This is what type 1 looks like. We need to be seen in order to bring others into awareness, so they know that the can transcend diabetes. We are planning a Fundraising Gala in February for Black History Month and we will have an Honorary Guest who is active in Advocacy.
I recommend requesting a roundtable meeting with all of your child's teacher, so you can tell them about your diabetic childs particular needs. But also this dialogue allows for you to advocate your requirements and expectations for your child's academic success. I also make sure that the school staff is aware that I am aware of my child's rights within her school day/school year.
Interesting......
Nasara said that as her day went on, she was continually approached by various teachers who said, "Oh, so you are the little diabetic girl, are you OK?" She said it made her smile - she felt recognized. Praise GOD, my job is finished here, for now.
The Color of Type 1
Educate.Empower.Transcend.
Alexia, Nasara and Amazia are the faces of Type 1 Diabetes. They want to share, empower and educate others on their challenges and more importantly, their victories. They are commented to making an impact on other children of color in the United States who share their concerns, but also to meet the unmet needs of children in Africa, who more often than not suffer for lack of supplies. Join them in collecting unused diabetic supplies & materials to send to Africa. Be apart of something amazing. We believe that GOD has paved the way.
Our pricked fingertips have brought forth the seed, help us water it and watch it grow.
The was the first time a group of this kind has been recognized. It has been long awaited and needed. As the girls created ideas for their logo, we touched on topics to discuss in the future. Some of the topics mentioned were, diabetes being a pain in the finger, discrimination in school by teachers and peers, being a black girl with diabetes, being misunderstood and under represented, feelings of isolation, feelings of empowerment, being tired of routine blood sugar checks and insulin. Overall it was positive and knowledge is potential power as long as we act on it. And this group WILL.
Dr. Richard Ashby is a family Dr. in Washington, D.C. who has a warm, informative, and forward bedside manner for his juvenile diabetic patients. He gave Nasara an encouraging word, while informing her of the importance of maintaining her diabetic control. Thanks Dr. Ashby, we love you. He also gave her a trial Levemir insulin flexpen since she expressed that the Lantus stings. Because Lantus is more PH based, it does tend to sting more than others. We will see how well she does with the Levemir.
Diabetes is a pain in my finger. But I do not complain, because it is my way of life. I ask my Mom, why I have it and she said the God has some plans for me to be a blessing to others and that he would not allow me to have it for no reason. So that is why I try to do good everyday, so I can fulfill his plans for me.
Nasara and her friend Amaiza were invited to the "Make Over Your Diabetes" Divabetic Event in 2008. They received a warm and glamorous welcome and were given the "Red Carpet" treatment. I recommend any woman and girl with diabetes to check out their website and to take part in the inspiring annual event. Nasara and Amaiza were recognized as the "Young Divabetics" of the event for Type 1 Diabetics.
Since the last entry we have moved and Nasara is in a brand new school - we actually attended the ribbon cutting ceremony. Additionally, I am back at home (working from home), to have easier access to her in the event of a problem. Her new school is Fannie Fitzgerald Elementary (Prince William County) - it is an awesome school - it has all the lastest and greatest of technology for school aged children. The temporary downside was the staff (including the Nurse) was unfamiliar with an insulin pump. But the Nurse Ms. Jill and the administrative staff and Nasara's teacher are very accomodating to her needs and comfort level. They will implement her IEP (Individual Education Plan) and 504 plan from Fairfax County.
This was also a special day - Nasara is sitting with her cousin Gabriella and Auntie Margie just before she was offically dedicated to her Godmother Soni. My mother had made her a silk pump purse that she wears under her clothes.
Nasara is in the clinic of Saratoga Elementary explaining and showing part of her daily diabetes management routine. She educates the reporter and photographer on how she checks her blood sugar using her glucometer and draws the necessary units of insulin from the vial to give herself her lunch bolus. And how to properly dispose of them in the sharps container.
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We are having a wonderful time at Zion's Godparents house - that is her Godbrother-Darius. We are truly blessed to have such special people in our lives. Remember at the end of the day, family and friends are all you have - and of course, GOD is a given and first. Peace and Blessings,
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