Sunday, August 9, 2009

Drink, Check, Snack



Although my birthday isn't until August 16th, we celebrated early with good friends. My closest friends were there to share memories, laughs and good times together. I know that the party couldn't have been so fabulous if it wasn't for my best friend Sam who worked so hard on decorations and preparation. I was so excited to walk down the stairs to see the extremely large banners, balloons and cake she had bought both Michelle and I, who turned eighteen at the beginning of the month.

I went into this party with a game plan. I was going to test as often and keep a little part of me aware of what was going on. I knew that my meter was going to be my best friend yesterday just like it usually is any other day. I had some thoughts before leaving about how I was really going to handle this. I know that I can promise myself I'll check every hour or two but will I really follow through with the plan?

Of course I did! I was on the ball, checking regularly and letting Clinton, Sam and Michelle know my numbers to keep them from worrying. Clinton had his eye on the time, as I took my Lantus at 10:30. Despite having a couple drinks I was perfectly aware of my diabetes. I know that with turning nineteen I have responsibilities. I am now legally allowed to drink and with that I have to know my boundaries. I don't think twice about knowing I can handle these responsibilities.

I knew that alcohol lowers my blood sugar and with having 1g coolers I realized how important it as to be snacking. I got to eat a bit like all the others but after a couple handfuls of chips I knew that that was the end of my snacking.

Yes, it was annoying sometimes checking my blood sugar. I would check it in the kitchen, and people would stare. I realize I could go into the bedroom or bathroom but why hide? Maybe people will be curious, want to know more, learn that life isn't just about partying and forgetting about who you are and your health. I showed them that I can have fun but still be aware, I think that's important.

I had a little weak moment at the party. I was sitting with Clinton, watching everyone jump around, eat bags of chips, pizza and drink. I kept thinking back to who I was before and what I could do before. My life went from no worries to one hundred worries in a matter of months. I sucked it up however. All I have to do is look how far I have come and realize that I am having the time of my life. It isn't the pizza or drinks that make the good times it's the friends.

I really think for any teen diabetic, moments like these are probably the biggest challenges. Simply because chances are you may be the only diabetic at the party. Not everyone will understand your disease, understand what you're doing or who you are but what matters it that you know and the people you love understand.


With all the peer pressure out there, there is no doubt in my mind that teen diabetics risk their lives at these parties just to simply be accepted. If other teens only knew the harm they can push on their friends. You have to stand up, yes you can have a few drinks but don't go beyond your limit. Set a game plan, follow through and you will be thanking yourself that next morning when you wake up in a sleeping bag rather than a hospital bed.

Kayla


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