My daughter was diagnosed at age 7 with type 1 Diabetes
more than four years ago. Our whole lives changed in an instant.
Driving down a country road after leaving the doctor's
office, Mareesa looks at me and says, "Mom, my life is never going to be
the same, is it?" I didn't know how to respond, all I could do is look
into her eyes and just weep.
As I look back now at how our lives have changed, it
isn't so scary any more. Change doesn't mean it will be a bad thing, just
different. That is what happened to our lives. We had to learn to adjust to the
differences that were now handed to us.
When Mareesa was diagnosed with this chronic disease I
didn't realize that when a bad thing happens, something good will result from
it. Yes, our lives changed, but we are a much stronger family than ever before.
I know she can handle any adversities in life after learning how to accept her
disease. We also started a diabetes support group in our community for newly
diagnosed children and their families. She has learned a lot from this group
about herself and others who live day to day with Type 1 diabetes.
I still wish I could take the disease right out of her
and put it into me. But, now I know she is a strong, brave girl, who has
accepted the change, and will live a long healthy life, helping others along
the way.
Mom of Mareesa diagnosed 11-21-02
Ouida W, 44
Yuba City, CA
132557