Mauie Flores

D-blog Day was started on November 9th 2005 during Diabetes Awareness Month, to help unite diabetes bloggers and create awareness about diabetes.


This is the first year I'm joining this campaign and these are the 6 things I want people to know about diabetes:

1. There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. I have the 2nd type so I get by with just oral diabetic meds. I don't need to pump insulin unlike a cousin of mine who has Type 1.
2. Diabetes is not a disability. We are normal people who can also do things that non-diabetics can do. We may need a few adjustments and improvisations here and there but we get the job done.
3. Not all diabetics are overweight. I have already encountered people telling me, "mataba ka kasi ("you're fat, that's why") when I tell them that I have diabetes. Yes, obesity is a risk factor of diabetes but even thin people can get it. In fact, weight loss can be one of the symptoms of diabetes.
4. Diabetics can still have sugar. My life may be sugar free most of the time but I keep candies in my bag for emergency hypoglycemic episodes.
5. Diabetics don't need special food. We just follow a healthy meal plan which should also be done even by non-diabetics. I'm always asked about this every time I attend a party or an event.
6. It takes commitment and dedication to stay well when you're a diabetic. Then again, I forgive myself at times when I eat what I can't or when I don't exercise. I'm just human and I'm not perfect.

On a random note, did you know that 250 is the official medical coding number for diabetes?

Five more days till World Diabetes Day. Please view this video and help provide life-saving diabetes medication and supplies to children in developing countries.. :)


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