Unhappy Anniversary

Today is the third anniversary of Camryn's diagnosis with diabetes. I can't come up with anything witty or pithy to say on this subject. We try every day to find the silver lining and make the "lemons into lemonade". I won't turn it into a pity post, but it still stinks. Sure we're moving on and in many ways learning, growing and thriving but . . .

Enough of that - I guess I will just give you some links to some tremendous heroes. Diabetes is not just a daily challenge, but an hourly challenge. And in my opinion (and Camryn's) no one rises to those challenges more than diabetic athletes. These are people that serve as true role models that there are no limits!

If you are the parent of a diabetic - take heart in the fact that your kids can go far and achieve greatness. And if you are an endurance athlete (or an endurance athlete wannabe) and you've ever had to manage your nutrition in a long event - you just gotta check these folks out! What they do is nothing short of amazing and their spirit and tenacity is without compare.

Camryn's personal favorite is Bruce Linton - Ididarod dogsled musher, triathlete and marathon runner.

Team Type 1 - professional, big time cycling team. These guys are as pro as any cyclist and have amazing challenges. If you think you worry about bonking on the bike you just gotta see what they are up against.

How about an Ironman? Take a look at Jay Hewitt and David Weingard. All great role models for health, nutrition and perserverence.

If you read some of the materials about these athletes you will get a gist of their heavy reliance on some of the latest and greatest in diabetes care: insulin pumps, continuous glucose sensors, etc. Much of the latest technology is in no small part due to the research funds that come from JDRF. The Artificial Pancreas which looms on the horizon will bring more freedom to these athletes and all people enduring each day with type 1 diabetes.

So, yes it's me making yet another plug for our cause. . . The JDRF Ride for a Cure. Every dollar brings all those with type 1 diabetes closer to reaching their fullest potential.

Happy anniversary to my little angel - I know you'll achieve greatness, you already have!