Diabetes in children issue gets help from this great resource not only for the child with diabetes but also for the parents and caretakers who have to look after him. Not only will the child get a toy in Rufus the Bear but also he will get a monitor and diabetes bracelet and other materials. The only thing that bugs me with this is that the child in order to qualify will have been diagnosed only in the last three months.
It is confusing and somewhat scary to learn your child has type 1 diabetes. It is not easy to explain this to the child especially if you have to teach him about blood testing, proper eating habits and injections. Thank goodness for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Illinois which has developed a tool to help educate children and their families.
This tool is called the Bag of Hope which contains a lot of materials that help those who take care of diabetic children. This bag is in the form of backpacks that are given free to children who have been diagnosed with diabetes. And get this, it is only for those who have been diagnosed in the past 3 months.
Here's what the backpack contains:
Rufus Comes Home Book
A stuffed toy called Rufus, the Bear with Diabetes
A booklet regarding carbohydrate counting and healthy habits, entitled "A First Book for Understanding Diabetes."
A keychain digital watch and compass
A DVD on "You Can't Catch Diabetes from a Friend"
Accu-Chek® Aviva Compact Blood Meter.
Carol Cramer created Rufus the Bear in 1996. She created this two years after her son Brian who was three years old then was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. To help children know about the sites for injection and how to rotate them, Carol placed patches on Rufus arms, tummy, bottom and legs.
The fun part for the children is when they pretend to give Rufus an injection. There are also red patches on both sides of Rufus paws so that a child can pretend to check his blood glucose. Rufus also always wears a Medic Alert bracelet. Read more diabetes facts at this site.
"Rufus Comes Home" is about a young boy named Brian who is type 1 diabetic. This was inspired by the Rufus the Bear creation. The story tells of Brian's mother who made the Rufus for him so that Brian will learn to come to know about his diabetes.
H. Peter Chace, M.D. wrote the "A First Book for Understanding Diabetes". Dr. Chace was the past executive of the Barbara Davis Center for Childhood Diabetes in Denver, Colorado. He is also the clinical director and the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from JDRF.
The mission of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Illinois (JDRF Illinois) is to find a diabetes cure through supporting research. To find a cure for the complications is also part of its mission. This organization is amazing because it provides education and support for families and those who have type 1 diabetes.
JDRF Illinois is the highest grossing chapter in the country. They have events like The Ron Santo Walk to Cure Diabetes where they raise funds to be able to accomplish their mission. They also have the Chance of Lifetime Gala. Annually, JDRF Illinois contributes $14 million to fund research that will find a cure to type 1 diabetes and its complications. Certainly, it's great help to solve the challenges of diabetes in children.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
Type 2 Diabetes Classes
Type 2 diabetes classes were held to help the type 2 diabetics control their blood sugar level. For example, The University of Florida/ IFAS Bay County Extension conducted a series of classes and may likely be holding these classes again. The program will include eight classes taught by qualified educators and health professionals.
Nutrition consultations with a registered dietitian and blood pressure measurements are included. Classes were held from March 2 to April 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. Classes were held at the Bay County Library Meeting Room, located at 898 W. 11th St.
I do not know if there are diabetes classes again this year but if you have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, are at least 21 years old, and want to see if you are eligible, please call the Extension office at 784-6105 no later than Feb. 25. The $75 cost includes program materials and services. There were a limited number of partial scholarships available for those in need.
“Pursuit to Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 (As Amended) this University of Florida Affirmative Action Plan ensures equal employment opportunity and advancement opportunity to all individuals.
The University does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), national origin, ancestry, age, disability, family care status, protected veterans status, marital status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.
Free Diabetes Classes Offered
The Diabetes Health Department at Palomar Pomerado Health (PPH) recognized last year the American Diabetes Month by hosting two free diabetes events in November. A registered nurse and a registered dietician were available to answer questions and provide information on what diabetes is, how to control it, and what to do to lower the risks of diabetes.
diabetes. All attendees received free diabetes handouts and giveaways.
Diabetes is a serious disease that leads to potentially life-threatening complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness and amputation. November is American Diabetes Month, a time to communicate the seriousness of diabetes and the importance of prevention and control.
Join PPH and the American Diabetes.
Diabetes is a very common medical condition, yet individuals with diabetes often do not have enough information to help them make wise decisions regarding the foods they eat, their management of medications, avoiding foot and eye problems, and getting enough exercise. These topics were addressed at “Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes,” a two-day course targeted to individuals with Type 2 Diabetes.
Nutrition consultations with a registered dietitian and blood pressure measurements are included. Classes were held from March 2 to April 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. Classes were held at the Bay County Library Meeting Room, located at 898 W. 11th St.
I do not know if there are diabetes classes again this year but if you have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, are at least 21 years old, and want to see if you are eligible, please call the Extension office at 784-6105 no later than Feb. 25. The $75 cost includes program materials and services. There were a limited number of partial scholarships available for those in need.
“Pursuit to Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 (As Amended) this University of Florida Affirmative Action Plan ensures equal employment opportunity and advancement opportunity to all individuals.
The University does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), national origin, ancestry, age, disability, family care status, protected veterans status, marital status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.
Free Diabetes Classes Offered
The Diabetes Health Department at Palomar Pomerado Health (PPH) recognized last year the American Diabetes Month by hosting two free diabetes events in November. A registered nurse and a registered dietician were available to answer questions and provide information on what diabetes is, how to control it, and what to do to lower the risks of diabetes.
diabetes. All attendees received free diabetes handouts and giveaways.
Diabetes is a serious disease that leads to potentially life-threatening complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness and amputation. November is American Diabetes Month, a time to communicate the seriousness of diabetes and the importance of prevention and control.
Join PPH and the American Diabetes.
Diabetes is a very common medical condition, yet individuals with diabetes often do not have enough information to help them make wise decisions regarding the foods they eat, their management of medications, avoiding foot and eye problems, and getting enough exercise. These topics were addressed at “Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes,” a two-day course targeted to individuals with Type 2 Diabetes.
Monday, November 8, 2010
New Mexico Senator Asked FDA to Ban Aspartame Use in USA
Diabetics have an advocate in the New Mexico Senator. Why did I say that? It is because this senator mentioned how the diabetics have fallen victims to aspartame when this was cited in the Hawaii request for the approval of the use of this artificial sweetener be withdrawn.
Last year, NM Senator Ortiz y Pino wrote a letter to Dr. Frank Torti who was acting commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration. He requested that approval for the use of Aspartame be cancelled. Why am I revisiting this issue? I still see this artificial sweetener around and so I thought if more people jumped in and joined the voices, the collective cry would be heard.
From 1966 to 1981, FDA turned down the application of G.D. Searle but due to the insistence of Donald Rumsfeld, Searle CEO, the approval was forced through the FDA. Since then, there were numerous petitions from doctors and laymen alike but all these have been ignored.
The answer to all these petitions was the assurance that tests have been conducted where aspartame has been shown as safe. The trouble is that there are 92 alleged symptoms that have developed from using aspartame. This cannot be ignored when planning meals for the diabetics.
Among the symptoms are blurred vision, headaches, epilepsy, skin rashes multiple sclerosis and death. Having been shown to produce such a huge mountain of neurodengenerative and medical proof, the New Mexico senator believed that this would result in Dr. Torti to order its removal from the market.
Senator Ortiz further said that this is too late to make the removal just a precaution but believed that it is urgent its removal will prevent more medical harm to victims in the future. He mentioned that ten colleagues of his have cosponsored this.
Senator Chun Oakland from Hawaii also introduced this and cosponsored by ten members of the Hawaii Senate. This resolution will be the repository of evidence for the victims in Hawaii particularly the diabetics and those with seizures.
Last year, Senator Kalani English from Hawaii introduced SB576 that would totally ban aspartame in Hawaii. He had the backing of 14 out of the 25 members of the Hawaii Senate. Mele Carroll, a representative, also introduced HB669 banning the sale and use of aspartame in Hawaii.
Needless to say, the American public has to be protected from further harm. After all, Senator Ortiz said FDA has known for four decades and three years that this chemical is metabolized as aspartic acid, methanol, phenylalanine formaldehyde, and diketopiperazine, which has been proven as a carcinogen.
Let us all do the right thing and put the public health and well being top of the list while setting aside whatever private agenda we have in mind. After all health is an important asset for any nation to preserve if it has any hope to prosper. Those in office should say, "My loyalty to the party should end where my loyalty to the country begins." On this my cry is, help the diabetics.
Last year, NM Senator Ortiz y Pino wrote a letter to Dr. Frank Torti who was acting commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration. He requested that approval for the use of Aspartame be cancelled. Why am I revisiting this issue? I still see this artificial sweetener around and so I thought if more people jumped in and joined the voices, the collective cry would be heard.
From 1966 to 1981, FDA turned down the application of G.D. Searle but due to the insistence of Donald Rumsfeld, Searle CEO, the approval was forced through the FDA. Since then, there were numerous petitions from doctors and laymen alike but all these have been ignored.
The answer to all these petitions was the assurance that tests have been conducted where aspartame has been shown as safe. The trouble is that there are 92 alleged symptoms that have developed from using aspartame. This cannot be ignored when planning meals for the diabetics.
Among the symptoms are blurred vision, headaches, epilepsy, skin rashes multiple sclerosis and death. Having been shown to produce such a huge mountain of neurodengenerative and medical proof, the New Mexico senator believed that this would result in Dr. Torti to order its removal from the market.
Senator Ortiz further said that this is too late to make the removal just a precaution but believed that it is urgent its removal will prevent more medical harm to victims in the future. He mentioned that ten colleagues of his have cosponsored this.
Senator Chun Oakland from Hawaii also introduced this and cosponsored by ten members of the Hawaii Senate. This resolution will be the repository of evidence for the victims in Hawaii particularly the diabetics and those with seizures.
Last year, Senator Kalani English from Hawaii introduced SB576 that would totally ban aspartame in Hawaii. He had the backing of 14 out of the 25 members of the Hawaii Senate. Mele Carroll, a representative, also introduced HB669 banning the sale and use of aspartame in Hawaii.
Needless to say, the American public has to be protected from further harm. After all, Senator Ortiz said FDA has known for four decades and three years that this chemical is metabolized as aspartic acid, methanol, phenylalanine formaldehyde, and diketopiperazine, which has been proven as a carcinogen.
Let us all do the right thing and put the public health and well being top of the list while setting aside whatever private agenda we have in mind. After all health is an important asset for any nation to preserve if it has any hope to prosper. Those in office should say, "My loyalty to the party should end where my loyalty to the country begins." On this my cry is, help the diabetics.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Diabetes Early Signs
Diabetes early signs is a topic that has been written numerous times but it bears repeating for fear that some are not able to process this due to a busy schedule. The important thing is to have this caught early so strategies can be put in place to ward off the dreaded complications.
Sometimes the symptoms do not appear until the damage has been done. Listen to the recommendations of the American Diabetes Association which is for adults 45 years and over to get tested every three years. This was the figure the last time I checked and I will keep on the alert on this and other issues pertaining to diabetes because changes happen so fast.
So if there is anyone of you who has found a different figure, step up and let us know because we are all on this together and we have to help each other spread the word. We have to rely on one another and what a good time to start this cooperative spirit on this the first day of diabetes month.
Type 1 diabetes is the more serious and the symptoms may just come up suddenly while type 2 diabetes starts slowly and it may take years before the symptoms can appear. Sometimes, it is just diagnosed on a routine medical examination when a complication appears.
So you see, many do not know they have this condition. That is why it is wise to heed the recommendation of the American Diabetes Association to get tested. The key to stay healthy is to get a regular check up for one can easily fight this condition more easily earlier than later.
The diabetes early signs are unexplained hunger, unusual thirst and frequent urination. Due to the inability to utilize the carbohydrate consumption and synthesize the energy, people tire easily. For some, despite consuming large meals, weight loss occurs. To make matter worse, the symptoms are not the same for everybody.
There may also be itchiness and bacterial infections. Those with diabetes may also develop sores that do not easily heal. It is the same thing with cuts and wounds. Hands and feet may feel numb so extra care should be given to the feet. They have to be protected from burns and injuries.
We hope that people will listen and get themselves tested especially those who are at risk. It is only if we heed this recommendation can we stay healthy. This is the only reason we are keeping this blog and the website open. So get tested even before the appearance of the diabetes early signs.
Sometimes the symptoms do not appear until the damage has been done. Listen to the recommendations of the American Diabetes Association which is for adults 45 years and over to get tested every three years. This was the figure the last time I checked and I will keep on the alert on this and other issues pertaining to diabetes because changes happen so fast.
So if there is anyone of you who has found a different figure, step up and let us know because we are all on this together and we have to help each other spread the word. We have to rely on one another and what a good time to start this cooperative spirit on this the first day of diabetes month.
Type 1 diabetes is the more serious and the symptoms may just come up suddenly while type 2 diabetes starts slowly and it may take years before the symptoms can appear. Sometimes, it is just diagnosed on a routine medical examination when a complication appears.
So you see, many do not know they have this condition. That is why it is wise to heed the recommendation of the American Diabetes Association to get tested. The key to stay healthy is to get a regular check up for one can easily fight this condition more easily earlier than later.
The diabetes early signs are unexplained hunger, unusual thirst and frequent urination. Due to the inability to utilize the carbohydrate consumption and synthesize the energy, people tire easily. For some, despite consuming large meals, weight loss occurs. To make matter worse, the symptoms are not the same for everybody.
There may also be itchiness and bacterial infections. Those with diabetes may also develop sores that do not easily heal. It is the same thing with cuts and wounds. Hands and feet may feel numb so extra care should be given to the feet. They have to be protected from burns and injuries.
We hope that people will listen and get themselves tested especially those who are at risk. It is only if we heed this recommendation can we stay healthy. This is the only reason we are keeping this blog and the website open. So get tested even before the appearance of the diabetes early signs.
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