Being a dad has lots of challenges. Heck, being a parent is the best but scariest job you can have! But having diabetes and being a parent has its own unique challenges.

I find that when my kids witness a low or any complication with my disease I end up feeling guilty. Why should they have to worry about their father at such a young age? They have enough to worry about. I hate it.

One evening my kids started asking lots of questions about diabetes and of course, I am always willing to talk to them about anything they are questioning. My son asked, "Are we going to get diabetes?"

It took all my control to not well up with tears. I had to hold it together. I did not want them to know that this is my biggest fear.

I said, "well there is always a possibility but just because I have it does not mean you will. Are you worried about that?"

My son replied, "Actually, I think it would be easier for us because we already know all about it."

Then the tears came. I quickly looked away and said, "That is true son. You guys know a lot."

Many times my daughter asked, "are you low?" or my son has ran to grab glucose tabs for me. So often they are like my little nurses. I am thankful but I am also very sorry that they have to worry about their old man already.

Is there an upside to this? I think so. My kids are like little diabetes educators. It actually cracks me up when I hear them explaining to friends why there is a box of syringes on the fridge or why their dad is making his finger bleed.

They have had discussions with teachers about me and what type of diabetes I have. They know they difference between type 1 and type 2 and feel as though they have every right to explain the difference to people who do not know. I am so proud of them although I swear I have never put them up to this!

Maybe I should be thankful that I have kids that handle their father having diabetes with stride. Maybe it is a blessing that my kids are the way they are.

What am I saying?

Of course it is.