Diabetes.Blog.com

1 - I have a 12 and a 13 y.o. They often ask about my diabetes. I am very honest about the disease and it's lifestyle choices that I make. They have watched my take my injections, and even let me do finger sticks on them to check their blood sugars. They are both aware fo symptoms of Hypoglycemia, and good about watching what I eat. (Can't fool a kid about junk food) I am now on Byetta, and my kids are fascinated in the positive changes Byetta has made. (Comment this)

2 - I have a 6year old who was told she was type 1 in feb. Can anyone help with ideas on making her still feel normal even though her whole life not to metion ours has been turned upside down. I also have a 3 year old and 1 year old who at this stage are not diabetic. (Comment this)

3 - I have three children they are 14, 13 and 8. I share with them about diabetes and the changes I have to make. I feel it is important for their future health as well. They need to make good choices now to help prevent the heredity factor. (Every one of my grandparents are/were diabetic as well as the majority of my aunts and uncles... I wander if it would have helped me if I had known more from early on..??)

I have taught my older two to test my sugar in the event of an emergency and how to proceed if it is low.

It's difficult cooking for the family and then not enjoying the same things they can. It's quite a balancing act sometimes. My limits vs their wants.

I would encourage everyone to be as open as possilbe about diabetes with their children.

Blessings to all! (Comment this)

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5 - i was diagnosed T2 when my younger son was 3. he's 17 now, and has been well versed on reading the carbs and trans fat info on food for as long as he can remember!
children should be informed, but not frightened or bombarded with info. they adapt, usually better than adults. (Comment this)

6 - MY 13 YERA OLD IS THE ONE WHO DIDI THE RESEARCH AND TALKED ME INTO TRYING THE BYETTA. FOR YEARS I WAS DISAPOINTED IN THE CYCLE OF TAKING MEDS AND FOLLOWING THE DIET ONLY TO GAIN WEIGHT AND HAVE NO CONTROL OVER MY BS'S. I STILL GET SICK WITH THE BYETTA BUT MY SON ALWAYS SEES THE LOOK IN MY EYES AS TELLS ME THAT IT IS WORTH IT AND IT WILL PASS. HE ALSO LEAVES LITTEL NOTES TO KEEP ME SMILING ON THE FRIDGE. IT KEEPS ME GOING (Comment this)

7 - terezia n,
Yes we felt lost when our daughter was diagnosed 5 years ago at age 4. Just keep it simple and honest and make sure that routines stay the same and do not change much because of the "betties". You will get the "its not fair" particularly when it comes to treats etc, but we found that when she is playing sport (especially swimming) or having a low we could use up those lolly bags from parties etc. She quickly learnt about the appropriate time to have treats and has learnt really good about how to match food and activities and other factors. Still on injections with Hba1c in the low 6's mainly so she is doing a good job. Just be honest and yes admit that it is not fair but that her health is important to you and that is the way it has to be. Do not overcompensate even though you want to wrap her in cotton wool forever. An independent child is a better diabetic! Remember that you will only be looking after them with their diabetes for a short time in their life - they have to look after themselves for the entire lifetime....be calm be warm but be firm during the bumpy patches.. (Comment this)