Kid's First Diabetes Second

I just finished reading the book Kids First, Diabetes Second, by Leighann Calentine. I would definitely reccoment this book to a newly diagnosed family! It comes from a mom of a young diabetic, just like me. It definitely gives many suggestions and insights to show that we all go through very similar day-to-day issues and experiences with our diabetic.

I knew I'd enjoy this book when I read page 8. Leighann stated
" I can't think of many medical conditions other than type 1 diabetes where the patient, or for young patients, the parents, manke any number of life-and-death decisions daily. other medical conditions are overseen by a doctor who prescribes a method of treatment and expects you to follow a very specific protocol. With type 1 diabetes, the care team trains you then sets you free."

This is exactly right. we get roughly 2-3 days of training on the hospital (not like we aren't watching every move our little kiddo is making at that time and still in a blur with what is going on), then they send us home to keep our child alive by every single carb count, injection, sugar check, middle of the night monitoring, etc.. This is such a life shock to us that we felt so lost and helpless. This is where JDRF stepped in for me and my family. They gave us a Bag of Hope, and introduced us to other diabetics in our area. We were able to 'fit in' our own skin by learning other habits and ideas from other diabetics. We felt like we had our own new family!

Over the past 8 years, my JDRF and diabetic family has grown tremendously. I am very fortunate as Mrs. West Virginia International to have opportunities to travel the state and meet so many newly diagnosed type 1's, as well as what I call 'ole pros' at diabetes. I still learn new information and tips every week. It doesn't matter how long you've been a diabetic, there are always new things to learn in daily living; even if it's just a new recipe to try out!

I highly recomment trying to reach out to a newly diagnosed type 1 and refer them to us at JDRF. We have 100 chapters and 7 affiliates WORLD WIDE!! We can get your support, education, and mentorship where ever you are. If you don't have a support group in your area, I will make one for you.