- My life expectancy is 13 years shorter than any other average female my age.
- Even if I lead a completely healthy life with healthy lifestyles and eating habits I am still likely to suffer from organ failure, amputations, loss of eyesight, and heart disease.
- I have a 75% chance of dying from heart disease and/or stroke.
- I have a 40% chance of developing kidney disease by age 50.
- I have an increased chance of having a baby with deformities, as well as an increased chance of having a miscarriage.
- For me, nerve damage is inevitable.
- My risk of death is 2 times greater when compared to my peers.
- Rather than dying of natural causes, I will likely fall victim to the United States' 5th leading cause of death.
Pretty grim isn't it? Even more grim is the fact that my children have a 40-60% chance of the same fate. Millions and millions of Americans share my fate already. I am sure you all know at least one person first hand who suffers from Type 1 diabetes. I have heard that I am "lucky" to "only have" diabetes, and I guess I can see why someone might say that. But really, who would CHOOSE those statistics?
THE GOOD NEWS:
Research is being done, and it is said that scientists are very close to a cure. While I am skeptical of exactly how close a cure is--I know the research is being done and that someday there will be one. I don't think I will see it in my life time, but I am hoping my kids will see it in theirs. To support this cause, Brad and I have started donating to help fund research for a cure for childhood diabetes. I would ask that you support the cause also. There are many ways to support the cause--direct donation, participating in walks, as wells as a few others. To find out how to donate click this link.
3 comments:
When did you find out that you were diabetic? I don't know a whole lot about diabetes, just that most of our patients (I work with patients with sleep disorders) have diabetes. Interesting. I thought it could be cured?? Shows how ignorant I am.
I'm sure Mckay can explain this, but Type 2 diabetes is the "cureable" or "preventable" diabetes. With Type 1 you are insulin dependent for life...until a cure.
My husband, younger brother, brother-in-law, father-in-law (who just recently passed away with complications from diabetes...heart disease) and newly diagnosed sister-in-law (who is 6 years old), and my good friend Mckay! They all have type 1 diabetes...I am always looking for signs of it in my kids, but trying to keep it to the back of my mind...I already worry too much about stuff that doesn't really matter! :)
Also, I didn't know if you were aware, (and I don't want to feel like a know-it-all or anything) but JDRF research donations go right to Type 1 diabetes. ADA goes to Type 1 and Type 2...but either is great!
I REALLY hope they are close...I almost feel like they have a cure already, but they don't want us to know...no one will make anymore money on strips, insulin, pump supplies, etc...$50 for 50 strips! with an average of 4-6 tests a day...
Sorry to ramble, but I want the Cure to happen too!!
Angie J
McKay, I'm so happy that you have taken steps for your children and family. You are a good example for Clay and I...
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