At my old job I talked and communicated with a lot of other diabetics, but I didn’t actually work with any other diabetics. At one of the places I do on-site consulting for 3 days a week, Volvo Aero Services, I have been introduced to 2 other diabetics already. This is a great feeling. The first person I was introduced to, I already knew about because I had spoken with them via e-mail a few times to get them help with their strips and supplies. The coffee is in her office so I see her multiple times a day(I’ve cut back to 5 cups of coffee a day). The other person I wasn’t formally introduced to, but this is how it happened.
Before lunch one day, I headed into the bathroom to wash my hands. While in there I saw this guy pull out an Aviva meter and check his sugar. I saw a not so happy look on his face. He then proceeded to take out a piece of paper which looked like a sliding scale for his correction, plus meal time bolus. After a quick calculation he was drawing back a syringe. This whole time I am just washing my hands, glancing over. Probably the longest hand wash in history. At first, I was a little hesitant to ask any questions, because I know not all people are willing to discuss their diabetes. So, I decided to mention my diabetes first and see if he would open up.
I looked at him and just said, “my blood sugar was 195, so I’m going to eat a small lunch to try and bring it back down with a little correction bolus.” He looked at me like I had 3 heads! I followed that with, “I’ve been diabetic for 6 years, so I understand the lunch time finger pricks” He opened right up to me about his diabetes. Basically he explained that he has had diabetes for 10 years and that he was in a denial for about the first year and that he hasn’t been able to manage it that well. I gave all the best advice that I could that you have to just keep on pushing. Your not always going to figure out your diabetes, but you can get it right as often as possible and that is the best you can ask for. I explained to him to not get discouraged when he sees a high number because it will stress him out and keep it high.
I gave him my contact information and let him know where my desk was if he had any questions or problems with his diabetes. I also gave him contact info to a few support groups that I knew about and have previous attended. I really hope that he decides to go, because he seemed as if he needed a little additional support for his diabetes.
How many of you work with other diabetics? Are they part of the D. OC as well?