JDRF Walk Letter

I'm a-l-m-o-s-t done writing my fundraising letter for the Walk to Cure Diabetes 2011-I usually have it mailed by now...but I'm working on it.  When you have a child who has been recently diagnosed, it's still at the forefront of your mind, your writing is fresh and raw, your family is still shocked, and people want to help.  Once you've dealt with it for a while (seven years..) they think you have the hang of it, and don't really worry about you or your child anymore.  No offense to me, but they think I've "got" this.


Even on vacation, I had some really surprised questions when I had to plug Mary Claire into her pump to have a snack while swimming.  They asked if I had to do that every time she ate.  Umm..yeah.  Every thing that goes in her mouth is counted, as precisely as possible, and then the insulin ratio is figured based on the time of day.  And yes, having her pump off during swimming is a car wreck waiting to happen.  Of course she's going to go high-but I can't keep her from fun.


I also get that I make it look "easy".  I've been doing it for long enough, and I just don't talk about it a lot.  I used to, but then it's all that I could think about.  Now, if I get some time away with friends, I am vacationing from diabetes for a little bit.  I don't want to talk about it-I live it.  That's why I'm having a night out-to get AWAY.   To take time for myself.  : )  And..it'll be there when I get home-and it always waits up for me.


All this to say writing a letter is one of the hardest things I do.  I have to admit, every year I want to vacation away from the Walk (not do it..), but I can't.  I think even some friends would like us to take a break..but we can't.  We need research funding, and my daughter needs that tiny celebration that she's special.  I just have to get my act together, face the keyboard, and do what has to be done.


And then take it to be copied..and then review my address list..then print labels...then label envelopes..and stuff and label return envelopes..and then stamp them all..and take a breath...and get my t-shirt design done!  Ahh..walk time. : )


ps-haven't found my thingie yet..but I've thrown away an entire trash bag of stuff in the hunt!