Death by Diabetic Complications
That's probably going to be in my obituary and it has been in the news lately.
Amy blogged about it in talking about Luther Vandross's death at Diabetes Mine: Salute to Luther Vandross, Divabetic
It's in the news again with Hank Stram's passing. This article in the Indianapolis Star
indicates that he died of diabetic complications.
It's dangerous to assume that when someone dies of diabetic complications that the person isn't taking care of themselves.
People, even my OWN health care providers (but not the diabetic ones), often make the assumption that I don't take care of myself.
However, there is a treadmill downstairs and free weights, and I just finished over 40 minutes on the treadmill and a short weight session.
My A1C ranges from 6.0 - 7.0, mostly at the lower range.
I test my blood sugar over 8 times a day, and I work hard to keep it as low as I can but remain safe.
You can tell from the dog photos that I'm having weight issues, and they are something I think about constantly. The weight issues interfer with my way of life and my ability to do things that I want to do.
In my opinion, every one needs to be screened for diabetes, everyone at risk for diabetes needs to be educated about it and everyone needs a health care team that listens and helps them to achieve their goals.
No one deserves to be blamed for their condition though. By anyone.
Comments
I can identify. I was recently diagnosed with diabetes. I walk about 1/2 mile every day. Test and try to keep my numbers below 100. My last A1c was 6.2, but my weight never seems to come down and I go round and round with my doctor about what I'm doing wrong. It can be so discouraging.
Hang in there.
Posted by: Mimi | July 5, 2005 1:37 PM
Again, for the record: I was miffed that the press didn't acknowledge the damage that diabetes can do. Never intended to blame anyone for anything.
Nuff said.
Posted by: AmyT | July 5, 2005 2:30 PM
But the press can only do with the information they were given. The Vandross family choose not to disclose the cause of death. The Stram family did.
Posted by: Kathleen Weaver | July 5, 2005 3:02 PM
I'm right with you on this one... but in a way I've just come to accept it, It still makes me angry when people say Brittle Diabetic. Ive een type 1 for 20 years (im only 24)
...btw i just found your blog, thanks! ill be back
Jim O
Posted by: Jim O | July 6, 2005 8:04 PM