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My dLife
By Nicole Johnson
April is notorious for crazy weather, at least it is in my hometown of Pittsburgh, PA. So far this month, we have gone from 3 inches of snow to sunny 75-degree days, to wet 50-degree moments. If you think about it, it sounds a little like living with diabetes. It’s reminiscent of the mountain range of emotion associated with this condition, the roller coaster of glucose readings, and the complexity of deciphering diabetes information. It’s enough to make anyone confused and weary! This month, I want to throw out a different concept - spring-cleaning or April showers for diabetes.
Now don’t worry, I am not talking about mopping and dusting, I am talking about cleaning out your internal diabetes filing cabinets. Really, what could be better than getting a diabetes refresher for spring? For years I have been putting off getting re-educated because I didn’t have enough time, I wasn’t in the mood, I thought I had a handle on all things diabetes, I just didn’t want to do it – I was afraid.
This spring, I am committing to a new education – personally – in diabetes. Let’s face it we all need to learn the newer techniques, philosophies and recommendations as they relate to living better and stronger with our condition. We all need to clean out the cobwebs every now and then. I hope you will consider joining me in the process. This is part of the reason I am so excited about the dLife concept. On this website and on the TV program you can find resources, ideas, tips, and tricks to help you figure out new approaches to your diabetes.
The beautiful part of education is the hope that comes with it. As you learn how to manage your condition, you become more inspired and excited by your own success and you become more hopeful about the future. Really, that is the secret to living well with diabetes. You must be realistic about your care, accept yourself and always live with your eye pinned on the prize of a day without this disease. You must live a life of expectation coupled with incredible preparation (education). April showers always result in May flowers, just like education always results in more knowledge and ability.
Each month, Nicole shares her life and experiences as a person with diabetes and gives the dLife community information they too can use to live a healthy life.