Interview With T1D Mom, Tricia D.

My son spent one week at the Naomi Berrie diabetes summer camp, where he was able to participate in a wide range of fun activities under the guidance of Columbia University Medical Center staff. This camp is both safe and fun for children with diabetes and takes the pressure and stress off of their parents. The camp is filled with many amazing children and their equally amazing parents. I was able to interview one of the parents, Mrs. Tricia D., about her experience with diabetes and how it has affected the different components of her life. Tricia is a special education lead teacher of the Eastchester School District of New York and has over ten years of experience in the field of education

1.      What type of supervisor do you think you are?

I would like to think I am supportive, flexible  and encouraging.

2.      What type of leadership style do you possess and how do your subordinates perceive you?

I think I likely possess a democratic like, sort of informal leadership style. Likely my subordinates perceive me as honest, fair, loyal, hard working, open-minded and flexible.

3.      What relationship do you have with diabetes and how has diabetes affected your ability to perform your work duties?

My son has Type 1 Diabetes. He is twelve-years-old and takes an insulin called Novolog. Though diabetes has not dramatically impacted my performance, it has impacted my priorities. I often take calls when my son tries to reach me even if it interrupts an activity.

4.      How has diabetes affected your relationships with others like friends and family members?

Diabetes has impacted familial and friend relationships in several ways.  Many do not understand the impact of this disease on our family. They don't understand that the disease is LIFE THREATENING!! They do not understand how much effort and patience is involved in maintaining the physical and emotional wellness of my son. They don't know how much he goes through, nor do they ask. As previously mentioned, priorities have shifted. It is difficult for me to listen to complaints about things I no longer "sweat" because of my "bigger picture". So it can be frustrating and isolating at times. I feel sometimes that people don't "care" when they don't ask or seem to be interested in things that go on with my son. More support would help me feel less "abandoned", I guess.

5.  Do you or your family subscribe to a specific diet because of diabetes?

While we, as a family, do not adhere to a specific "diet" we do try to have well balanced meals, we try to limit processed foods and try to eat as low carb as we can.

6.  What advice would you give to a person in a leadership position?

My advice would be to be understanding and supportive of the individual needs of your subordinates.

7.  What advice would you give to a diabetic?

Continue to make good choices regarding your health, be patient and don't give up. Don't let the disease slow you down :)

I thank Tricia for giving an open and honest account of her experience. I love her attitude about priorities. It is difficult for parents of children with disabilities to find the support and comfort they need as they experience the daily ups and downs of the disease. The Berrie Camp is an awesome place that gives respite to parents of children with disabilities. I am glad that the hospital offered him and Tricia's son this week of attendance. I am also grateful to be able to meet others who understand the daily struggles of this circumstance.

My Son, Jayden.

Our Family!

The Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Most people do not know the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The term diabetic covers the spectrum of people in both categories, but there are some significant differences in the two forms of the disease. The video below highlights the major distinctions between the two types.

As noted, type 1 diabetes often begins in adolescence, whereas type 2 diabetes has its onset in later years. Type 1 is the non-production of insulin by the pancreas, while type 2 is the limited production of the hormone. Finally, insulin is required for type 1 diabetics to take on a daily basis, sometimes numerous times a day, to control glucose levels. Type 2 diabetics can maintain their blood sugar without the use of insulin, though that usually takes careful monitoring of glucose levels and a carefully managed diet.

T1D, What is Happening to Me?

If you are anything like me, you can appreciate my severe need to know what is wrong whenever I get sick. I want to know what is happening to me and why. I think this sentiment holds true even more so for children who are so sweet and innocent and just want to know when they are going to feel better. It has been a confusing journey for my son who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of two. He better copes with the disease at present, but it took a long time for him to comprehend what was actually happening to him. His dad and I have used this diagram, mostly the pictures, to aid us in explaining the disease to our son and how and why it was affecting him.  

Type 1 Diabetes is an illness of the pancreas, an organ located in the abdomen. Its role is to convert the food we eat into fuel for the body's cells. It helps in both digestion and the regulation of blood sugar through insulin production. When the pancreas is not functioning properly, insulin production is slowed and therefore insulin in the blood vessels is decreased. Since insulin balances the glucose or blood sugar levels in the body, decreased insulin means more glucose. Unregulated, this can lead to keto-acidosis, which is the build up of acid in the blood. This can cause death.

Glucose Meter

Though death is inevitable, it is natural that humans attempt to prolong it for as long as possible. My son is only eleven. The more he understands the need to regulate insulin in his body, done mostly through diet and checking his blood sugar levels with lancets and test strips on a glucose meter, the better chance we have of keeping him alive and well. This is at the top of our list of priorities on a daily basis and should be for anyone who suffers with T1D.