Tuesday, May 11, 2010

The shoe dropped

Hey everyone,

So, over the past several months, life has been pretty smooth. I've had several family and friends who have gone through unexplainable ordeals, and I've felt blessed that I was able to help them however I could. In the back of my mind, I've sort of been waiting for the shoe to drop, knowing that my life couldn't stay all peaches for too long. I know, it is sort of a pessimistic attitude. But, I did try to keep it in the back of my mind.

Well, yesterday, it dropped. I went to my thyroid doctor, and he let me know that I officially have Diabetes. As of now, it is Type II and we are treating it as such -- oral medication, diet control, increased exercise, testing my blood sugar twice daily, etc. He did mention that there is a 'newer' type of Diabetes that I might have -- Type 1.5. It is diagnosed in adulthood as Type II, but after 4-5 years, progresses to Type I, which will require daily insulin injections. I hope it doesn't go there, but honestly from the research I've done, it seems more likely that this is what I have. I don't really fit the poster child for Type II diabetes. I'm not overweight (though my doctor told me it wouldn't hurt to lose 5-10 pounds.... ouch), I exercise regularly and eat (somewhat) healthy. I have low blood pressure, etc. All these symptoms fit the Type 1.5 diagnoses.

There is also a strong correlation between my Thyroid disorder (which is immune related) and developing the immune-related Diabetes -- Type I. My doctor felt either it was genetic (which I have NO family history of at all) or immune related. The only way to tell is to treat it as we are doing and keep an eye on various markers throughout the months.

It kind of serves me right -- in a way. I'm in love with carbohydrates. My life philosophy has been "Exercise to support your eating habits". I have never had any sort of will power to go on a diet. So, now, all of a sudden, I'm supposed to severely limit my carb intake, drastically increase my exercise, and watch what I eat, 24/7. So not what I want to be doing. But, whoever said life is fair. I always knew life wasn't fair, I just made sure I had a supply of Sour Patch Kids to help me deal with the unfairness. Now that is taken away from me as well....

So, if you have any tried and true and delicious diabetic meals, snacks, even desserts -- send them my way. If not, I'd appreciate your prayers and support as I tried to change my eating habits overnight.

Eat a piece of toast for me, or a bowl of cold cereal, or a bagel with cream cheese, or a piece of chocolate, or a bowl of ice cream, or pasta, or a baked potato... I'll just go chew on a stick of celery.



13 comments:

Unknown said...

Jennie, I'm so sad for you about this. You will be in my prayers.

Diana Waite said...

Jennie! Ugh! I'm sorry if there is anything I can do to help--let me know! Hey! I know cool whip makes a topping that is sugar free--it's yummy!

Unknown said...

Sorry again, Jennie... (we do have a blood-uncle that has type 1..so maybe genetic component???)
Anyhow, there is one thing that has no sugar that has gotten me through many sour-patch-y situations...DIET COKE!! You may have to take it up...just sayin'! Love ya'.

Alicia said...

I'm sorry to hear your sad news. I have type 1 and my parents have type 2 so if you're serious about the recipes, I can get you a bunch from my mom. Let me know!

Crystal said...

I love you dear friend! I'm sorry the shoe had to drop so hard!!! I'll be praying for you and counting down the days until I can give you a huge hug.

Melissa said...

Well, you'll for sure drop those 5 to 10 quickly! I'm so sorry that you're having to deal with this. I'll remember you in my prayers.

Beckie said...

Jennie, that just... well... royally stinks. Watching what I eat has been one of my toughest challenges. I'm a snack-a-holic. I had blood sugar issues as a child & in my 20's. I have been on a no sugar diet several times & it is amazing the no-sugar treats that they made (even WAY back then). I'm sure that they have improved since then, but I used to make these sugar-free cheesecakes from a box that I got at the grocery store. They really weren't too bad. Let me know how I can help... be there... cheer you on! And of course some extra prayers.

Wendy said...

Oh wow--you are definitely not the poster child for Diabetes. How frustrating. I'd like to hear of your progress and journey into good meals, etc. We could all be healthier and cut out more carbs.

Marilyn said...

I haven't checked blogs for a while and when I do, I find out about this? Wow! I'm so sorry! Sure do love you. You'll pull through cause you're one amazing gal!

Kim said...

I'm so sorry Jennie!!! I doubt you need to lose 5-10 pounds. You have never had to since I've known you. I can't imagine having to watch everything I eat. I do have some good weight watchers recipes that are low in sugar which might work. I'll ask Jeff's cousin for recipes too because she has twins who both have diabetes.

Snowbrush said...

I'm so sorry that you have diabetes. Everyone in my wife's family--her parents and both sisters--has it, but she is borderline thus far. I wish you well. Perhaps, it won't be all bad. I have had health problems over the last few years after being in good health for decades, but I can't say that the experience has been entirely negative. Health challenges can be great teachers.

Kyle Groberg said...

Jennie it was great to see you at Maddie's concert and a bummer to hear your news! Just think of how much more fit and trim you will be!!!! You will inspire me to loose the "BABY" weight! (I can still say that right if she is only 6mo. old) I should just follow your eating and exercising regimen!! Hang in there "Sista"! Smiles, BEV

GrGrGr said...

Jennie, you have always been in our faith and prayers and will continue to be with increased desires for your well being.
We're sending you some Stevia,one of our favorite natural herbal sweetners. Hope it's helpful to you. Have you discovered the Glad microwave steaming bags? They're great for delicious vegies with very little work or time or cleanup involved.
Love, Mom and Dad

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