Brother in Quebec

• 20 years of age

We ask them to do more….

“Just a few more blood sugar checks…..

Can you check at 3 in the morning?

Can you see the dietitian and bring a 3 day food record,as well as a few more blood sugar checks and a 3 am…

Can you test before and after exercise, and maybe during…

Test before driving

Weigh food, read labels, carry enough supplies, don’t over-treat a low…..”

As much as we think we do, we can never really fully understand, but we can: • ask• acknowledge• and listen to their story

We need to stop and think about our demands, be less judgmental, andapplaud not only successes, but attempts.