It’s easy for us to be concerned about the future with chronic illness. However, we must keep in mind that there is so much life left in us. It may not be the ideal life that we’ve imagined, but it is still life. So instead of worrying about the how our conditions might affect us in the future, let’s just focus on today. Do what you can today.
Live life just one day at a time ❤️
Until Next Time,
The Genetic Diabetic
How parents can properly prepare their child with diabetes for the new school year with a 504 Plan
We’re back to that time of year:
It’s back to school time!
I’m sure most of you who are parents or guardians have already started planning for the new school year. Setting up appointments to get immunizations and a physical. A dental cleaning for your kids. Getting the best deals on school supplies and clothes, saving up for those secondary school fees, or finding an after-school program for your child.
What about setting up a 504 accommodations plan for your child with diabetes at school?
What is a 504 Plan?
A “504 Plan” is a plan developed to comply with a federal law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.The 504 Plan details the steps the school will take to keep students with disabilities safe, ensure they have the same opportunities to learn as other children, and ensure they are treated fairly. This can be used to ensure that students, parents/guardians, and school staff understand their responsibilities and to minimize misunderstandings.
Diabetes of all types is considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act. It is, therefore, very important for parents of children with diabetes to take advantage of this and to ensure that their children are safe and treated fairly in school.
The 504 plan describes a broad range of services and accommodations that are often needed by students with diabetes, ranging from kindergarteners to high school seniors. All plans should specify that school staff must receive training to recognize hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia and respond accordingly.
A student’s plan should be tailored to his or her specific needs, abilities, and medical condition. Make sure that only provisions that are relevant to a particular child are included.
How To Pursue a 504 Plan
The American Diabetes Association offers a sample 504 plan and examples of accommodations that can be downloaded.
Now is the perfect time to make sure that your child will be treated fairly when he or she has diabetes. Let’s make this school year a healthy one!
Until Next Time,
The Genetic Diabetic
Diabetic discrimination at the workplace: What you can do
Take a moment to imagine this:
You’ve worked for your employer for several years. It’s a great job and you love the environment. You have just been diagnosed with diabetes. Suddenly, your entire lifestyle has to change. You must take new medications, alter your eating habits, and increase your physical activity. In addition to adjusting to these changes at home, you will also have to adjust to them at your workplace as an employee with diabetes.
During your work hours, you need to monitor your blood sugar twice, have snacks handy, and find creative ways to incorporate physical activity. In addition, you will need to locate a discrete area at your workplace where you can take insulin and other medications.
However, when you tell your immediate manager about your medical condition and accommodations that you request, the manager is nonchalant and doesn’t seem to care. The manager feels that you’re making too much of your condition, and believes that it would be unfair to give you “special preference” over all of the other workers.
This is an example of workplace discrimination based on chronic illness. It’s more common than we realize, especially when it’s a non-visible condition like diabetes. The awareness of diabetes among employers is still relatively low, even though it is one of the fastest growing chronic diseases in the US and worldwide.
Employees with diabetes working in the United States have Federal and State rights. A federal anti-discrimination law, the Americans with Disabilities Act, covers employers and unions with 15 or more employees. It protects people with disabilities from unfair employment practices. An employer may not treat you differently based on the fact that you have diabetes in hiring, firing, discipline, pay, promotion, job training and fringe benefits. You must be a “qualified individual with a disability.” Diabetes has been characterized as a disability due to its detrimental effect on the endocrine system, which regulates bodily functions.
Many states have their own laws against disability discrimination. These laws and the state agencies that enforce them may give employees extra protection and may apply to smaller employers as well.
Providing reasonable accommodations is the way employers can ensure people with disabilities do their jobs and are treated fairly. The majority of people with diabetes only need to make small changes that cost little or nothing.
Asking for accommodations is employee’s responsibility. While not entirely required, it is best to submit a written request for accommodation that explains why diabetes is a disability; specifies the accommodations required; and how the accommodations will enable the employee to carry out job duties effectively. This should be given to the human resources department along with a letter from the physician confirming the request.
There are a number of reasonable accommodations that may be provided. Here are some examples.
• Breaks for blood glucose testing, eating snacks, taking medicine, and going to the bathroom
• Keeping diabetes supplies and food close by
• Leaving for treatment, recovery, or training on managing diabetes
• An alternative work schedule or a standard shift instead of rotating shifts
• People with diabetic neuropathy (a nerve disorder caused by diabetes), for access to a chair or stool;
• People with diabetic retinopathy (a vision disorder caused by diabetes), for access to large-screen computer monitors or other assistive devices
Eligible employees can also take can advantage of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Employees with serious health conditions, most private employers with more than 50 employees, and most government employers, must provide a minimum of 12 weeks of leave per year. You can take this leave in small time chunks to attend to short term problems, for example, managing blood glucose levels or to attend doctor’s appointments.
If an employer refuses to accommodate reasonable accommodation requests, conducts illegal medical inquiries or undergo an illegal medical examination, employees are encouraged to contact the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
The American Diabetes Association and the Chronic Disease Coalition are two organizations dedicated to assist employees experiencing workplace discrimination due to diabetes.
The American Diabetes Association has created an entire section on workplace discrimination and provides resources for employees and employers.
The Chronic Disease Coalition is a strong advocate for rights for individuals diagnosed with chronic illness. Chronic Disease Coalition Ambassadors have published several stories related to workplace discrimination and has a section that keeps people updated on current legislative efforts.
The fact that we live with an invisible illness does not mean we are not struggling and that we are not exasperating our condition. We remain hardworking, dedicated workers capable of performing our jobs. In order that we can effectively do our jobs and provide for ourselves and our families, we need to be treated with dignity and to be provided with the accommodations we need.
It’s just that simple.
Until Next Time,
The Genetic Diabetic
American Diabetes Association Employment Discrimination: https://www.diabetes.org/resources/know-your-rights/discrimination/employment-discrimination
Chronic Disease Coalition: https://chronicdiseasecoalition.org/
I can no longer watch my family making unhealthy choices
If anyone wants to know why I do what I do, here’s one of those reasons: to be able to see this sweet face everyday.
I want to show him and his siblings the right way to take care of the temple that God gave to them. I want to show them that this diagnosis is not the end of the world, and that we have the power to change the narrative.
Observing their current eating habits solidified that the fact something has got to change. With a family history of diabetes and heart issues on all sides of their families, there’s no reason why my family should not start changing their current lifestyle.
In a couple of weeks, I will be sharing what my husband and I are planning create a new health legacy for our family. Follow my blog to stay updated!
Until Next Time,
The Genetic Diabetic
Read how Allison is taking charge of her health and not allowing anything to stop her.
Allison
Age: 45
Conditions: Hypothyroidism and allergies to everything outside (biweekly shots) and dust mites and mold.
Year diagnosed? 15 or so years ago for hypothyroidism and maybe 5 years ago I was tested for allergies.
How were you diagnosed?
Tested by blood tests for hypothyroidism after demanding bloodwork (doctors said I was fine, I work too hard, maybe I was depressed…I knew something else was wrong but couldn’t figure out what). After bloodwork they were almost surprised, like oh, something IS wrong. This was probably the hardest part and the part that took the longest. It’s hard getting passed doctors who look at you and say you’re fine and disregard what you’re trying to tell them.
With allergies, same thing, I had to keep trying to figure out root causes of why I struggled. Life shouldn’t feel so hard. Allergies are one of those things too that doctors can’t see, but the patient feels and knows something isn’t right.
How have the chronic conditions affected your life? I think the mental torment is the worst part. I tried for so long to fix things on my own or worse, thought I wasn’t doing something right. I cried a lot. Conditions like these often go unnoticed or undiagnosed but the symptoms are terrible to live with. I take medicine for hypothyroidism. I have no idea if I could feel better, I don’t know any different. I still want to find a better doctor. Currently where I go the doctor turnover is so high it’s like I have a new primary doctor every year and half to two years. It’s frustrating and honestly, I haven’t put in energy to find a different doctor (I would have to travel more than I already do for doctors and I’ve become complacent. Typing this is convicting me to not be. 😳😶
Your thyroid plays a HUGE role in your overall well-being. I had no idea and still could learn more. Again, just typing this is convicting me to start researching it more and find a doctor who specializes in it. I’ve heard so many say they can get off medications with proper diet. I asked a thyroid specialist and he said, NO! Food doesn’t change anything. I don’t know why I stopped checking. I assumed since he was the specialist on thyroid disorders, he would know. I know I don’t live in area where there are many specialists. I had to drive over 100 miles just to see him (which is probably why I stopped checking. 😔).
How have you grown since diagnosis a d what do you wish people knew about the condition and/or chronic illnesses in general? I will say that learning about what I COULD do enabled me to actually feel like I’m living. I hear so many women give up like it’s a life sentence to be turned an overweight for the rest if their lives. I’m living proof you can be fit and healthy with hypothyroidism. I have to work for it and eat healthy, but it’s possible. 😁💪🏻❤
I hope that Allison’s story resonated with you. Learning more about your condition and researching ways to control the symptoms is the first step in owning your health journey.
You have the power to take charge of your health. Don’t let your illness control you!
We want to hear your story!
If you would like to be included, email me at thegeneticdiabeticblog@gmail.com by July 18th with the following information:
First name
Age (Optional)
Condition
Year diagnosed
How you were diagnosed?
How has your condition affected your life?
How have you grown since your diagnosis?
What do you wish people knew about your condition or chronic illness in general?
Picture of yourself or family (optional)
Your story has the ability to educate, empower and motivate others who might be struggling on their own journey. Telling your story can be freeing and therapeutic, not only for the listener but also for yourself. The more you share your story, you will gain a better understanding of yourself and it will also help build greater self-confidence.
Telling your story has the capacity to change lives, including your own.
Until Next Time,
The Genetic Diabetic
We’re heading to the next phase!
I’m excited to announce that illustrations for my first published book, My Diabetic Mama are completed and the images are absolutely gorgeous!
The next steps are editing and proofreading. That process should take no more than a few weeks. In the meantime, we will start our official webpage for our book as well as some pre-ordering information. My plan is to debut the book later this summer.
My Diabetic Mama is a children’s book featuring 8-year-old Mac, whose mom has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, along with his family, that supports his newly diagnosed mom adjust to new lifestyle changes. This book is recommended for elementary school students in grades 2-5. This book will cover a basic definition of diabetes, the two major types of diabetes (type 1 and 2) and general symptoms of high and low blood sugar levels.
For more updates, follow my blog or my social media pages:
FB: The Genetic Diabetic
IG: thegeneticdiabeticblog
Until Next Time,
The Genetic Diabetic
We all know at least one person with a chronic condition.
Why do we have a Chronic Disease Awareness month?
Don’t we already observe awareness months for certain illnesses already?
Yes, it’s true that we do observe some months for individual illnesses; however, chronic conditions have been increasing exponentially in all Americans for several years.
Chronic illness is defined as health conditions that last one year or more and requires ongoing medical attention and/or limit activities of daily living.
Currently, there are a total of 20 chronic conditions. The 10 chronic conditions that are considered as chronic illnesses include:
– Arthritis
– Cancer (Breast, colorectal, lung and prostate)
– Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
– Coronary heart disease (Coronary artery disease)
– Asthma
– Diabetes
– Hepatitis ( Viral B & C)
– Hypertension (High blood pressure)
– Stroke
– Kidney disease
Unfortunately, chronic conditions account for 7 of the top 10 leading causes of death in the United States.
According to a 2018 peer-reviewed research study from Preventing Chronic Disease, 129 million adult Americans (51.8 %) had a chronic condition. Sixty-one million (24.6%) adults had one chronic condition.
Sixty-eight million adults (27.2 %) had two chronic or more conditions. The chances of being diagnosed with two or more chronic conditions were higher among women, non-Hispanic white adults, older adults, adults aged 18–64 on Medicaid, dual-eligible adults (Medicare and Medicaid), and adults in rural areas.
More likely, we know a family member, friend or coworker battling a chronic condition. Many who are diagnosed with chronic illnesses suffer from lack of attention, proper medical care and resources.
This is the reason why organizations like the Chronic Disease Coalition and Good Days are dedicating this month to raise awareness of the impact of chronic disease in this country and to encourage others to advocate for access to quality care, treatment and resources for those with chronic illnesses.
The Chronic Disease Coalition, where I serve as an ambassador, has always advocated and raised awareness on behalf of the chronic illness community. Therefore, every month is Chronic Disease Awareness! However, in July, we specifically amplify patient voices while continuing to advocate for patient rights. The organization has planned amazing opportunities to get people engaged in advocacy efforts, including access to their special Chronic Disease month toolkit, live interviews and a Chronic University event about policy advocacy.
The Good Days Organization has dedicated July 10th as Chronic Disease Awareness Day. There are opportunities for people to participate in social media campaigning, a healthy recipe contest, opportunities for your hometown to recognize Chronic Disease Day and a separate live-stream event on July 13th.
Chronic illness rates are steadily increasing, but remember, we have the power to change the narrative. Consider taking part in the movements mentioned or consider starting your own local effort. This chronic illness journey is not meant for us to fight alone. There is strength in unity.
Until Next Time,
The Genetic Diabetic
The Chronic Disease Coalition: https://chronicdiseasecoalition.org/news/july-is-chronic-disease-month
Good Day’s Chronic Disease Day: https://chronicdiseaseday.org/
References:
Boersma P, Black LI, Ward BW. Prevalence of Multiple Chronic Conditions Among US Adults, 2018. Prev Chronic Dis 2020;17:200130. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5888/pcd17.200130
Chronic Conditions: https://www.cms.gov/Research-Statistics-Data-and-Systems/Statistics-Trends-and-Reports/Chronic-Conditions/CC_Main
It’s been almost a year and a half since I’ve made the decision to advocate for diabetes. I’ve never would have imagined that diabetes would take me on this path in this space at this time.
Yesterday, I’ve found myself contemplating my purpose in advocacy. Why do I advocate even though I am still in the early phases of this illness?
Who am I doing this for and why?
Then it hit me while getting my walking steps in at a nearby track and field. I advocate for those who feel that they’ve been forgotten and neglected by their family, friends, their healthcare team and legislature. I do what I do to remind those on the chronic illness journey that they are not forgotten, they are respected and they are heard. Even though I am still going through difficulties with this illness, I continue to use my voice, my fingers, my pen and my presence to stand in the gap on their behalf and mine.
This is why I advocate. This is why I will continue to fight. This is why I am in this space in this place at this moment.
Today is the first day of Chronic Disease Month and I encourage you to take a stand and raise awareness on learning more about those who are on the journey. Here are some ways you can help:
Share your own story!
Learn more about the different conditions and the issues that many of us with chronic illness face.
Write letters to lawmakers about passing legislation that will allow us to have access to affordable care and medicine.
Speak out on discrimination based on our chronic illness in schools, hospitals and the workplace.
Do something kind for someone you know with chronic illness just because.
Chronic illness can happen to anyone at anytime. We don’t wish anyone to go through what we do, but in the unfortunate event that it does, we want to have access to the best care, the best treatment and equal opportunities.
Help the chronic illness community be seen and heard!
Walmart’s private brand insulin brings some relief to uninsured patients
Walmart has unveiled their private brand of analog insulin, ReliOn Novolog. A prescription will still be required, and the cost is still slightly higher than what people will pay through insurance and copays. However, the list price of the insulin brand would bring some much-needed relief to those without insurance that need insulin immediately.
ReliOn Novolog, manufactured by Novo Nordisk, is a rapid-acting insulin analog used to control high blood sugar in adults and children with diabetes. Walmart promises to offer customers a significant price savings without compromising quality. A prescription is required to purchase the new insulin brand.
ReliOn Novolog will cost $72.88 for a glass vial and $85.88 for a box of five FlexPens. According to Walmart, the cost saves customers between 58%-75% off the cash price of Novolog branded products. This translates to a savings of up to $101 per branded vial or $251 per package of branded FlexPens.
ReliOn Novolog will be available in Walmart pharmacies this week and Sam’s Club will start offering ReliOn Novolog in mid-July.
Keep in mind that every patient responds differently to treatment, therefore, consult with your doctor to determine if ReliOn Novolog will work for you.
Until Next Time,
The Genetic Diabetic
Official Press Release- https://corporate.walmart.com/newsroom/2021/06/29/walmart-revolutionizes-insulin-access-affordability-for-patients-with-diabetes-with-the-launch-of-the-first-and-only-private-brand-analog-insulin
When it’s time to take a break from it all
Today, I’ve battled extreme exhaustion in the middle of the day. One minute, I was watching TV with my sons. The next minute, I’m having trouble keeping my eyes open while sitting on the bed. My sons’ caught me dozing off and they tried to keep me up.
Even though I did manage to stay up and not go to sleep, I’ve felt completely drained and it was hard for me to focus on any tasks. With my annual community event quickly approaching, starting my new positions, completing my children’s book while taking care of my household, I knew that I have a lot on my plate. I’ve felt like I had to do it all.
And my body realized it, too, and decided to give me a reality check in the form of sheer exhaustion and debilitating headaches. Instead of trying to meet my deadlines and complete the tasks that I’ve intended to accomplish, I’ve decided to complete what I could and then pause everything else and rest.
Recognize the signs that our bodies are telling us to slow down:
– Feeling frazzled and overwhelmed with all that you have to do.
– Feeling less motivated to complete your tasks.
– Being short-tempered, annoyed and irritable around others.
– Experiencing short-term memory issues. You’re forgetting appointments, tasks and events.
– Lacking sleep because you’re too focused on completing your tasks.
– Experiencing a change of dietary habits. You’re either skipping meals, not eating a lot, eating too much or eating less nutritious meals. This could also happen when you’re drinking more caffeinated drinks to stay focused or just not drinking any liquids at all.
– Experiencing headaches, muscle tension, skin issues due to stress and anxiety.
If you’re currently experiencing any of these symptoms, then your body is telling you to pause what you’re doing and rest.
As spoonies, it’s especially important that we listen to our body cues, because ignoring the signs will greatly affect our health. From a diabetic standpoint, we risk experiencing hyperglycemic episodes from being stressed, forgetting to take medicine or lack of sleep. We could also experience hypoglycemic episodes issues from skipping meals, not eating enough and feeling fatigued.
What does it mean to pause and rest?
You stop doing everything that you’re doing and rest. You’re taking a nap. You’re eating a nutritious meal. You’re spending time with family and friends. You’re taking a walk or going to the gym. You’re going on a vacation. You’re focusing on a hobby. You’re delegating tasks to others, whether it’s chores or work assignments. You’re giving up control and letting things be.
Then when you’re ready, return to your task with a sound mind and renewed focus.
Don’t wait until you’re exhausted to pause and rest. Listen for your body cues. When you notice the signs, act accordingly. Don’t ignore the signs. Pause and rest!
Until Next Time,
The Genetic Diabetic
