1. Feliz Navidad- The David Crowder Band
2. Snoopy's Christmas- The Royal Guardsmen
3. This Baby- Steven Curtis Chapman
4. Christmas at Ground Zero- "Wierd Al" Yankovitch
5. Still her Little Child
I have many more faves..but these top the list.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
No more Beta
Blogger "Beta" is apparently all out. That's a good thing- but I kind of miss being bugged incessently to switch. Oh well,I'm sure they'll dream up some other "new" thing to switch to.
Group question-(I realize there's some way to figure this out, but I'm dumb)
How many carbs(ie,grams of dextrose) are in an IV bag of D50? I can't find an answer anywhere(not even on CWD's Ask the Diabetes Team) and its been bugging me-it's one of those things one should know. Hospitals frequently administer D50, and if you had to bolus for it you'd need to know that.Or are there "ampules" of dextrose that they add to the IV that makes it D50? I've also been experiencing a run of lows lately, which always makes me a tad nervous. Runs being defined as low after low after low after low. My liver needs some serious glycogen restocking.Should get started on the traditional chocolate covered cherries early this year..Work's been rough,I'm glad tomarrow is the last day.
Group question-(I realize there's some way to figure this out, but I'm dumb)
How many carbs(ie,grams of dextrose) are in an IV bag of D50? I can't find an answer anywhere(not even on CWD's Ask the Diabetes Team) and its been bugging me-it's one of those things one should know. Hospitals frequently administer D50, and if you had to bolus for it you'd need to know that.Or are there "ampules" of dextrose that they add to the IV that makes it D50? I've also been experiencing a run of lows lately, which always makes me a tad nervous. Runs being defined as low after low after low after low. My liver needs some serious glycogen restocking.Should get started on the traditional chocolate covered cherries early this year..Work's been rough,I'm glad tomarrow is the last day.
Monday, December 18, 2006
When 1+1(doesn't) = 2
Variability.
It's in the type/amount/quantity of food, exercise(or lack thereof), concurrent medications, stress, caffeine, other illnesses, hormones, age of the insulin, absorption of the infusion set, temperature outside, body temperature,alcohol consumption, and a thousand other little factors. Sometimes, there appears to be no earthly reason for it.
You can graph carbs.
You can graph boluses/basals.
You can graph exercise.
But how can you graph a morning in which you consume 3 caffeine-laden beverages,(exact caffeine amount "unknown") run around like nuts, clock in a 205 at lunch(stress or caffeine?) bolus for that plus lunch, promptly get low 1.5 hours later and again 3.5 hours later, go high and the infusion set promptly falls out..
I'd give up, but that's apparently not allowed. Neither is sledge-hammering one's meter or shaving one's head/joining the Peace Corps.
It's still tempting, though.
It's in the type/amount/quantity of food, exercise(or lack thereof), concurrent medications, stress, caffeine, other illnesses, hormones, age of the insulin, absorption of the infusion set, temperature outside, body temperature,alcohol consumption, and a thousand other little factors. Sometimes, there appears to be no earthly reason for it.
You can graph carbs.
You can graph boluses/basals.
You can graph exercise.
But how can you graph a morning in which you consume 3 caffeine-laden beverages,(exact caffeine amount "unknown") run around like nuts, clock in a 205 at lunch(stress or caffeine?) bolus for that plus lunch, promptly get low 1.5 hours later and again 3.5 hours later, go high and the infusion set promptly falls out..
I'd give up, but that's apparently not allowed. Neither is sledge-hammering one's meter or shaving one's head/joining the Peace Corps.
It's still tempting, though.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Apple Pie High
Take a good whiff.
One sniff, and I was stoked. Nothing like a Home Interiors Apple Pie candle to bring you back to what it's all about. (Best of all-this Apple Pie doesn't do a number on your blood sugar control.) Doubly so, when I found out we didn't have to work
Saturday.(this was on Friday)
Monday, however, is going to be a tad nuts. (coming in an hour earlier- and they'll be combining two departments into one(OURS). The prime objective, is to blow all the orders completely out by the end of Thursday, for a nice, long, holiday weekend. And since someone's on vacation, their job falls in my lap(and I'll have 18 people to overlook, versus 8. It's going to be a headache.)
Had a coupon for a $25 gift card, with a transferred RX from another pharmacy. Most of the stores around here honor competetitor's coupons, so the fact that the coupon was from an entirely differant pharmacy didn't matter. So- I take it in to my local, friendly, WallyWorld, where I wait 1.5 hours where they simultaniously manage to get A. My address B. My last name and C. My insurance info all wrong, and I've had things filled there before. Recently, in fact.
Then, the Customer Service Manager(CSM) gets paged back to take a look at my coupon,and after some weighty deliberations she tells me "Sorry,can't do it-we have a policy of nothing free with coupons."
I point out that Other-Side-of-Town Wallyworld apparently doesn't have the same policy, because they once did the same thing over there, no problems.
She repeats "Sorry,can't do it."
Ok. I need the RX anyway, so I pay for it.The pharmacy tech hands me my insulin + sends me to the middle window to "talk to the pharmacist."
Pharmacist: This is in-sul-in. Do you have any questions about it?
Me: No. I certainly know what insulin is by now. Thank you.
Slightly odd that the pharmacist would think I have questions about a transferred insulin prescription, that I've obviously been taking for quite some time.
I'd have to say that particular medication would be the last thing I'd have a question about.
I'm definatly going to transfer the RX back-I got much better service with the other pharmacy.
One sniff, and I was stoked. Nothing like a Home Interiors Apple Pie candle to bring you back to what it's all about. (Best of all-this Apple Pie doesn't do a number on your blood sugar control.) Doubly so, when I found out we didn't have to work
Saturday.(this was on Friday)
Monday, however, is going to be a tad nuts. (coming in an hour earlier- and they'll be combining two departments into one(OURS). The prime objective, is to blow all the orders completely out by the end of Thursday, for a nice, long, holiday weekend. And since someone's on vacation, their job falls in my lap(and I'll have 18 people to overlook, versus 8. It's going to be a headache.)
Had a coupon for a $25 gift card, with a transferred RX from another pharmacy. Most of the stores around here honor competetitor's coupons, so the fact that the coupon was from an entirely differant pharmacy didn't matter. So- I take it in to my local, friendly, WallyWorld, where I wait 1.5 hours where they simultaniously manage to get A. My address B. My last name and C. My insurance info all wrong, and I've had things filled there before. Recently, in fact.
Then, the Customer Service Manager(CSM) gets paged back to take a look at my coupon,and after some weighty deliberations she tells me "Sorry,can't do it-we have a policy of nothing free with coupons."
I point out that Other-Side-of-Town Wallyworld apparently doesn't have the same policy, because they once did the same thing over there, no problems.
She repeats "Sorry,can't do it."
Ok. I need the RX anyway, so I pay for it.The pharmacy tech hands me my insulin + sends me to the middle window to "talk to the pharmacist."
Pharmacist: This is in-sul-in. Do you have any questions about it?
Me: No. I certainly know what insulin is by now. Thank you.
Slightly odd that the pharmacist would think I have questions about a transferred insulin prescription, that I've obviously been taking for quite some time.
I'd have to say that particular medication would be the last thing I'd have a question about.
I'm definatly going to transfer the RX back-I got much better service with the other pharmacy.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Wednesday at the Woodgrill
For some reason, I can't post replies on some people's blogs..kind of frustrating. Blogger won't let me sign in.
The Scene: Main Street.
The Setting: Grand Opening of the latest "Woodgrill." 1/2 price off, including the complimentary drink + baked potato. I'm standing in line, with the rest of the local yokels to get in on this deal.There's a nip in the air, and its getting darker,as the daytime 50's gradually drops on down to the 20's. Man, I wish I'd worn my coat.
Jam up ipod volume, wave arms around, stamp feet. Reach door.
"DKA" cuts through the static + I reach for the pause button. What was that? Who in the heck says DKA, unless they're also a real live type 1 PWD..
The tall, lanky,sandyhaired stranger to my left smiles at the middle-aged women behind me. "Nah, I haven't been in a hospital in 23 years, not since I was diagnosed."
"Lucky." The women nods. "Not a good situation to be in."
"Well, it's not something I ever plan to be in again."
"People should just take care of themselves..."
I look with respect at this fit,trim,example of diabetic longetivity. They exist, they really do. People who are completely healthy- except for the diabetes. People who don't take 10 other drugs w/their insulin. People who've never been in the hospital, except at diagnosis. Amazing. Even more so, if this guy was diagnosed by any of the docs around here..I often feel like the only type 1 within a 200 mile radius, so finding another local PWD is a rare/never occurance.
And then, I go in, polish off 1. plate of Chinese 2. Baked Potato 3. Salad 4. Fruit 5. 3 types of pie, ice cream, and a cookie 6.Coffee/tea and put that insulin pump to good use(thank goodness for technology). And thank goodness my appetite has returned. en masse. No seafood though.(not for a long time)
The Scene: Main Street.
The Setting: Grand Opening of the latest "Woodgrill." 1/2 price off, including the complimentary drink + baked potato. I'm standing in line, with the rest of the local yokels to get in on this deal.There's a nip in the air, and its getting darker,as the daytime 50's gradually drops on down to the 20's. Man, I wish I'd worn my coat.
Jam up ipod volume, wave arms around, stamp feet. Reach door.
"DKA" cuts through the static + I reach for the pause button. What was that? Who in the heck says DKA, unless they're also a real live type 1 PWD..
The tall, lanky,sandyhaired stranger to my left smiles at the middle-aged women behind me. "Nah, I haven't been in a hospital in 23 years, not since I was diagnosed."
"Lucky." The women nods. "Not a good situation to be in."
"Well, it's not something I ever plan to be in again."
"People should just take care of themselves..."
I look with respect at this fit,trim,example of diabetic longetivity. They exist, they really do. People who are completely healthy- except for the diabetes. People who don't take 10 other drugs w/their insulin. People who've never been in the hospital, except at diagnosis. Amazing. Even more so, if this guy was diagnosed by any of the docs around here..I often feel like the only type 1 within a 200 mile radius, so finding another local PWD is a rare/never occurance.
And then, I go in, polish off 1. plate of Chinese 2. Baked Potato 3. Salad 4. Fruit 5. 3 types of pie, ice cream, and a cookie 6.Coffee/tea and put that insulin pump to good use(thank goodness for technology). And thank goodness my appetite has returned. en masse. No seafood though.(not for a long time)
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Luck O' the Pumper
Every one of 7 infusion sets (over the past couple of days) has fallen off, they aren't staying in very well. Usually, I put a layer of Tegaderm or IV prep, then insert the set(manually) through that. You'd think it was summer, the way that Tegaderm is sweating off. When the Tegaderm layer is 3/4 off, and the Silhoette patch is flapping up and down(the tube just BARELY in) it usually is just a matter of an hour before the entire thing just goes to pot. No matter how careful I try to be, not to bump it.
Time to break out my limited stash of Smash-and-Apply Matisol ampules. (kind of look like those emergency snakebite things.)
A day later- it's already starting to come off, but the fact that it lasted a day is very, very impressive. Lasted longer then the other sets did! I really think I need superglue.
And I'm not the only one in the OC to be having recent infusion set
problems.
-----------
Saw a bumper sticker today that said "HI- It's the only way to live life" and while they were obviously talking about marijuana(and other assundries), I could only see it from the diabetes angle. Having been HI(and just about every number in between), I can say that HI's make a pretty lousy life. I can't see a drug high being any better, both produce temporary exotic sensations and are extremily bad for your body. Don't do it, folks- try to be kind to your meter this holiday season.
And speaking of having every blood sugar on the meter, that's not quite true. I've (consciously) had 60's,50's,40's, 30's, teens, and 1 LOW- but have never tested in the 20's. I've probably been in the 20's, just never tested then. Back when I was going through a rough patch of not feeling lows,(till around 40) when I did get low I'd be too freaked out about how low I was so I'd eat like all get out + not test.
Now, I feel my lows pretty well but if I'm really low I always just eat(and test, to make sure I'm coming up.) The last thing I feel like doing is testing in the middle of a low, and testing is not going to change anything about the course of action. My lows have also changed(in that, I'm completely blockheaded during them) it wasn't like that when I first got diabetes. I could be in the teens, and holding a perfectly lucid conversation. I guess that's a good change, it could trigger someone else to the fact that I'm low.Like if I were ever considering matrimony, and thus a potential Husband Hypo(r) Alert. Must be nice.
------------
And on a side note, I didn't eat at Taco John's last week, but I would also recommend not eating at certain (chain)seafood establishments, at least in this state. Every time an ad for seafood would play(on the hospital tv set),I'd have to turn the tv off(before throwing up)-I am not a big fan of seafood right now. Seafood didn't cause it, but it certainly helped.(other family members didn't get near as sick)
Time to break out my limited stash of Smash-and-Apply Matisol ampules. (kind of look like those emergency snakebite things.)
A day later- it's already starting to come off, but the fact that it lasted a day is very, very impressive. Lasted longer then the other sets did! I really think I need superglue.
And I'm not the only one in the OC to be having recent infusion set
problems.
-----------
Saw a bumper sticker today that said "HI- It's the only way to live life" and while they were obviously talking about marijuana(and other assundries), I could only see it from the diabetes angle. Having been HI(and just about every number in between), I can say that HI's make a pretty lousy life. I can't see a drug high being any better, both produce temporary exotic sensations and are extremily bad for your body. Don't do it, folks- try to be kind to your meter this holiday season.
And speaking of having every blood sugar on the meter, that's not quite true. I've (consciously) had 60's,50's,40's, 30's, teens, and 1 LOW- but have never tested in the 20's. I've probably been in the 20's, just never tested then. Back when I was going through a rough patch of not feeling lows,(till around 40) when I did get low I'd be too freaked out about how low I was so I'd eat like all get out + not test.
Now, I feel my lows pretty well but if I'm really low I always just eat(and test, to make sure I'm coming up.) The last thing I feel like doing is testing in the middle of a low, and testing is not going to change anything about the course of action. My lows have also changed(in that, I'm completely blockheaded during them) it wasn't like that when I first got diabetes. I could be in the teens, and holding a perfectly lucid conversation. I guess that's a good change, it could trigger someone else to the fact that I'm low.Like if I were ever considering matrimony, and thus a potential Husband Hypo(r) Alert. Must be nice.
------------
And on a side note, I didn't eat at Taco John's last week, but I would also recommend not eating at certain (chain)seafood establishments, at least in this state. Every time an ad for seafood would play(on the hospital tv set),I'd have to turn the tv off(before throwing up)-I am not a big fan of seafood right now. Seafood didn't cause it, but it certainly helped.(other family members didn't get near as sick)
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Fourscore - 72 years Ago
It's a day that lives in infamy.
It's a thought that permeates my dreams, and the first conscious thought of the day.
It's the number that flashes across the meter screen- 145, decent, but still indicutive of diabetes.
It's the mental calculation of how much insulin for 1/2 a large muffin plus extra, for just sitting around all morning.
It's an entire day, a year, a decade.
It's part of life.
And I plan to live it all.
It's a thought that permeates my dreams, and the first conscious thought of the day.
It's the number that flashes across the meter screen- 145, decent, but still indicutive of diabetes.
It's the mental calculation of how much insulin for 1/2 a large muffin plus extra, for just sitting around all morning.
It's an entire day, a year, a decade.
It's part of life.
And I plan to live it all.
Saturday, December 09, 2006
Still Snowless in the South
While the Winter Winds blow...
blares on the tv set. Ironically, its summer in Alaska (in Season 3,at least)- not winter, but watching winter in Alaska would make me feel even colder so I overlook the slight discrepancy.
Northern Exposure(Seasons 3+4), along with 10 DVD's from Black Friday are my project this week. I need to get caught up on my cultural experiences, and this is the method of choice under the circumstances.
Still no snow- some slight snow flurries last night(the first). No, I don't live in Bermuda(I'm sure that many of you guys are sick of snow), the "Valley" is protected from some of the severeties in weather + we don't get all that much snow. Which is fine with me.
Although,last year at this time, there was snow.
The telephone rings, and I leap off the couch to answer it. Paperwork is ready for pickup at the doctor's office, and they gave me an extra two days so I wouldn't have to go back to work today.
Thank you,God. Perhaps by Monday, the nausea will be completely gone.
And that's about it- do any of you guys know how to get Blogger to quit bugging me to switch?
blares on the tv set. Ironically, its summer in Alaska (in Season 3,at least)- not winter, but watching winter in Alaska would make me feel even colder so I overlook the slight discrepancy.
Northern Exposure(Seasons 3+4), along with 10 DVD's from Black Friday are my project this week. I need to get caught up on my cultural experiences, and this is the method of choice under the circumstances.
Still no snow- some slight snow flurries last night(the first). No, I don't live in Bermuda(I'm sure that many of you guys are sick of snow), the "Valley" is protected from some of the severeties in weather + we don't get all that much snow. Which is fine with me.
Although,last year at this time, there was snow.
The telephone rings, and I leap off the couch to answer it. Paperwork is ready for pickup at the doctor's office, and they gave me an extra two days so I wouldn't have to go back to work today.
Thank you,God. Perhaps by Monday, the nausea will be completely gone.
And that's about it- do any of you guys know how to get Blogger to quit bugging me to switch?
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Status Epilepticus
Over the course of the weekend...
My computer mouse died. Went into a hypoglycemic fit, and didn't stop. Or, at least that's what I think happened to it. That happened Friday. Poor thing.
- - -
1 AM, Sunday morning-I got the grade A, let it 'rip from both ends stomach virus.
Nothing stayed down, I exausted any "free puke" rules long ago. Didn't know if I had any ketones + frankly, didn't care. Blood sugars hovered in the mid 100's range.
9 AM, Sunday morning- Extreme abdominal pain, couldn't get up without passing out so that kind of eliminated any driving plans + I call 911.
9:20 AM- Puke up some more, en route to hospital.
12 PM- Dierrea begins. Puking temporarily quits. Spike temperature.
3 PM- ER doctor makes the decision to admit me. Hospital doctor asks me if I "stick to my diet". I'm so annoyed at this I begin to think even my pcp has a better grasp of things then this doctor.
3:30 PM- IV antibiotics start.
4 PM- Admitted.
6 PM- Eat jello. Cute pharmacist comes by with a spare AAA battery for my pump thereby saving me from a fate worse then death.(hospital sliding scale)You rock,dude.
7 PM- Go for xrays.
8 PM- Throw up jello.
Next morning...
Blood pressure stays low all day(80/40's low). Didn't know it was possible to have that and still be a functioning member of the human race.
9 AM- Doc in. Informs me that my electrolytes, blood pressure are still too low + the dierrea needs to stop before getting out.
Spend most of day conked out on anti-nausea drugs.
6 PM- Blood sugar spikes to 300's. Bolus.
300's all night..
6 AM- BP, electrolytes, temperature are now back to normal.
11 AM- Get out of hospital.
The local hospital isn't all bad, but they were still pretty clueless on all matters food related + insulin needs. And not once did they check urine ketones. You don't expect University style care, but its still kind of rough to have to handle such monumental dosing decisions when you personally could care less. Its still diabetes, its still up to you, and it never goes away.
Blood sugars have been upper 200's today-it seems bgs are much better when you're upchucking all those calories. Need to increase my basals tonight.
The one positive thing about all of this, it appears my a1c has gone down by .5 since that a1c in November. I can't wait to tell my pcp doc that..
Last week was kinda tough emotionally, but I'm determined that I will try to do better + not let it get me down.I'm on the right track.
And its the end of the grueling work pace-rest of the week I'm off work while my body recuperates.
My computer mouse died. Went into a hypoglycemic fit, and didn't stop. Or, at least that's what I think happened to it. That happened Friday. Poor thing.
- - -
1 AM, Sunday morning-I got the grade A, let it 'rip from both ends stomach virus.
Nothing stayed down, I exausted any "free puke" rules long ago. Didn't know if I had any ketones + frankly, didn't care. Blood sugars hovered in the mid 100's range.
9 AM, Sunday morning- Extreme abdominal pain, couldn't get up without passing out so that kind of eliminated any driving plans + I call 911.
9:20 AM- Puke up some more, en route to hospital.
12 PM- Dierrea begins. Puking temporarily quits. Spike temperature.
3 PM- ER doctor makes the decision to admit me. Hospital doctor asks me if I "stick to my diet". I'm so annoyed at this I begin to think even my pcp has a better grasp of things then this doctor.
3:30 PM- IV antibiotics start.
4 PM- Admitted.
6 PM- Eat jello. Cute pharmacist comes by with a spare AAA battery for my pump thereby saving me from a fate worse then death.(hospital sliding scale)You rock,dude.
7 PM- Go for xrays.
8 PM- Throw up jello.
Next morning...
Blood pressure stays low all day(80/40's low). Didn't know it was possible to have that and still be a functioning member of the human race.
9 AM- Doc in. Informs me that my electrolytes, blood pressure are still too low + the dierrea needs to stop before getting out.
Spend most of day conked out on anti-nausea drugs.
6 PM- Blood sugar spikes to 300's. Bolus.
300's all night..
6 AM- BP, electrolytes, temperature are now back to normal.
11 AM- Get out of hospital.
The local hospital isn't all bad, but they were still pretty clueless on all matters food related + insulin needs. And not once did they check urine ketones. You don't expect University style care, but its still kind of rough to have to handle such monumental dosing decisions when you personally could care less. Its still diabetes, its still up to you, and it never goes away.
Blood sugars have been upper 200's today-it seems bgs are much better when you're upchucking all those calories. Need to increase my basals tonight.
The one positive thing about all of this, it appears my a1c has gone down by .5 since that a1c in November. I can't wait to tell my pcp doc that..
Last week was kinda tough emotionally, but I'm determined that I will try to do better + not let it get me down.I'm on the right track.
And its the end of the grueling work pace-rest of the week I'm off work while my body recuperates.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
I Believe- therefore, I DO
Remember this?
Time flies, when you’re having fun. (And seriously, its been fun. I love blogging, whether or not it does anything for anyone else, it does for me)
Went to primary care doc’s for another script (although I’ve been studiously putting off not going, couldn’t avoid it). I need the refill RX.
“So how are you doing?” he asks, as he enters the room.
“Fine.”
“Really?”
“Uh, no, but that’s what everyone is supposed to say before they launch into the reason they came there in the first place. It’s the polite thing to do.”
“I’m a doctor- I don’t care. You can say whatever you want, ok?”
“I’ll keep that in mind, thanks.”
“And how’s the diabetes?”
“Really good.”
“How good is good?”
“It’s been pretty stable for awhile.”
“Last a1c?”
“I don’t know yet, its been a couple of weeks and I haven’t got the results yet.”
“And your numbers?”
“Mostly between 100-200.” (Now)
“Your last a1c was-“ flipping though the chart. “Pretty high. Who do you see over at X?”
“Dr. K.”
“I’m going to find out the results of your last one.”
Proceed to call over there and find out the results, in less then 5 minutes. (To my utter amazement, it must be a doctor thing, it would take me 10 years to get someone to call me back)
“Have her call me- this kid doesn’t need strokes, heart attacks, and amputations down the road.”
List 3 separate numbers as contact info. I am kind of worried- its not like my endo doesn’t do a good job or that I ever said anything negative about her. What’s she going to think? It is entirely, 100% my fault about my a1c. She’s a good endo-she attempts war on the basal rates + everything. Its not her fault I’m a hopeless case.
Hang up, turn around.
“You haven’t gone down.”
“I kind of figured.”
Push glasses up, scoot over.
“You know, you’re too young to have diabetes complications. I am seriously worried about you.”
“I try.”(put passion into voice)
“Is there anything going on?”
“You mean, besides life? I’ve been working 60 hour weeks-its not like diabetes is a huge priority right now.”
“It needs to be.”
“I know.”
“Did I ever tell you about the guy in South Carolina?”
“No.”
“Oh, I thought I had.”
Pause.
“What about the guy in South Carolina? Someone you knew?”
“During my residency.”
“Tell me the story, then.”
“He developed diabetes at 17. Started losing his vision at 25. Had two heart attacks, a stroke, kidney failure, went 80% blind, and had an amputation. Frequently ran blood sugars in the 300-500 range and spent much of the time in the hospital from DKA. He said diabetes wasn’t going to prevent him from living his life but he essentially ignored it and it cost him his life. Most of it happened when he was 30-32. Two years-in and out of the hospital-and he died.”
“I’m not saying this to make you feel bad.”
“I know.”
“It’s just- you remind me so much of the path he was taking. I don’t want this to happen to you.”
Resist urge to tell him that I DON’T run blood sugars in the 300-500 range. Just the 200.
“And I’ve got another patient, she got diabetes around 15 + has worked hard all the years to keep her blood sugars down. Checking her blood sugars before every meal, etc. She just had her 20th year eye checkup-and there are NO signs of diabetic eye disease. Had two healthy pregnancies too.”
“That’s nice. Am I the highest a1c in your practice?”
“Yes.”
“I don’t know why some patients have more motivation then others. I wish I could help you find your motivation.”
Pause.
“It’s partly a genetics game, you know.”
“Yes, but its mostly blood sugars.”
“Well, if I get my a1c down, you know you can work miracles on anybody.”
“Not necessarily.”
“Just about.”
“I want you to.”
“I want me to too. It’s just impossible, to stay motivated for that period of time.”
“Three weeks- I want to see you back in here.”
“That might help.”
(That was the condensed version, it lasted about 15 minutes)
Discuss rx matters.
Walk out to desk.
“You’re the last appointment of the day,” the nurse informs me.
Look at clock. 4:35.
“You mean, I could have gone on with the sermon for another 30 minutes?” he says jokingly.
“That’s ok. I’ve heard quite a few sermons in my life, and that was certainly long enough.”
Check out.
Why is it so hard to stay motivated? Why? And why do I feel like a failure, every single time I go there...
Time flies, when you’re having fun. (And seriously, its been fun. I love blogging, whether or not it does anything for anyone else, it does for me)
Went to primary care doc’s for another script (although I’ve been studiously putting off not going, couldn’t avoid it). I need the refill RX.
“So how are you doing?” he asks, as he enters the room.
“Fine.”
“Really?”
“Uh, no, but that’s what everyone is supposed to say before they launch into the reason they came there in the first place. It’s the polite thing to do.”
“I’m a doctor- I don’t care. You can say whatever you want, ok?”
“I’ll keep that in mind, thanks.”
“And how’s the diabetes?”
“Really good.”
“How good is good?”
“It’s been pretty stable for awhile.”
“Last a1c?”
“I don’t know yet, its been a couple of weeks and I haven’t got the results yet.”
“And your numbers?”
“Mostly between 100-200.” (Now)
“Your last a1c was-“ flipping though the chart. “Pretty high. Who do you see over at X?”
“Dr. K.”
“I’m going to find out the results of your last one.”
Proceed to call over there and find out the results, in less then 5 minutes. (To my utter amazement, it must be a doctor thing, it would take me 10 years to get someone to call me back)
“Have her call me- this kid doesn’t need strokes, heart attacks, and amputations down the road.”
List 3 separate numbers as contact info. I am kind of worried- its not like my endo doesn’t do a good job or that I ever said anything negative about her. What’s she going to think? It is entirely, 100% my fault about my a1c. She’s a good endo-she attempts war on the basal rates + everything. Its not her fault I’m a hopeless case.
Hang up, turn around.
“You haven’t gone down.”
“I kind of figured.”
Push glasses up, scoot over.
“You know, you’re too young to have diabetes complications. I am seriously worried about you.”
“I try.”(put passion into voice)
“Is there anything going on?”
“You mean, besides life? I’ve been working 60 hour weeks-its not like diabetes is a huge priority right now.”
“It needs to be.”
“I know.”
“Did I ever tell you about the guy in South Carolina?”
“No.”
“Oh, I thought I had.”
Pause.
“What about the guy in South Carolina? Someone you knew?”
“During my residency.”
“Tell me the story, then.”
“He developed diabetes at 17. Started losing his vision at 25. Had two heart attacks, a stroke, kidney failure, went 80% blind, and had an amputation. Frequently ran blood sugars in the 300-500 range and spent much of the time in the hospital from DKA. He said diabetes wasn’t going to prevent him from living his life but he essentially ignored it and it cost him his life. Most of it happened when he was 30-32. Two years-in and out of the hospital-and he died.”
“I’m not saying this to make you feel bad.”
“I know.”
“It’s just- you remind me so much of the path he was taking. I don’t want this to happen to you.”
Resist urge to tell him that I DON’T run blood sugars in the 300-500 range. Just the 200.
“And I’ve got another patient, she got diabetes around 15 + has worked hard all the years to keep her blood sugars down. Checking her blood sugars before every meal, etc. She just had her 20th year eye checkup-and there are NO signs of diabetic eye disease. Had two healthy pregnancies too.”
“That’s nice. Am I the highest a1c in your practice?”
“Yes.”
“I don’t know why some patients have more motivation then others. I wish I could help you find your motivation.”
Pause.
“It’s partly a genetics game, you know.”
“Yes, but its mostly blood sugars.”
“Well, if I get my a1c down, you know you can work miracles on anybody.”
“Not necessarily.”
“Just about.”
“I want you to.”
“I want me to too. It’s just impossible, to stay motivated for that period of time.”
“Three weeks- I want to see you back in here.”
“That might help.”
(That was the condensed version, it lasted about 15 minutes)
Discuss rx matters.
Walk out to desk.
“You’re the last appointment of the day,” the nurse informs me.
Look at clock. 4:35.
“You mean, I could have gone on with the sermon for another 30 minutes?” he says jokingly.
“That’s ok. I’ve heard quite a few sermons in my life, and that was certainly long enough.”
Check out.
Why is it so hard to stay motivated? Why? And why do I feel like a failure, every single time I go there...
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
The Charge of the Life Brigade
Half a day, half a month
Half a year onward,
All in(to) the valley of Diabetes
Rode the one hundred.
“Forward, the Lite Brigade!
Go forth and live!” he (the endo) said:
Into the valley of Death
Rode the one hundred.
“Forward, the Lite Brigade!”
Was there a soul dismayed? (Heck, YEAH)
And though, each one knelt and prayed
That he, and others, might be saved
Each one ultimately knew
Their bodies had blundered
They did not make reply
They could no know the why
They did not wish to die
Young, brave, one hundred!
Donuts to the right of them
Pizza to the left of them,
Chocolate in front of them,
Temptation all around!
Volley’d and thunder’d,
Stormed at, with Death’s cruel knell
Clumsily they rode, as their eyes did swell (untreated diabetes)
Into the jaws of D
Into a dream from Hell
Rode the one hundred.
Ate they, their diet poor
Not for them, the carb‑rich smore,
This thin, hungry corps
Fighting for life, while
All the world wondered:
Bathed in ketonish blood
Against a Cola flood,
Yank and Aussie
Reel’d from the parching thirst
Drank till they thought they’d burst
All on the ground fell they
Fell the one hundred.
Donuts to the left of them,
Pizza to the right of them
Temptation all around,
Who will be left of them?
Left of one hundred?
A teenage boy, his face chalk white
Lay hoping, on the ground
As all around him, lost their fight
He listened- to a sound.
A maiden fair, with locks of gold
Came wading through the muck
Thought he, “A man could die, a death so bold
With her to bring me luck!”
“Quick, soldier, plunge into thine arm
This life‑giving elixir,
Twill do thee good, it will not harm
This glorious clear fixer.”
His not to question why,
His not to sit and cry,
His but, to do, or die
Last of the hundred!
The boy awoke, a gentle hand
Caressed his fevered brow
A nurse in white, a black clad man
Asked how he felt right now.
A thousand battles daily rage,
Since insulin first came,
Yet still, we all repeat this page
And tell of Banting’s(and Best,let's not forget the other guy) fame.
Honor the Life Brigade
Honor the lives they saved,
And to the lives they’ll save,
Countless of hundreds!
Half a year onward,
All in(to) the valley of Diabetes
Rode the one hundred.
“Forward, the Lite Brigade!
Go forth and live!” he (the endo) said:
Into the valley of Death
Rode the one hundred.
“Forward, the Lite Brigade!”
Was there a soul dismayed? (Heck, YEAH)
And though, each one knelt and prayed
That he, and others, might be saved
Each one ultimately knew
Their bodies had blundered
They did not make reply
They could no know the why
They did not wish to die
Young, brave, one hundred!
Donuts to the right of them
Pizza to the left of them,
Chocolate in front of them,
Temptation all around!
Volley’d and thunder’d,
Stormed at, with Death’s cruel knell
Clumsily they rode, as their eyes did swell (untreated diabetes)
Into the jaws of D
Into a dream from Hell
Rode the one hundred.
Ate they, their diet poor
Not for them, the carb‑rich smore,
This thin, hungry corps
Fighting for life, while
All the world wondered:
Bathed in ketonish blood
Against a Cola flood,
Yank and Aussie
Reel’d from the parching thirst
Drank till they thought they’d burst
All on the ground fell they
Fell the one hundred.
Donuts to the left of them,
Pizza to the right of them
Temptation all around,
Who will be left of them?
Left of one hundred?
A teenage boy, his face chalk white
Lay hoping, on the ground
As all around him, lost their fight
He listened- to a sound.
A maiden fair, with locks of gold
Came wading through the muck
Thought he, “A man could die, a death so bold
With her to bring me luck!”
“Quick, soldier, plunge into thine arm
This life‑giving elixir,
Twill do thee good, it will not harm
This glorious clear fixer.”
His not to question why,
His not to sit and cry,
His but, to do, or die
Last of the hundred!
The boy awoke, a gentle hand
Caressed his fevered brow
A nurse in white, a black clad man
Asked how he felt right now.
A thousand battles daily rage,
Since insulin first came,
Yet still, we all repeat this page
And tell of Banting’s(and Best,let's not forget the other guy) fame.
Honor the Life Brigade
Honor the lives they saved,
And to the lives they’ll save,
Countless of hundreds!
Monday, November 27, 2006
Monday Musings
My coworker had a heart attack today. We're pretty close, there's three of us that work in that area + we get along well.
About 8 am, she got this sudden chest/neck pain, red face, and started sweating profusely. Our supivisor came over + my other coworker ran to page the CNA. The CNA said to call the squad, which we did.
It took 15 minutes for the rescue squad to get there-and they're just 3 miles away. A person could die, waiting for the rescue squad. (and I'm sure lots of people do die-waiting for that rescue squad!!!) I'm not licensed to be an EMT in the facility, but I was nervous as heck that the squad wouldn't get there + I'd have to do CPR.
She's been admitted, and they're running tests now.I just hope she's ok, she's got every single cardiac risk factor there is + needs to quit smoking. I'm worried about her.
Tonight, my youngest brother took me out to Red Lobster (a late,late,late birthday present as he's been in Marine boot camp the past 3 months). It was awesome- I love Red Lobster.
The events of the morning got me thinking about how more frequently PWD's have heart attacks, and in 30 years am I going to be in the same boat? Add the high a1cs, the family history of cardiac problems, and the length of time with the D and its more then just a worry-its a huge probability. I suppose the only two positive factors are A. I don't smoke and B.I don't have high cholesterol. Heart attacks are really scary-I don't want that complication either,thank you very much.
It's been awesome weather, supposed to be in the 60's till Friday.(when it gets colder again) Almost feels like spring.
About 8 am, she got this sudden chest/neck pain, red face, and started sweating profusely. Our supivisor came over + my other coworker ran to page the CNA. The CNA said to call the squad, which we did.
It took 15 minutes for the rescue squad to get there-and they're just 3 miles away. A person could die, waiting for the rescue squad. (and I'm sure lots of people do die-waiting for that rescue squad!!!) I'm not licensed to be an EMT in the facility, but I was nervous as heck that the squad wouldn't get there + I'd have to do CPR.
She's been admitted, and they're running tests now.I just hope she's ok, she's got every single cardiac risk factor there is + needs to quit smoking. I'm worried about her.
Tonight, my youngest brother took me out to Red Lobster (a late,late,late birthday present as he's been in Marine boot camp the past 3 months). It was awesome- I love Red Lobster.
The events of the morning got me thinking about how more frequently PWD's have heart attacks, and in 30 years am I going to be in the same boat? Add the high a1cs, the family history of cardiac problems, and the length of time with the D and its more then just a worry-its a huge probability. I suppose the only two positive factors are A. I don't smoke and B.I don't have high cholesterol. Heart attacks are really scary-I don't want that complication either,thank you very much.
It's been awesome weather, supposed to be in the 60's till Friday.(when it gets colder again) Almost feels like spring.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
The Official D-Friendly Gift Giving Guide
If you’re like me, every Christmas you'll probably get a few of these.
-Sugar Free chocolates/candy(that often don’t taste all that great- and contain enough sorbital to keep you restroom running well into the next year)
- Diabetic cookbooks
-Boost, or similar “glucose stabilizing” drinks
- Diabetic socks
Your loved ones think you will appreciate/use them, and you definitely appreciate the thought. But you probably will NOT use them.
So, what do the type 1's on your list really want?
The Quick Fix Keychain- which totally tops the list in terms of convenience, durability, and now comes in 4 lovely colors. Your hypofix goes anywhere you do, I can't tell you how many times I've been glad I've had this.15 carbs makes enough of a differance to get to where ever you're going, or to make it someplace+ buy food. You can also put jellybeans,smarties,or other small candies in them.
Frios- On every continant, Frios rule.. Frio's for pumps, vials,pens-and simular products for Byetta users. They're always appropriate(summer is only 7 months off!).I love my Frio.
A 24 pack case of Diet Coke (or Diet Pepsi..whichever one they prefer)- What D wouldn't love this??? most of us are Diet Carbonated Beverage addicts.
An Itunes gift card- where they can download such classics as:
- Santa Claus Gave Me Diabetes(Stuckey + Murray). For those of us diagnosed during the holiday season, this song hits particuraly close to home.
-Ebay (Parady of "I want it that Way" by the Backstreet Boys) by Weird Al Yankovitch. Most of those online Christmas deals will probably end up in your next yard sale.
- free diabetes related podcasts
- Walk the Line(Johnny Cash). The Man in Black had type 2 diabetes himself, so he understood part of what he was singing about.
- On Top of Spaghetti. Its a good thing meatballs have few-zero carbs, losing one's meatball will not wrack havoc on your bg control.
A suscription to one of these fine magazines is always appreciated:
-Diabetes Forecast
-Diabetes Health
-Voice of the Diabetic
-Countdown(JDRF)
-Diabetes Selfmanagement
Or a gift certificate here. I'd love one of those shirts, but can't justify $25 on one.
A Environmentally Friendly Syringe-Lancet Zapper:
(no good for pump needles-but still,pretty handy + freakin' cool)You can just recap the syringe + toss,when you're done with burning the needle hub off. No (getting stuck) worries for the poor trash guy,when he picks up your trash.
Any further suggestions to the list?
-Sugar Free chocolates/candy(that often don’t taste all that great- and contain enough sorbital to keep you restroom running well into the next year)
- Diabetic cookbooks
-Boost, or similar “glucose stabilizing” drinks
- Diabetic socks
Your loved ones think you will appreciate/use them, and you definitely appreciate the thought. But you probably will NOT use them.
So, what do the type 1's on your list really want?
The Quick Fix Keychain- which totally tops the list in terms of convenience, durability, and now comes in 4 lovely colors. Your hypofix goes anywhere you do, I can't tell you how many times I've been glad I've had this.15 carbs makes enough of a differance to get to where ever you're going, or to make it someplace+ buy food. You can also put jellybeans,smarties,or other small candies in them.
Frios- On every continant, Frios rule.. Frio's for pumps, vials,pens-and simular products for Byetta users. They're always appropriate(summer is only 7 months off!).I love my Frio.
A 24 pack case of Diet Coke (or Diet Pepsi..whichever one they prefer)- What D wouldn't love this??? most of us are Diet Carbonated Beverage addicts.
An Itunes gift card- where they can download such classics as:
- Santa Claus Gave Me Diabetes(Stuckey + Murray). For those of us diagnosed during the holiday season, this song hits particuraly close to home.
-Ebay (Parady of "I want it that Way" by the Backstreet Boys) by Weird Al Yankovitch. Most of those online Christmas deals will probably end up in your next yard sale.
- free diabetes related podcasts
- Walk the Line(Johnny Cash). The Man in Black had type 2 diabetes himself, so he understood part of what he was singing about.
- On Top of Spaghetti. Its a good thing meatballs have few-zero carbs, losing one's meatball will not wrack havoc on your bg control.
A suscription to one of these fine magazines is always appreciated:
-Diabetes Forecast
-Diabetes Health
-Voice of the Diabetic
-Countdown(JDRF)
-Diabetes Selfmanagement
Or a gift certificate here. I'd love one of those shirts, but can't justify $25 on one.
A Environmentally Friendly Syringe-Lancet Zapper:
(no good for pump needles-but still,pretty handy + freakin' cool)You can just recap the syringe + toss,when you're done with burning the needle hub off. No (getting stuck) worries for the poor trash guy,when he picks up your trash.
Any further suggestions to the list?
Thursday, November 23, 2006
72 Hours in Review
Happy Turkey Day, Ya'll!!!!!!
(After being throughly stuffed, I figure I should type off some of those calories)
So Tuesday..
6 A.M. Get up, check blood sugar. Assume it to be in the upper stratosphere, given how thirsty I am, but its only 104. Whatever.
7 AM- Eat sausage+ bagel biscuit.
8:30 AM- 239. Bummer. Take 3 units.
9:30 AM- Indulge Self in coworker's too-die-for angel food cake.
10 AM- It is announced that we'll be working Friday AND Saturday. I want to punch something, preferably the idiots in Corporate who make these decisions. What good is a holiday weekend if you get one day off, only to slave the other two? My entire weekend has just been ruined. And its not like we're some needed service, like a hospital or gas station or something. This is retail- people will not die if they don't get that Tommy Hilfigure watch come Dec.25.
No getting drunk Thursday night.
No Black Friday.
No wild holiday house decorating sprees.(heck,I'll be too tired)
It is really not fair.
11 AM- 236. Take 3 more units.
12:15 PM- Check blood sugar, just for the priviledge of NOT seeing a 200's number.
139. Ahh, life is better now.
1 PM- Eat bologna + Swiss sandwich(both of which I don't really care for) from the vending machine, because there was absolutely nothing better in there and I ate my packed lunch for breakfast...
1:15 PM- Auditing supivisor comes over, hands me a slip of paper and tells me to fix the order. Spend next hour fixing it, only to find out original count size was wrong anyway. Check slip of paper, see that I've been marked up 11 times.
I didn't make 11 mistakes- I made one mistake 11 times!!!!
Just for the record- 1 mistake is forgivable, 11 is NOT. 11 is very, very bad. The auditor, apparently, has been trying to impress her supivisor + it worked. The thing is, I was just going off the paperwork(the mistake originated elsewhere) + it all comes back on my head..CRUD.(I won't get fired, but if I did, this is not the week I'd care)
4 PM- 139. Not bad. Go home, retrieve mail from mailbox, partially porn addressed to landlady's husband. Am I surprised- no, that past is common knowledge. Am I irratated? yes, he can keep his porn mags, I don't want them. Stuff it back in mailbox.
5:30 PM- Go to gym,eat applesauce, workout. Infusion set falls off.
6:30 PM-287. Eat Chinese food anyway.
8:30 PM-459. Bolus huge amount
1:30 AM-300.
5:30 AM-200. Wake up from nightmare that your own child has just been diagnosed,and you're sitting in your Ex-Ped Endo's office(the sins of one's teenagerhood loom large) crying. I have got to stop thinking about hypothetical situations that could possible occur,I don't even have any kids yet!
Day goes much better, blood sugars behave.(as I make the conscious effort to count every carb, check every hour, and treat anything under 100 like it'll soon turn into a low.)
5:30 PM- Run errands around town, eat supper at folks, peel, cut, and dice one's way to a sleepy coma.
Had two lows today,(morning) both from bolusing a large amount(for breakfast)because I didn't want to go high from the inactivity. Consequently, I didn't eat as much for Thanksgiving dinner because I'd consumed 2 cups of juice + a can of sweetened tea for my lows. Somehow, my body has acquired this "calorie limit", and it doesn't matter where the calories come from-I stuff too easily. One plate, one piece of pie, and I was history.
And I've decided I'm going to go out on BF (after work),some places have all day sales so I'll likely run into some bargains. Screw work-it's not going to dictate my life.
(After being throughly stuffed, I figure I should type off some of those calories)
So Tuesday..
6 A.M. Get up, check blood sugar. Assume it to be in the upper stratosphere, given how thirsty I am, but its only 104. Whatever.
7 AM- Eat sausage+ bagel biscuit.
8:30 AM- 239. Bummer. Take 3 units.
9:30 AM- Indulge Self in coworker's too-die-for angel food cake.
10 AM- It is announced that we'll be working Friday AND Saturday. I want to punch something, preferably the idiots in Corporate who make these decisions. What good is a holiday weekend if you get one day off, only to slave the other two? My entire weekend has just been ruined. And its not like we're some needed service, like a hospital or gas station or something. This is retail- people will not die if they don't get that Tommy Hilfigure watch come Dec.25.
No getting drunk Thursday night.
No Black Friday.
No wild holiday house decorating sprees.(heck,I'll be too tired)
It is really not fair.
11 AM- 236. Take 3 more units.
12:15 PM- Check blood sugar, just for the priviledge of NOT seeing a 200's number.
139. Ahh, life is better now.
1 PM- Eat bologna + Swiss sandwich(both of which I don't really care for) from the vending machine, because there was absolutely nothing better in there and I ate my packed lunch for breakfast...
1:15 PM- Auditing supivisor comes over, hands me a slip of paper and tells me to fix the order. Spend next hour fixing it, only to find out original count size was wrong anyway. Check slip of paper, see that I've been marked up 11 times.
I didn't make 11 mistakes- I made one mistake 11 times!!!!
Just for the record- 1 mistake is forgivable, 11 is NOT. 11 is very, very bad. The auditor, apparently, has been trying to impress her supivisor + it worked. The thing is, I was just going off the paperwork(the mistake originated elsewhere) + it all comes back on my head..CRUD.(I won't get fired, but if I did, this is not the week I'd care)
4 PM- 139. Not bad. Go home, retrieve mail from mailbox, partially porn addressed to landlady's husband. Am I surprised- no, that past is common knowledge. Am I irratated? yes, he can keep his porn mags, I don't want them. Stuff it back in mailbox.
5:30 PM- Go to gym,eat applesauce, workout. Infusion set falls off.
6:30 PM-287. Eat Chinese food anyway.
8:30 PM-459. Bolus huge amount
1:30 AM-300.
5:30 AM-200. Wake up from nightmare that your own child has just been diagnosed,and you're sitting in your Ex-Ped Endo's office(the sins of one's teenagerhood loom large) crying. I have got to stop thinking about hypothetical situations that could possible occur,I don't even have any kids yet!
Day goes much better, blood sugars behave.(as I make the conscious effort to count every carb, check every hour, and treat anything under 100 like it'll soon turn into a low.)
5:30 PM- Run errands around town, eat supper at folks, peel, cut, and dice one's way to a sleepy coma.
Had two lows today,(morning) both from bolusing a large amount(for breakfast)because I didn't want to go high from the inactivity. Consequently, I didn't eat as much for Thanksgiving dinner because I'd consumed 2 cups of juice + a can of sweetened tea for my lows. Somehow, my body has acquired this "calorie limit", and it doesn't matter where the calories come from-I stuff too easily. One plate, one piece of pie, and I was history.
And I've decided I'm going to go out on BF (after work),some places have all day sales so I'll likely run into some bargains. Screw work-it's not going to dictate my life.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Meter O' Mine
As a rescue squad trainee, I had a great fondness for our uniform.
Pockets, pockets, everywhere.
The BDU's alone sported 6. 2 knee, 2 side, 2 back. The jacket had a 2 arm pockets and
a smaller pocket on top of the (joined) hand pockets. And, of course, the uniform shirt had a small left pocket. Topped off with thick boots-it was very professional looking,even if everything was entirely too long.(obviously,designed by the male members of the RS)
While most people on the squad rather underutilized their pockets, I made full use of mine. (figuring, if I had to look unfashionable + fat anyway, I'd go the whole 9 yards)
Right side pocket- pump
Right knee pocket- glucose tabs
Right back pocket- medical ID, since I didn't want to WEAR it..
Left side pocket- money, cellphone
Left knee pocket-car keys
Left back pocket- meter, strips, poker
A juice box or two was generally stashed in the jacket pocket, along with various pens, papers, penlights, etc. (tools of the trade)
I carried all my D supplies on me, because I didn't want to use the ambulance's unless it were absolutely necessary. (A. I hate glucose gel, B. Their meters sucked, and C. I didn't want anyone to know I had diabetes) By doing this, I also didn't have to cart around a pocketbook.
One particularly long night, as several of us jump back into the ambulance to head back to the station, one of the paramedics notices my meter case lying out.
"Hey, what's this?" He unzips it.
The other squad trainee looks over at it, interested. I immeadiently resort to my best pokerface + don't say a word.
"It looks like some patient left their home blood glucose testing machine in here-did we have any D patients tonight?"
"Beats me," the other trainee responds. I shrug, non-commitally, hoping my flaming red face doesn't give anything away.
"We should really drop it off, next time we're out at the hospital."
(Nooo you won't, I think, when we're back at the station, I'll be repossessing it, and will NEVER,EVER,EVER leave it out again)
The conversation drifts away to other topics, and when we arrive at the station I take it back. (when no one is looking)
A meter is a very personal thing. Just like a pump, you've got this special affection for the bloodsucking technomarvel.
And you get very upset when someone touches/tampers with it.
(You touch it, You die!!!)
Although, if I would have killed the paramedic everyone would have known I had diabetes, and my overall effectiveness on the job would have doubted).(At saving lives, too..)
(inspired off this. Ok, so I'm not 22 anymore,but I can still have fun with my rather boring,plain o'le black meter case) Cool contest,Allison- I hope D-life gets many imaginative,fun, submissions.
Pockets, pockets, everywhere.
The BDU's alone sported 6. 2 knee, 2 side, 2 back. The jacket had a 2 arm pockets and
a smaller pocket on top of the (joined) hand pockets. And, of course, the uniform shirt had a small left pocket. Topped off with thick boots-it was very professional looking,even if everything was entirely too long.(obviously,designed by the male members of the RS)
While most people on the squad rather underutilized their pockets, I made full use of mine. (figuring, if I had to look unfashionable + fat anyway, I'd go the whole 9 yards)
Right side pocket- pump
Right knee pocket- glucose tabs
Right back pocket- medical ID, since I didn't want to WEAR it..
Left side pocket- money, cellphone
Left knee pocket-car keys
Left back pocket- meter, strips, poker
A juice box or two was generally stashed in the jacket pocket, along with various pens, papers, penlights, etc. (tools of the trade)
I carried all my D supplies on me, because I didn't want to use the ambulance's unless it were absolutely necessary. (A. I hate glucose gel, B. Their meters sucked, and C. I didn't want anyone to know I had diabetes) By doing this, I also didn't have to cart around a pocketbook.
One particularly long night, as several of us jump back into the ambulance to head back to the station, one of the paramedics notices my meter case lying out.
"Hey, what's this?" He unzips it.
The other squad trainee looks over at it, interested. I immeadiently resort to my best pokerface + don't say a word.
"It looks like some patient left their home blood glucose testing machine in here-did we have any D patients tonight?"
"Beats me," the other trainee responds. I shrug, non-commitally, hoping my flaming red face doesn't give anything away.
"We should really drop it off, next time we're out at the hospital."
(Nooo you won't, I think, when we're back at the station, I'll be repossessing it, and will NEVER,EVER,EVER leave it out again)
The conversation drifts away to other topics, and when we arrive at the station I take it back. (when no one is looking)
A meter is a very personal thing. Just like a pump, you've got this special affection for the bloodsucking technomarvel.
And you get very upset when someone touches/tampers with it.
(You touch it, You die!!!)
Although, if I would have killed the paramedic everyone would have known I had diabetes, and my overall effectiveness on the job would have doubted).(At saving lives, too..)
(inspired off this. Ok, so I'm not 22 anymore,but I can still have fun with my rather boring,plain o'le black meter case) Cool contest,Allison- I hope D-life gets many imaginative,fun, submissions.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Reality Check in Aisle Five
I decided against an all-nighter(awaiting the coming of the PlayStation 3), namely, because I am a working women AND can't camp out two days ahead of time. 16 hours is a reasonable time period, two days is not. The store down the road, where I'd planned to make my midnight run-already had more then ten customers, as of YESTERDAY. And 10 PS3's were all that store was getting. I am not going to wait 12 hours in freezing temperatures, unless I could be assured that I would be getting one. What is it- do they think more will magically appear, or do they not do their homework ahead of time?
There are less painful ways of doing this, such as preorders at various places.(which I do have, it will just be awhile) And of course, there is Black Friday. (8 days away..can you feel the excitement? lol)
I am, once again, the proud Aunt...
Of a nephew this time, named Paul. Poor Paul was supposed to be a girl, but I'm glad my SIL had a backup plan(name). Nonetheless, the pink clothes/blankets will have to wait for his sister!
Paul came TWO days after Emily, 4 weeks early. Babies come when they want to, but I think its kinda cool that they were almost born on the same day.
Welcome to the world, Paul!!!!!!!
(pics forthcoming, when I get into see them)
Further Reality Checks forthcoming.(time to frantically scribble numbers/info down for endo appointment tomarrow)
There are less painful ways of doing this, such as preorders at various places.(which I do have, it will just be awhile) And of course, there is Black Friday. (8 days away..can you feel the excitement? lol)
I am, once again, the proud Aunt...
Of a nephew this time, named Paul. Poor Paul was supposed to be a girl, but I'm glad my SIL had a backup plan(name). Nonetheless, the pink clothes/blankets will have to wait for his sister!
Paul came TWO days after Emily, 4 weeks early. Babies come when they want to, but I think its kinda cool that they were almost born on the same day.
Welcome to the world, Paul!!!!!!!
(pics forthcoming, when I get into see them)
Further Reality Checks forthcoming.(time to frantically scribble numbers/info down for endo appointment tomarrow)
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
List of Places to REALLY Avoid on Friday
Best Buy? Check.
Target? Check.
Circuit City? Check
Staples? Check
Office Max? Check
Kmart? Potential check- it depends on where the Best Buy losers migrate next
Walmart? Double Check.
Endo’s Off- Wait, I can’t avoid that. Gotta take my medicine like a woman.
So at which of these fine establishments will I be camping out, (on the night of the 16th) thermals- coat-sleeping bag-hot coffee in hand, listening to “Summertime, Summertime” on my ipod while I breathe periodically on my pump + meter, willing them NOT to freeze? (I’ll give you a clue, it isn’t the last one)
Stay tuned.
Target? Check.
Circuit City? Check
Staples? Check
Office Max? Check
Kmart? Potential check- it depends on where the Best Buy losers migrate next
Walmart? Double Check.
Endo’s Off- Wait, I can’t avoid that. Gotta take my medicine like a woman.
So at which of these fine establishments will I be camping out, (on the night of the 16th) thermals- coat-sleeping bag-hot coffee in hand, listening to “Summertime, Summertime” on my ipod while I breathe periodically on my pump + meter, willing them NOT to freeze? (I’ll give you a clue, it isn’t the last one)
Stay tuned.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Definatly NOT a NaPoBloMo(R)
I wouldn't be able to do that, pop out a post every single day. Unless I was the weather person. But today...
Meet little Emily. (my very first, NEW NIECE! born today)
Closing the gap on the previously dispared of, complete + absolute, male takeover. Go, girls.
(Another niece due in December)
And everyone is doing fine.
Meet little Emily. (my very first, NEW NIECE! born today)
Closing the gap on the previously dispared of, complete + absolute, male takeover. Go, girls.
(Another niece due in December)
And everyone is doing fine.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Touring Constitution Highway
Quick quiz:
Which of our Founding Fathers lived on the edge of civilization, supported his wife's deadbeat son, has one of the East Coast's central party schools named after him, was 5'2 (his wife was taller then him!) and lived the longest(ripe old 86, baby)?
Our very own James Madison.
Contrary to popular belief, Mr. Madison was not some rich, stuckup snob- he was truly a man of the people. He even lived in a doublewide, and that's the very first Port-A-Potty on the side:
(sorry, the sign just cracked me up-like that doublewide was actually his mansion!)
After work yesterday, my boyfriend and I went over to Montpelier, you want to talk about the edge of civilization- it still is. Took an hour to get there from the city limits, 2.5 hours total. I think its on the opposite side of the city from Monticello-despite him and Thomas Jefferson being such good buddies. Probably took a day's journey by horseback, back in those days.
Montpelier is still in restoration mode, it won't be finished until 2009. It really wasn't very picturesque, but it was cool, nonetheless. After James Madison died, his wife sold it, moved to DC + then she died 13 years later. And in 1903, the Duponts bought it, added about a zillion rooms, a racetrack + a train station+ tracks(yes, seriously, some people have more money then they know what to do with). So the restoration society decided to tear down all the additions, etc. (that the Duponts did) to make it truly authentic. Inside the house, you can still see little bits of wallpaper from the Dupont days, along with the Madison whitewashed bricks. As they tear the Dupont add-ons down, they have to be careful that they aren't tearing away Madison stuff because the Duponts were big recyclers and reused everything.
Some things, though, stood the test of time:
James Madison's "Temple".
(no,I'm not the blond)
Underneath, was an icehouse where they kept ice, and that's how Dolley could serve ice cream in the summertime. It also kept the upper area cool in the summertime, James Madison used it as a study sometimes.
The former ice hole:
Cedar of Lebanon trees:(from both the Madison + Dupont days)
They are really, really tall! One of the tallest, if not the tallest, trees I have ever seen.
One of the things that duly impressed me, was Mr. Madison was just 25 when he went to the Continental Congress. And he was the only one to remember to write down everything that went on in that room, posterity can thank him for setting the record straight.
I'm sure you're all wondering just HOW Mr. Madison finally died. During his last days, as he was pretty stiff and sore from arthritis and getting progressively weaker, his doctor(who had also been the former physician of Thomas Jefferson) offered him a stimulant so he could live a little longer and die in style on July 4.
(a popular dying date, back then) His family refused though. One morning, as he was eating breakfast in his study, he started to choke. His niece asked him what was wrong, he sat up straight, looked at her and said clearly + strongly,"Just a change of mind, my dear" and then slumped over the table and died. He must not have died from choking, he must have died from whatever it triggured... he was 86, and had been weak/ailing for quite some time.
He died on June 28, 1837. Didn't make it to the 4th.
The house under reconstruction:
And what its supposed to look like. (Scale model)
The weather was perfect,and the return trip was MUCH shorter.(an hour, found a shortcut home)
Dinner at Golden Corral, an end to a perfect day. (Definition of "Day":11 AM-8 PM, work does not count in the above activities(I try not to remember such things)). And I got my two insulin reactions out of the way, prior to 11 AM(so that wasn't so bad). 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM, and that was that. Didn't ruin the rest of the day.
Which of our Founding Fathers lived on the edge of civilization, supported his wife's deadbeat son, has one of the East Coast's central party schools named after him, was 5'2 (his wife was taller then him!) and lived the longest(ripe old 86, baby)?
Our very own James Madison.
Contrary to popular belief, Mr. Madison was not some rich, stuckup snob- he was truly a man of the people. He even lived in a doublewide, and that's the very first Port-A-Potty on the side:
(sorry, the sign just cracked me up-like that doublewide was actually his mansion!)
After work yesterday, my boyfriend and I went over to Montpelier, you want to talk about the edge of civilization- it still is. Took an hour to get there from the city limits, 2.5 hours total. I think its on the opposite side of the city from Monticello-despite him and Thomas Jefferson being such good buddies. Probably took a day's journey by horseback, back in those days.
Montpelier is still in restoration mode, it won't be finished until 2009. It really wasn't very picturesque, but it was cool, nonetheless. After James Madison died, his wife sold it, moved to DC + then she died 13 years later. And in 1903, the Duponts bought it, added about a zillion rooms, a racetrack + a train station+ tracks(yes, seriously, some people have more money then they know what to do with). So the restoration society decided to tear down all the additions, etc. (that the Duponts did) to make it truly authentic. Inside the house, you can still see little bits of wallpaper from the Dupont days, along with the Madison whitewashed bricks. As they tear the Dupont add-ons down, they have to be careful that they aren't tearing away Madison stuff because the Duponts were big recyclers and reused everything.
Some things, though, stood the test of time:
James Madison's "Temple".
(no,I'm not the blond)
Underneath, was an icehouse where they kept ice, and that's how Dolley could serve ice cream in the summertime. It also kept the upper area cool in the summertime, James Madison used it as a study sometimes.
The former ice hole:
Cedar of Lebanon trees:(from both the Madison + Dupont days)
They are really, really tall! One of the tallest, if not the tallest, trees I have ever seen.
One of the things that duly impressed me, was Mr. Madison was just 25 when he went to the Continental Congress. And he was the only one to remember to write down everything that went on in that room, posterity can thank him for setting the record straight.
I'm sure you're all wondering just HOW Mr. Madison finally died. During his last days, as he was pretty stiff and sore from arthritis and getting progressively weaker, his doctor(who had also been the former physician of Thomas Jefferson) offered him a stimulant so he could live a little longer and die in style on July 4.
(a popular dying date, back then) His family refused though. One morning, as he was eating breakfast in his study, he started to choke. His niece asked him what was wrong, he sat up straight, looked at her and said clearly + strongly,"Just a change of mind, my dear" and then slumped over the table and died. He must not have died from choking, he must have died from whatever it triggured... he was 86, and had been weak/ailing for quite some time.
He died on June 28, 1837. Didn't make it to the 4th.
The house under reconstruction:
And what its supposed to look like. (Scale model)
The weather was perfect,and the return trip was MUCH shorter.(an hour, found a shortcut home)
Dinner at Golden Corral, an end to a perfect day. (Definition of "Day":11 AM-8 PM, work does not count in the above activities(I try not to remember such things)). And I got my two insulin reactions out of the way, prior to 11 AM(so that wasn't so bad). 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM, and that was that. Didn't ruin the rest of the day.
Thursday, November 09, 2006
National D-Blog Day
(Today is National D-Blog Day. Every D-blog post has to be D-related, so I'll put my regular posts on hold for this)
Just a day like any other day.
I'd skipped out on a precalculus class that evening to go to the local insulin-pumpers meeting.
Veggies
Dip
Diet Soda
Fruit and...
Friends
Everything healthy, of course. (to deter individuals like myself, who absolutely would eat cookies/cake/junk food if it were offered)
Everything was there- yet something vital was missing. Or rather, someone.
I wondered about it, until(at the end of the meeting) the CDE told us why.
Just like that,gone that same day.And I thought, perhaps this was the most intelligent skipping of class that I had ever done. Otherwise,I'd have not known about it for months. And then I cried, all the way home.
Two days later I was at High Mass, rather a first for a Baptist...
It was crowded in the small chapel,standing room only for the latecomers. Which I most decididly was.
Candlelight sparkled against the stained glass windows, the chapel pews were lined with flowers. Outside, a light, chilly rain was falling. It was a overcast day, matching for a funeral.
People begun filing past the casket.
"How did you know her?" the priest,(who'd come up beside me) asked gently.
I start.
"She was-the best nurse. At the diabetes pediatric clinic. I knew her from there."
"I see," he nods. "You can go see her, if you want."
And I say my final goodbyes.
I still miss you,Andi- you were the best thing to happen for over 20 years worth of pediatric diabetes patients. You understood teenage D's like no one else at that place.
Diabetes isn't the only disease that needs cured, cancer also makes the list. And on this day, the anniversary of your death, I remember you + others like you who made the early years of D, just a bit easier.
This post is dedicated to you.
Just a day like any other day.
I'd skipped out on a precalculus class that evening to go to the local insulin-pumpers meeting.
Veggies
Dip
Diet Soda
Fruit and...
Friends
Everything healthy, of course. (to deter individuals like myself, who absolutely would eat cookies/cake/junk food if it were offered)
Everything was there- yet something vital was missing. Or rather, someone.
I wondered about it, until(at the end of the meeting) the CDE told us why.
Just like that,gone that same day.And I thought, perhaps this was the most intelligent skipping of class that I had ever done. Otherwise,I'd have not known about it for months. And then I cried, all the way home.
Two days later I was at High Mass, rather a first for a Baptist...
It was crowded in the small chapel,standing room only for the latecomers. Which I most decididly was.
Candlelight sparkled against the stained glass windows, the chapel pews were lined with flowers. Outside, a light, chilly rain was falling. It was a overcast day, matching for a funeral.
People begun filing past the casket.
"How did you know her?" the priest,(who'd come up beside me) asked gently.
I start.
"She was-the best nurse. At the diabetes pediatric clinic. I knew her from there."
"I see," he nods. "You can go see her, if you want."
And I say my final goodbyes.
I still miss you,Andi- you were the best thing to happen for over 20 years worth of pediatric diabetes patients. You understood teenage D's like no one else at that place.
Diabetes isn't the only disease that needs cured, cancer also makes the list. And on this day, the anniversary of your death, I remember you + others like you who made the early years of D, just a bit easier.
This post is dedicated to you.
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