That's right...DIABETES. I used to view it as many others do, a disease of those who don't take care of themselves, who are usually older than me and as something that I might perhaps have to "deal" with when I'm older. Well, little did I know that it would enter our lives earlier than I thought possible. 3.15.2011 at 5pm - the day we were told that our daughter Abby, who had just celebrated her 9th birthday 2 weeks prior, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes ( Juvenile onset diabetes). We had been trying to figure out why she didn't feel well, wasn't growing and lost weight. We had suspected diabetes but I guess we just never thought that was actually it. I was relieved to have an answer but sad also. Dr. Gilbert told us to have her drink lots of water and if she gets really sick to go straight to the hospital. The next day we were contacted by Pediatric Endocrine Assoc (we'll talk about them later) and told that we needed to check into Children's hospital at Scottish Rite that evening and expect to be there for 2-3 days. What a whirlwind those 1st 3 days were. On our way to the hospital Abby chowed down on graham crackers and Peanut Butter. You'd have thought she wasn't going to get fed for days! We finally got up to a room that evening and were handed our "class" schedule. That's right 2 full days of diabetes education for all of us. Then they send you home to "do it on your own". WHAT??!! I have to keep my daughter alive with insulin, shots, Blood Glucose monitors, ketone strips, alcohol and keep track of all carbohydrates entering her body?! And you only gave me 2 days to learn how to do it!
1 Week Before her Diagnosis....
at the hospital with her diabetic friend Lucas...
3 months later and so much healthier!
