Type 1 Diabetes – blessing in disguise?

Now I know many people reading this heading will think I’ve gone mad.  Dont get me wrong, I would not wish this disease on anyone, but some good has come from it.

I will admit that before Jacques was diagnosed, we werent living the most healthy lifestyle.  But since his diagnosis this had to change, whether we liked it or not.  And believe me, at first this was a huge struggle.  Now, however we eat more healthily and we try to stick to a low GI diet.

Another blessing in disguise – we have learned a lot.  I now read the labels on food products, and actually understand what I’m reading!  I also know the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.  Before, I always thought this was the same disease, but it is most definitely not!  The biggest difference between the two types is that type 2, generally, is caused by a sedentary, and unhealthy lifestyle.  Whereas type 1 is not caused by anything the child (or the mother) has done.  You have to have a genetic predisposition.

Another thing I have learned is patience, and lots of it!  When Jacques seems to be naughty, I cannot be cross with him before I have tested his blood sugar.  More often than not, something will be wrong – either a high blood glucose, or low.  And I can most definitely not be angry with him for something he did wrong if his blood glucose is the cuase.

These were just some of the “blessings” this aweful disease has brought us.  I guess I’m living my life according to the philosophy that every cloud has a silver lining.