On a personal note, I just want to thank you for giving me this
opportunity. One of the best moments for me was on the bus on the
way back to Quito from precamp. I realized that for the past 5 years
of my life I wasn't accepting the fact that I have diabetes. I obviously
accepted it in the way that I "controlled" it and managed
it but not in the way of actually having diabetes. It was like being
in mourning after the death of someone close to you and then that
day comes when you realize you can't mourn anymore and the burden
is lifted off of your shoulders. I felt that on the bus and now
I accept it like I didn't know I hadn't. Without this past month
I'm not sure if I would have ever come to that realization, thank
you.
In New Orleans I don't personally know anyone who has diabetes
and to be surrounded by so many people with diabetes is a great
feeling. I know I'm not the only one, but now I don't feel alone.
In San Diego I thought it was so crazy that Ben just took out his
meter to check his sugar when we were in the circle. I would have
never done that before, much less inject myself in a public place.
When I was first diagnosed (with diabetes) they told me about diabetes
camps and asked me if I'd want to go. I thought that was the stupidest
idea and how boring it would be. Now I know why these types of organizations
exist and the sense of empowerment they give to people with diabetes.
I don't know if this really expresses my gratitude but I just wanted
to let y'all know how much this past month, especially the week
of camp and precamp, means to me. I 've learned more about diabetes
"culture" and myself in the last few weeks than I have
in the last five years-and for that I thank you. Much love, Julie.
