The All-Important Membership in the 7.0 Club, Pt. 2 by Taryn McQuain Bentaous

Diagnosis to Diva!

Divabetic shares ‘Diagnosis to DIVA’ stories from members of our community in the hope of inspiring you to GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS. In her latest blog post,  Taryn shares more about her experience coping with the ‘numbers game’ associated with diabetes in the second part of her ‘The All-Important Membership in the 7.0 Club’ post:

Then it happened. I fell off the proverbial wagon, and my numbers started rising. It was awful. Even after, I was back on track my numbers were still high after a normal “approved” meal. I couldn’t understand it.  If I ate too much of the wrong thing, I could understand seeing a high number. However, seeing a high number after a “perfect” meal is beyond frustrating. I started to panic, but I still had a few weeks before I could get in to see my doctor. I had recently switched to insulin, and I had discovered how differently the insulin works with the body compared to my old medicines. I was learning that with insulin you really need to be at a good number before the meal or it will climb too high.

This adjustment hasn’t been easy. I recently saw my doctor who has explained that my weight gain from falling off the wagon and starting insulin has caused me to have more insulin resistance. What a vicious circle! You take insulin to help you control your Diabetes, and in turn gain weight that makes it harder to use insulin! I can’t blame it all on the insulin, as much as I would like to.

Why do we feel so much shame when our Diabetes management isn’t working? This is something that makes Diabetes unlike other diseases. If someone’s chemotherapy wasn’t working correctly, we wouldn’t blame the patient. But, if a Diabetic’s treatment plan is working well, we are very quick to point the finger at the person in question. This seems really unfair, and we need to learn how to rise above the judgment that we feel from ourselves and from others. We need to let go of the shame that we feel when we see a “bad” number or if we ate something that was “bad”. This shame isn’t helping anyone. If anything, it is the very thing that will lead us back to an unhealthy path.  I hope that the day will come when our A1C isn’t used as a tool to measure the “compliance” of a person with Diabetes. It’s a useful measurement, but it isn’t the only one.  If we can look inside ourselves and reconnect with our Diva Spirit, we will see remember that a simple medical test cannot define our self-worth. We are amazing people who are trying every single day to improve our health. We want to be healthy and we make good choices many times each day. Let’s focus on what we are doing right, and stop the shaming, even if it is in our own minds.

Share your ‘Diagnosis to DIVA/DUDE’ story – email: mrdivabetic@gmail.com

WATCH NOW: Easter Parade in NYC with Mr. Divabetic 

LISTEN NOW: Diabetes Late Nite inspired by Nina Simone

 

The All-Important Membership in the 7.0 Club by Taryn McQuain Bentaous

Diagnosis to Diva!

Divabetic shares ‘Diagnosis to DIVA’ stories from members of our community in the hope of inspiring you to GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS. In her latest blog post,  Taryn shares more about her experience coping with the ‘numbers game’ associated with diabetes.

In my last Divabetic blog entry “Tubthumping and Milk Chocolate”, I did the unthinkable. I confessed my shortcomings as a Diabetic and described falling off the wagon and the struggle to get back on. It was very therapeutic and liberating to write about this because I was breaking a taboo. I was admitting that I wasn’t a perfect diabetic and facing the shame that this admission carries with it.  This was hard to do, because I have been a smug, card-carrying member of the 7.0 club since my diagnosis. If you or someone close to you has Diabetes, you know we are told that the most important indication of our Diabetes management is having an A1C of under 7.

I used to feel that being a member of the club would redeem me from the shame that I felt at becoming diabetic at such a young age. I now know that it wasn’t really my fault, and it was a question of “when” and not “if” according to my doctor. Maybe I could have held out a little bit longer if I had been healthier, but Diabetes was a bullet that I was unable to dodge. If someone asked me about my Diabetes, I could proudly say that I could boast about this number, and most people would be impressed.  I felt like a “good diabetic” with straight As on my report card. Yes, I counted carbs and tried to eat well, but mostly my medicine worked really well and I knew what I could “get away with” and what would cause me to get sick.

Whenever someone would ask me how it was going, I was quick to point out my 6.2 which is the equivalent of getting an A on your report card. Sure, I was still overweight, but my A1C was looking good and no one could argue with that. I suppose that I was guilty of even being judgmental of those who were not able to join the club. What were they doing? In my mind they drank a 2 liter of regular coke with every meal. They must be doing something wrong, I thought to myself. TO BE CONTINUED on the Divabetic Blog.

Share your ‘Diagnosis to DIVA’ story – email: mrdivabetic@gmail.com

WATCH NOW: Easter Parade in NYC with Mr. Divabetic 

LISTEN NOW: Diabetes Late Nite inspired by Nina Simone

 

45 Years with Diabetes And Still Counting! by Catherine P. Lawrence

Catherine Lawrence

On June’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast, the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic interviews Catherine Lawrence about living with diabetes for 45 years scheduled for Tuesday, June 10, 2014, 6 PM, EST.

Catherine shares her experiences and insights of living with diabetes for over four decades and the changes in self-care she has seen over the years:

Many things have changed since I was diagnosed with diabetes at age 9 in 1969. Most of the daily testing equipment and testing routines at that time are so archiac now that I will fast forward to the present.

I believe that the standard for me is the counting of carbohydrates, which I learned when I started to use an insulin pump over 12 years ago. It is truly a way of life that I have found to be easy and so effective. Counting carbs was a very good new approach because a majority of the information I need is on the food label. The transition fron counting calories to reading a label that lists so much, including carbs, is simple and more precise.

Another large factor in my diabetic routine is the testing of my blood sugar. When I compare using a test tube and dropper then going to a machine that was the size of a tape player early on in my diabetic life, testing my blood sugar today is a piece of cake (sugar free of course.) The fact that I can test at any time, any place has simplified my life. And, let me emphasize how very important it is to test. To be able to get that ever important number, at a moments notice, can be a life saver.

Add to all of this is the invention of the insulin pump. For me, it changed everything. I just could not believe that there were going to be no more daily injections; no more having to carry around a vial of insulin (and keep it cool) and finding a “private” place in which to take that injection. I also learned that diabetes DOES NOT have to be hidden and should NEVER be an embarassment. It was a big adjustment with a learning curve that was very attainable. Commitment and honesty were essential in getting on the pump. It is an accomplishment I am very proud of.

Last, but not least, I TALK WITH MY DOCTOR. I let him know what is going on in my life so adjustments can be made when necessary. He wants to help but sometimes I need to be my own advocate when sitting in his office.

Along with help from my doctor, Certified Diabetes Educator, a Registered Dietician and support from my spouse (my husband has a good understanding and gives me input) I can live very well with diabetes.

Share your ‘Diagnosis to DIVA’ story with Divabetic and help inspire others to take charge of their diabetes. E-mail: mrdivabetic@gmail.com

WATCH NOW: Dazzling Diabetes Outreach at the Easter Parade

DON’T MISS: Diabetes Late Inspired by Doris Day on Tuesday, May 13, 2014, 6 PM, EST. Call in: (347) 215-8551

http://youtu.be/dQITGT0N3rE

Diagnosis to Diva: Tubthumping and Milk Chocolate by Taryn McQuain Bentaous, pt. 3

Taryn shares her experiences of living with diabetes from adjusting to the diagnosis to struggling with daily challenges to help us to raise awareness for the personal complexities related to the disease.  Read part 3 of Taryn’s story:

So, here I am, a fallible human being who is trying to fight the good fight. I’ve found that my best armor is my Diva Spirit, and it is finding that again that is going to help me to get back on track. How am I going to do that?  I’m going to find it by taking care of myself every single day and presenting myself in the best possible way that I can, even at this heavier weight. I’m going to think of the women who inspire me the most by their strength. I’m going to sit with my pain and feel it.  I’m going to hand my milk chocolate over to my husband who will be more than happy to take it. I’m going to get back to doing Zumba dancing which always makes me feel sexy, and happy. I’m going to take the “No fries Friday” challenge. I’m going to count my carbs and not cheat. I’m going to eat what makes me feel good for the entire day, not just for a moment. I’m going to also allow myself a few squares of very dark chocolate when I need it. Most of all, I’m going to remember what makes me special and why I need to take care of myself. I’m going to find my Diva Spirit and dance to “Tubthumping” all night long.

LISTEN NOW: Diabetes Late Nite 

Diagnosis To Diva: Cindy from New York

Diagnosis to Diva Stories

The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic shined the spotlight on Cindy from New York, NY. Cindy’s a fabulous real life diva living with diabetes who we met  at last year’s American Diabetes Association (ADA) Expo in New York, NY.  Cindy’s been living with type 1 and 1/2 diabetes for just over a year. Before she was diagnosed she said she felt tired. She was often forgetful and unable to focus. Cindy was also extremely ‘needle phobic’ and unwilling to use insulin therapy at first in the hospital.  Hear Cindy’s  amazing testimonial on how insulin therapy has greatly improved her health and life! Her A1C is now 5.9. She credits her husband of 26 years and her two teenage sons for helping her adjust to living with diabetes.

This month, we talked about “Labels” with inspiration from singer, actress  Fantasia Barrino.  From Designer and Nutrition labels to the labels we assign to ourselves as well as others – labels are a part of life. We use them to tell stories so we can better understand ourselves but often times labels can lead to confusion, branding and shame. The question is: are the ‘labels’ in your life helping you lead a healthy, happy life with diabetes?

LISTEN NOW: Diabetes Late Nite hosted by Mr. Divabetic http://www.blogtalkradio.com/divatalkradio1/2014/02/11/diabetes-late-nite-inspired-by-fantasia-barrino

‘Diagnosis To Dude’ Stories with Tim Brand

Tim Brand from ‘My Bleeding Finger’ Blog is our special guest on Divabetic’s upcoming Diabetes Roundtable podcast scheduled for Tuesday, September 10, 2013, 6 – 7 PM, EST. Here’s Tim’s ‘Diagnosis to Dude’ story:

Name:  Tim Brand

Status:  Father of 2 girls with Type 1 Diabetes

Diagnosis: (Month/Day/Year)  April 1 2009, and April 10 2011 at ages 3 and 3 ½

Diagnosis To Dude:  Two fold, in the endocrinology clinic at children’s hospital telling the certified diabetes educator (CDE) that  they would need to send a nurse to our house to help us, I couldn’t do that kind of care. She said you can do it, later that night I gave our daughter her first shot of long acting insulin. Two years later I checked youngest daughter and she had a BG of 501. Then I began to write and advocate for Type 1 Diabetes and my 2 girls that live with it. Before I wrote, I could do all the diabetes care, I became a vocal advocate after 2^nd diagnoses. I could no longer site on the bench.

Biggest Self-Care Issue or Concern:  Societal ignorance that puts my daughters at risk and or the FDA.

Special members of healthcare entourage: My wife, she is a d-mom extraordinaire, the entire DOC and of course our Endocrinology team. We have a great team, our girls hugs our Endocrinology and CDE when they see them.  They encourage us and tell us we are doing a great job. They are always upbeat and positive.  I’ve never heard a negative word from them. The DOC because they are always there to vent to, ask advice and encourage me on hard days.

Diabetes Associations & Organizations Affiliated With:  

http://diabetesadvocates.org/ We are a collective of individuals and organizations that offer expertise, resources, and support to those touched by diabetes. We believe that connecting with others living with and caring for diabetes, and providing emotional and anecdotal support, goes hand-in-hand with the support of a healthcare provider.

http://bleedingfinger.com/ My personal blog on Type 1 Diabetes. I tell the story of my 2 girls with Type 1 Diabetes and advocate on issues related to Diabetes.

http://www.tudiabetes.org/   Tudiabetes, a community of people touched by diabetes.  I am a member and supporter.

Favorite Diabetes Resource:  Dlife.com

Twitter Account:  @bleedingfinger

Favorite Diabetes Self-care Product: G4 by Dexcom. Its help my wife and I get more sleep. Very accurate.

Motivating Mindset:

I have 2 daughters diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes exactly 2 years apart. They were both 3 years old when diagnosed. I motivated to help them stay healthy and keep life as normal as I can. I never want them to feel like they are a burden to me and my wife. It our job to take care of them diabetes and all; it’s our job to love them diabetes and all. It is scary to have a child diagnosed with Type 1, but you can do it. Just take the info your endocrinology team lays out and follow that. You will learn to adjust and a few months everything slows down and you will find a new normal for your family.

Your Motto: Tomorrow can’t wait, enjoy what you have today and make as many people smile around you as you can. ‘Carpe Diem’  is also a good motto.

Diagnosis To Diva: Liz Wolff from Cure Thrift Shop

Divabetic Liz Wolff

May’s Diabetes Roundtable podcast special guest, Liz Wolff, the owner of Cure Thrift Shop in New York, NY. This busy wife and mother is  We hope Liz’s story helps to empower you to manage your diabetes with confidence, knowledge and inspiration (like a diva!) this month.

Diagnosis To Diva Story:  I was diagnosed 18 years ago when I was 11 years old. I was a pretty mature 11 year old and was completely comfortable with my diagnosis. With the help of my parents, I immediately jumped into learning how to manage the disease and live a normal and healthy life. But, after a few years, adolescence took control and I was no longer the “model diabetic.” From around the time that I was 14 years old until I was 21, I was completely non-compliant. I rarely tested my blood sugar and took insulin according to how I felt. At one point my a1c was as high as 13! Finally, after getting married at 21, I realized that I could no longer be selfish about my life and my health. I took baby steps – testing a couple of times a day, then 3-4 times a day, until I got used to the new lifestyle. By the time that I was 22 years old, I completely turned my diabetes life around.

Biggest Self-Care Issue or Concern: My biggest self-care concern was always about having a baby. I feared that all of the years of being non-compliant would prevent me from having a safe and healthy pregnancy and delivering a healthy baby. Fortunately, after a tone of testing and tight control, I was given the OK by my doctor to try and conceive. 14 months ago, on my 17 year anniversary of being diagnosed, I delivered a wonderful and healthy baby boy.

Special members of healthcare entourage: My endocrinologist, Dr. Jason Baker is my diabetes hero. He has opened my eyes to a new way of managing myself and my diabetes. He completely guided me and held my hand throughout my pregnancy.

Diabetes Associations/Organizations/Publications You’re Affiliated With: In 2008, I opened Cure Thrift Shop. We are a philanthropic thrift shop benefiting the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation. Outside of Cure Thrift Shop, I participate in various fundraising events to raise money for the DRIF.

Favorite Diabetes Resource: Omnipod – it has changed my life Favorite Celebrity Diva (and why): Bethenny Frankel – she is completely self-made,confident, hilarious, and successful.

Favorite Movie and/or TV Show: All Bravo Reality shows – it’s my guilty pleasure, Girls, Game of Thrones, Mad Men

Favorite Song: “Our House” – Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young

Motivating Mindset:  My experience with diabetes has not been exactly smooth. There are absolutely days when I just let myself go and don’t take care of myself the way that I should be. My inspirations are my husband and my son – I NEED to be alive and well for them. I want to live a long and healthy life.

Your Motto: Hold onto yourself.

TONIGHT: May’s Diabetes Roundtable Inspired by Kate Middleton featuring Mr. Divabetic,Catherine Schuller, Patricia Addie Gentle RN, CDE,  Kathy Gold RN, CDE, Mama Rose Marie, the Digital divas(Taryn and Jessica), Molly Lepeska from 100Campaign and Liz Wolff, the owner of CURE Thrift Shop in New York, NY http://www.blogtalkradio.com/divatalkradio1/2013/05/14/diabetes-roundtable-inspired-by-kate-middleton

Diagnosis To Diva Stories: Molly from Amsterdam

Diagnosis to Diva

May’s Diabetes Roundtable podcast special guest, Molly from Amsterdam is a mother of three and has been living with diabetes since 1999. But juggling the roles of wife and mother haven’t stopped her from getting involved with 100Campaign to make insulin available to everyone. We hope Molly’s story helps to empower you to manage your diabetes with confidence, knowledge and inspiration (like a diva!) this month.

Diagnosis To Diva: I’m a Midwestern girl, built of sturdy farm stock people who are quiet hard workers and don’t complain.  I was raised learning to look at every obstacle in life and just “get over it, and on with it.” When I was  first diagnosed,  after spending the weekend in the hospital because of blood sugars over 900 and being shoved back into the world a few days later with really not much more than the knowledge of how to inject an orange with insulin, I figured I’d better just get on with it. I was a senior in college (in the middle of mid terms!)  – 2 months away from graduation, about to start my career.  I basically just figured it out all on my own – and didn’t really talk about it to anyone. I lived the next ten years with my diabetes this way – doing well but not really speaking much about my diabetes.

Diagnosis to Diva: Molly

The irony of course of this is that I worked in global health and was a huge proponent of encouraging those most affected by a condition – be it HIV, diabetes, etc to be at the forefront of the advocacy.  In 2010 I began working for a diabetes youth empowerment organization called AYUDA.  Here I was surrounded by other amazing vivacious young people who were living “out loud” with diabetes- unashamed to test blood in front of crowds – wearing their insulin pumps outside their clothes- and I was still in hiding.  Finally I realized I had to get out there and practice what I preached. I tested my blood sugar at a meeting in front of strangers. I spoke at a global meeting and finally talked about my experiences as a person living with diabetes. It was invigorating and liberating to finally become a full fledge member of  this diabetes community. It was a huge step for me and ultimately helped me improve my diabetes health as well!

Biggest Self-Care Issue or Concern:  I think now that I’m a mom of three kids  and a husband who travels quite a bit for work, my main concern for myself is just watching my lows when I’m alone with kids.

Special members of healthcare entourage: My kids! Inspire me every day to stay healthy and live a long long long life!

Diabetes Associations/Organizations/Publications You’re Affiliated With:   Founded in 2012, the 100 Campaign is a global movement committed to tearing down the barriers to access to insulin for all that need it. Disheartened by the lack of global action towards access to insulin, a small team of advocates with experience in diabetes communities in resource poor settings came together to launch the 100 Campaign.

Favorite Diabetes Resource: my Medtronic pump!

Favorite Celebrity Diva:  Tina Turner.  She’s overcome so much on her own to become not only an inspiration and an icon but a unflappable cool customer with the most amazing legs. Ever.

Favorite Movie and/or TV Show: The Graduate/Project Runway

Favorite Song: Always (Atlantic Starr)

Which Diva inspires you the most? Your 3 choices are: Carol King, Carol Burnett and Florence Henderson ‘Carol Brady’.  Carol Burnett. Proof that women have a sense of humor!

Motivating Mindset:  Diabetes is a journey – not a destination. Your in it for the long run so dont stress every single bump in the road. For me the most important thing I learned was that everyone is totally different on how you handle your condition – there is no “right” way to do it. When thinking about your cafe you are your best advocate!

Your Motto:  Pedal to the metal!

COMING SOON: May’s Diabetes Roundtable Inspired by Kate Middleton featuring Mr. Divabetic,Catherine Schuller, Patricia Addie Gentle RN, CDE,  Kathy Gold RN, CDE, Mama Rose Marie, the Digital divas(Taryn and Jessica), Molly Lepeska from 100Campaign and Liz Wolff, the owner of CURE Thrift Shop in New York, NY http://www.blogtalkradio.com/divatalkradio1/2013/05/14/diabetes-roundtable-inspired-by-kate-middleton