Today I decided it would be a great time to answer the DSMA Blog Carnival post before I start re-posting old blogs during my vacation. I had long since forgotten what June's topic was so imagine my surprise when I read "Do you get nervous or stressed when you have to go to your endo/doc appointment? Why or why not? Be honest."
The other problem with this appointment is of course my son is having a high at night that I just can't quite tweak. They may, or may not tell me to do the things that I am considering--adjust a carb to insulin ratio to cover the food he is eating. Look at upping a basal rate before he wakes to cut down on what looks like some growth hormones kicking his butt. That is all well and fine but remember I said that I am going on vacation and so is he?
My son's activity level could go up as he rides his quad daily and catches up with old friends. This will mean that the change is basal rates is unnecessary. Add to that the fact that he isn't "that" high, he has only woken up to two lows--in his life!, and he has had a few nights when the readings were okay. I am thinking about adjusting the carb to insulin ratio, leaving the rest and texting from Ireland to see what's what.
Why don't I get nervous? I don't get nervous because I don't look at them as the judge and jury. I am. I am my worst critic. I am much tougher on us than they are. I know what I have to do. I know the A1c that I want to see. I have said time and time again, I was trained by the best. Between an amazing doctor for the first 10 years of diabetes and the CWD Parents list, I have learned a lot and kept myself on top of the latest information. I am not intimidated because I often know as much as the staff. We are all the experts and when there is mutual respect there can be no need to be nervous.
So what can they do for us? I am hoping that they will begin to work a lot more with my son. We have had the alcohol discussion. I know that they have spoken about it at FFL teen sessions. He needs to establish a relationship with his d-team and understand why its important for him to continue to be diligent with his care after he leaves their office. Our old doctor spoke directly to him, making him take charge. I am trying to step aside more often so that they can do this in our new setting as well. My son is quiet and private but this is not the place for that privacy.
So are clinic appointments a source of stress for us? No. They are a necessary evil but to date we are blessed by teams that respect us and work with us not against us.
“This post is my June entry in the DSMA Blog Carnival. If you’d like to participate too, you can get all of the information at http://diabetessocmed.com/2012/june-dsma-blog-carnival-2/“
Although I'm glad you don't get stressed before your appointments, I'm sorry that it's because you are already your own worst critic. :( I hope you'll give yourself a lot of credit for all of the wonderful things you are doing!!
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