A guide to parents written by a teenage diabetic

[ErictheFerret]

When I became diagnosed with diabetes a year ago, it nearly killed me. My parents became obbsessed with diabetes, and have always helped me. Here are a few tips on how to help your child with diabetes...

1. Never, never, NEVER groan when your child has a high number. Yes, we know it's high. It's usually not our fault. When it is our fault, though, do remind us gently not to eat that last cake slice.

2. Don't go crazy when we have low numbers. Ok? Yes, we sometimes have 40s and lower. Just hand us a juice. Don't go crazy.

3. Don't pressurize us 24/7 to do excersise when we are high. Being high and excersising is the last thing we want to do. Instead, suggest walking in place for about 15 minutes to half an hour. It works great with me! If it doesn't work, don't just boot your child out the door. Do everything with him/her, so (s)he does not feel lonely.

4. Don't complain about us having diabetes. It's not our fault.

5. Be patient when the littler kids cry about shots. It's scary.

6. A pump is probably the scariest thing about diabetes in the world. At 13 years of age, I still get the chills, even though I've had the pump since early August. Be extremely patient with the pump.

7. Participate in the walks. They will make you feel good, and you get great stuff, too! Like free testers and test strips! :)

8. Make your kid prepared, but not excessively. Only pack us up with a tester, a juice, and a quick 15 carb snack. That's it.

9. Don't cry in front of us. That just makes us more depressed knowing that we caused this for you.

10. Finally, support us in everything we do. If we want to go jetpacking off the Niagra Falls, don't stop us by saying, "You can't do that. How will you do your shots?" Instead, take about 20 minutes discussing how you are going to manage your diabetes and still have fun. It will pay off in the end, trust me.

I hope you took the time to read this guide. If you follow the rules, it should make life easier. Also, buy the Calorie King. It's like the Diabetic Bible!:D

[vettechmomof2]

THat was very well written.
Thank you for taking the time to remind us.;)
Allene

[badshoe]

Dude


That just makes us more depressed knowing that we caused this for you.

You didn't cause it. I recently read something very good about this:



4. Don't complain about us having diabetes. It's not our fault.

I am with ya, if you can figure out how to jet ski off Niagra Falls, do your BG and shots AND land it I say go for it. (It's the landing I worry about more than the shots to be honest about it)

Thanks for the post It was funny and good, in that order. Just the way I like them.

[emilyandkevsmom]

Eric, Thank you so much for taking the time to write this! It has really opened my eyes hearing this from you. I am guilty of the groan with highs, and panicking with lows! I hope I will chill a little with time. I vent a lot on this board, it is my only outlet, but I do not complain in front of my little one. I am constantly praising her for each little accomplishment! Thanks again and I wish the best to you!

[ErictheFerret]

I'm glad you all took time to read this!

[Isabelle's Mom]

Eric, thanks for the perspective! Sometimes we get so caught up in the details we lose sight of the big picture.

[shirley83006]

its nice to hear from the young ones themselves on your feelings about it. this is helpfull. i am usually strong majority of the time. only when my daughter looses it emotionally and cries and says she wishes she did not have diabetes. and she is tired of it. what do you suggest to do. i usually cry with her and tell her it is ok to hate it, its ok to have the feeling s she is having. and i am there for her. is that good.? and i can get alittle angry when her number is high and i find out she has eaten something she not have. but i always explain to her that i dont mind her eating what she ate, she just needs to tell me and then we can give the dose she needs.

[ErictheFerret]

Coping with diabetes sucks. Really. I was kind of past that crying phase, so I really don't know what it is like. Continue saying that you will be there for her and following your deeds should be fine.

[Bsbllmom]

Thanks for that Eric. It's nice to see it from a teens perspective.:cwds:

[SamsMom]

Thank you, Eric. As the mother of a 16 year old diabetic, it is difficult to find the balance of wanting to know what is going on every minute and stepping back and letting Sam take over his care. This was helpful to hear your thoughts and feelings. Well said!

[thebestnest5]

Thank you Eric.:cwds: You sound like a cool teen.

[ErictheFerret]

Sorry for not replying to any of the other 3 posts. I was working on making a video game...

Thanks for the compliment!

[Deannas mom]

Very well said Eric. My daughter is almost 12 and the teen issues are starting already. as parents we truly do forget to step outside the box for a little bit to remember tha the same kid is still there that was there before D. and im also guilty of the groan with high numbers, but I always look at it as my fault. that there was something I didnt do right. you have a great out look for someone so young..kudos to you :D

[ErictheFerret]

Thanks for the compliment! :D

[Treysmom]

Thank you Eric for posting this! It was nice to hear from someone you age.

[BRANDYB]

Thank you so much for writing this. I get upset in front of my daughter all of the time-I can't quit getting misty eyed in front of her:(

[Lindy]

guilty too of some groans and perhaps some panic with the lows... will keep this in mind - it was funny about packing "you" up with gear. when this started our D kit was impressive - with a bit of time we have dwindled it down quite a bit! thanks!

[MrsBadshoe]

Thanks Eric for the great post.

It definately makes me feel like I'm doing a good job. I follow most of your points about 90% of the time. I've got a 14 year old that currently is zen with his D so I'm doing somethig right.

[golfermom]

Thank you Eric for this most helpful post. You have given some great insight and valuable reminders to all of us. Best wishes to you!

[Reagan's Mama]

Thanks Eric, for the very well put post. My daughter is just 2 now, but I know my time is coming. It helps to put it all into prespective.

Good luck to you!

[frizzyrazzy]

If we want to go jetpacking off the Niagra Falls, don't stop us by saying, "You can't do that. How will you do your shots?

I'd be more concerned with how you'd keep your meter dry.

What a great post! Its good to hear from someone who's there and living with this.

[Hollyb]

Yeah, this is really good. I'm sure my son would agree with it all.

[Boo]

Thanks for the perspective. My son is 12 and I'm sure would agree with everything you have said. Do you absolutely hate it when your mom tells perfect strangers that you have D? I am very guilty of this, and though my son has never said anything about it, I think he probably hates it, so I'm going to try to stop announcing it to the world! (I think I do this since I'm so proud of him for dealing with it on a daily basis)

[Mary Lou]

Well done!!

Thank you for sharing!

[Brensdad]

Amy and I have already discussed what to do when Emma's a teenager. We've decided it's not allowed.

[zeb'smom]

Amy and I have already discussed what to do when Emma's a teenager. We've decided it's not allowed.

If you figure out how to keep them from growing up please let me know, it's going too fast.

Eric, wonderful post and so important for us parents. I hope Zeb has such a good (yet honest) attitude in another 10/12 years.

Robyn

[mariaweber]

Thanks Eric. My 11-year-old daughter agrees with you on every point. I think this is an excellent reminder for all parents.

[sevans]

Thanks for the insight. I read this to Jacob. He is 12 and I wanted to know how he related your tips with how I handle his D.

#1. I evidently groan with high numbers. I will try not to from now on. I blame myself most of the time and I usually ask him if he has eaten something he has not told me about. Sometimes he has and sometimes not.

Number 1 seems to be the only one he thinks I have a "problem" with, so I must be doing pretty good. :)

[hrtmom3]

What GREAT reminders. Thanks, Eric

[ErictheFerret]

Sorry for not responding earlier. I was grounded :( still am.

[kiwikid]

Have you shown your parents the great stuff you have written on this site? And at least you still have computer access :D

[ErictheFerret]

Awesome I'm not grounded anymore!

[ErictheFerret]

Not yet. But I will soon. Thanks.

[kevin@diabetech.net]

I vote that your post becomes the oath for all CWD parents and it gets a permanent spot on the Home page of CWD. Great job of communicating your thoughts to all of us who need to be reminded from time to time.

[ErictheFerret]

Thanks! I'm glad you appreciate it!

[ErictheFerret]

Wow! Almost 1,000 views!

[Mom2Madi]

Eric,

This was just excellent - I'm so glad you took the time to share that with us parents. My daughter is 11. As time has gone on I stopped groaning and panicking with the numbers but I'm still guilty about being obsessive about the preparation and sometimes nagging about the exercise. So thank you for pointing those things out and it made me feel good to see I do most of the other stuff. :)

[MLH]

I'm guilty of an occasional groan!:( I promise no more. I am printing your list and putting it some place safe! Thank you for taking the time to post this.:D

[ErictheFerret]

Awesome over 1,000 posts!

[ErictheFerret]

Bump of safety!

[ErictheFerret]

bump of safety!

[ErictheFerret]

bump of safety!

[ErictheFerret]

Bump for newbies!

[ErictheFerret]

bump of safety!

[Lee]

Thanks for keeping this bumped! It is priceless wisdom :D

[ErictheFerret]

thanks! bump!

[clb1968]

Maybe we can get this stickied at the top of the forum?
That way it does not get lost in the shuffle of posting.

[mom23boys]

Well written. Thanks for the reminder. I catch myself often sighing with high numbers. This is good for me to know.

[ErictheFerret]

Thanks for the compliments!

[payam7777777]

Thanks for the bumpliments!

[ErictheFerret]

Thank you! No problem!:D

[hughsfan30]

That was truly awesome. My son is approaching the teenage years and I have been very careful to NOT do the things you point out, especially cry in front of him.
As parents we forget that it is YOU who is going throught the brunt of it and just feel we need to do all this stuff to keep you healthy. I am going to print this out and hang it on the fridge for our family to read and remember!
Thanks for sharing!

[ErictheFerret]

Pretty cool! Thanks!

[ErictheFerret]

B-b-b-bumpage!

[ErictheFerret]

Bumpage! Enjoy newbies!

[sofaraway]

I'll add that don't get completley freaked out about your non-D children developing diabetes. Or at least don't let it show.

Growing up I hated that I couldn't drink more than 1 glass of water at dinner without my mum and rest of family getting worried and having to test me, at times I wouldn't even ask for an extra drink because I was fed up of the process that would follow.
It also made me think that getting diabetes was a terrible thing and that increased my fear.

[ErictheFerret]

Sheesh...that must've sucked.

[hughsfan30]

I'll add that don't get completley freaked out about your non-D children developing diabetes. Or at least don't let it show.

Growing up I hated that I couldn't drink more than 1 glass of water at dinner without my mum and rest of family getting worried and having to test me, at times I wouldn't even ask for an extra drink because I was fed up of the process that would follow.
It also made me think that getting diabetes was a terrible thing and that increased my fear.

With such an extensive history of it in my family I have learned to accept the fact that if my non-D children develop it then there is nothing I can do to prevent it. We all test our blood about once a month with our home meter, the other two kids actually enjoy doing it!!:eek: If it happens we will deal with it. Life goes on and D happens.

[Kent T]

Hi,

This is a pearl of wisdom for parents, spouses, and friends of D people. Well put!

[RobinKop]

Hey Eric - Just wanted to add my "Thank You" I just found this post today & I'm so glad I did.

It's so great to hear stuff like that from your perspective! Thanks for sharing!

[ErictheFerret]

Bump came back from Monterey!

[Twinklet]

Bump came back from Monterey!

Ah, too bad I didn't read this before. I live in Monterey, could have shown your family around. Hope you had a good time, it's been unseasonably COLD here lately!!!

[ErictheFerret]

Yeah, it rained a little yesterday!

[ErictheFerret]

Bump for newbies!

[Heather(CA)]

Well said Eric, I thought I would help you give this a bump:D Also, are you a CA kid? We live near Fresno...Seth is 12:D

[ErictheFerret]

Yeah I live in the O.C.

[ErictheFerret]

Bump for newbies!

[mph]

This Really Needs To Be Made A Sticky!!!!!!!!!!!!;)

[ErictheFerret]

Happy new years day everybody! 5 more hours for me!

[ErictheFerret]

Bump 2,666 views! Dang!

[iktmonty]

Great job Eric, very well said! I'm so glad that you wrote this... it helps us parents realize what we do and how we react ultimately affects you, the kids.
Thanks for your input. Happy New Year!

K~

[dstallmann]

Thanks for the perspective. I'm working hard at getting my emotions under control and it's HARD! But I'm trying! Thanks!!!

[ErictheFerret]

No problem! Glad you enjoy it!

[jdr]

Good job,I'm impressed.May I ask how you came up with that screen name? (pretty cool)

[ErictheFerret]

Well, like 2 or 3 years ago, some teacher made us write a story about an animal that rhymes with our name. I really didn't have anything, cause my name is Eric, so this friend I knew thought of a ferret. Then he started calling me Eric the Ferret, and it kind of stuck. Lots of people will call me that...

[ErictheFerret]

bump for newbies!

[ErictheFerret]

Bump for newbies!

[ErictheFerret]

Bump of safety!

[ErictheFerret]

bump for newbies!

[ErictheFerret]

bump for newbies!

[sam1nat2]

thanks Eric,
Sounds like you would be good buddies with my Sam!!
I know I've been acused of groaning over high numbers, he gets upset as well. We have adopted a new mantra around here and that is just that whatever the number is, it is a guide so we know what to do--more insulin, or food.

One other thing you didn't mention is that some parents talk about how tired they can be from middle of the night testing. I make it a point not to complain when I'm up at night testing, I dont want him to feel bad.

[ErictheFerret]

Bump for newbies!

[nibseysgirl]

Coping with diabetes sucks. Really. I was kind of past that crying phase, so I really don't know what it is like. Continue saying that you will be there for her and following your deeds should be fine.
Thank you so much for sharing. My daughter has just been diagnosed with Prediabetes and we have been told that she will be type1 in about 3-6months...based on her test results.

I appreciate your candor, honestly and your positive attitude..Take good care and keep posting...you have alot of good information to share and coming from a parent. I say THANK YOU

:Lisa

[ErictheFerret]

Bump for newbies! I am currently grounded.

[ErictheFerret]

Bump for newbies!

[ErictheFerret]

bump for newbies!

[ErictheFerret]

Bump of safety!:)

[toriajj]

thanks sweetie! i have tried hard to be strong for my son. he's almost 18, a senior in high school and in november, his high school soccer team won the state title(D1 and all) he' s headed to college in the fall and his numbers are often all over the place. we both cope pretty well with D(having four other kids in the house helps i think).
you and my son are my HEROS!!! thanks for inspiring the rest of us!

[Lee]

GROUNDED AGAIN!!!! Isn't that like your third time since posting???? :D

[ErictheFerret]

Well, it's mostly for random things. That was a while ago. I can't even remember...probably not calling my parents when hanging out with my friends or something...

[ErictheFerret]

bump for newbies.

[ErictheFerret]

bump for newbies!

[saxmaniac]

Great topic, but enough bumps already...

[Mom2Will]

Bump for new comers

[cam's mom]

Hi Eric,
Thanks so much for this. It has come at a great time, since we are 6 days into this life changing event. My son is a freestyle skier, and creating ski movies. We have tried to not let any of this change a thing, but I have noticed that we are guilty of lots of the comments you mentioned. Part of it is still ignorance to diabetes, but we are learning. I am going to pass this on to my son and husband.
Thanks

[ErictheFerret]

Awesome skiing rocks! Although I missed the snow this year :(

[Lee]

Come to Maine! We have way to much of it and more on the way!

[ErictheFerret]

I think that's a little far from California...

[ErictheFerret]

Nearly 4,000 views!

[ErictheFerret]

bump for newbies!

[mikesmom58]

Hi Eric and thanks for all the tips for parents. I admit that I am guilty of at least some of those things you listed, lol. I promise I'll try and do better! You seem like a great kid.

Pat
Mike, age 13 -Type1
New Jersey

[ErictheFerret]

Thanks for the compliment!

[ErictheFerret]

Bump for newbies!

[ErictheFerret]

bump for newbies!

[Julie]

First of all,....You are only 13?!?!

Our son will be 13 in June and I don't think he could've written that!! Although I do get the occasional eyerolls and "gawwwwwwwwww"s when I freak over numbers :o


thanks for this great post!!

[momandwifeoftype1s]

Thank you! I'll try to remember to be respectful of my son's feelings now that I know that he probably is thinking of those things without being to verbalize them yet. It's hard to know how much is going over is head, and what he understands yet (he's 6). I know he'll be growing up before I know it, and it is great to know what I can do to keep him from being resentful. I think you are a great resource - thanks for letting me know how it feels to be a diabetic. You are very mature and thoughtful to have written your advice.

[ErictheFerret]

Alright thanks people!

[shekov]

I'm keeping a copy of your post so I can remember the impact my reaction has on my baby-girl. She's very young but I KNOW she knows when I'm upset. You are an articulate guy!

[ErictheFerret]

Alright I will assume articulate means good...

[TrackMom]

Bump.

This is so good, that I thought it should move up again for those parents who may not have been on yesterday.

Thanks Eric.

[fredntan2]

do you have any more tips for us?

like tips part 2?

I want more!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Gaia]

Thanks. Seeing it from someone else's eyes really helps. :cwds:

[ErictheFerret]

Alright thanks people.

[ErictheFerret]

bump for newbies!

[ErictheFerret]

bbbbbbbump!

[ErictheFerret]

bump for newbies!

[ErictheFerret]

bump for newbies!

[rachabetic]

very good job!! i should give this list to my parents becuase they are guilty of some of them!

i'm gonna add one more thing that i hate when my parents do.
Parents...when you are out and about with your teen, do not ask them in public if they are "HIGH"!! You and they will know what you are talking about, but probably no one else will! it is always very embarasing for me when my my mom says this.

[fredntan2]

I promise I will not ask Sara in public if she's high:D

bump

[ErictheFerret]

Lol that's never happened to me before...

[ErictheFerret]

Just a quick note...my post has been featured on the diabetes health website and possibly the magazine. Cool. (Just so you know, the picture is about 3 months old...I have shortish hair again.)

http://www.diabeteshealth.com/read/2008/05/08/5743.html

[caspi]

Eric, I read about this on another post and hoped it was you but couldn't confirm it until now! I am SO PROUD of you!!!! This is wonderful that your "guide" was published!!!! :D

[ErictheFerret]

Awesome thanks!

[ADHDiabetic Mom]

You've been talking to SD, haven't you?? :D

Seriously, thanks! SD tries to tell me these things all the time, but it's good to hear it from someone else, too. :cwds:

[RosemaryCinNJ]

Eric....Thank you for posting this...What a cool kid you are!!
I sure do have the Calorie King would be lost without it sometimes!!!
I think your parents are doing a great job raising you!!!

[ErictheFerret]

You've been talking to SD, haven't you?? :D

Seriously, thanks! SD tries to tell me these things all the time, but it's good to hear it from someone else, too. :cwds:

Ummm What's SD?

[Lee]

I think SD is her kid's initials!

Ellen posted a thread with your article and we were all so excited - going - is that Eric the ferret??? We have a real live celebrity in our mist!

[ADHDiabetic Mom]

Ummm What's SD?

SD are my D son's initials. (I need to change it, though, because others use "SD" for "stepdaughter." I don't have one of those.) ;)

[Aidan'sMom]

I enjoyed reading this. Although I have a diabetic toddler, some of these things still hold true! Thanks for posting!

[michelleissweet]

Eric that was totally awesome of you to do this!! You know its really good to read how a teenager feels to us parents(Aaron is still 3) even though my son is a toddler i know he probally feels the same as you and now i know 'what not to say and do.' while he is growing up with D.

You should consider posting tips for us parents sometimes along the way.

You Take Care.
MM

[ErictheFerret]

Is there a link to the topic somewhere floating? I want to show my parents.

[Sandy's mom]

:) Happy Birthday Eric! I still enjoy reading this post. Thanks for keeping it real.

[StillMamamia]

:) Happy Birthday Eric! I still enjoy reading this post. Thanks for keeping it real.


That's right!! Happy Birthday!!!:)

[jendean]

Awesome! No parent could have stated that better. Very articulate, and something all of us need to hear once in awhile.
I hope you keep posting this awesome advice. As parents, unless we have diabetes, we have NO CLUE how it is for you kids.
We NEED to listen to what these kids tell us, because it is THIER diabetes, not ours.
Thanks for stating that so clearly.
:cwds:

[ErictheFerret]

I didn't know I still had this topic...bumpage!

[StillMamamia]

This should be made a sticky! ;)

[hurrayupmom]

Glad you did the bumpage up. Just returned from a couple years away. It is really a good piece. Tori does tell alot the those things. I sometimes can not help reacting. Good Job. You should give us some more input.:D

[ErictheFerret]

Glad you did the bumpage up. Just returned from a couple years away. It is really a good piece. Tori does tell alot the those things. I sometimes can not help reacting. Good Job. You should give us some more input.:D

Thanks! Rock on.

[fredntan2]

I wanted to bump this back up.
Good stuff here.

Eric you should write a book-maybe all you kids should?
you know
guide for parents or something

[Barbzzz]

I'm bumping Eric up, too. Lots of terrific advice and nice to see a well-written teenage perspective (even though we're way away from the teenage years). Thanks.

[fredntan2]

Jeff,
could we make this a sticky?
maybe the kids could brainstorm and come up with some rules/guidelines for us parents?

[Jake'sMama]

thanks for keeping it real

[ErictheFerret]

This got published in Diabetes Health, June/July 2009. Page 12.

http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/4779/2009060664369.jpg

:o

[caspi]

Oh my gosh, congrats!!! How exciting!!! I am so proud of you, as I'm sure are the 5 gazillion other mothers on here!!!! This is just so cool!!! ((HUGS))

[Kalebsmom]

Congrats that is awesome. My son is 17 and was dx a few days after his 16th birthday. I hate to admit it but in the beginning I was doing a few of the things on your don't list. Thanks to you writing that I have backed off and I thank you for that. It has made it easier on all of us.

[Mom211]

Congratulations, Eric! and thanks for the advice!

[Ali]

I am now a grown up but was diagnosed as a teen. My parents one a physician, did none of my D care. I started with shots and in those days urine tests on my own. I was in control of my own diet. My Mom tried to fix some dishes that worked with my exchange system. (I quickly figured out how to convert the exchange system into a carb count and life was easier). For beter or worse I actually had parents who never questioned me, never checked, etc. etc. I was probably a more compliant kid than many (with regards to the diagnosis) and had no issues with being a type one. It was also assumed that I would be in charge of all my eating and dosing decisions. We had a large family. I still did all the same hiking trips, ski days, biking, 2 hour dance classes, sleep overs with friends, etc. etc. that I had done pre diagnosis. It never occurred to me to do anything differently and my folks never suggested it. I did not feel restricted with my food schedule and never felt compelled to go wild on sweets though during those years any sugar was an absolute no no. They at the time thought that having a baby would be a no no-they were wrong and their view was from an era 30 years earlier. That was the only suggestion that my life would be different. I was well informed of the future complications. All of this was not better nor worse than other ways of dealing with type one but for me and my family and the era I was diagnosed this was a good approach. :cwds:Ali

[CButler]

Thanks for reminding me to chill out! I often wonder how SHE must feel, since I don't have diabetes.

[tbcarrick]

AWESOME JOB!!!Brandon is just 13,but am trying very hard to obey the rules.
He is foremost still my "baby",and so hard to let him go.But will NEVER hold
him back..Your parents I bet are SOO PROUD,I know I am,and I don't even
know you.Becky

[Logansmom]

I love this guide. Thanks!

[annaluvspink]

Awesome.

Annabelle's grandparents always ask if a number is "good or bad"...I can't stand that. I have stressed a gazillion times that no number is good or bad, it is just INFORMATION.

I think we're cool about how we deal with D at our house. Its just school, grandparents, extended family, friends that goof up here.

Michelle
dd Annabelle 6 dx'd 3/07

[BCmom]

Thank-you..... for bumping this up...

[wdhinn89]

congratulations erictheferret!!!

[clb1968]

Bumping this up, I was reading over at Diabetes Health and saw it.

[grantsmom]

Thank you Eric,

You seem to have a very very well adjusted attitude and appreciate you wrote this to remind us parent of how our actions (even well intentioned) can effect our kids.

I am gulity of moaning about high numbers NOT because it is anyone's fault but becaues I feel bad for my child that he must have another shot...

I have also tried very hard not to refer to numbers and good or bad...they are just numbers.

thanks again lots of good information

[Carolyn]

My son ( age 13, diagnosed 1 yr ago) would like to thank you for saying what he has been thinking. I am guilty just like many other parents, we are learning too- congrats on putting in words what many kids want to say but don't.

[fredntan2]

I'd like to bump this back up.

Eric you should write a book

[fredntan2]

I think this should be a sticky.

[rebesser]

I think this should be a sticky.

Dear Eric

It's great that you shared your feelings and reminded parents that it is the child/young person's diabetes not theirs (sorry everyone but it is!).Your advice is well written and direct.I disagree with those who said it is funny - it isn't, it speaks the truth.

I have had diabetes since I was 9 (am now a 33y old paediatrician) and l became frustrated that children and young people with diabetes did not have a voice, and realised how frustrating that was for parents, as well as that person.

I spoke with many children and young people and put their stories and views in a book, and there is a large section from teenagers. Its from the UK, but I think that those feelings are ubiquitous.

without wishing to plug it, I hope it may be of some help providing insight for parents.

on another note, I have cycled through Vietnam and Cambodia, trekked the Great Wall of China and camped my way round the Tour of Mont Blanc....all with diabetes and no disasters....

best wishes,

Rachel

Diabetes through the Looking Glass

[BellasMom]

Thank you for this Eric! It's really great to hear your perspective :) I will keep these things in my mind as we go through this journey!

[kyles_mom]

This never gets old........thanks for bumping it up. And I also think it should be a sticky :)

[emilyblake]

I think so too. My daughter is only 5 but I want to make sure i remember this. I was a teenage girl at one time, but never a teenager with diabetes so I have no idea what it is like.

[Pavlos]

I took the liberty to translate Eric's fantastic post in Greek, and I posted it to www.sugarfree.gr a Greek diabeted portal :cwds:

[aidensdad]

Eric,

I would like have your opinion about one of the topics you covered in your guide. You mentioned how scary the pump was for you; I am the father of a 4year old with T1 and would like to get him on a pump. Problem is he is very scared also. It's not the pump itself but the infusion set. He has become familiar with the pump itself but he would still prefer injections over getting one. What would a 13 year old say to a 4 year old if he was standing in front of you to ease their mind about this life changing decision? Also what age did you get your pump and do you wish you had gotten it earlier? Thanks for you time Eric and I wish you well. Really enjoyed the info.

[dana.amp]

That was so good:)

[ErictheFerret]

Wow, this thing is almost 2 years old! I forgot about it.

@aidensdad-

I received my pump less than a year after I got diabetes, so I couldn't have been happier. I love the pump because it has so many less injections, it's like 1 shot every couple days instead of multiple shots a day. Plus, it gives you freedom to eat what you want, when you want, and if you've been diabetic for a while, you forget what that truly means.

[ErictheFerret]

I took the liberty to translate Eric's fantastic post in Greek, and I posted it to www.sugarfree.gr a Greek diabeted portal :cwds:

Wow! Very cool!

[swe_marie]

Wow!

I'm a mother of a teenager that was diagnosed with diabetes1 three years ago. Our life chanced in a couple of minutes and my first reaction was that he was going to die.
Now I now better but I still worry as h..l every day. Off course I get angry with him when he eats without injections, but I allso tell him each and every dag how brave he is.
I cried when I read your comment, and I'll print it and try to translate it. (as you can see, my english isn't that good). You express yourself so good and if you dont mind, I'd like to copy your text and put it on our Swedish forum for children with diabetes1...is that ok with you?

You really opened my eyes! Thanks a lot for charing your thoughts with us.

//Marie

[Lys]

Thank you very much!
My daughter Camila, has Typ1 D... She was diagnosed 4 yearse ago. She's 14 now.
We live in Uruguay , South America and I see D is the same all over the world, and teenagers feel the same all over the world.
Camila told me the other day " stop talking about D to me... " don't want to know anything else about it...
hmmm that worried me.. but I know she's right..
She's takes care of her... check bg, gives insulin , does exercise, follows the diet... but that's it she doesn't want to know anything else, by now.
It was nice to read your post... it helps a lot.
Hope you and camila could chat one day.. I'm sure it will help..
Do you speak spanish? lol.. that's our language,, and CAmila speaks a little english
Again thank you very much

[ErictheFerret]

Wow, we visited south america 3 or so years ago.

I speak about 2 years worth of spanish, so nothing to really write a novel about, sorry.

I wish her the best for her, sounds like she's on top of things!

[Leonidas]

Eric, that was simply AWESOME! Thank you:)

[JeremysDad]

Your guide makes us adults look at diabetes from a teenagers perspective. By the looks of the replies from newbies like us, you have certainly got our attention.

Thanks Eric.

[sunshine95]

Do you absolutely hate it when your mom tells perfect strangers that you have D? I am very guilty of this, and though my son has never said anything about it, I think he probably hates it, so I'm going to try to stop announcing it to the world! (I think I do this since I'm so proud of him for dealing with it on a daily basis)

my dad does this and it bothers me because people then feel sorry for me but dont really want people to feel sory for me because im doing fine(unless it will get me somthing for free) lol

[VinceysMom]

Thanks, Eric, for writing this. I read somewhere that when your child checks his/her BG just say "thank you" no groans, etc., so that's what I do, i say Thank You and that's it. Also, I've read "no number is a bad number" without the numbers we wouldnt know where the BG would be!

My son who is 13.5 also wants to write/make video games! Hope you are doing well.

[ErictheFerret]

Thanks, Eric, for writing this. I read somewhere that when your child checks his/her BG just say "thank you" no groans, etc., so that's what I do, i say Thank You and that's it. Also, I've read "no number is a bad number" without the numbers we wouldnt know where the BG would be!

My son who is 13.5 also wants to write/make video games! Hope you are doing well.

Thanks for following this! And I'm doing great, I just did an A1C test today, should get the results soon.

[Joretta]

Wow, I could not have found this at a better time. We were at it tonight and I know this helped. Thank you so much!

[PatriciaMidwest]

Thanks Eric -- great insight on how parents can make this disease easier for their kids to manage.

I'm guilty too of reacting to high numbers. It gets so frustrating and I worry so much about future complications.

Thanks again, great post

[blessed]

What great reminders...I only wish I had read it and not made some of those mistakes. I am a big cry baby and I am afraid he saw me cry about it more than once =( Thank you for taking the time to write/post this. Great things we need to remember as a parent.

[rock'emsock'emmama]

When I became diagnosed with diabetes a year ago, it nearly killed me. My parents became obbsessed with diabetes, and have always helped me. Here are a few tips on how to help your child with diabetes...

1. Never, never, NEVER groan when your child has a high number. Yes, we know it's high. It's usually not our fault. When it is our fault, though, do remind us gently not to eat that last cake slice.

2. Don't go crazy when we have low numbers. Ok? Yes, we sometimes have 40s and lower. Just hand us a juice. Don't go crazy.

3. Don't pressurize us 24/7 to do excersise when we are high. Being high and excersising is the last thing we want to do. Instead, suggest walking in place for about 15 minutes to half an hour. It works great with me! If it doesn't work, don't just boot your child out the door. Do everything with him/her, so (s)he does not feel lonely.

4. Don't complain about us having diabetes. It's not our fault.

5. Be patient when the littler kids cry about shots. It's scary.

6. A pump is probably the scariest thing about diabetes in the world. At 13 years of age, I still get the chills, even though I've had the pump since early August. Be extremely patient with the pump.

7. Participate in the walks. They will make you feel good, and you get great stuff, too! Like free testers and test strips! :)

8. Make your kid prepared, but not excessively. Only pack us up with a tester, a juice, and a quick 15 carb snack. That's it.

9. Don't cry in front of us. That just makes us more depressed knowing that we caused this for you.

10. Finally, support us in everything we do. If we want to go jetpacking off the Niagra Falls, don't stop us by saying, "You can't do that. How will you do your shots?" Instead, take about 20 minutes discussing how you are going to manage your diabetes and still have fun. It will pay off in the end, trust me.

I hope you took the time to read this guide. If you follow the rules, it should make life easier. Also, buy the Calorie King. It's like the Diabetic Bible!:D


So... did you write this yourself or is this a book? Would love to read if so, and if not... KUDO'S to you!!! :)

[calebsmom1113]

My son was diagnosed a year ago and I think sometimes my husband and I are so obsessed with trying to get it right that we don't consider how our comments or reactions to things can affect him. Thanks for the reminder. I needed to see it through his eyes.

[DsMom]

Thanks Eric. My son is only 6, diagnosed 2 years ago, and it is very helpful to know what he might be thinking in 10 years or so. It's sweet of you to reach out to all of us. I saw my niece go through being a teen with D, and she was amazing--just like you. My other (grown) D niece does triathalons and takes trapeze lessons--there is nothing you can't do!!!:) Write back when you're in college or move out on your own! I'm definitely going to need help "letting go" of my son when he's old enough to move away. I'll need your advice again!

[jmelara]

Thankyou for the message.I will try and remember those things when my son is running a little high wich at this time is most of the time.He was dx just a little over a year ago and we are having tough times he has noone else with D to talk to realy. Hopefully I can get him on here too.

[Donovan'sMom]

Well put Eric. Thanks for sharing it with us!

[LoriLee]

Thank you Eric for sharing your tips! It is something to remember, I just tell my daughter that God made diabetics sweeter than everyone else!

[mommabear]

When I became diagnosed with diabetes a year ago, it nearly killed me. My parents became obbsessed with diabetes, and have always helped me. Here are a few tips on how to help your child with diabetes...

1. Never, never, NEVER groan when your child has a high number. Yes, we know it's high. It's usually not our fault. When it is our fault, though, do remind us gently not to eat that last cake slice.

2. Don't go crazy when we have low numbers. Ok? Yes, we sometimes have 40s and lower. Just hand us a juice. Don't go crazy.

3. Don't pressurize us 24/7 to do excersise when we are high. Being high and excersising is the last thing we want to do. Instead, suggest walking in place for about 15 minutes to half an hour. It works great with me! If it doesn't work, don't just boot your child out the door. Do everything with him/her, so (s)he does not feel lonely.

4. Don't complain about us having diabetes. It's not our fault.

5. Be patient when the littler kids cry about shots. It's scary.

6. A pump is probably the scariest thing about diabetes in the world. At 13 years of age, I still get the chills, even though I've had the pump since early August. Be extremely patient with the pump.

7. Participate in the walks. They will make you feel good, and you get great stuff, too! Like free testers and test strips! :)

8. Make your kid prepared, but not excessively. Only pack us up with a tester, a juice, and a quick 15 carb snack. That's it.

9. Don't cry in front of us. That just makes us more depressed knowing that we caused this for you.

10. Finally, support us in everything we do. If we want to go jetpacking off the Niagra Falls, don't stop us by saying, "You can't do that. How will you do your shots?" Instead, take about 20 minutes discussing how you are going to manage your diabetes and still have fun. It will pay off in the end, trust me.

I hope you took the time to read this guide. If you follow the rules, it should make life easier. Also, buy the Calorie King. It's like the Diabetic Bible!:D

Thank you Eric, for this..you are right and have great points..I'am so glad that I looked at this..:D

[mommabear]

thank you eric for sharing your tips! It is something to remember, i just tell my daughter that god made diabetics sweeter than everyone else!

love this:)

[Chrisd22]

Thank You so much for this. My son is 12 and he was just diagnosed a month ago. I think this is such a great reminder of what to do and not to do. I just found this site so I am ready to learn. You said the pump was the scaries thing and all I hear is wonderful things about it. My son is very leary as he says, he doesnt want anything attached to his body. Is this how you felt?
Thanks again,
Chris

[Connor's Mom]

Simply well said. My son is only 10 and was diagnosed in Feb of '09 and he calls the Calorie King "the great big book of everything".