During the last two Live Interviews I’ve participated in on TuDiabetes, the topic of having “canned responses” has come up. The thought is that we could prepare some responses that are insightful, empowering, educational, supportive, strengths-based, and convey messages about diabetes and how we live with it, to those who may not get it.
This is important for us to think about and do! One response idea that I love, for when someone questions a blood glucose number on our meter, is “That’s diabetes!” I don’t always like to check my blood glucose in front of other people because I’m not always in the mood to explain the number. I realize that the majority of people question because they care, but sometimes I just don’t have the energy. And sometimes the person who is questioning doesn’t really want a full explanation. So something like “That’s diabetes!” would be perfect for those situations.
Emily from TuDiabetes suggested that one of the words we can use more with regard to diabetes is “pride.” It is perfectly appropriate to feel proud of the work we do every day to manage and live well with diabetes. Two of my biggest accomplishments in life were delivering healthy babies – and I feel immense pride when I think about how much work went into those pregnancies!
Another thing Emily said, that resonates with me, is “What people with diabetes do is impressive.” As Diabetes Awareness Month comes to a close, I am thinking about the impressive work that people with diabetes, those who care for them and those who are creating better options and someday a cure, are doing. Until next November, there is a lot to be aware of, and we can continue spreading awareness one person at a time – through messages of strength and hope.