National Diabetes Awareness Month occurs every November.
People think that the injections are the worst part of Type One Diabetes.
It’s actually a very, very, very small thing.
But on that first day, the injection really was the worst part.
The kid was terrified.
A couple of hours later, the second time was terrifying too.
But he felt such relief with the insulin that it eased the fear of the shot.
When you give yourself so many injections every day, it quickly becomes the new normal.
Dark humor and sick jokes soon reigned in our house.
When the second son was diagnosed, the nurse tried to demonstrate the injection.
“I’ve got this,” he said boldly, having watched his brother for years.
He didn’t flinch when he gave himself that first shot.
Neither did I.
By that time, we were pros.
Type One Diabetes is a chronic illness, and there is no cure.
Diabetes is a 24/7 condition. There are no vacation days or sick days or time off.
It is a constant worry and struggle.
And it is very, very, very expensive.
Having said that, there are many Type One Diabetics who have achieved great things. Adam Duvall, centerfielder for the Braves, just won a World Series ring. Actress Mary Tyler Moore was T1D, as is Brandon Morrow (MLB pitcher), Nick Jonas (entertainer), and Anne Rice (novelist).
It’s understandable to feel angry and resentful and sorry for yourself.
It’s understandable, but it isn’t productive.
Be like Adam Duvall. Be a T1D champion.
