Seven years ago, Mr T was a very, very sick three year old.
Today, Mr T is a healthy ten year old who lacks nothing besides his own insulin.
Seven years ago I was crying a lot, away from Mr T’s eyes.
Today, I rarely cry, but I laugh and smile and enjoy every day I share with my boy.
Seven years ago, Mr T was using insulin pens, 4 to 6 times a day.
Today, Mr T has an insulin pump and he can now deliver insulin as often as needed without multiple needle pricks.
Seven years ago, I did not know much about diabetes.
Today, I know that I can learn something new about diabetes and self management, daily.
Seven years ago, Mr T‘s first BG test showed 27 mmol/l, and his HbA1c was 8.3
Today, Mr T’s BG is more often than not under 8 mmol/l and his most recent HbA1c was 6.2 - the lowest since diagnosis and almost in the non diabetic range.
Seven years ago, I had no clue what carbohydrates were or how many of those we had in a meal, often unnecessarily.
Today, all of us in our family know how different foods affect our bodies. We all eat a well balanced, healthy diet.
Seven years ago, we felt isolated and lost in a jungle filled with horrifying information about life with diabetes and the dreadful complications it may bring.
Today, we are part of a big D1 family where warm support and a wealth of knowledge is just a click on a computer or a phone call away.
It would be WONDERFUL if in seven years from today I can report that the cure for diabetes has been found and perfected, that Mr T, as well as millions of other sweet friends, no longer need to check their BG or inject insulin – they can now produce their own again.
With that hope in my heart, I raise my glass tonight. For at least 77 more, healthy years ahead of us.