Back in November I wrote a song called "Not By Choice" for World Diabetes Day.

The words I wrote were pulled from my memories of how it felt to be diagnosed and not know what type one diabetes was. Thoughts like, “why did this happen to me?” “What did I do wrong?” And I blamed myself for a long time too.

Then I found this community online. The Diabetes O.C. which we affectionately call it and a community I mention often. When I found this group of other people with diabetes who had those same feelings, I realized that we could help one another and not give up hope.

That is what the song is about, not giving up hope even when sometimes we want to give up entirely.

So back in March I decided I wanted to get a good recording of the song since many people asked for a downloadable version. My good friend, and fellow person with diabetes, Tom said he knew someone with a studio at their house and that he would see if he would be able to record it. Tom called me one day to say that it was a go and to be at the studio Monday morning and expect to stay all day.

I was so nervous. I had never done anything like this before and honestly I wasn’t even sure I could afford it. I would ask Tom, “How much is your buddy going to charge?” and he would say, “don’t worry man he is a fair guy, it won’t be a lot.”

When we get to the studio my nervousness quickly goes away after I meet my friend’s friend. He is a nice, comforting, funny, and mellow guy. The first thing he tells me is, “I have a soda stocked with Diet Pepsi for you so just make yourself at home and we will have some fun alright?” I felt so at home, it was great.

“Man I appreciate you letting me come up here to do this. But I need to ask how much you charge because I am on a tight budget.”

He said, “Tom told me about your blog and stuff and how people found comfort in your song. I fought and won a battle with prostate cancer a few years ago and I got all my support online so I know how important a community that is. I think what you are doing it great and I’m not going to charge you a cent to do it.”

I thanked him trying my best not to tear up. He extended his arms and gave me hug and said, “It’s my pleasure man. Let’s hear this song!”

It was such a great day and I made a great new friend. One who understands that the people I chat with, tweet with, blog with, are all important to me.

There is no need to ever feel alone or to ever give up hope.

EDITOR'S NOTE: If you'd like to download George's song, please click here and you'll be directed to iTunes. Enjoy!

- Kerri