It Just Hit Me

This weekend it hit me just like that. I have type 1 diabetes. I wasn't really doubting my disease beforehand but I never really actually sat down and thought about the fact that I have a life changing condition. I guess it was something to do with the fact that by the time I got out of the hospital two months ago, I felt completely normal again. I felt like I did before I was sick and nothing felt different. But these past couple weeks with the stress of finals, piano examinations, work, my drivers test coming up, and just plain teen angst (I will admit I do suffer from that one haha) my blood sugars have been going a little bit out of whack. Now I'm pretty good about counting my carbs, taking my insulin on time etc. But I've realized that it's way more than that. It is a constant juggling act of  food, insulin, stress, exercise, activity, even horror movies set them off because your heart starts racing. I came to terms with diabetes as soon as I found out I had it, but I didn't quite understand how it's kind of an "allover" disease. I am learning everyday though.

My JDRF Bag of Hope Finally Came!!!

So after I first got diagnosed I definitely took advantage of all the freebies that companies were offering. Free meter's, free literature, and yes, the infamous JDRF bag of hope. This bag is given out free to type 1's who order no more than 3 months from their diagnosis date. It is designed to help new diabetics under the age of 18 cope with their new condition. Although it varies, the contents usually include and backpack, different sorts of literature and promotions, and if you're under the age of 12, a teddy bear with diabetes named Rufus or Ruby that is meant to help teach children about injections (I still got a Ruby bear and I'm 17! lol). 

I think that this is an awesome tool especially for younger children to ease them into their new lifestyle. It's cool to know that you are supported no matter what and who doesn't love free stuff right?

Newly diagnosed type 1 diabetic? Get your Bag of Hope here!

U.S.A - http://www.jdrf.org/index.cfm?page_id=110888

Canada - http://www.jdrf.ca/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.viewpage&page_id=49CBE4C1-CF1C-2465-1A563F42916C1785