Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Guilt

I am going through a new stage in the life of diabetes. I, lately, am overcome with guilt. I am putting this out there to the DOC because I wonder if this is common or if it is a feeling unique to me.

 I am a runner, I practice yoga, and I have a nice social life with great family and friends. As a mother I think it is important to make time for myself and the things that are important to me. Taking the time to do things is not what makes me feel guilty. When I am away from my kids they are always in good hands with people that love them.

The guilt has been coming from somewhere else. I find myself getting angry at myself for doing things with ease that would be so hard for Skyler.

I run, sometimes pretty far, but I don't have to consider my blood sugar during my run.  Running is something Skyler can do, but with more planning and prep, and it could prove to be dangerous.

I practice yoga, which would be fine for a diabetic, but lately I have been doing hot yoga (the room is heated to about 90 degrees). I love the class and I feel great after doing it - until the guilt sets in. Hot Yoga is something Skyler can do, but with a lot more planning and prep and it could prove to be dangerous.

I like to enjoy a few drinks with family and friends. Once again, something Skyler can do, but with more planning and prep and it could prove to be dangerous.

I feel guilty that I lived 32 years without the worry and stress of diabetes.  She only lived three years with that privilege. I feel guilty that I was always athletic, and never for one second thought about how lucky I was to be able to do all that I have done with ease.

I feel guilty that my daily life; eating, sleeping, driving, etc. is so much less complicated than my child's life will ever be. Shouldn't that be the other way around!!!!  That makes me feel guilty and so deeply sad.

Now she is old enough to know what my interests and hobbies are and to perhaps take an interest in some of the same things.This makes me wonder if it is unfair to be so active, and do so much, with such ease when everything will be so much harder for her.

Don't get me wrong. I will never stop her from doing anything and I will always help her figure out a way to do whatever it is she chooses. I just can't help feeling guilty that I don't have the same burden to bear.

When I question why God gave it to her and not me I tell myself, and have to believe, that there is a reason why and it has to be a positive reason because God doesn't make mistakes.

I have a very strong faith in God and amazing support from family and friends, but I still can't shake the guilt.

I have been through a variety of emotions attached to diabetes, but this is a new one, and is becoming a little overwhelming.

7 comments:

Unknown said...

I completely understand this emotion. I wish I had something insightful to say, but it's one that I find myself struggling with off and on as well.

I continue to hold to my faith, and hope that our children's futures will be filled with less planning and monitoring.

It is my prayer that technology will continue evolving and uncover new ways to enhance their lives...until a cure is found.

Lorraine of "This is Caleb..." said...

Oh, I'm sorry. I understand this. I find myself restricting my food options for similar reasons. If Caleb has to recover from a low, I sit and wait too.

Like Wendy said, I wish I had something more insightful to share. Just know others have been there - are there.

Heidi / D-Tales said...

I understand the guilt. It comes and goes for me. I try not to let it get to me...though that's often easier said than done. I hope it helps you to know you're not alone.

Sarah said...

You are such an incredible example for Sky. You lead a healthy life--showing her that moderation is key in every aspect. I think she will value that more than anything else.

Anonymous said...

Sharing your active lifestyle with your Type 1 child is the best thing you could do for them to ensure long-term health down the road. Yes, eating Excarbs and planning, temp basals, etc., are a royal PITA but the benefits of being active far outweigh taking the easy way out and limiting or avoiding exercise. Of course you would rather have Type 1 than have your child stricken with it. Moms would do anything to protect their child. But you cannot spare her; only help her. And your example of an active lifestyle will protect her long term; just have to be more careful in the short term. Keep up the good work.

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