Sugar Overdose

Fun 'Facts'

2007-07-20T06:47:00.000-05:00

Favorite glucose tab: Walgreen's Brand Grape
Pump's name: Thia
Lowest number I can remember: 26
What helps me stay positive: Wanting to live a long, healthy life; Athletics; Seeing people who have had this disease live into their 80s.
Who helps me stay positive: My family and friends
Something I wish I could do but can't: Enlist in the Armed Forces
Something weird that I do (diabetically related): I used to collect the pump covers that you put on when you are "unpluged"
At what level do my friends get worried: Anything under 80 and anything over 180
Number 1 confusion I have to explain: When I'm under 70 I need to use my pump to give me insulin. No no I say to them. No no.

Let's Go for a Walk

2007-07-20T06:26:00.000-05:00

One of the perks with interning with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) is being asked to come to the outings that the chapter (Southeastern Wisconsin) puts on. Yesterday was our kick off lunch for the Walk to Cure which is held at the Milwaukee County Zoo (September 23rd for any locals who are interested). I bring this up because it was such a great feeling seeing so many people come out to support one cause. At one point through the lunch I looked around at the people who were enjoying their lunch and talking with family and co-workers and I was filled with a feeling of something between awe and bittersweet. The thought of so many people from all corners of Milwaukee to support me and the millions of diabetics almost brought me to tears. “They have my back” (including my friend who is running half a marathon in the name of diabetes-reference post “San Fran Marathon”) I thought as I took a bite of my chicken in a mushroom sauce. It also cut just a little to know that all these people-these great people-were there to fight something that no one should have to deal with. I have met so many people through diabetic connections and as great as the people are, I think I would have to say I would rather not know them. I try to spin it and say that diabetes was the masked blessing that brought me to someone or that I was given diabetes because I am strong enough to fight it but when it comes down to it, diabetes sucks.

Thank you to the people out there fighting for a cure. Whether you are diabetic, know and love someone struggling with the disease, or you just want to help your courage and dedication does not go by unnoticed. We [diabetics] appreciate the time and work.

Glucerna anyone?

2007-07-11T17:17:00.000-05:00

Who can give me some advice or information on Glucerna? I am trying improve my overall health and someone gave me the suggestion of Glucerna products. I am athletic and want to maintain my strength/endourance while also maintaining a healthy weight. My goal is to lose about 10-15 pounds but in a diabetic healthy way.

Does anyone have any suggestions or advise?

So... I'm at work. Just tested. Wait for it... 74. Hmmm, gonna go up my self a little. I'll return later.

San Fran Marathon

2007-06-29T06:48:00.000-05:00

Yesterday afternoon I was fortunate enough to meet at one of many local Starbucks with my former basketball coach. We have a deep history and even though she is no longer my coach we are very nicely transferring our roles to friends; a very nice blessing for both of us. As we sat in some our comfy chairs and sipped our lattes she informed me that she would be running in the San Francisco half marathon. I was impressed with the news and slightly jealous at the opportunity. (As athletic as I am, I am not yet to marathon-or half-caliber.) She then told me about how she wants to run with a cause and since both of her parents were diagnosed with diabetes later in life and since she has a friend or two with the big D she has decided to run for diabetes. She asked if I could get my hands on some diabetes related t-shirts and I am gladly on the task. Rock on with your bad self Sue! I know you can do it and I know you will wear one of the shirts I grab proud. Also, thank you for running for (what I think is) a great cause. Good luck!

I hope everyone’s summer is going well. I hope any travel plans go off without any trouble and if you need to get frisked at the airport it is by someone attractive ;-) Stop by and pay a visit from time to time.

Make the Difference

2007-06-23T04:32:00.000-05:00

I apologize for the absence but between work, interning, and sleeping I seem to have only time to use the bathroom. I was able to sneak away for a weekend with my mom, however, and visit some relatives in the La Crosse area of Wisconsin. We were celebrating my Grandma's cousin's 90th birthday. The lady may be up there in years but is still 'all there upstairs.' It was facinating listening to stories from her past. She can remember so much as if it occured last week. It was great going up with my mom and seeing a side of the family we do not get to see too often. I love it up there. I would move there today if I could. Unfortunately, work, school, and no place to live are keeping me in the Brew City. Oh well, it's not that bad here :-)

Boo on Bush! He vetoed our bill again. Dangnabit! Here we go again. PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUCEMENT: Contact your state representitives! Make your voice heard. Explain why we need this bill, and many others, passed. Go to the ADA and/or JDRF websites and become advocates for you or the people in your life affected by diabetes. You can make a difference.

Thank you :-)

2007-06-09T11:03:00.000-05:00

Good Saturday morning blogging community :-)
As I sit an answer phones at the Lake Express High Speed Ferry this morning my attention is drawn to a woman sitting in the Milwaukee terminal. She arrived around 9:15 and since check-in does not start until 11:00 she is sitting at a table waiting patiently for the check-in process to begin. When she arrive, as many do, she approached me at the customer service counter asking for guidance as to where she should next. I advised her that we do not begin check-in until 11:00 but she is more than welcome to stay in the terminal until that time. From my observation I felt it safe to assume that she was slightly mentally handicapped. I can also assume that she lives on her own and for the most part can take care of herself. She informed me that her father made the reservation for her and told her where to go.

As she waits in the terminal she gently places her bags around her and sits down. She pulls out a small bag and rummages through it. A call interrupts my attention but when I glance back over she is delicately applying her make-up. She is holding her blush, focusing on her reflection and the strokes she is applying. All being done in a very Audrey Hepburn fashion. All very something out of “Breakfast at Tiffany's.”

I bring up this little story because it made me think how cool it was that someone who might have been overlooked growing up or has had people think “she can't do that” can and is. I am not saying I know what this woman's life growing up was like or how her life is now but if one person anywhere ever thought that anyone with a mental handicap cannot live on their own or live their life to the fullest this woman proves them wrong. So here is a thank you to the guardians and caregivers to those with any kind of handicap and a strong rock on to those that have proved ney-sayers wrong.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

I would also like to send out a big congratulations to the call of 2007. Rock on and go get 'em!

You can do [almost] anything...

2007-06-01T04:43:00.000-05:00

For as much as I do not like being diabetic I can usually put up with it. Sure, me and my diabetes have a love-hate relationship but we get along for the most but there is one thing that I will never be able to forgive my diabetes for and that is stripping me of being able to enlist in a branch of our armed forces. Ever since I was young (young like 6 or 7) I knew I was going to serve our country. It was a devastating day when I realized I would not be able to. I understand to a point why any given branch will not accept diabetics, however, it kills me to know that I am more physically fit than some of the recruits that enlist. Growing up being told that I can do anything without letting diabetes get in the way it pains me to know that this one thing I want to do I am told I will never be able to. It is almost as if we have a plague. An Army recruiter called me shortly after turning 18 and asked if I was interested in serving our country. I said very much so, however, I am diabetic. He could not get off the phone fast enough. “Thank you. Do you have any friends that are interested?” No. ...but I am.

I have started my internship with JDRF and love it. So far they have me doing grunt work but I am assured that I will be working on other, more fun projects. I am currently helping with the golf outing and the upcoming walks.
:-)

2007-05-19T06:57:00.000-05:00

Despite the current weather conditions in the great state of Wisconsin, summer has officially come my way. I am done and have passed my classes (still waiting to hear an official word on one) and am completely moved out of my room in Clare Hall. I left the residence hall for the last time at 12:45AM on Friday morning. It was a bit sad leaving my room. As the door closed behind me I could not help but turn and look back at my window on the second floor. It was a good, quiet hall where hours were spent doing homework and sleeping.

Now that summer is here I can devote my time to my job at The Lake Express High Speed Ferry. I work some crazy hours but I love the job (most days). I take reservations, answer questions, and help with passenger and vehicle check-in. It saves time from driving around Chicago! I will also be doing an internship with JDRF and I could not be more excited. The only thing that would make this internship better was if it was paid. I will be working with their event planning and marketing departments. I am really excited and eager to begin.

Steel Magnolias anyone? I know Mother's Day has come and gone already but sit down with your mom and watch a fabulous movie. It is never too early or too late for time with your mom and a great movie.

Take Care of YOU!

2007-05-09T12:51:00.000-05:00

I posed a question to myself last night and I have yet to give myself an answer. Last night as I was trying to fall asleep I asked myself “Why can I be such a great diabetes advocate for my friends and the millions of people I do not know but when it comes to me, I continuously drop the ball?” I know how bad certain foods are and I know that not taking care of myself could mean years off my life but my actions do not always reflect that. Why? I think about it and sometimes it just doesn’t matter. How can that be? I have yet another infection on my toe (same toe as in January’s incident) and still I make poor decisions. This infection grew and had me in the ER Friday night all in a 24 hour time period. Damb! I need to step it up and get my D-game on. Plain and simple.

The reason I post this is because I know there are millions of diabetics out there doing the same thing. They are more talk than walk and in the end it will nip them in the toe (pun slightly intended). Take care of yourself I say to you! I’m working on me, work on you.

Spring Soccer and Sunburn

2007-04-23T13:12:00.000-05:00

This weekend I was blest with something a little painful and yet ever so wonderful. For those of you readers who know me I will say it is not another tattoo or piercing but rather the first sunburn of the summer! Yes! A sign from Mother Nature to Wisconsin that summer may in fact just be around the corner. This past Saturday, along with 8 other members of the Alverno Inferno soccer team and two coaches, I (and the first warm weather we've seen this year) woke up around 5:30 to get on a van for an hour drive north for our spring season games. (**quick crash course in college soccer… our regular season is in fall but we are allowed a short season in the spring. We are given a certain number of practice days (I believe 16) and one competition date.**) The Inferno trekked to Lakeland College for four 20 minute 7 v 7 games. We lost all four but we really put in an effort. Six members of the high school team I coach even showed up which was really cool. They got to see me score a goal. Made me feel a little cool, not gonna lie.

Along with the sun came continual testing; one test before the game and another test after. Pleased to report though that my highest test of the day was 230 at 5:45 when I tested after waking up. Otherwise, while at Lakeland my blood was anywhere between 91 and 160. Another score for my team and me. My blood did sort of sink later that night to 70 but a small Sierra Mist later and we were back on track!

Back to work, I can’t have fun online all day. L

BusyBusyBusy

2007-04-17T07:31:00.000-05:00

My life is go go go and I can’t keep up. I’m putting up one heck of a fight though. I am back working for the Lake Express High Speed Ferry and the hours are killer. For the first two weeks I am working 5:15 AM-whenever I need to leave for class but after the first two weeks I will be working 4:15-whenever. Once I’m done with classes (mid May) I will be working 4:15-12:45. Crazy! Take that and add on classes, soccer practice for my college, coaching my other soccer team, and my other part-time job I only have time left for sleep. I’m nuts. That’s ok though cuz in about three weeks I’ll be done with classes and then it will slowly fade away to only the ferry which will be nice.

So… last Thursday I had my appointment to see my eye doctor. They think I have background retinopathy. My doctor says it is nothing to be worried about yet, but she wants me back in six months to be sure. L Not too excited about that. (For those who may not know what background retinopathy is, it is where a few of the blood vessels that go to my retina rupture and leak blood or other fluid into my eye. Ick.)

Time to do a little bit of homework before getting back to work.

Curse you alarm clock

2007-04-03T07:37:00.000-05:00

It seems bed time is the time I think most about being diabetic. It is probably because I now actually have time to do nothing other than think about something and why not that? It is usually the time I reflect and think to myself “I shouldn’t of had that rice crispy square. It wasn’t that good anyway.” Or “Why is my alarm going off at 1:00AM?” Last night as I was laying down to go to sleep I set my alarm to go off at 1 knowing that I was feeling like I could be on my way down but hoping that I wasn’t. I was. At 1:00 my alarm went screaming and I found myself at 65. Boo I say to that as all I wanted to do was crawl back under my warm covers and continue sleeping. But I was a good girl and got out of bed to fix my low. I turned on the TV and ate a bowl of cereal. The entire time thinking I want sleep, only 15 more minutes and a reading of 100 and I can lie back down. Well, 10 minutes later and a reading of 86 and I found myself saying that will suffice and back to dreamland I went. Ahhhh sleep; I can’t get enough.

Darryl Worley’s “If Something Should Happen” always makes me a little sad. I know so many diabetics (including myself) and I know there are millions of us out there so when I hear this song I cannot help but think there are people speaking these lyrics everyday.

Well that’s my story for the day.

Is this the trip?

2007-03-31T12:55:00.000-05:00

So we have hit the point in the semester where I want to simply be done but we’re still just over half way. I can feel the pressure slowly starting to build. I have not gotten to the point of being in over my head but I can tell in about 2 weeks I will be. It is not that I am procrastinating; it’s just that I know my instructors are going to load me up and it’s going to be like whoa! But after the whoa factor comes sweet, sweet summer. Which I can predict will be just as busy but at least it will be summer :-) I am hoping this summer I can do my first of two internships. So far, I applied to intern with the JDRF. I am excited to hear back from them. I hope I can get in.

This morning I was up well before I should have liked to. Today is move in day for two of my friends who are moving into their first apartment. I’m excited for them and the place is really nice. I wish them the best. I cannot wait to move out. I love my family but I want to decorate my own place. I am dreading though moving out of the residence hall here at Alverno. It is going to be nuts moving back home. Since grandma died :-( we have acquired a lot of her things and my room has become the catch all. This means now my room is going to be nuts come that third week in May when I move back in. Ahh! Oh well, it’s always good to be home. Plus that’s where Scout is and I love her to death.

Thursday I have an eye doctor appointment. Nerve wrecking! I always enter the doctor’s office with baited breath thinking what if this trip is the trip something is wrong? Today when my two friends and I were moving stuff around the Brew City to the new apartment we were talking about my friend’s grandma and how they thought it would be so hard knowing that a disease could kill them before ‘old age’ and there is nothing that can be done about it. (Her grandma has cancer that is in remission and they are hoping it doesn’t come back.) Then my other friend said well, “Yea Alex, how does it feel? I couldn’t do it.” I replied with you hope there is a cure before you get to that point and until then you think about it as little as you can or it will drive you mad. When I was diagnosed 18 years ago we were told a cure is five years away. 13 years later and we haven’t been so lucky but I’m still hoping for the best. Maybe within these next five years. Hopefully it will not be to late for any of us.

Diabetes, DC, and 21

2007-03-19T12:49:00.000-05:00

Let me begin today's post with a question. Why is it so difficult to find an endocrinologist/diabetes specialist? I have been trying for the last few weeks to find a new diabetes doctor (maybe not the technical name for the profession but I trust you all know what I mean) and am having no luck. I do currently have a doctor; however, I do not feel he is the best fit for me. As I have kept you posted, I have had quite a few serious infections in the last year and he never seems to be as concerned as I think he maybe should be. Maybe I have been over concerned, yet, when I go to my regular physician, she is very concerned and with my toe even sent me to an urgent care center late one night. Maybe I’m just spoiled after my doctor (the best doctor I have ever had) moved to persue a career in research. Anyway, I called a diabetes specialist center and no doctors were accepting new patients. WTF mate!?! I understand people are busy but really! I need to see someone too and my dude just aint workin it for me. So, if there is anyone in the Milwaukee area knows of a good diabetes specialist, please let me know.

Since I am here I might as well update you on everything else I have been up to. Since we’ve last spoke, I went to Washington DC for spring break and turned 21! Washington DC was a lot of fun. This time it was all pleasure; not like last time where it was diabetes business. Three of my friends and I flew down and did DC in a day. It was a great trip in a 2 night, 1 day trip. Also while on hiatus, I turned 21! No big parties though, just getting dinner with my close friends and chillin like we usually do.

Love ya, talk to you soon.

Scout's Honor

2007-02-07T11:08:00.000-06:00

For those who wanted to know about my new friend, here is the information... Scout is a female rex rat. She is very social and if she is awake, she wants to be out of her cage. She loves to sit on your neck and she is a licker. She does not like wheel and she hated the ball so she needs to get excersise by playing with me and my friends. For her, a wheel, a small igloo house, and chew sticks, the total was about $30. (I already had the cage, food, and water bottle.) She is very easy to care for as long as she is cared for. I clean her cage at least once a week, make sure she has fresh food and water, and give her a treat when she's been good. If you have any more questions, just let me know.

I am sure my basketball team thinks I am one set of problems after another. Finally, I am able to come back and play after my bad infection and the second or third game in, I go low. ...really low. Early first half I test knowing I don't feel quite right and my blood level is at 54! So, I stuff some glucose tabs, wait a little bit and test again. 49. Hmmmm, ok, a few more tabs and a little longer wait. This goes on the entire first half as I go from 54-49-75-63 and finally to 140. I am able to come back for the second half. Immediately after the game I test assuming the glucose has caught up with the rest of me and I'll now be in the 300s but I was only at 163. (Yes, that is a great number but after how low I was and how many glucose tabs i took I was expecting a jump.) The crazy things your body will do.

Back to the grind

2007-01-22T12:54:00.000-06:00

It sure has been awhile. Well, now that I am offically back on campus with not only basketball, but also classes and work I have more time to post. Yes, now that my schedule has more in it, I have more time to write. I should clarify; I have more computer time. Well, since we've last chatted I have grown a HUGE blister under a callis on my toe. It was nasty. It hurt like a mother trucker and looked as bad. I was off the court for 10 days and was put through the ringer. After seeing my primary doctor I was put on a high dose of antibiotics and told to warm soak it. Done and done. ...so I thought. After 4 days on the antibio it was getting worse. ...a lot worse. My mom and I ended up in an urgent care where the doctor put me on a different antibiotic. That one showed results over night. :-) I went back to my primary so she could see it and she did what had to be done; she drained it. Ick. She also gave me two shots of antis in the bum. That stung a little but all is good now. Today was my first day back on the court and it felt great! (Sorry, I know that story was a little gross, but hey. I was able to keep my toe and we all know that is big news. I wasn't so sure there for a few days.)

Anyway... Now it is back to the grind. Classes for me started Thursday. :-/ So far so good, but it is still early.

P.S. I will put a picture of Scout (my rat) up in my next post along with the details.

Thank you & Happy holidays

2007-01-02T13:42:00.000-06:00

First of all, I would like to say thank you to all those who left me a little note after my last entry. Your thoughtful, loving words meant and mean so much to me during this rough time. Thank you.

Well, I am back! Maybe not as recharged as I would like to be, but I am back after a much needed break. I was done with classes and basketball for awhile now and now basketball is starting up again after a much needed seven day break and classes do not start until the 24th. So, now that I am back on campus I have my computer and can update this spiffy little site. I hope you all had a wonderfully happy holiday season and a safe new year. My Christmas was good. It was rough without G-ma there but we made the best of it. Best gift of the year: the complete "Sex and the City" series! I love that show. My mom introduced me to the show about two years ago and I said I wasn't interested. She said "'Sex and the City' is a show that all women should watch. It does a great job of showing how strong a bond between [women] friends is." I finally broke down and agreed to watch the series with my mom. So, this past spring she started renting the series from Blockbuster. About the half way through season 1 I was hooked. (The first three shows were kinda rough, it gets better though.) I admitted to my mom she was right and that began the "Summer of Sex [and the City]."

Over this little break I bought myself a little Christmas gift of a rex rat. Her name is Scout and she is adorible! She is a very docile, friendly rat. She likes to use me as a salt lick after a hard basketball practise and she nibbles but never has she biten anyone. She likes to climb up onto your neck which tickles but its ok cuz she's cute. She also has a habbit of finding which pocket my pump is in. She climbs around in my lap and after a short time she finds something interesting. "That looks like something to be chewed" she thinks as she begins chewing on my pump tubing. I take it away and turn her around but it is vain because she is now interested in that so she bee lines to the same spot. I again try taking it away but she is getting annoyed and she uses her cute little hands now to take back what she believes to be hers. So, now Scout and I are in a tug of war with my pump tubes. I of course win and just keep an eye on her. She's just so cute I can't get mad.

Well, I'm gonna hit the showers now. Talk to you all later.

Always in My Heart

2006-12-07T13:02:00.000-06:00

I hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and that the start of your holiday season (no matter which holiday you celebrate) is a good one. Unfortunately, the start of my holiday season is one that is not the happiest. Saturday, November 25th my Grandma passed away. It was very unexpected and the doctors are still unsure of what the cause of death is. She was taken to the hospital on Thanksgiving for what we thought was the flu but ended up being a bladder infection. She was set to go home Monday at the latest and everything was looking great. The infection was being taken care of and she was getting the fluids she needed. She was given a great bill of health in every other area. She stopped breathing around 6:30 Saturday night and they were unable to revive her. We (the entire family) rushed to the hospital but it was to late; she was gone.

I love my grandma, we were very close and the pain of her being gone is still ever present in my day. She has been at every home (and most away) basketball and soccer games that I have ever played, and that first game back was hard. Not only hard for me, but also for my mom as she sat there without G-ma by her side. Since I was diagnosed with diabetes she has donated money in her name or in the name of others. It was never much, but what she could donate she did and she was proud to do it. I know she is now with Grandpa again and they are happy to have each other, but that does not always take the pain away. There are still nights I fall asleep thinking about her and wishing I could have given her one more hug. One more hug to let her know that I really did love her as much as I do. I know that one day I will get that chance and I know she is in a better place looking down but we all know that is not the same as having her, and my Grandpa, here.

To you Grandma. With all the love I can give you.

Turkeys and Basketball

2006-11-22T13:47:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope all you bloggers get your fill of turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, gravey, stuffing, green-bean casserole, and pie. May I remind you to bolus thought! Don't forget the side of insulin; otherwise, well you know what could happen.

Well, since it is Thanksgiving I thought I would share a childhood story with you. Back in my younger years. ...my way younger years of 1-8 my family would go "up north" (as we say in Wisconsin) to Arcadia, Wisconsin for Turkey day. We would usually make a weekend of it. It was always so much fun because by this time that part of the state usually had snow already so that meant sledding before most of my friends! Anyway, on one of these Thanksgiving visits, everyone on the farm (including my family-as guests of course) went to visit a relative on another farm. We were all outside-the adults talking while the children ran amuck around the yard. Well, there I was all of maybe 5, minding my own, when this rooster comes running at me! Ok, I'm a little nervous cuz let's face it, I'm a city kid and what looks like a wild barn bird comes charging at my short little self. Well, it opens its wings and I freeze right where I am. Next thing I know, there is a rooster perched on my head. I'm freakin' at this point (picture the brother in "A Christmas Story" in the 'I can't put my arms down' part but shorter and with a rooster on his head. See it?) . After the bird gets off, Grandpa Reck (initials in the tattoo) comes to save me by punting that bird across the yard. Thank you Grandpa, you are my hero! I'm not sure what happened to the bird. Tweet!

Basketball season is going good. I'm working my butt off and I love it. I am proud to say that this year I was voted captain by my team. I am extremely honored. I was not expecting to be dubbed cap so I am not only excited but very honored. Thank you team! I hope I, along with our other caps, can lead us to much improvement and an enjoyable season.
Go Inferno!

This and that

2006-11-01T13:47:00.000-06:00

Hello my blog buddies! I would like to start this post by saying HAPPY DIABETES MONTH! Ok, so I'm not really that excited about it since, well, I have diabetes and know what it can do but I am excited that I now have an excuse to educate. Every November I am like the Bond of diabetes, I have a licence to educate my friends about this deadly disease and they can't say "I don't want to hear it." I love it. Ok, so it is a little depressing but I'm able to get back up and start again. So, Happy November everybody! Ironic or planned that our month comes right after Halloween? Hmmmm.....

I joined my basketball team on Saturday. I missed them. We are looking good so far. I know it's still early and we haven't played anyone but we are a quick team with girls who know what they are doing. If we need to fix anything after our first scrimmage, I know we'll be able to fix it and we'll fix it fast.

One last thing before I sign off; I told my grandma about my tattoo and she loved it! I have still not told my mom though. I plan on it and I want to but I know she will not be as cool with it as grandma was. Grandma assured me though that she will not say anything to mom.
Thanks Grandma! I love you.

1 Man, 2 Man, 3 Man, Blueman

2006-10-24T21:53:00.000-05:00

The other night I had the wonderful oppurtunity to go see the Blueman Group in concert. I have heard of the group but I did not really know what to expect. It was an amazing show! I would definately go see it again. Kevin, my ex-boyfriend now friend, got 4 tickets from his parents for his birthday and invited 2 of his cousins, a girl from work, and myself. I knew one of his cousins from high school and hadn't seen him in awhile so it was nice to catch up with him. The opener for Blueman Group was an artist I wasn't sure I was going to like but I really did get into it. Her name is Tracy Bonham. I suggest checking out the website; listen to some of her songs.

Well, soccer is almost over. Tomorrow is our last game and it will be rough. It will be a fight but hopefully we can hold our own. I'm going to miss soccer and I'm going to miss my team but there is a part of me that is glad the season is over. Maybe it is because I know basketball will then start but ... I can't really explain it. Maybe I just need a break. Whatever it is, the season is soon over and that is simply how it goes. Overall, our season we decent. Not great but we made improvement and that is great. I really anticipate next year to really rock our field. I mean, we are going to have a lot of returners and we finally have our own field! Awesome!

Well, I should be doing homework so I'll see you all later!

Here it is!

2006-10-18T14:51:00.000-05:00

Well, I did it! I got inked. I know my last post says it was gonna go down on Sunday but it actually went down on Wednesday (a week ago). The Inferno had a game Wednesday late afternoon so after that and a quick stop at the mall for mom, 2 of my friends and me went to Wild Rose and got this thing done. I went in with an idea (a cross with my grandpa's innitials; he passed away about 4 years ago) and the dude drew this up. It is what I wanted and I love it. The guy was great. While drawing up the idea I was discribing he was joking around with my friends and me. A real laid back biker guy with a story. He took us back and did his thing. I was a little nervous but more so because of my friends. They had me psyched for the worst and were acting strange. Each of my friends have a few tattoos already and they had me pegged for a weakling or something because they thought I wasn't going to make it without tears or asking for a break. It honestly did not hurt as bad as I thought it was going to. It did hurt but it was ok. The upper part hurt more that the bottom. They say once you get one you need more; I haven't decided yet. That's not to say I don't have ideas...

2006-10-09T18:57:00.000-05:00

On my way to the library tonight to meet with a group from one of my classes I couldn't help but notice that I was almost sweating. "Why were my muscles tired? Why was I practically running?" was going through my head. I'm in no hurry. Why do I rush through life? I didn't even really want to be at the meeting but I couldn't ditch cuz that would be rude. Anyway... I'm gonna slow it down a bit I think. I have a really full semester and I'm going one place right after the other but that doesn't mean I have to run there. (Unless I'm late for class, then I'll be book'n my @$$ to get there.) So I did just that. I stopped, took a deep breath and slowed my trot to a walk. It was nice and I wasn't exhausted upon arrival.

Well, Sunday is the day! I plan on getting my (first) tattoo on Sunday evening. I'm nevous/excited. I've been wanting one for a few years now and I've thought about it and I really do want to go through with it. My mom is gonna flip but hey, I'm her daughter, I'm allowed to be the reason she flips, right? I'll post a picture after I'm done so you can all see! (Thank you "Diabetic Princess" for the feedback!)

I didn't die... really.

2006-10-02T14:22:00.000-05:00

Well well well... It has certanly been awhile hasn't it? I apologize for my absance; with soccer, class, homework, and work I barely have time to sleep. Unfortunatly, that is more often the case than I hoped going into this year. I have already slept through 2 1/2 classes! (I am a VERY sound sleeper-I slept through 2 alarms and 4 missed calls!) The other night I only got 40 min of sleep. I think I really filled my plate this semester. I'm gonna keep truck'n through though. I know I can do it, it's just going to be harder than I thought it would be. It isn't all bad though. I had a paper due last week and I got it back saying I did an amazing job! Soccer is going very well I'm pleased to say. The Inferno is currently 4-6-1 which is better than past years. We won our first conference game (ever) on Saturday! This is our third year in a conference and we have won games before but this was our first conference win. It was a great feeling! All the hard work is so worth it when your team wins. "Nothing like game day." This week is Homecoming Week and there is a lot going on. Monday kicked off the week with a pep rally and staffulty vs student/alum volleyball game, Tuesday was our Homecoming game! It was an amazing game. We tied but... oh it was an excellent game. Today is the new field dedication. Super exciting! On the diabetic side of things everythings been going good. My blood has been in better control than I thought it would be and I'm feeling great. I should be eating a little healthier and I'm trying to. It's hard but so is life and that's what I'm playing for so it's definatly worth it. A bit of a damper though, I was at the doctor's a little under a month ago and it wasn't even an appointment! I went there for my 11:00 appointment and got in around 12:00. Then, he looked at my numbers, said we weren't going to be changing anything and that I did not need blood work and sent me out! I wanted to ask a question and he shoed me out crazy fast! What the flip is that about? Oh well, our insurance is changing so I'll have to get a new doctor anyway. The question was-maybe you can help-I want to get a tattoo... Now I know there are millions and millions of people reading this (ya, right) freaking out at me saying this-esp. those who know I'm infection prone. I know the risk is there but I wanted to know how severe they were. I know piercings are more of a risk (and I learned the hard way) but I still know the risks are good that bad things can happen. I just want some feedback. I know control is important too and I'm really being diligent to control my levels and what I eat. So... What do you reading this think? Should I ask my doctor, live on the edge and do it, or... help me out.

Yee-Haw ya'll

2006-08-12T06:58:00.000-05:00

I love summer in Milwaukee. It is very diverse. Living in a small suburb of the city I'm not much more than 10 minutes from anything. On any given weekend there is a festival. Whether that means Summerfest, Polish Fest, German Fest, Indian Summer, Mexican Fiesta, Festa Italiana, Irish Fest, South Shore Water Frolics, or a parish festival. This past week has been the Wisconsin State Fair-personally, one of my favorites! I am a city girl with a country heart. While I am not a huge fan of country music (sorry Kenny Chesny fans) I would move out to the "Boondocks" (a good song by Little Big Town-see, I know a little) faster than you could saddle a horse. I actually used to ride horses and would love to get back in the saddle but time right now just is not gonna work with me on that. My grandparents on my mom's side come from small farming towns in north/west Wisconsin and I love it when we go up for family reunions. Last year we had a 3 day reunion up in Trempleau county (where they are from) and I did not want to leave once we were there. Anyway... I've been down to the State Fair 3 times and would go back 3 more times if I could. The smell of the cows, horses, pigs... well, you guys get it, along with the corn roasting, the music, and everything else is fantastic! It is easy to see though why Wisconsin is one of the heavier states when our fair is known for its cream puffs. (I'll have to admit, they are pretty darn tasty) Stand anywhere on the grounds and you'll see enough food and sweets to send any diabetic into diabetic shock. I tip my hat to you Milwaukee, you're swell!

I move into the residence hall at Alverno in 1 week tomorrow! I can't flipp'n believe it. I'm still really excited but it is starting to settle in that I'm moving out. I know I'll be back home but I'll miss it-Sex and the City at night with my mom, my mouse "Bit," home cooked dinner... Lets not forget all the arguements between my mom and me. The good times... (They really aren't that bad)

Summer days and counting

2006-08-05T07:56:00.000-05:00

I can't believe the summer is almost over. I'm excited and not at the same time. I'm excited to be moving into Clair hall and I'm excited for soccer to start and I'm excited about seeing all my out of town friends, however, with all of that comes classes. I'm not really looking forward to that. I move in August 20th and I'm still really excited. Only two more weeks at home. As excited as I am to be moving in to the res. hall, I'm sad that it's my last two weeks at home. My mom and I have been renting the Sex and the City series from Blockbuster and we are on our last DVD. I guess it worked out that we would be watching the last few shows on my last few days.
Gotta say good-bye now for I am at work answering phone calls and I can't do that and type at the same time but I shall return!

Another 5 years?

2006-07-23T19:49:00.000-05:00

It pains my heart to know that in the years Bush has been in office that his first veto is this. As we know, stem cell research was the hope for millions of people suffering with diabetes and a list of other diseases. I went to Washington D.C. this spring with the mission to convince our senators to vote in favor of the stem cell bill. Our mission was accomplished; the Senate voted in favor. Not more than 24 hours later did Mr. Bush veto that vote. It breaks my heart as it should yours.

I understand the opposing positions and arguements but I come back with my own. The embrios that were going to be used for research are now going to be thrown away. Is that not murder? Is that not what George W. was trying to avoid? So, he would rather throw away unused stem cells than use them to save millions? Where is the sence in that? I'm sorry, I fail to see it. I understand that some people, including the leader of this great nation, see stem cell research as murder or abortion but if this research is all it says it could be then it's going to save millions of people.

My family was told when I was diagnosed at age 3 that a cure was 5 years away. They are 15 years late. This is now the hope that millions of diabetics have hoped for and with one fluid sweep of the pen this hope has been taken away from diabetics and so many more that could have benifited from this remarkable research.

;-(

School on the brain and its not even August... Hmmmm...

2006-07-17T15:54:00.000-05:00

It is only July 17th and I am already thinking about going back to school. Is that normal? Should I be concerned? Well, whether it is normal or not I am excited about the upcoming year. Now, I am not excited about papers, assessments, boat loads of homework, or buying my books but there are reasons I am excited for. One reason I am so excited is I am moving into the residence hall at Alvenro. Now, I would much rather be getting a place of my own but for my first time flying solo Claire Hall offers some security. I will not need to worry about monthly rent or food. I'm really looking forward to decorating my new room. I can't decide what colors I should go with. Help me out here people, give me some feedback. I am leaning towards light pink & brown, blue & green, or red, white, & black. Let me hear what you have to say; I'm all ears. Well, I guess eyes in this case since I can't really hear you. Anyway... second reason I'm pumped for classes to start is soccer season! We have a new soccer coach and I'm really being optomistic about the season. I think she will really be able to improve our team and the program as a whole. Plus, this season I'll be able to play! No stress fracture! Woo woo!

Oh, before I leave... Tomorrow is the anticipated date for voting on H.R. 810, the stem cell bill. This is the bill that will make or break everything. If there is any hope in stem cells being used to cure diabetes and the list of other diseases we need this bill to pass. Get in contact with your Senators and lets get this bill passed!

Bugs... but definatly not Bunny

2006-07-01T18:45:00.000-05:00

I have a very unwelcome guest rooming with me. They have been here for about 2 weeks now and I can't stand it anymore. This thing that is staying in my room is unwelcome, elusive, dirty, gross, and quick. This thing is worse than a weekend with the in-laws! This very unwelcome house guest is a centipede. That's right; I have a huge centipede in my bedroom. It has been there now for at least a week and a half and it's creeping me out! I hate spiders and centipedes more than I hate any other crawly thing and to know its there is bugg'n me out for real! My dad came and tried to kill it when it made its first appearence but had some difficulty. In my head it died or went to a different room. (Denial-maybe.) Then about 1 week ago it re-appeared. I was sleepy so I thought "this is my room bug, and there's not room for us both!" I got close, it darted, and I did the girly ick dance and ran to the other side of my room. It got away and again, I went back to denial. Well, last night when I woke up at 3:20 AM for work it was back! This time I took a different approach. I simply went into the bathroom to brush my teeth and told myself "if I don't see where it went I won't know where to avoid." I came back and sure enough it was gone! I want it gone!!! All my dad says about it is "at least it's eating all the other bugs." That grosses me out even more cuz obviously this beast is eating pretty well then.
I am 5 min away from fumigating my room! Nasty!!!! Now, I know I'm much much bigger than this blasted thing but I just can't do it! Its about 2 inches long and it is one of few things that I just can't deal with!!!

Congrats!

2006-06-30T21:17:00.000-05:00

Its finally on the floor! The bill diabetics have been waiting for! The stem cell bill is now on the floor and is being debated. Congrats diabetics out there. If you want to get this thing going contact your senators and lets get the ball rolling!

House-Sitting

2006-06-26T00:10:00.000-05:00

This past week I had the wonderful experience of house-sitting for my neighbors. My neighbors call on me to watch their house, and more importantyly, their pets. I love house-sitting! No, I do not have wild house parties (I'm more responsible than that thank you very much). I will admit though, I do take the time to pretend I live there on my own. What? Is that really so bad? I'm 20 years old living at home-I like the time alone. Don't get me wrong, I love my house, I love my bed in my room, and I absolutly love my family; but you've been there, you know what I'm saying. House-sitting did give me the oppertunity to watch a movie I haven't watched in a long time; Glory Enough for All. It is a very good movie about the descovery of insulin. Ya ya ya, its nerdy but I like it. It's a good movie. Well, I guess I'm not really going anywhere with this entry so I'm gonna cut it short.
Thanks for stopping by.

Back home

2006-06-15T00:47:00.000-05:00

Well ladies, gents, and diabetics of all ages I am back in the cheese state. Washington DC was great. I am not a big city person but I could see myself living there. The Call to Congress went very well. I met with Sen. Feingold and Kohl (well, Kohl's aid) and they are both in support of stem cell research which is two for our corner.
"A cure is 5 years away" a doctor said to my parents. That cure is 12 years late. "A cure is 7 years away" was told to Steve from WI-10 years late. A cure is now within reach. They are making great strides in the right direction. I know I may be setting myself up; setting the bar high but it is all I have left. I want to be free of my pump! While in DC there is an exhibit at the Smithsonian called "What happened to polio?" My point: I want there to be an exhibt "What happened to diabetes?" It would be great! They would have syringes and needls and vials of old insulin and people would look at it and say things like "I can't believe people would do that!" It is amazing the things people will do to stay alive.

My dawgs be on fire!!!

2006-06-06T21:36:00.000-05:00

Well, as the title suggests my feet are on fire! My mom and I arrived in Washington DC at about 10:00 AM Washington time, checked into the hotel, (which is pimped beyond beliefe-thank you ADA!) and then did nothing but wonder and get lost! Well, we were actually lost from the get-go. We arrive in DC with absolutly no plan. We find a taxi and our on our way to the Omni Shoreham. Once our we are in our room and our baggage is dropped off my mom and I are out. We begin walking around the hotel and then are advised to get on the Metro and head towards the Mall (not shopping mall). We are from Milwaukee, Wisconsin-we do not have Metros or subways so we are in over our heads. Thankfully people in DC are very friendly and we get to where we need to go no problem. We were shopping and walking from 11:00-7:00! Our only break is to stop for food and to take a 30 min break. We bought more stuff than we actually have room for so we aren't sure how everything is getting home but we'll figure it out.
On our adventure we stumble across the US Treasury and that leads to... drum roll...The White House! Rock that mother! After some more sigh seeing, getting lost, and shopping we do something great...go to a Washington Mystics WNBA game! I can't believe I was able to talk my mom into going. It was great! The crowd was small but they were rowdie! Now it is 10:00 DC time and we are in for the night. My feet can not take more walking today. I'll be back tomorrow if I can.
Peace!

The time has come

2006-06-05T23:31:00.000-05:00

Well, the time has finally come. Tomorrow my mom and I leave for Washington DC. Wow! I am so excited and nervous at the same time. I still can't believe I was chosen to do this. This is big stuff. Crazy! I made a cool T-shirt to wear on the flight tomorrow. A little nerdy yes but fun none the less. The fundraising number on the last count was a little over $1,400. I did get 3 more envelopes today addressed for the CTC so I'll give you a final number once I have added that to the total. I already have butterflies in my stomach. I also am filled with fear. I work for a ferry that crosses Lake Michigan and some sweet old lady came in today saying she originally made plans for Tuesday's crossing but changed it after she realized it was 6.6.06. Then I thought about it-I'm leaving for DC on 6.6.06 and there hasn't been any plane crashes in awhile which unfortuatly means we are due soon. ...so, if this does happen to be my last post I want you all to know I love you in a very diabetic related way! Ok, back to the here and now: I'm almost all packed and I can't wait to be in DC. My mom and me are planning on going to the Korean War Mem, the Holocaust Museum, some shopping, and some other big places. We only have 2 days to tour but we will get a lot in. I'm going to be taking tons of pics so if anyone wants me to send them the online Wallgreens album just send me your email address.

Thank you

2006-05-25T13:42:00.000-05:00

Almost time for D.C. I still can't believe it. I have raised very close to $1,000!!! I am really surprised how generous people have been. My favorite story so far happened not to long ago. My mom and I were at the mall doing some DC shopping. My mom had bought a piece of luggage special for the trip. I said I would be the one to wheel it around for the rest of our mall run. We went into a shoe store and the sales lady asked if we were going on a trip and I said yes and was going to leave it there but she followed up with where? Now the male sales clerk was painted intriged so I said Washington D.C. which got the sales dude all excited and asked why was I going so I explained everything and they were really excited for us. The man gave us some restraunt names to try and the girl was fascinated. It was really cool. These people had nothing to do with any of it but they were so proud just to even talk with my mom and I about it. My other favorite moment was from a girl I went to grade school and then high school with. She is a few years younger than me; she is graduating HS this year. My mom must have told her the story (my mom works at the high school in the guidence office) because I get a card in the mail. When I see who it was from I was a bit surprised. We played tennis together and that was about it. I didn't expect her and her family to send money or anything. I opened up the small light pink envelope and inside was the nicest card. No money but a very encouraging card saying she supports me in my trip. She is going in to research and understands how important funding is. I think that was the best gift I've recieved so far. It was really cool to know that so many are behind me. Another surprise was a donation of $50 from a girl that I coach. I told them what I was doing and her family came that week with a white envelope and said best of luck. I was really toached that I meant so much to my midfielder.
Thank you to everyone who is behind me. It means so much.

Where have I been?

2006-05-19T17:22:00.000-05:00

Oh my goodness! I have been moving moving moving. This past week was finals so the week before was nothing but papers and projects. This piled on top of my already busy life just about drove me to insanity! It is all over now though; no more papers, no more assessments (Alverno word for tests), no more teachers... Nothing but freedom.
The Call to Congress is coming up quick. My mom and I have our plane tickets and our room reserved. I'm a little nervous; if I don't do good I'm going to feel like I fail all of you guys. My loyal readers and fellow diabetics. I vow to do my best; for you and the other 15 million diabetics in America! My fundraising effort is making waves. I have about $700 as of today. People I don't even know are gladly helping me. It is so crazy! I'm really proud of the work I'm doing and I really hope it pays off. I will keep you guys informed.
I am stronger than my diabetes! (Note the sweatshirt)

1 month away...

2006-05-04T00:17:00.000-05:00

I am still a little in shock about being accepted to do the ADA's Call to Congress. We are only a month away! Wow!!! I am really looking forward to the event but I am really nervous too. My mom is coming though so I'm not going alone *wheph* I am currently trying to fundraise money for our plane tickets to and from D.C. I made these pamphlets that I am going to hand out to my family, teachers, coaches, neighbors...everyone else I see. I had my mom proof-read them to make sure there were no errors. She came upstairs to my room where I was writing a history paper and I could tell she had been crying. She said that it was the first time in a long time that she had cried over my diabetes. So, if things go right I should be handing these things out by Monday. Butterflies are filling my stomach just typing this post. Well, it is late and I need to get some sleep-I have to meet with one of my instructors tomorrow about my final...

If you are interested in helping my mom and me go to Washington for the Call to Congress please let me know. Any little bit will help. You can contact me at infernoballa24@cwdmail.com

June 7-9: Call to Congress

2006-04-30T22:09:00.000-05:00

BIG NEWS!!!!
I have been accepted to go to Washington D.C. to be an advocate for diabetes in "Call to Congress: Conquer Diabetes" I am so excited! My mom and I are going. How nuts is that!?!?! I applied and then forgot about it and one night there was an email saying I got it!!! How crazy!
WOO!!!

Who's to blame when we take responsibility for our actions?

2006-04-20T12:18:00.000-05:00

This post is in responce to a post I read on sixuntilme's site. Now, I do not know if Kerri meant to spark such a explosion but here I am writing about it myself. The last time I checked, she had 50 comments made about her post "Scenes" and I have a feeling more will follow. As I posted my own comment on the post I was reading other's comments and came across one that was even more bone-chilling than the 'manager women' not helping poor, low Kerri with her 27 test *cough-Theresa's comments-cough*. Kerri's post was not a post to point the finger and take responsibility from herself when she forgot her emergancy kit in the car but to point out that when someone needs help, sometimes people aren't there to help. Or if they are there they aren't always willing to help. Kerri never said I blame the women for not helping, she just said she wouldn't help; that is not at all pointing the finger. If Kerri, myself, or any diabetic blames someone else for their low or not being prepared they are not a very good diabetic. I can admit that I have messed up and forgot something to treat a low once in a while. It's life, it happens. If I am running to the store 4 blocks away and know I will be gone for 15 min then I usually don't grab something...that is my fault. It is the scariest to have a low and not be prepared. If I was at the theater and dropped down to 27 with nothing on me I would be very scared. If I would have had something I would have been composed, treated it, tested again, and enjoy the movie. Kerri didn't have anything and that is scary.
I do wanna give props to the cashier who was trying to help before manager-zilla came along. I applaude her effort. She might not have known what diabetes was but seeing the fear and urgancy in the eyes of the women before her she was trying to do what she could. It then became a matter of ignorence, laying down the 'law,' and a momentary lack of heart.
I work at a theater (not the one mentioned) and I feel that we should be trained in CPR/first aid. I am but through a different job I have. There are so many people that come into the theater and at any given time something-anything can happen. Not everyone is trained, not everyone knows what to do. Now, granted that the videos aren't the greatest, when I was trained early this spring the 5 min blurp on diabetes was cheesy they at least got the point across and explained what actions should be taken. With watching this video-pretending I am not diabetic-and Kerri came to my register as we were closing and said she needed sugar, I would have given her the juice and better believe I would stand up to my boss and say she needs sugar. I would have become a diabetic-movie theater martyr if need be.

Now, Theresa, I'm glad you are always prepared, rock on with your bad self, but I think it was as cold as the manager women to say it was all Kerri's fault. Are you saying it is Kerri's fault that the theater vending stand closed when it did? Is it Kerri's fault that the manager wouldn't help? Who's fault is it that the grass is green and it rained in Milwaukee on Easter? Is that Kerri's fault too? In 3rd grade when you fell and bumped your knee, did Kerri push you? Global warming, 9-11, US bombing Japan...let's blame Kerri cuz obviously it is all her fault. She never blamed anyone for her not being prepared, read her blog again.

Easter Time!

2006-04-15T23:37:00.000-05:00

And so it is Easter! A sugar addicts dream and a diabetics nightmare. Well, Thursday kicked off the Salisbury Easter. My mom, dad, brother, grandma, and I went to the Milwaukee Public Museum to see the "St. Peter and the Vatican" exhibit that is currently there. It was actually really interesting. I had mixed feelings going in but it was cool. Friday my mom and I fasted all day. I get angry when I'm deprived of food. My friends got a little upset that I chose to partake in this fasting but it is my duty as a Catholic. I did end up having to eat glucose tabs to 'resurect' my blood but that was it. The hardest part of the day was going to see "Harry Potter 4 at the IMAX and smelling the popcorn. That was rough. Today was prolly the biggest Salisbury/Reck tradition in the Easter time... Blessing of the food. For as long as I can remember my grandma, mom, brother, and I would get Saturday night's and Sunday night's dinner and year round essentials and stuff it all into a big wicker basket, we would drive to church and the priest would bless the food. When we got our rabbit I would put her in a picnic basket and take her to get blessed too. Every now and then the lid would bounce up and down as Button tried peeking out. The blessing of the food is an Easter memory I don't think I will ever forget and I plan on going every year.
Tomorrow we really don't have any plans... We were supposed to go out for brunch but that got cancled. So, I think depending on the weather we will either be outside or inside watching a movie. Hmmm, maybe "Steal Magnolias." That has become my mom's and mine Easter movie...cuz it starts and ends at Easter. Well, to you and your own... no matter what you celebrate, I hope you have a great time. Happy Easter!

--)-----------Foiled again!

2006-04-06T13:43:00.000-05:00

Good day inuslin junkies. Last night was my brother's and mine fourth fencing lesson. So far they are going good. I'm a little soar but it's worth it. The first night was the worst because we had to re-train our muscles to do some new things. After that it got a little easier. Right now my brother and I know how to advance, retreat, one type of lunge, and now we are learning how to defend. There are 8 positions and we know positions 4 and 6. That is what we were working on last night. Instead of my legs hurting, my wrist hurt. We didn't do much footwork, it was all done with the arm. I didn't really know what to expect the first time but it is a lot of fun. We are learning how to kill someone! Sorry, didn't mean to sound psycotic (sp???) or anything; fencing is a martial art, that is what you learn to do.
My soccer team is also doing very well. We are 3-0 right now. We had some big wins but they were not against the strongest teams so it will be interesting how the season goes. My assisstant coach and I are hoping that the team does not get cocky and people begin to get top heavy due to their growing heads. So far so good though so we are just gonna roll with it and see what happens.
Peace.
Pony.

Long-time Friends

2006-03-30T12:38:00.000-06:00

This post is dedicated to my friends, my "sugar-free friends." I have known you longer than I have known anyone else (excluding family). We did not meet under the most pleasant circumstances but I'm glad we met. Our moms met soon after we were diagnosed in a support group for parents of diabetics. Soon they decided to meet outside of the meetings, then they brought us with. We were young, about ages 2-3. We didn't know that diabetes is what linked us together, all we knew is that our moms liked to get together to talk and that meant play date for us. Who knew that 17 (about) years ago would spark this bond. This bond that not many have. I have known these other 3 diabetics longer than I can even remember. We aren't best friends and we only meet about once a year-through our moms who are best friends-but i know they are still with me. I know if I needed them, they would be there. We have seen eachother grow into young adults. I still remember a lot about our earlier meetings... playing in the sand at Tony's, going and visiting John's neighbor's horses, all the dead flies in John's attic, the rope swing in his yard, playing catch when he was in a wheel-chair, going to Laurissa's and playing volleyball, them coming to our house to play in the pool and treehouse. Getting older and joining our moms at Houlihans for dinner...John and his Diet Cherry Coke WITH cherries. Oh, excuse me, I should introduce you to my friends. I am the oldest in the group. (I think you know a little about me already.) Then there is Tony and John. They are two very cute boys who started their college carreers this year. Youngest is Laurissa, she is graduating high school this spring. Wow, we really have been together a long time haven't we? Well, anyway, I love you guys and I want you to know I have your back; if you need anything do not hesitate, I am here for you.

Nothin

2006-03-23T21:22:00.000-06:00

Thursday was the anniversary of my 17th year with diabetes. Wow! Long time. That kinda makes me feel a little old. That means my brother is turning 17... Crazy; time really does fly by.

Post-birthday

2006-03-15T12:28:00.000-06:00

My birthday came and went and now I am 20. I don't feel any different. Should I? I did get some pretty sweet gifts though. My grandma got me a Norweigan flag (my grandpa is Nor. and my grandma is Polish, I have the Polish flag but I still wanted the other one); my brother got me a $15 iTunes gift card; my friends got me a small speaker system for my iPod and they threw me the party on Saturday; and my parents got me a pair of pants, a skirt, some cute, small gifts, and drum roll please... fencing lessons! I am so excited for this. I know it might sound dorky but I love it! I think it will be really fun. My brother and I will be doing this together, which is even cooler. We go tonight for an introductory lesson. We need to go to 3 of them (I think) before they will let us enroll. This is so they know we are commited to doing this and that we won't quit after the first class.
Well, I'm at work right now so I'll write more later. Peace out.

Spring Break & Birthdays!

2006-03-08T14:13:00.000-06:00

Spring break! I love it. It does, however, seem more than a little early for my Catholic College to give us a week off. Last year we were off the week before Easter, which makes sense, but this is kind'a out there if you ask me. Well, a week off is a week off, I am not one to complain! Bonus though, my birthday is Thursday...ToMoRrOw! 20 here I come! While not a big mile-stone birthday 20 is still cool. As far as celebrating goes tonight my grandma is coming over for dinner of 'lemon-sherry chicken' with rice pielof (sp?). This is my favorite dish that my mom makes. Mmmmm, I have loved this meal for years and I can't wait. Then of course-cake! It is one of the few times were the diabetic is given sugar. It is a really cute cake (there would be a picture but I cannot find the cord to my camera). Then tomorrow, two of my friends are coming over to celebrate for a little. Then, Satureday is the party. It will be a very small party at a friend's house but it will still be a party.
How come everyone thinks it's fun to give sugar to the diabetic? Last night I met a friend for dinner and she brought me a little gift knowing my birthday was coming up. It was a 1 1/2 pound bag of chocolate covered peanuts and more than some 'fun sized' Heath bars. It was very nice of her, cuz yes, Heath Bar Blizards are my favorite DQ treat and choco. covered peanuts are my favorite candy but to give the diabetic a bag of both for my birthday... Ummm, thanks but is that really such a great idea? I guess the good thing about it (to find the good in the situation) is that when I do get candy, it does last a little longer-or it should anyway.

2006-02-28T16:23:00.000-06:00

I just want to say thank you for the comments you all have made. I know I can't give up and I need to stick it out (no pun intended) and knowing you all are here with me really helps. Thanks and yes they could have hooked me up to some IVs.

2006-02-24T12:43:00.000-06:00

I just want to be... undiabetic. One day, one taste of what life would be without this ugly disease. I have never known life pre-diabetes. I was diagnosed at age 3, I do not remember life without testing, without tri-yearly doctor visits, eating a piece of candy without feeling guilty. Just one day, that is all I want. When an infection gets inside me my body simply doesn't kill it, the infection wages war. I think Kerri from SixUntilMe puts it best when she says 'I want to be able to say I used to be a diabetic.' I love that statement cuz I believe that is what every diabetic wants. I read it a few months ago and it has still stuck with me. I want to serve this country by enlisting in the army, I want to learn how to fly a plane without restrictions, I want to wake up in the moring without evidence of finger pokes, i want to get dressed and not worry about where to put 'Thia' (my pump's name). I didn't ask for this. I sometimes talk myself into believing that God gave this to me because he knew I could take it. That I was stronger than most. That I wouldn't give up. That use to work more when I was younger, before the complications were real to me. I have had this infection since October! The only thing different about it this time is it relocated. Why?

SoCcEr

2006-02-22T13:02:00.000-06:00

I am happy to report that I will be coaching soccer again this spring and we start March 13th! I'm really excited. I coached last year and I am looking forward to coaching again. My friend from Alverno and I coach JV soccer at Thomas More High School. Go Cavaliers! Last year was a good year. For the most part our team got along and they worked hard. Yay! So excited!
I finally made my docter appointment! It is long past due. My last appointment was in October and my docter wants to see me every 3 months. My appointment is March 10th. The icky part is I think my staph infection relocated and my appointment is the day after my birthday. Oh well.

Flashback

2006-02-16T14:22:00.000-06:00

I was thinking about soccer season the other night and I thought about this...
THE LMC PLAY-IN GAME AGAINST MSOE:
It was the LMC play-in game and we were away. We were also the underdogs. I was so hyped for the game. Bring it on, they may have beat us the first time we played them but they wouldn't get us again. We were a different team and we wanted this. It was the first half and we were looking good. Everyone was on that Thursday night; it was set up to be a great game. 10-15 minutes into the game I recieve a pass heading to the left corner. I bring it out a little more to the left baiting my defender. She thinks she's in control, I'm right where she wants me; left foot=weak foot and I keep shying that way. Here is my moment, one quick nudge to the right and it is the perfect, lined up shot that I had been waiting for since my return; it would be perfect... I bait hard to the left and my defend goes, everything is off to a great fake-and-bake, I shift my weight and momentum right and that is when everytning is lost. My right foot is not high enough of the ground for the move I'm making, as my body is going right my foot stays. Before I know it I am on the ground looking down the perfect lane I had worked so hard to get. I can get up and still get off a decent shot, my defender is not ready, I can still do this, I need to do this! I couldn't do it, my ankle was done; I could not feel the pain yet because of the adrilaine that was rushing over me but I could not get up. My defender put everything in to getting that ball out of the box, it was over. I was taken off the field in tears. I was in pain but I wanted to play. The game went on and I watched. It was a great game. I was so proud to be there with my team. They played with everything they had and even though it was our last game of the season it was a beautiful match.
Heather and TK's boyfriend helped me to the van and Sue drove me home so mom could take me to the ER. It was a 2nd degree sprain and I was out of commission for almost 2 weeks. When I did finally return it was already well into basketball season. I had a lot to make up for. I did and I'm going strong.

10 K A Day

2006-02-01T13:24:00.000-06:00

Well, I got ahold of my doctor... well, his assistant. I called on Friday and they said I couldn't make an appointment because he was booked for the next 2 1/2 months! So I talked to an assistant and gave them some of my numbers and they called back about 10 minutes later and told me to lower my basal rate by half! I was getting 1.3 units/hour and they lowered it between 12:00-3:00 to .6 units/hour! I though that was a bit drastic but it seems to be working ok so far. Sandra Miller had some good advise though. I never thought about the protien packed snack. Great idea, I will have to give that a try.
Today the student group I am in (encoUrage) kicked off our get in shape, get up, and get going promotion- 10 K A Day! Challenge...Walk a 10 K every day for a month. We were expecting 100 people to show up and close to 200 came! We were excited. Everyone was given a pedometer, a water bottle, and a walking log. Every week we tally everyone's progress and next month we are having a party and giving prices to the people/groups who did the best. Get up and walk! 10 K A Day it!

Chipotle Day!

2006-01-26T22:30:00.000-06:00

Hello! It has been too long! The second semester began this week. I am a Peer Advisor so I had to be there Monday for the new students but classes didn't actually start until Wednesday. So far so good but we are only on day two and I am already looking forward to spring break. Hmmm, good sign? Prolly not but oh well. Let's see... since last time I've gone out with my intoxicated-of age-friends, visited a friend at work and a porn store and played more basketball. I've been having some problems though; at basketball practise lately I've been going low. Not only once or twice but like 8 times in the last 12 practises. I'm getting really worried and so is my coach. It's not like we are practising for an hour before I go low either, it's often times in the first 30-40 minutes of prac. We usually are warming up and I've been unplugged from my pump("Thyia") for almost an hour! It's really bothering/frustrating me. Grrrr! And when I say low I'm talk'n 40-50 range! It hits sudden. Hmmmm... Anyway, everything else is going good. Right now I'm sitting in front of the computer, mom's upstairs watching "Sex In The City" and I'm downloading Beatles songs on to the iPod. Oh! This is exciting: today was Alverno Day at Chipotle! That means you get free food and Chipotle with an Alverno ID! I went for lunch and dinner! My friends and I love Chipotle and when it's free it's even better!

Oink Oink

2006-01-11T14:41:00.000-06:00

Here I am, sitting on the sofa watching Martha Stewart and thinking 'mmm, that tea-cake looks good.' Then I get to thinking...I have been a bad little diabetic. My friends and I have not been the healthiest of athletes and in the last week I have been to Culvers for custard and Mc Donalds (a number of times). The real bad night was after a basketball game last week. My friend and I went to George Webbs (a 24 hour 'trucker' dinner for those of you not from Wisconsin) after the game for a burger and then a short 4 hours later 4 of us went to Mc Don's for more food! Wow, I sound like such an oinker! I'm really not but this blog would argue that.
Well, I have to get going. I have a basketball game tonight and need to do some things before that so I will write to you all later.

I'm Back!!!

2006-01-07T16:25:00.000-06:00

Hello Readers. I know it has been awhile. I hope you haven't forgotten about me. I hope everyone had a great holiday season. I did. I have been really busy. Practice, hanging with freinds, catching up with family, sleeping... Wow... Crazy. We had a basketball game in Ann Arbor Mich. which was a really long 5 hour drive. Our team is not meshing really well at the moment and after the game in Mich two quit. It was a big loss. They are two talented post players and they felt that the coach did not want them there anymore. Well, that was two games ago and we are battling through. They have come to the games though to show their support which is nice. Well, I am being summoned to the kitchen to help make dinner so I will hear from you soon.

Not a lot of anything

2005-12-20T21:17:00.000-06:00

First of all... Yes, I am on a pump. A MiniMed Paradigm 512. To all my readers who have yet taken their exams...GOOD LUCK!!!
I would also like to report that I have a new addition to my family... To go with my two fish (Sydnie and Bruce) I bought a fiddler crab. It's so cute. It has one big claw and one little one. It sorta just does laps around the bottom of the fish bowl and it sits on the little sand-colored castle in the bowl.
Quick question... I was watching Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (I love that movie) I wanted to know why none of the children were diabetic? Would that have been a cruel joke? Just wondering.

Scary Scary Kickoff to Vacation

2005-12-19T00:15:00.000-06:00

Assessments are over and I passed all my classes. Phew. Also, I am very happy to report that the thing on my finger popped! It was indeed an infection...a big one. It finally broke Thursday morning before I left for a 3 1/2 hour road trip to Eureka with the basketball team. The Alverno athletic trainer and I were really excited. She might not know everything about diabetes but she knows enough; and she knows that when a diabetic has an infection it is serious. She made sure I drained all the icky out and then we wrapped it up. It has been 4 days now and it looks really good. Yay! The staph infection looks really good too. The bumps under my arm are almost completely gone! Score!
So, I'm going to tell a little story. Thursday the Alverno Inferno played the Eureka Red Devils and lost :-( but in the second half we really stepped it up. Anyway, I made sure to clean out my little finger extra well after the game and we were back on the road for our 3 1/2 hour ride back home. Everything was going fine. I was finally back down after a adrainaline high of 308 and we got something to eat (Pizza Hut...yum). I slept a little on the van ride back-it was about 10 by the time we were back on the interstate. Because it was going to already be 1:30ish when we got back I had already made plans to spend the night in Austin Hall with a close friend...
It was about 4 in the AM and I woke up in a cold sweat. I must have woke up my friend because she asked if everything was ok. I told her I felt low and in my head I was in the 60s range. 60 would have been great. I was 42! When I go low I tend to think everything is funny so I start laughing and simply lay back down to go back to sleep. I was tired so I thought I would just sleep it off. Thank God for my friend because she freaked out and made me eat some powdered doughnuts that she had in her room. After eating those she made me walk with her to the vending machine to keep a Wild Cherry Pepsi close. So, thank you Jenny for saving my life cuz if I would have gone back to sleep the morning would have been much much different.
It is late and I am going Christmas shopping tomorrow. I will meet up with you all in the cyber world at somepoint. Remember...Alex loves you all!

Assessments and Shopping

2005-12-13T09:29:00.000-06:00

First of all, I would like to say thank you for the nice comments. I'm glad there are people out there who are reading this.
I would like to report that my Staph infection is getting a lot better! The antibiotics seem to be working and I hope that this time it stays away. I also had that thing going on with my pinky and I think that is clearing up too! It's not soar anymore and it is returning to normal color. Yesss!
Today was my last assessment (that is exam in Alverno terms). I had 3 papers due and 1 biology assessment. I turned in two of the three papers but forgot about one because our instructor first told us we didn't have to do it but then her boss said we did so she said just do something and hand it in and I thought it was only going to be the 12th today so...oops, my bad. She'll get it tomorrow though and things will be ok. It is the bio. assessment that had me worried though-not enough to the point were my blood goes bonkers but I was nervous. We'll see how it goes I guess.
Now it is off to the mall! CHRISTMAS SHOPPING! Get back and let me do my thing: a screen and roll here, a studder step there and a quick head fake and to the register we go! JK... It will be more window shopping for me today. I only got $38.50 from selling my $224.00 books back today so I'm just going to give my friend the ride to the mall. It will still be fun. :-)

Six Until Me

2005-12-08T08:40:00.000-06:00

Six Until Me

Sleepyness

2005-12-08T08:02:00.000-06:00

Good morning. Let me tell you something, it was so hard getting up this morning. We had a basketball game last night and we were expecting to get back around 11:30-12:00 and we didn't get back until 1:00 AM! I slept most of the ride back but in a 12 passanger van with 6 other college women and two female coaches up front sometimes the conditions for sleeping aren't always the best. By the time we got back and I drove home, took a shower, and fed my mouse, Bit, it was about 2:00 in the AM and I would be waking up in about 4 hours to get to work by 7:00. I'll be dragg'n today but that's alright, the semester is almost over-3 more classes and basketball. I'll catch up on sleep then. I really have been trying to get caught up on sleep. Last year I would be coming home anywhere around 11:30-2:00 and waking up around 6:45 to get to class by 8:00. I felt ok but I know that my body needs more sleep so I'm trying really hard to commit to that. I know it's important and my body needs sleep to heal...and do I need some time to heal. I am still recovering from a left ankle stress fracture, a right ankle sprain, a jammed right pinky finger, and now I have a blood blister on my left pinky and a staff infection on my arm pit! I'm fall'n apart. I'm most worried about the staff infection though. As I'm sure most of you know those of us with diabetes can't fight those infections as well and I'm on horse-pill sized antibiotics for it. I noticed little bumps under my arm a little more than a month ago and was on antis for a week but it must not have been enough cuz it came back. Now I'm on the antis for two weeks at a bit of a stronger dose. My doctor doesn't want to mess around with this. We hope a sist isn't formed/forming cuz that would mean needing it surgically removed...icky...I don't want that.
Anyway... I'm not even sure anyone out there reads this so I'm going to stop writing now. Have a great day to those of you who might see this. :-)

My First Entry

2005-12-06T14:34:00.000-06:00

Good day. I am Alex. I am a 19 year old student at Alverno College. For those of you who don't know, Alverno is a women's liberal arts college in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I play soccer and basketball for the Alverno Inferno. I am a very active college student and love it although it is sometimes extremely hectic.
To introduce my life is not the reason I am now on this blog. It is because I am inspired by other bloggers such as Six Until Me, A Shot In The Dark, Sweetblood, and Cyber Pancreas. I have had diabetes for 16 years and so far (knock on wood) have had no complications with the exception of a few ER visits due to infections my body could not fight on it's own. I know that even as few as 15 years ago living this long with diabetes was rare and it makes me open my eyes. I think I had a reality check when I wrote a short paper on Mary Tyler Moore and the work she's done for Juvinile Diabetes. I really want to live another 16+ years and I need to make some changes in order to do that. Diabetes is a silent killer and I do not want to be it's victim anytime soon. I am hoping that this blog will help me make the changes I need to.
I am a college kid and as most of you know that means it's a lot of living on the seat of your pants, eating junk food, and personal health does not always mean a hell of a lot. I mean come-on, I'm a college kid, we live forever right? Anyway, I'm trying to be a better person about my disease and by making it public for all of you to witness I thought it might help. So, if you have any words of advise let me know. Also, if you know of a newbie that is having a rough time with it tell them to give me a shout out; I'm willing to help. Well, I have basketball practice in an hour and more to do before then. I will be back at somepoint.