498 Responses

1. I know this is hard to take but I’ll be praying for your little son and your family. So much has changed to make life a little bit easier now for children with diabetes. You’re strong and a good mother and your little boy benefit from that. I pray y’all will feel God holding your hands through this.
   Be a sweetie,
   Shelia 😉

2. Stay strong. I will start praying now for your beautiful son. May God bless you and your family.

3. I am sorry for your news and the struggle you will have to find a new normal. I am grateful for you that there is so much information out there to help you figure it out. I know you will figure it out and find a new normal, but we will still be praying for you as you find your way. Thanks for sharing your story!

4. This is such a hard thing to hear as a mother. You are right, you will find it to be your new normal, but it doesn’t mean that it’s not tough. My own brother was diagnosed with Type I diabetes when he was six years old. That’s been 30 years ago now and so much in health care has changed since then. Matt has lead and continues to lead a very “normal” life, but I do remember the first days and years of what it was like not only for him but for all of us. God is with you and will be with you as you take this day by day. Your family is in my prayers as you lean on your own faith and settle into the new “normal” for your son. I just want to tell you thank you for sharing this very personal news here in this space. You never know how your courage to share will help some one else who may need encouragement with their own “new normal.”

5. Dear Marian I want to agree with you that your beautiful blog is about so much more than decorating and DIY for you and for the rest of us. The times you have shared your heart and dreams resonate loudly and now this hard thing with your little one will also serve others. I have a friend with two boys who were diagnosed with diabetes at a very young age and their lives have been so full and busy and active – sports scholarships to college for both. Blessings on you all as you adjust.

6. Thank you for being transparent-and sharing this- tears are flowing-but tears of praise! Praise for a firm diagnosis, praise for amazing medical doctors at Hershey, Praise for your outlook and knowing he is God’s child-with a purpose and a full plan. I’ll be praying peace for you all as you learn together how to handle the treatment and life changes.

7. My prayers are for your son and your family. It’s a hard desease, it’s in my family, to understand and adjust to at first and then like you said “the new norm” will set in and all will be good. In this you can trust, as well as Gods purpose for your son. You have an amazingingly loving family and friends so use all the support you can handle. And sharing this w/us is just what the dr ordered:) God Bless.

8. thinking of you and your family.

9. I pray for you and your family. I cannot say “all will be well” however, one has to hope that all WILL be allright. Lots of love and good vibrations from me to yours.

10. I’m so sorry to hear about this, but you are such a good mommy for noticing that all wasn’t right, and for taking care of what needs to be taken care of! I know it is scary, but knowing really is half the battle (and not just for GI Joes) and you can adjust to anything you need to!

11. Prayers to all of you. And I will say, you are at a great place. I’m partial because I work there. I had my babies there. And my son was also a hem-onc patient there (he is healthy now by the way and we pray that continues every day). I know you want to take it away from him, and put it onto yourself. But for reasons we cannot explain, that’s not how it has happened. I think you will be amazed at how he will adapt to the changes in his life. Children are much stronger than us when dealing with things like this…I don’t know why that is either. I know that they adjust and make whatever their illness is as part of their life, and they just do what they need to do. They learn so quickly. I’m happy you took him to the pediatrician at your first inkling that something was not right. Don’t think about all of those other ‘things’ right now, that will all work out. You speedy reaction to your gut instinct demonstrates that you will do fine adjusting to this new life. Thank you for sharing your story with us and again, prayers to all of you…I know your child receiving any diagnosis but a bill of perfect health is scary. I think your faith and your close relationships will prove very valuable for you and your family.

12. Big hugs and thoughts of love to you and your family, Marian. I know change is scary, and big change is “big” scary – but love, grace and faith can do so, so much and I know there’s no shortage of those things at your place.

13. May God give you strenghth and peace as you and your family process this difficult fact and adapt to the new situation. Hugs to you all!

14. Thank You for sharing Marian. You don’t know me but I follow your blog faithfully and have been so inspired by your book and your blog ideas and encouragement. Thank You for letting us know the not fun and not so pretty things going on in your life so that we now can give you and your family our prayers. I will pray for your family and especially you for wisdom. Also that there would be people who have/ are going through the same thing would be put in your path for encouragement and ideas. You will find a new normal and someday see the good. The picture of your little boys is beautiful and made me teary eyed.

15. I know God will see you through this. I will be praying for you and your son/family.

    ~willa~

16. Oh girl. I know how tough it is to adjust to a new “normal”. When my oldest daughter was diagnosed with Down Syndrome I had so many fears/worries about what her life would be like. The good news is that most of what I feared/worried about never came to fruition. Medicine and technology are so much more advanced in the area of diabetes- and there is a lot more awareness and support out there to help.

17. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

    http://jax-and-jewels.blogspot.com

18. my brother was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes at age 8. he is now 54 years old and a brilliant physician…working to cure diabetes. i will pray for your son. he WILL be OK…and so will you all.

19. Having received a diagnosis of autism when my son was two and a half, I understand the emotional journey you’ve been on. I know for us it meant shedding some tears, then pulling up our boot-straps to lead him into the best life he could have. It takes some work, a LOT of learning and patience, and trust in God’s purposes. I think you’re on the right track by how you’re focusing, and I know you’re family will grow because of this journey. One of the blessings that comes out of this, is more compassion in everyone’s hearts – particularly the children – as they grow up with a sibling with special needs. It can be a blow to what we had planned and dreamed, but it doesn’t have to devastate. Prayers for you and your family as you walk this road.

20. Your heart and mind are rooted exactly where they should be. Your son and your whole family will benefit from that in ways you will never even see. Giving your son the gift of seeing this as an opportunity and not see himself as a victim…you guys have already won. God bless.

21. Thank you for sharing, Marian. I will be praying for you as you all adjust to testing blood sugar, counting carbs and giving insulin injections. Our family made that adjustment nine years ago, next month, when our 18-month-old was diagnosed with type-1. He was on Lantus and Humalog or Novalog until he went on the pump five years ago this past November.
    He is a champ, a trooper and a blessing, as I’m sure your son is and will be. We too, have prayed for the Lord’s will in our children’s lives.
    I would be glad to answer any questions you may have or just listen.
    Love from Missouri,
    Elizabeth
    Mama to the Six Sibs, 5 1/2 to 17 1/2

22. My youngest son was one week shy of his 18th birthday when he was diagnosed. What an overwhelming time in our lives. I understand where you are. Finding support is the best thing you can do. I cried when I read your post because it brought back memories of that time in our lives. My son is now 27 and doing well. Give yourself time to come to terms with this…be kind to yourself..and take care of yourself and your family. Prayers for you.

23. Dear Marian,

    My husband and I were just at a funeral of a 13 year old boy who has battled cancer for the last 10 years. Yes, there are certainly worse conditions, but it will be an opportunity for you to share how God is working and using your/His child for His glory. At times like these we don’t know what to do, but He does so I am praying for you to trust Him and watch how God turns something “awful” into something beautiful!
    Praying for you and yours,
    Jan

24. Many blessings& prayers for your son… Vicki

25. Oh Marian. I’m sure you’re feeling completely overwhelmed right now but you are a strong person and you will be able to cope with this and help your son through it. It is actually a good thing that you realized something was not right with your son and sought help early.
    Take a deep breath girl, and soldier on. We’re all here for you!

    <3 Maggie

26. My son was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at 9 years old. I know exactly what you are going through. Initially, I was devastated and afraid of what the future would hold……It was so hard poking him with needles multiple times a day. Day in, day out. We got through it one day at a time, but it took a lot of praying. He was not invited to a lot of sleepovers so we ended up inviting boys to sleep over at our house. You learn how to navigate the school, field trips, sports, etc. Having great doctors at Children’s Hospital helped! And talking to other parents who have Type 1 diabetics also helped. Now my son is 23 and will graduate from college in May. He played sports almost everyday, which kept his bloodsugars in check. He got a drivers license, went away to college, had girlfriends along the way and has lived his life. We are grateful that we live in this modern age of great medicine and insulin. I have been in your shoes and I want you to know there is a good life awaiting your son. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me. Prayers and hugs. 🙂

27. Marian, this is A LOT to deal with. A LOT. But I have every confidence that you will figure out how best to help your little boy. I am so glad you have an answer to what was going on with him, and now you will be able to meet his medical needs. Sending so much love to you today.

28. Good morning from Minnesota! I am glad others are posting about their experience with this condition; I don’t know much about it. I feel kinda bad though that on the heels of the dumb comments from the other day you were dealing with this too. You have much grace under pressure! Some weeks are better than others, no doubt! People can deal with anything if they have support, and I am glad for your son he has yours, and you have ours! Keep leading from the heart in your blog. Your words are likely landing in just the right places, as per His design.

29. Prayers for your whole family(grandparents too) that you will feel God’s loving arms around all of you!! He will keep you strong!

30. It’s all about perspective. I’m certain you have that. You have recognized that this is a life altering event, but you also know it’s not the worst diagnosis that you could have received. My daughter was born with a life threatening gastro-intestinal birth defect. Just two decades earlier, children with the same defect did not survive. For many months and 3 surgeries, we struggled. Perspective and faith were not always in great supply, but we did the best we could. I prayed, I cried (ALOT) and I struggled. You likely will too. God will give your son strength that you will draw from. Emily will be 18 and this year and she’s beautiful and amazing and smart and funny and every adjective that I can’t think of… Good luck to you both 🙂 you’re gonna do fine.

31. I don’t know what to say to help, but know that there is yet another family out there praying for you as you figure this all out. I’m glad you shared the news – sometimes just having folks walk along side during tough times helps.

32. I am sorry to hear of your son’s diagnosis. You sound as if you are handling it well and have it in perspective. I know that my daughter could have far greater problems and we are blessed as is. My daughter is allergic to peanuts. So many children are. And so many who don’t have a child with that allergy, don’t get it. I’ll spare all the details but it is still a learning process. For the most part she can do everything. But yes, what to do at sleepovers, youth group outings, checking on food that no one ever seems to know about regarding ingredients (!), Bat Mitzvah invites where she can only have a pop for four hours as other kids run around chowing on candy and food. She deals with it and it is second nature. However, yesterday a new situation arose. I had just checked out from the grocery and the cashier walked away eating a Reeses. Now, I had to assume that the peanut butter could be on our food and this is when stuff goes directly into her mouth! I had to make the mgr. aware and she was enlightened. Just when I thought we had it all figured out. May I leave you with this story…my dad volunteered at the Conductive Learning Center where Johnny receives therapy. This story puts things in perspective and makes us all realize what we can truely overcome and accomplish. http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=10072765
    God Bless you and your family as you make your way through this journey.

33. Thanks for sharing this difficult news, Marian. I’m praying for you and your family. You have a positive outlook from the start – trusting in God and His purpose.
    Our family is struggling to get answers to why our son is extremely underweight. He has had countless tests and will undergo a colonoscopy next week – only 8 years old. I feel for you as a Mom and pray for strength for us all. We must take what God has handed us and endure with patience and great love.
    Take care,
    Susan

34. I’m sorry you got this news, but I know if anyone can get through this with grace, it’s you and your family. Take care of you and yours.

35. Hello Marian. Though I follow your blog on many different levels, you are right in that it is mainly about you and that’s what makes it so special. I cried when I read your post today because my husband also has Type One. I didn’t cry because of the diagnosis, but because I know how you feel and how overwhelming it is when you have so much thrown at you at once, not to mention that we mothers have the hardest time when it comes to our children. My husband was first diagnosed while in the Air Force in Germany at age 21, which cost him the military career that he had hoped for. (This was long before me met.) He is now 62, retired after 29 years at GE, and quite honestly, has more ambition and energy than most people I know. His brother, who was slightly older than Bob, died at age 35 because he did not pay attention to the doctors. That made Bob even more determined to live with it and do what he had to do. He has met people that are much older than him and using insulin for a lot more years than him, and they are still healthy.

    His sister’s grandson was also recently diagnosed at age 7. The advice we offered them (which I don’t think they listened to) is that you should make this a “family plan for all of you to live healthier”. Try to single your son out as little as possible when it comes to his Diabetes. For instance, “We are going to stop buying ice cream with sugar in it because it’s better for our teeth. Let’s all exercise together because it’s healthy for all of us. We are going to start eating thin crust pizza because we don’t need to eat so many carbs.” And so forth. I am not personally a fan of the concept that you can pump in the insulin to compensate for eating all the carbs and sugars that you should not be eating in the first place. Rather, we try to eat what Bob should be eating. He is slim so most folk don’t realized he has Diabetes. As he says, “no sugar, no sugar, no sugar!” Of course, we always carry apple juice with us in case his sugar level drops to a ridiculous low. And sometimes we have to stop what we are doing because he needs to eat. But in the long run, that’s a small price to pay for life with our loved ones. I don’t wish to minimize things here as it is something serious to live with, but once you get familiar with what needs to be done, it becomes second nature and it is very workable, especially in today’s world. Trust me, you will soon recognize the signs of when your son’s blood sugars are too high or too low, even before he may recognize it himself.

    Kids adapt to things more readily than we do. Bob’s nephew adapted to counting his carbs and using his insulin pump faster than his parents did. And as people who live in the south, we gasp every time we see anyone drinking Mountain Dew for breakfast!

    Your posts brighten my day each morning. You are there for us, and we will be there for you as you focus on your son. Don’t hesitate to email me if you have any questions. XO Sue

36. After reading today’s post, I immediately thought the song “Broken Hallelujah” by The Afters. I encourage you to listen to it if haven’t heard it before. Praying for comfort and strength for you, your son, and entire family.

37. I’m so sorry to hear this, my brother has diabetes so I know how hard that must have been to hear. But, you are right, things could have been much worse and you will learn how to manage. My brother is doing well, he was diagnosed about 15 years ago, he is 43 years old now. Thinking and praying for you and your son:)

38. Praying for peace for your family and your son. May you all get adjusted to your new normal.

39. Many prayers for peace and strength.

    Your post brought to mind one of my favorite quotes. “I know God won’t give me more than I can handle. I just wish He didn’t trust me so much.”

    May God use your son’s doctors as His instruments to help your son.

40. oh Marian! My heart and prayers go out to you! Our daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 when she was 8 years old – she is now 31 and the Mom of 2 precious girls. I remember that day like it was yesterday. You all will get through all of this as you learn how to manage and deal with this. I am sure you will find a lot of support, but if you ever need a shoulder I am here. How is your little guy dealing with all of this? I suspect he will be a trooper like his Mom.
    You may not remember me, but I wrote about 1 1/2 years ago about my son whose 29 year old wife died suddenly from heart valve irregularity. He and his then 18 month old son moved in with us that day. Without our faith and the Lord’s sustaining grace I know I would be a blubbering idiot! Ezra has recently been diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder, which makes life difficult! When faced with adversity, I pray to be better, not bitter and for The Lord to bring a lot of good from the yucky stuff. Not to be trite, but The Lord can make lemonade out of all those lemons! Hugs to you and your dear family!

41. <3 <3 <3 Isaiah 26:3-4 <3 <3 <3

42. Marian I’m so sorry! You will get this all worked out and learn how to live a new way – this is just a new direction in which to travel.. It’s so hard to see your children have to deal with things like this. One thing…look into a Diabetes Alert Dog. They’re wonderful about alerting the child and family that there is an impending problem. Children get so caught up in their activites that they just don’t see things comimg. The dog is a great companion, friend and sometimes a lifesaver. Plus they’re cool. 🙂 My heart is with you as you and your family take this new direction.

43. Friend, anything that deals with our angel children, and there isn’t an age limit on that I might add, will always affect the parent in an emotional way.

    I ponder this more and more in my relationship with my Abba,
    wondering if that is how He feels as well.

    So, hold this close on your heart and know ; you are held.
    Just like you hold your son.

    The Lion’s Club in Texas has a camp for children who are diagnosed
    with Type 1 diabetes. You might check that out. My boss’ daughter was
    diagnosed as a second grader – and that summer she attended the camp
    that was staffed with so many professional people to help her deal with
    the entire situation.

    I hope this is available to you and your husband.

    Praying for increased strength, and heavenly direction
    in dealing with this bump.that feels major.

44. Thanks for sharing. It’s what connects us. Prayers for your son, your family and you.

45. Sending hope, love and prayers to you and your family. You are a great Mom, you can do this! Soon, this will be the “new normal”, because you will tackle it, control it and make it better!

46. It’s always hard when a child has an illness. My granddaughter was diagnosed with Crohns Disease when she was 6. She’s 11 now and on meds three times a day and this is the only life she knows. It breaks you heart when a child so small has to have colonoscopies, bloodwork, etc and see a doctor quarterly. But somehow you muddle through it all. Kids adapt better than we adults do! Thinking of you and your family and sending prayers your way.

47. Praying for you and your family.

48. Marian, I have type I diabetes and am a mom to five kids. I’ve had it since I was 11. I’m a Registered Diatitian and have had diabetes through every sport imaginable, three mission trips, high school sleepovers college, pregnancies etc… God has always taken such good care of me and has not let it stopped me doing anything! They have such awesome technology now days! Use technology and prayer and you guys are going to be fine! I have a friend with two little kids with diabetes and another who is a diabetic and an endo PA. Please let me know if you ever need anything! To vent, an answer, just to talk to someone who’s been there etc… –Katie

49. I am so sorry that you got this news. Thinking of you and your little guy and sending prayers your way.

50. Hugs to you. I have enjoyed reading your blog for quite some time now and you are a true inspiration! Two of my three children have type 1 diabetes, one of my sons and my daughter, both diagnosed shortly before they turned 6. My son is now 16 and my daughter will turn 10 in a few weeks. It’s a difficult pill to swallow. It will be hard….but IT WILL GET EASIER. You will hate it, curse it and despise it, but IT WILL NOT DEFINE WHO YOUR SON IS OR WILL BECOME. : ) You are a strong woman and this will certainly make you AND YOUR SON stronger in many ways. Both of my kids are strong and participate in multiple sports and activities. I have one on a pump and one on shots and both of them do quite well. Hang in there. BREATHE and remember YOU ARE STRONGER THAN YOU THINK!

51. Just a lines to tell you I’m praying for your family. Lots of love and positive energy for you and yours.

52. A mother’s heart can get heavy with worry, but I’m confident that your positive nature will overcome all that’s ahead. Sending prayers and hugs.

53. I know exactly how you feel a sort of mourning..My 32 year old daughter was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis 32 years ago and with diabetes 16 years ago.. they are both terrible diseases that you can live with…how thankful….she has a pump that not only monitors her levels every 2 minutes but gives her insulin constantly…She has a girlfriend whose little 4 years old has a insulin pump he plays all sports and has a remote beeper if he gets too low….They tend to want little ones to be higher…I emailed my daughter and said I was going to share her medical history a bit…SHe is college educated, has twin boys, and works for the Speaker of the House in our state..She said having her life has made her the person she is..thankful everyday for what she does have, a pretty normal life….Today she is getting her port flushed….from being on antibiotics for the past 6 weeks…for a lung infection..I know how overwhelming chronic disease can be….but what doesn’t kill us really does make us stronger…uneducated people still think it is just sugar…it is the carbs to watch long and fast acting….you will do fine….really and he will not know anything else but this…you eat healthy so it will be a snap for him and you…My daughter gets low because of other meds she is on..enjoys the sugar that she needs at those times…hang in there…this is an easy fix compared to alot of diseases…

54. This post just brought back a flood of memories for me. I can’t imagine getting this diagnosis as a mother for one of my girls…but I know the feelings of getting this diagnosis as a child. Mine came at the age of 7 after a long drawn out process of seeing doctor after doctor as to what was wrong with me. I remember my mother crying because she feared how my life would change. I remember crying because it meant that I was finally going to feel better.

    While his life will change in the aspect of having to adjust to the shots, monitoring his blood sugars and everything thing else that comes with it, you have already set a wonderfully healthy setting that he needs. Our biggest struggle was changing our eating habits and I constantly felt like my family was being deprived of their favorites because of me.

    My parents were told when I was diagnosed that I probably would not make it past the age of 30 and if I did I would probably have problems with my eyes, legs and kidneys. And that they should not expect grandchildren from their daughter that told everyone that she was going to be a Mom when she grew up. I’m now 34 with two beautiful and healthy girls. My health is great, {unless you count having to wear glasses} and I live each day just like everyone else, just with a few shots and finger pricks at different times of the day.

    Just like you said, he will be fine. It will amaze you at how quickly he will adjust to this!

55. Praying for you and your family, Marian. I have been so encouraged by James 4:8 throughout my nearly 61 years. “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” May his closeness comfort you in every possible way as you make new adjustments.

56. Dear Marian,
    I am so sorry to hear the news about your dear little boy. I still break down when I remember the day I , too, sat in the doctor’s office and the nurse came in with the same sad news about my 12 year old daughter, I’ll never forget the sad look on her face, and I really didn’t know what all Diabetes type 1 meant. Most people don’t know.
    I was very resentful and took a needle and jabbed it in my thigh just to see what my beautiful daughter would have to go through every day. It hurt like h@%% !
    I was the over-cautious mom and just about blew my top when she accidentally left her
    insulin pack and supplies at a Taco Bell one day. (they put it in the refrigerator I remember till we picked it up)
    Through the years (she’s 32 now) we managed, but it was not easy. I guess I should say she managed, because I couldnt be there with her all the time., and in the end, they are the ones who shoulder the burden alone Those strong and brave little guys.
    I know you’ll keep on going and be the great mother you are..your son will be fine, but I know life is not fair.
    I’m grateful every day that we don’t live in a third world country where insulin is in short supply.
    Thinking about you more often now…….

    Peggy Hunt.

57. Thanks for sharing and inviting us into your family. I pray that this will not be a hard transition for your family.

58. I haven’t gone through what you’re going through, but as a mom I can imagine what you feel in your heart right now. Keep your faith, it will be okay. It seems giant, but you will get through. You are strong and capable. If I might suggest a parents’ and kids’ support group…. this disease is really not all that uncommon, and I’ll bet there’s a group (through school or through church maybe) who can help you through the scary “start up” of this new phase of life. And I’ll bet by next year it will seem like just another thing he does… brushes his teeth, gets dressed, eats breakfast, checks glucose, takes shot, goes to school. All in good time. I’ll be thinking of you –

59. I spoke at length with someone that I was doing some design work for a few years back. her daughter had diabetes and it was a life-changing diagnosis. I was surprised to hear of all the changes that had to take place within their lives because of this. I really had no idea until then what it meant for someone. But they were figuring it all out and, like you said, making it their new normal. I know you will do the same and, from your words, will let God guide you through this time of life-alterations that must be taking place. I know I don’t comment often on your blog, but I follow it regularly and am inspired by you, your creativity and your words. I’m sure I will continue to be inspired by you and your family’s strength throughout this journey as well. My heart swells for you and I send a big hug your way!

60. Hi Marian, I’m so sorry to hear about your little boy. Please know that I’m praying for (with) you and your family. You have been a Godsend to me with all of your inspiration and encouragement and I hope we, your readers, can also be an encouragement to you whilst your family is going through this.

    I love what Krista above said, for there is no better encouragement than from one who has gone through it themselves.

    Hugs,
    ~Siggie

61. God bless you and your family.

    Your darling young boy is very blessed to be given to such loving and caring parents.

    You and your husband will be educated on routines, medicines, etc. Our friend had a child who had diabetes. He went to his kitchen, threw out any foods his son could not eat, and started into his action plan.

    You and your family will get through this. Your faith has made you strong.

    Again, God bless you.

62. Dear Marian,

    I am so sorry to hear about your son. However, if anyone can manage this you can along

    with God’s help. You seem to be one of the most capable people I have come in contact

    with. It is amazing what you accomplish.

    I have confidence that you can/will be able to manage your sons health and will continue

    move mountains as you enter this new chapter in you life. Prayers

    Linda Collingsworth

63. Thanks for sharing. Lifting your little boy and your family up in prayer. I’d also like to share a story about my little boy. My husband was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes right before our wedding. Fast forward five years and we have started our family. My little guy, who was 2 1/2 at the time, had an ear infection. I told him it was time for his medicine and he got the syringe the pharmacy gives you for children, and he preceded to inject his belly. This is where my husband injected his insulin. Tears welled up in my eyes, but I realized this was a good thing. He knew his daddy takes medicine every day and this is where he puts it. It also stilled my fears about what would happen if my little boy was diagnosed. Children are the BEST about new things. They will follow your example.
    Incidentally, my husband is now on the insulin pump, and diabetes treatment has come a long way. Keep the faith!

64. Marion, I have four lovely boys and the ALL have type one diabetes. I would love to chat with you and offer my support… Please email me if you would like. My prayers are with you but I promise it gets better, and yes God has a plan my friend.
    Kim

65. Oh dear Marian, I’m so sorry your family has to deal with this. Fortunately diabetes treatment has come a long way over the years and will continue to improve. I pray in your sons lifetime they will find a cure. I’ve turned into emo McGee in my middle years lol so reading this has sent the tears rolling down my face. Not because I think it’s the end of the world but because the idea of a child with a chronic illness tugs at mt heart. Marian I know you will go through a range of emotions, it’s okay,don’t feel guilty about it. I’m sure you will deal with this with the same dedication and purpose that you show in all areas of your life. Stay strong,God bless you all.

66. Marian, I had something similar, but not diabetes. Ours was the diagnosis of our oldest who is now 22 having a learning disabilities. My story is on my blog still working on it. Comes up in several posts. You are right! God does have a plan for your baby! And he will be okay. After all you are his mommy!

67. My heart goes out to you, and NEVER worry about a post such as this, this is why after all the pictures, decorating, and charm we are here, because of you. Who you are comes through each and every post of yours, and we are here for YOU, in this time. Prayers for you and your family and little boy at this time.

68. Marian,l am so sorry to hear about your son diagnosis. You are in my prayer s.

    But the next time you unsure about whether to post about something please pray on iit. I have a problem with your last sentence (an answer to a prayer). God does not hand out diseases to as an answer to a prayer . In the book of Job.,Satan was behind. All. Of Job’s pain. Yes God did allow it , only because he new Jobs faith could not .be broken ..Job was tested just as you and your family are being tested. God never gives us more than we can handle.
    Being a Christian does not mean we are safe from this world’s affliction. But are relationship with God does help us get through it and it does make us stronger.
    May you be blessed many folds,
    Julie

69. It’s beautiful to see your heart and His spirit in this, Marian. Thanks for being open and I pray your son brings God much glory through this.

70. My daughter was diagnosed when she was 5 1/2. She is now 28. She is beautiful and brave. You are a wonderful woman and your little boy will follow your example. Hugs

71. I cannot add a statement that has not already been said, just want you to know you are not alone, that we care, and if you can listen to us, surely we can spare a moment for you when needed! You all will cope with this, and yes, children are quick learners. I hope you receive all the love and prayers we send you each and every day. Soon, hopefully, your fears will be a thing of the past. All the best I send in the coming weeks.

72. I was listening to NPR just last night and they were interviewing Sonia Sotomayor, the first Hispanic member of the Supreme Court, and she was saying that she’d been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when she was 7.

    Her memoir just came out in paperback. I haven’t read it but she said she does speak about living with diabetes in it. It’s probably a good inspirational story in general.

73. Hang in there, girl.

74. I’ve been following your beautiful blog for ages, but I’ve never left comments before. I hope this gets through. My nephew was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes about twelve years ago. He’s now a healthy, happy 16 year old, but as my sister tells it, when they took him to the doctor the situation was so immediately dire that they airlifted him to a hospital with better facilities to treat him. The next morning, the doctor was in tears herself. She had not expected him to make it through the night. As a coping mechanism, my sister the computer whiz, set up a large network throughout the country for families of kids with Type I Diabetes. If you email me back, I will forward your note to her. She will be happy to connect you with people who can help you and your family walk through this. With best wishes and prayers for you and your family … Alice

75. Marian, There has been a lot of great developments in diabetes care in the past few years. Please see a certified diabetes instructor and find out all you can and support the Juvenile Diabetes Association. Diabetes does not have to be the scary disease it used to be. You and your entire family are in my prayers.

76. Marian,
    I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 13 months. I’m now 31 and no nothing other than living with diabetes. I have run a lot of marathons with my husband and live a healthy, normal, happy life. Your sweet son will have good days and bad days, we all do though, right? I’ve been on an insulin pump for about 10 years and I’m sure your son will be as well. Please if you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact me. I’d be happy to help.

77. Thinking of you, as all your readers are today. Let our positive thoughts give you and your family strength!

78. My heart is with you and your family. Please continue to send updates as I know it will not only help you but your blog family as well. xo

79. It never ceases to amaze me how kiddos with Health issues carry on and just take it all in stride. I have had “the talk” with 3 of my kids from the Dr. My oldest was autistic, my 4th child has severe allergies/asthma and ended up in the hospital with anaphylactic shock at 3 months. Last year I was told my 2 year old had lymphoma and required immediate surgery, and my 13 year old needed brain surgery! I am happy to say 2013 is in the past! BUT..I am constantly amazed how each of my children have gone through these issues and simply carried on. They are all learning to deal with the package of problems they have been given without complaint or blame. Your little guy will no doubt be the same..making his disease one of his strengths. I know as a mom your heart and head are spinning but you are not in this alone. Thank you for sharing

80. What an awesome response to very difficult news. It is so hard to say when we are going thru things, what good can I make of this. I’m sure God has a wonderful purpose for your little boy. Thanks for sharing and God Bless!!

81. Marion, Your little guy will adapt like a pro and be just fine–it’s always the grown ups that are left reeling! Please give yourself permission and time to grieve as you adjust to this change–and then face it head on with all of that amazing strength you have. Remember no one’s body is perfect–everyone has something–and open your arms to the abundance that God will send your way as you head down this new path.

82. I will be praying for you and your family ,shoot with a mom like you he won’t miss a thing and it soon seem like a way of life for all of you because that what good moms do one for all and all for one 🙂

83. I have a niece and also a dear friend’s daughter who were both diagnosed at very young ages as your son has been. Today both are happily married and both are young mothers. They have made their ways along with the help of supportive families and friends. There were stressful times around their teenage years, but I firmly believe that because they were both diagnosed at such young ages they adapted more easily to everything that goes along with managing diabetes.

    I predict that your little guy will do well also. I am also encouraged by the continual advances being made in the treatment of diabetes. Finally, I firmly believe that dealing with diabetes on a day to day basis will lead to your son to being even more caring and compassionate for others and their problems…whatever they might be.

    Gonna be OK!!!!

84. Dear Marian~ that is the kind of news that can knock the wind out of your sails…….
    I am praying that you will rest in the strength of your Savior, not running ahead but taking each day as it comes, confident that He will supply all you and your family need. Praying for your son too as he adjusts to a new way of life. Thanks for sharing with all of us….hopefully it did your heart good. Blessings!

85. Thank you for sharing, It is a great reminder that as we paint and decorate and do all sorts of fun stuff, that other things, some not so happy happen, and as you said, they do become the new normal. Prayers for you and your family

    Lydia Langston

86. You are one amazing woman! I am so proud to know, if only just. Praying for you and your sweet baby and his undoubtedly special purpose. How could he not have a special purpose with such an amazing mom and an even more amazing God.

87. Thank you for sharing and giving us the privilege of praying for your family. You will figure this out and soon be writing encouragement to others. God has given you a platform and lots of friends to influence. In the meantime, I am praying specifically for you and your family.

88. It will all be okay! Thank you for sharing your story! I am praying for strength, healing and confirmation for you and your family! Jeremiah 17:14 Heal me, O LORD, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.

89. Remember that God is good, all the time. The answers will come day by day. Trust in God. That always works for me.

90. Marian:
    You possess the faith of a mustard seed. A tiny little seed and you know your child is in His Hands. Imagine doing this without your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! I don’t know how people function. Another post for another day. This is a struggle right now; trying to envision your son’s tomorrows. That’s o.k. If it weren’t a struggle, people would worry about you! We are all God’s precious children and His Plan is perfect. Take care of you and yours.

91. tender words. our prayers join yours for strength, wisdom, comfort, and mercy. Carry on

92. My prayers with you and your family as you adapt to your new “norm”. Kids are resiliant and strong. He is God’s child and is a blessing.

93. Never be concerned about what you say on your blog. You would not have the followers if you didn’t share your life. There isn’t anything I can say that others haven’t. Hope you will feel the love from each and everyone of us.

94. Dear Marian, Thank you for sharing this. I am sorry to hear that you’re little boy is ill but he is obviously a very smart little boy because he chose you as his Mom (and Jeff as his Dad). And if anyone can handle this, its you (with God’s help). I’ll wager that the whole family will become that much healthier in the long run with the elimination of the foods that he can’t eat. There are so many toxins in what is in the supermarket from GMO foods, added chemicals and dyes, fluoride in drinking water (even bottled water), toothpaste, chewing gum, etc. As long as you do not substitute things like “diet” anything since these are all neurotoxins, you’ll all be all right. Do the research on fluoride and nutrasweet (cyclamates)…you’ll be appalled that the FDA actually approved these poisons. I will pray for your little one and your family. God bless you.

95. I know that was tough to hear. But, I also have a sense of who you are through this blog, and you will do what needs to be done. And, I know you follow a God who you will let lead you through this journey. I’m praying peace and strength for you and your family right now. Life to the full! Melissa

96. My prayers are with you and your little boy. God is wonderful and will be with him every step of the way to his new normal and God will continue to fill you with courage to cotniinue to be there for your little boy every minute. I can only imagine the fear you felt as it was all sinking in and I pray that each day it becomes a little easier. God bless you all.

97. I am so very sorry Marion. I will be praying for your son and your family.

98. I am struck that your husbands career has moved in ways that will mean he can be with you more during this time. I will pray for you and yours and I hope you will continue to share on your blog. You feel like a friend I catch up with each day.
    I enjoy your blog immensely. Your new pillows are the theme fabric for my new house and I just love the way you made the darling bird the center of each.

99. It must have been a shock but I know you and your family will do fine. Once we moms put our hearts into something, whether it’s changing our lifestyle for some reason or protecting our children, we just do it and never look back. It sounds as though there are some wonderful suggestions in the comments I’ve read. Just hang in there and the shock will wear off soon. Hugs and prayers!

100. Marion, I pray God will bless and comfort your family!! May y’all feel his encouragement at this time and in the future!! Glad you shared.

101. I was once flying on a plane and sitting beside me was a beautiful young woman who turned out to be a pageant winner…a “Miss_________.” Can’t remember now what state she represented, it was so long ago. Anyway, she had had Type 1 diabetes since a young child and she had recently had a pump installed about a year before. She was enroute somewhere to give a speech about it, sharing how well it was working for her and how it had changed her life. I’m guessing your son is too young for that kind of thing, Marian, but I just know his future is going to be bright. They are making so many amazing advances each and every day. I’ll be keeping him and your family in my prayers. Thanks for sharing this today. Life can definitely throw us some curve balls, he is so blessed to have you as his Mom.
     XO

102. Praying for you, your son and your family during this time of uncertainty and fear of the unknown. Remember that the words “Do not fear..” are in the Bible 365 times – enough for meditating on His word every day of the year. God is good and He loves His children and all you need to do is bow before Him and give all your cares over to Him. I believe you know that and walk with Him daily… Also know that your blog family loves you and will be lifting you up in prayer as you walk this journey with your son. You are a blessing to me! xoxo
     Julie Norred

103. My prayers are with you and your child. I know this will be a learning experience for you and your family. Keep your chin up and that wonderful positive attitude that you have will help get you through this trying time.

104. Thank God it’s treatable!

105. I’m so sorry to hear that. I am sure he will handle it wonderfly though!

106. My son was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes when he was 3 years old. He is now 23 and a new daddy. He doesn’t remember ever not being diabetic. You are right, it is life changing for the entire family. As some others have commented, there have been great improvements in diabetes care over the years. My son is healthy (other than the diabetes). You will learn to deal with this because we are moms and that is what we do 🙂 Please email me if you need any support or have any questions that I might answer for you. Thank you for sharing with us.

     1. Laura,

        That is perfect, thank you so much for writing to her with words of encouragement, been there, done that, and offerings of support.
        I do not know how it is to have a child with Type 1 Diabetes but wanted to offer my thoughts and prayers to Marian and her family.
        Your comment is more proof that we cannot thrive without each other!

        Daisy

107. I can’t imagine what you must be feeling, but I hope you can imagine how many of us are praying for your family that you’ll handle this news with the grace and dedication you show in the rest of the areas of your lives. Lives that I know are not perfect. Lives that are made bearable and even joyful in the midst of pain and challenges and fear because you lean on Him who heals, restores and blesses with abundance.

     I am thankful that your boy has been born into a family who will care for him and will teach him to care for himself…I cannot imagine how many children might suffer from this condition without medicine or care!

     Sending you support and strength through our admiration. Call on us if you need to vent!

     Hugs and love from Texas,

108. I know exactly what you are going through. My oldest daughter was diagnosed when she was just turning 13. She is 20 now. Life will be different but its nothing you can’t handle. Read everything you can. My favorite is “Think Like a Pancreas”. He will be in his “honeymoon” stage for a while so you have time to adjust and learn. Blogs you might enjoy – The Princess and the Pump-, -Six Until Me- and my daughters blog – Pumping4Life. Find a good endo and don’t be afraid to switch drs if you aren’t happy with one. You and your son will become experts. Reading the comments, it looks like you have plenty of support from your readers. Know that you are not alone.

109. After one year of marriage my husband was diagnosed with type 1 Diabetes at age 24. It was a big learning experience. He has had it for 50 years, and all the new developments for caring for diabetes make it so much easier to manage now. The insulin pump changed his life. It takes teamwork, but I have faith that you, your husband, and son will manage this disease very well. Much love.

110. I’m glad you felt comfortable to write about this. 🙂 I’m sorry for your son’s diagnosis but God will see him through as well as you and your husband as you find a new norm. It reminds me of the verse in Job, “Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” Praying for your son. 🙂

111. Marian, you did right to share. We, your readers, almost feel like we know your family, and sharing this difficult time with us is just another way of inviting us to be part of your “extended family.”

     I will keep both you and your little boy, as well as Jeff and your other son in my prayers. The Lord has provided a correct diagnosis for the little one, and I am sure He will provide you all with strength and wisdom to deal with and adjust to the new things in your lives that come with this diagnosis.

     The Lord will strengthen you and uphold you.

112. You can do this….so can he….because of Him.

113. I know you’ve got so much support – it seems you have a supportive family and church. And it seems you’ve got a lot of support on the blog here as well. Very blessed! Hopefully your healthcare system is fully supportive too. That really counts now. My daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at six. I had a 3 year old and 5 month old at the time. My daughter was hospitalized for 5 days at the time and they gave us a private room so that me and my baby could stay nights (I was nursing at the time). That was about 17 years ago – and I must say that she received stellar care. The improvements they have made to diabetic care in the meantime have been phenomenal! Will it be be easy – not always. I remember sleepovers were difficult until she was brave enough to give herself the evening injection. But we got through. She has become stronger because of it. So will he. Sending prayers your way!

114. Praying for comfort, understanding, and transition for your family. God is still Healer!

115. You and your family are in my thoughts ~ especially your son and his brother. It will be something for everyone to adjust to but I have full confidence that you all will. Maybe it would be helpful to give us the symptoms that triggered your doctor’s visit, not to alarm anyone but to help us all ‘see.’ Judging from the comments here it is something that has touched a number of others. Sending comfort and love.

116. I remember the feeling like I had lost my freedom when I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes a few years ago. I have advice from the view point of someone with this disease: first of all it does get better and soon will just be part of his routine. 3 things I would do: #1 find a mail order company to order the test strips from….. the price difference is amazing. #2 Take as many carb counting classes as you need to until you understand it. This is very important, and soon you will realize that he can have almost anything it just has to be planned for. #3 as soon as his doctor thinks it is appropriate get him on an insulin pump. The shots are very hard to be accurate on and the pump has changed my world!

117. Marian, I am so sorry to hear the news about your son. He is a beautiful little boy and if he takes after his mommy he is probably very strong too!!
     I know now it all sounds unfamiliar and scary, but kids bounce back really fast… All the changes will soon be his new lifestyle and he’ll be the same happy boy he is today…
     Prayers your way my friend, you and your family will be in my thoughts. Please keep writing updates on his progress!! I read your blog because not only I love your decorating taste and ideas, I also love you and to read about you and your family, so please don’t feel if you write about other than decorating is inadequate, it is not, we all love YOU!!

118. Thank you for sharing such a tender moment…may you be blessed with the strength you need.
     Life as wonderful as it is…can also be very challenging.
     Hugs

119. It is all going to be ok and more than ok!! I know it is hard right now to hear that but the Lord will go before you and make your feet “like hinds feet and bring you to your high places”.
     Prayers are with you!! Love you, sweet sister; He will sustain you and your sweet family!

120. praying for you and your boy as you walk this new path. I have a sweet friend whose daughter has type I diabetes and they have found some incredible resources. She is in college now and plays soccer at a D-I school. It’s all so new now. Take it one day at a time. It will be part of your family life before you know it. Blessings to you!

121. Marion,

     What a tough realization to bare. You and your family and friends will be there to walk you through this. My son was officially diagnosed with asthma this past year and he only just turned four. I had the same moment of fear and dumbfoundedness in the pediatricians office when twice they said I could take an ambulance from there after three or four treatments didn’t help and he would have to be on maintenance meds until-whenever. It’s scary. I know. Many here posting know. You are not alone. Even your online pals are with you. Remember HE knows your name. HE sees each tear that falls and HE hears you when you call.

     We find comfort in knowing “that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” -Romans 8:28.

122. I’m so sorry, Marian.
     Even though it’s treatable, it is very frightening for all of your family. At least you won’t continue to have that nagging feeling that something is wrong, but you don’t know what. Now you can tackle it head on and with God’s help, bear this harsh reality and perhaps someday help others who are dealing with the same thing!
     We will keep you all in our prayers for Peace of mind and healing.
     Jodie

123. Marian,
     First, please don’t ever feel that this is just a DIY blog. I for one love that those of you who have these gifts to share are willing to share your hearts and what God has for you.

     Second, take a deep breath, know that God has him in His hands and that you and Jeff will be able to navigate this new “normal”. Will be praying for your family.

     Third, inform yourselves, find others who are on this journey and share with your church family who can come alongside you and walk with you. You are not alone. It is scary, but it is treatable. There will be adjustments, but I know you all will walk together through this time of changes.

     Take care. Phil 4:6,7

124. You seem to be a strong woman, Marian! My guess, is that, after a few faltering steps,you will have this all figured out! Don’t panic..it will all come together in time. Sending peace & calm thoughts to you in this confusing time.

125. Dear Marian,

     Just know that God is walking with your through this and will always be with you.

     I have two children who are 4 years apart in age. They were both diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes within 6 months of each other at the ages of 8 and 12. They were among the first children, at the University of Michigan hospital in Ann Arbor MI, to receive the insulin pump. At that time they were 10 and 14. In that experience they had the opportunity to sit on a panel of children and take questions, from both parents and children, about their diabetes and the insulin pump. At one point during this panel experience my oldest told me that he thought maybe he has diabetes so that he can help others and indeed he has. My youngest is now an OR nurse and has helped many people deal with their diabetes. They are now 27 and 31 and both have wonderful families of their own.

     You are in my prayers as you walk this walk with your wonderful family and you will be stronger for it. God Bless you and your husband.

126. Hugs to you and your family today!

127. A lump in my throat — feel like I know you like my next door neighbor. I’m so sorry. I have not one single doubt that you will handle all this like a pro and be right back to your normal routines without a hitch in no time at all….and, no doubt that your little boy will thrive in a house filled with so much love and both clearly filled with the knowledge of the Lord and desire to please Him. Hold tight to your faith in hard moments. And, remember you are loved by so many who will be praying for you and yours! Linda

128. My prayers are with all of you. You seem to have a strong network of support – you will need them, but you will adapt to this challenge in your life and your son’s life.

129. I’m sorry to hear this but know God has a plan for you and your son’s lives. I’ll be praying for you all!

130. Marian I just wanted to commend you on the courage to write this post and to let you know you all are in my thoughts. My nephew was diagnosed with Type 1 a couple of years ago in his teens. It’s a huge transition for everyone but in time you will come up with a system that works for your family to manage his diabetes. Thankfully they keep coming up with better and better monitoring systems. Don’t hesitate to ask me and your other readers affected by this disease for help and support. My sister is just a phone call away to get answers to any questions you may have.

131. Marian, I’m so sorry. I know your momma-heart feels like a hole-filled boat that is sinking. God will patch the holes and keep you from sinking. All of you will get through this. You do not walk this journey alone. Praying for strength to keep you afloat.

132. A great resource for you is JDRF. My sisters two boys both have type1. JDRF is a wonderful source of correct info, mentoring and ways for the whole family to be involved. I can tell you that my sister told her boys that it was their disease and had them doing their own testing, shots and food selection as soon as they could. They were diagnosed at 7 & 5 now 27 & 22. They are both very glad she did that and did not rebell as teens (well as it come to diabites that is) They are both very healthy active, independent young men. They have participated in the dia buddy mentoring program with JDRF that has young adults paired with young T1 kids.

133. Sending many hugs and prayers to you and your family. Your little boy has the best person (YOU) to help him adjust to new thing. And you have God and us to help and listen, we’re only a keystroke away, hugs

134. Breathe, deeply! There is a lot of information and help for you to get through learning how to deal with this! Reach out, the help is there! I have a friend, who also has lived with Type 1 diabetes, and she is an expert! She has dedicated her life to JDRF and is an active advocate for them. She works on behalf and in conjunction with them. If you would like her contact info, I am sure she would be a great benefit to you right now! Please contact me, and I will be happy to give you her info. She is just a phone call away and I am sure would be happy to mentor you through this learning process.

135. My husband has had type 1 (or as we call it ‘the suga’) since he was 4. Thankfully medicine has come a long way since his diagnosis! I will say a prayer for your family, bc it takes all of you on this. Blessings!

136. Marion,
     This is hard to hear, but at the same time, your response is to put it all in perspective and give God glory. He is powerful and more than able to help you and your son to manage this. I will keep you in my prayers. Diabetes is challenging (I’m type 2) and takes focus, and care, but you are more than able to do all that is needed to care for your son, with Gods help. I LOVE the photograph of your two precious boys at the end! They are such a gift! <3 Keep on being awesome Marion! <3 You are a treasure and such a blessing to us all, and your family.

     Romans 8:28 (New International Version)View In My Bible
     More Than Conquerors
     28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

     (PS: Just a thought…maybe God is giving you a nudge to slow down a bit…so you can spend more time with your family.)

137. Marian, God has blessed you in so many ways already, I can only believe this will be another one. I think you have a head start in that you already try to eat healthy foods, so your son is used to seeing/eating them. I’m sure in some families the dietary changes would be huge, and harder for the child. God’s hand in preparing you for this change, most likely. It’s wonderful that your family knows that God has plans for you. “to prosper you and not to harm you”, so that you can be strong through this and thereby help others. Thank you for sharing your heart with us.

138. To all the positive, uplifting, you-can-do-this comments may I add that you must also have a senseof relief. It now has a name and justifies your concern. With an identity there comes a plan, and with a plan, progress can be made. Wishing all the best in 2014 as your horizons stretch in a totally unimagined way. I look forward to the inspirations this will bring to you (& therefore us). Hugs along the way . . . .

139. Marian, thanks for being willing to be vulnerable enough to share such personal news with your readers and trusting us to handle this tender situation with care. I, like so many others, will be praying for your family as you traverse this news and the changes that must now take place. Thankfully, they are not uncharted waters and you have already received offers of assistance from other moms who have been in your place, lean on them, learn from them as I believe they are God’s provision for you in this time. I would encourage you to be graceful with yourself, give yourself the space and time that you need to figure this all out. Though I know that you work hard and steadily each day on this blog and your business ventures you are blessed, it would seem, to have some flexibility in how and when you do that. Don’t worry about us, your faithful readers, we will be alright if you need to step away to take care of this more pressing business. I do not have a child who has received a similar diagnosis, so I cannot say that I know what you are going through. I was privileged to watch a friend of my daughter who had received a similar diagnosis naviagate her high school years with grace and confidence, the diabetes was a part of her life but it was not defined her. Know that your entire family is well loved and held tightly in the one who provides and heals. Trusting with you that your prayers are heard and acted upon. Praying for peace in the midst of the storm.

140. As a retired school nurse, I completely understand the emotions that are up and down right now. To ease your mind somewhat, I will say that diabetic treatment and care have improved tremendously over the years, especially within the past ten years. Treatment and care will get even better in the future. School personnel are trained to care for diabetic children and follow a written plan of care, specific for each child. Parents sit in on the meeting so they will understand the plan and what the school day will be like for your child. Ask many questions from the Dr and from the school nurse. Your child’s teacher will also know about your child’s medical plan– actually, everyone who comes in contact with your child at school will have a copy of your child’s plan of care, ex PE teacher, cafeteria manager, etc. as a parent, educate yourself and help educate your child (along with the diabetic educator of course )
     Your child can lead a normal life with some adjustments. Things will be OK and I want you to know that! I had many, many children over the years with diabetes and most are now teenagers and beyond. They are doing fine. I wish you and your child the very best. Please excuse any typos as I am using a small phone screen to type on.

141. Thoughts and prayers are with you all. With God’s strength and grace you will use this to glorify Him and He will use it for your good. (as you said) Thanks for sharing so that we can encourage and pray for you. 🙂

142. So sorry to hear this about your son. My daughter was diagnosed with type 1 when she was 16. She is now in her 30s and doing fine. Has had two lovely little girls that I adore and as in everything, life goes on. When she was diagnosed she was old enough to own the disease, I had very little to do, your situation is harder, but with your good attitude and outlook on it it will become like you said, your new normal.

143. Have faith that this is all in God’s hands, and your son and your whole family will be just fine. God Bless!

144. Thank you, Marion. You are always such an inspiration to all of us who love to follow you through your blog. I’m so glad you gave us the opportunity to show love and support to you in your time of need. Sometimes it’s easy to think you’re not ‘real’ like we are. We all experience trials and we have to stick together. Special prayers will go up for you and your family.

145. Bless your heart. You’ll get through this with God’s blessings. Keeping you and your family in my prayers.

146. You just have to take this in stride. And you know, it’s treatable…and you know you can do this…and when he gets older, he can too. Blessings! 😉

147. As a mother myself…I know it is so hard for you to hear news that threatens the health of your precious little boy. I know you’d gladly take that diagnosis away and give it to yourself. I have a close family member that was diagnosed with diabetes a year ago…and for a while it was confusing and overwhelming and scary. But a year later all is calm and he is doing so well! I know your son will be the same. Thank you for sharing…my thoughts are with you and your family…sending you strength.

148. Marion,
     This is hard to hear, but at the same time, your response is to put it all in perspective and give God glory. He is powerful and more than able to help you and your son to manage this. I will keep you in my prayers. Diabetes is challenging (I’m type 2) and takes focus, and care, but you are more than able to do all that is needed to care for your son, with Gods help. I LOVE the photograph of your two precious boys at the end! They are such a gift! <3 Marion…you are a treasure and such a blessing to us all, and your family. You can do this and we will be praying!

     Romans 8:28 (New International Version)
     More Than Conquerors
     28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

149. Marian, sorry to read about your son’s illness, on this side of the screen always believe that the lives of others is a dream, nothing bad or sad.
       Your child will get over it, people who are being diagnosed with diabetes more told me that children are wiser as to deal with it. Everything will be fine. I hope the translator of google has been faithful in the translation because I do not speak English!
     A love from Buenos Aires, Argentina

150. I am sure it is overwhelming. It’s good to know before a major event may have happened though and he will feel so much better with treatment. Amazing that you already are following a healthy lifestyle with your eating, so you are more ready than most to deal with this. God’s blessings on you and your son and the rest of the family as you settle into your new normal.

151. Sorry to hear about your son. I think you eating better and working out already will set the pace to help him and your family with this new change. You will tackle this with the gusto of any project you tackle! You have already been offered what looks like wonderful places to turn with questions and help from your blog family. Please keep us posted, and maybe share what symptoms triggered the doctor visit, you never know who you might be helping with your outreach……..Hugs

152. (((Marian)))

153. My husband was diagnosed with Type 1 in 5th grade…It is wonderful that you caught it this early, instead of a life-threatening emergency! The way my husband talks about it, he has never felt “defined” by his disease, and I honestly forget he has diabetes sometimes, it’s that insignificant!! I will pray for you as you get used to his new lifestyle, and that your son can understand what is going on and not be scared!!

154. Praying a blessing on you and your little guy that you will both have a super-natural ability to learn what, when and how to take care of the disease. Lots of hugs

155. Sending you big hugs, Marian, and prayers for your little one. So glad you decided to share this – you have so many that care about you and your family- we will be here to support you as you go through this. Hoping your son is feeling better!

156. I know you are sad and overwhelmed. It’s okay! You’ll get through it. He’ll get through it. I’m sure you will have bumps in the road. But keep leaning on Him. And you are right. Good will come from this. May be mixed with pain. I will pray for you all!
     In Him,
     Tracy -a very blessed mom and lover of house and home.

157. There is a great book, Death by Diabetes. My adult friend had type 2 and followed the book and reversed his diabetes.

     1. Type 1 is nothing like type 2. You can’t cure it with diet.

158. You, your son, and your family are in my prayers. God does work in mysterious ways indeed.
     Just a word of advice: educate yourself and meet this head-on! Go bless.

159. I remember hearing those words concerning our son: all I could think about was Mary Tyler Moore’s son who died of Type 1. There was very little public education regarding this disease then. However, after many tears that night in the hospital, God spoke to my heart in a way only a mom knows “Get up, dry your tears, you will take your son home and he will live.” So I changed my attitude and throughout the hospital stay and as we were educated by doctors and nuitriionists, we were encouraged that this is a manageable disease.
     Take time to learn the injections and then go to a pump. There are still times when our son reverts back to shots due to sick days or the pump not working. Go to classes offered and join a support. Read every label. You will spend hours in the kitchen at first measuring all his food, but soon you will just be able to look at each serving and know how many carbs the serving contains.
     Our son is 23 now and a second year law student 🙂 Since he is on his own we require him to text us each morning with his sugar reading. He is doing great.
     You will survive this. Take it slow. BREATHE! Learn everything you can. And some day you will be the encouraging voice to a mother who hears those words.

160. Dear Marian,
     I am the mother of three sons….my middle son was in his second year of graduate school in Wisconsin (seventeen hours away from home) until he was diagnosed six days before Christmas with stage four Hodgkin’s Lymphoma after a visit to the school clinic for a low grade fever. He has taken a semester off and is home now and just completed his first chemo with 11 more treatments to come. Yes it is highly curable but as I mother I worry and realize how all our lives have changed in an instant. I went from worrying about getting ready for Christmas to wondering if he will be able to have children and realizing he will lose all his hair. Pray for my son and I will pray for yours……the first week is hardest to adjust to the shock of the diagnosis and once you find the doctors and information on how to help your son with his diabetes you will find a bit of calm and be empowered to do everything you can as a mother for your precious child. God bless you all and thank you for sharing this with us! xox

161. Hugs and prayers to you Marian – It is lucky for him – he has you and good care. I take shots daily and struggle as an adult. Something to look into is four paws. A friend of mine son (who is now a teenager) has type I and has a dog who stays with him (service dog) and alerts her when his blood sugar drops to unsafe levels. I know it will become second nature to care for him and learn all that there is – Hope he adjust and know I will pray for you- However, it hurts a Mamma’s heart –

162. Almost forgot: DO NOT let anyone compare this to Type 2…. NOT THE SAME!!! His pancreas does not produce insulin. You can not reverse this with diet! It is not your fault, you did not give him too much sugar. I heard it all. Listen to your endocrinologist.

163. Dear Marian. Thanks for sharing the truth about your discovery and life changing event. My son sees an endocrinologist for low growth hormone. Every night he has to give himself a shot. We knew he just wasn’t growing in elementary school. All of the kids were surpassing him and in 4th grade he was wearing some of the same clothes he wore in kindergarten and 1st! Now he is 13 and has been taking shots nightly for 4 years. He has grown much and become very brave about it. All that to say, I understand what it is to wrestle with seeing your precious son struggle and have to endure something like that. You are right to think that God has him in his hands!

164. I’m sorry to hear this news, Marian, and I know it must be scary and sad for you. It sounds like there are many others out there who have walked in your shoes and have lots of good advice, as you create a new normal in your lives. I will keep you in my prayers!

165. My daughter-in-law’s best friend has 2 out of 3 children with type I. You will all be fine and you already are on a path to better health yourself!

166. I will be praying for you and your family. I know that illness of our children always is so much harder than our own illness, both in terms of acceptance and adapting to the “new normal” but you have your faith and that is so important. Faith becomes the invisible family member, supporting you and comforting you through difficult times.

167. Hi Marian, sending you lots of prayers and positive thoughts. My niece was diagnosed last yesr with type 1 diabetes also, she just turned 4 on Christmas day. My sister was also caught in a whirl wind of information, worry and stress. Asha has been a trooper throughout the whole process even when she is fed up being jabbed ‘not mine tummy, not mine legs’ she would say 🙁 in November she got the pump organized and things have been much easier. Asha was back at kindy really quickly and my sister was so thankful for the competence of the staff who ultimately adapted very quickly to Ashas needs. Keep your positive thought going, your son WILL BE the amazing person god created him to be and his life will be full & blessed. xxx

168. Sounds like I am joining lots of other women: some moms and some strangers, like me, in sending my love and prayers your way.

169. Sending up Prayers for You guys !

170. Gos is the God that healeth, We both know God doesn’t bring illness by His stripes we are the healed. We do know that God is in control, holding you in the palm of His hand.I am praying for all of you,sit on the Lap of your Saviour as He wraps His loving arms around you. Tell Abba how you are feeling,as He tenderly wipes away your tears, God knows a Mothers heart. Thank you Marion for sharing your burden so we can share it as well.

171. Oh Marian, I have so much confidence that you and your family will learn how to deal with this head on. As Shyrel said, education is the key. I do transcription and recently have done some interviews with people who have diabetes and they are incredible. Especially the children. Technology is changing the way diseases are managed and every day they learn something new. It must have been hard hearing those words but I’m glad you reached out to all of us for support and comfort. We are all here for you, we all care.
     Jan

172. Dear Marian,

     I believe that everything happens for a reason, and often we don’t understand in that moment what the bigger message is. For now, education will be your biggest ally in this new journey that your family is on. Many blessings to you all!
     healing love and light

173. My thoughts and prayers go out to you, your son and your family. You are having to process some unexpected and shocking news–give yourself time to adjust. The progress that has been made in managing diabetes since I first became and RN 30+ years ago is remarkable and new and better ways will continue to be discovered. Maybe a cure will be found in his (long, long) lifetime!

174. Marion & Jeff, God has blessed you over & over. He is all good & knowing. You are strong parents and will conquer this new phase in your lives with courage and love. Your son is extremely lucky to have you both as parents. Hugs to all your family……..

175. Oh Marian! I sure your family is numb and uncertain but I know God will point you in the right direction. Perhaps you’re not ready to hear this now, but this autumn at my grandson’s football game – he is nine, there was a little boy there who was playing but he has a black lab near him. I couldn’t believe this gentle dog knew by the scent of when this young boy was in need of monitoring for insulin . Apparently this little boy had been sick and out of school so much that his mom was homeschooling him so he could catch up. The mom said that their new family member was a God send. The dog is always with the little boy and will notify the family immediately when he senses there is a need. AMAZING!! It might be something looking into?? My prayers are with you.

176. Oh, Marian! I haven’t heard anything about Type 1 diabetes in children at all and all of the sudden I’ve heard about it twice in the last few days. Maybe the timing is just how it’s supposed to be. I was at the bookstore the other night where an elderly couple were attempting to find cookbooks and reference guides for their daughter and grandson who had just been diagnosed with Type 1. I don’t know why, but I felt compelled to spend the little bit of time I had set aside for me to find cookbooks to help my disease at the bookstore, to help them in their wild goose chase trying to find ANYTHING that could help and ease their daughter’s burden of the new way to care for her son. We found a couple, but not much. Maybe you are supposed to dig in with that passionate spirit of yours and write some books that are clearly missing on the shelves of bookstores about Type 1 Diabetes. I’m praying for you and your son and know you will come through with shining colors brighter than those crayons! 😉 I love your optimism and knowing that God won’t give anything you can’t handle. Now I only wish I had got their daughter’s name to refer her here. I’m sure you will have lots to share. God bless!!! xo

     1. I am a registered dietitian, and children with type 1 can eat the same food as the rest of the family. They do not need special foods or recipes. Eating a general, healthy diet will prevent long term problems. Keeping a steady and consistant intake and monitoring the blood sugars will be enough.

177. My thoughts are with your family during this frightening time. Thank you for sharing your admittance into a new normal. As a teacher I have watched families make the diabetes transition successfully a number of times. One bonus has been the overall awareness of good nutrition has been a great side benefit not only for the immediate family but also friends. Remember a person can only do so much. Remember to be kind to yourself as you accept these changes to your family.

178. That must have been so hard for you to hear. I know it’s scary and there is a learning curve. I have 3 friends who have children with diabetes and they are all doing very well. They play sports and do all the things their friends do, with proper supervision. They are all very involved with JDRF and seem to have a lot of faith in the organization. From what I can tell, you never do anything half way, so no doubt you will know all there is to know about Juvenile Diabetes before long. Shyrel has been in your position and she spoke volumes.

179. Word of advice , Say yes to all the help that is sent your way and focus on your familly.My positive thoughts are with you.

180. Hugs, prayers and positivie thoughts for you and your family 🙂

181. I have a granddaughter with a rare blood disorder (Fanconi Anemia) and we were all overwhelmed at the diagnosis. The medical profession has made wonderful progress and you just take it one day at a time. It’s going to be tough in the beginning but prayer and great friends will help you succeed!

182. Hi, Marian…I just read your post, and I am so sorry about the diagnosis, but so glad that you are looking at this in a positive light. Our Father in Heaven does answer prayers in seemingly odd ways, sometimes. Who knows what path this will lead you and your family on, and what people you will meet along the way? There is an author, Brenda Novak, who has a facebook page called “Brenda Novak Author” has dealt with juvenile diabetes in one of her children for years. She has an auction to benefit research, even. She might be a good contact for you. Rest easy.

183. I know that if it were possible, you would take this disease on yourself rather than watch him have to bare it…..that’s just how Moms are. But, Our Lord has a different plan. We just need to trust and put one foot in front of the other. Many parents face heartbreak without knowing Jesus–but, you know our Savior and somehow–someway, good will come from this. I am praying.

184. Marion,
     We all will be praying for you so you know the power that can bring. You will find that your whole family will learn how to llive with diabetes and you all will be stronger and healthier. It isn’t the diagnosis you would want but at least you can manage it. Do what you need to for your son now and forget about the blog until life calms down. Our prayers are for your family.
     Linda Smith

185. Marian, my prayers are with you and your family

186. Praying for you all, I know this must be so hard.

187. You already are ahead. You know Who holds the answers. Educate all of you, and breathe deeply. You have a strong support system in place, and much love in your life. Y’all can do this. You don’t have all the answers, but you know who does. Bless your heart, we are all praying for you.

188. It’s always hard to hear that something is “not right” with our children. Wondering if it was us that caused it or if we should have done (or not done) something different. I know for a fact that God has something special in mind for our sweeties (my son is Autisitc). I also know that they are given to us exactly who they are supposed to be, and they will excel despite (and sometimes in spite) of any setbacks in their lives. My thoughts are with you and your little one as you sort out the kinks.

189. Marian, I just read your post about your little boy and was led to comment. I am a adult that was told eight years ago I had Adult onset of Type 1 diabetes. I understand what you are going through. It came from no where, no history anywhere. My life was changed from that day forward. God gave me the strength to take one day at a time and now I use my diabetes to help and encourage others. I have followed your blog for years, but this is the first time I have commented. You and your little boy will be fine. The school systems now deal very well with kids with Typ1. Learn ALL you can and more. Check on the pump, I couldn’t manage without it. Kids adapt really fast, I’ve seen it happen a lot!! And be sure that God WILL use this for GOOD!! I promise that!!

190. Dear Marian, I’m praying for your son, and for you and your family.

191. I have a son with learning disabilities, autism and a daughter with extreme asthma. They are now both in their 30’s. I always told them that everyone has a disability. It may not be physical but it may be mental or emotional. We all just have to take what we have and be the best we can be. I pray for you and your family. There will be some dark times but you will survive and excel. Mostly there will be wonderful times. This is only a bump in a truly wonderful road. God Bless.

192. Give your burdens to the Lord. He will carry them. Psalm 55:22. I will pray for you and your family today–may the Lord protect you from all other voices of anxiousness and worry and overwhelm you with his perfect Love. Praying also for good information that can inform your decisions for the future. blessings.

193. I must comment on your son’s condition. I am so sorry that this has occurred, but happy that it was discovered early. And look what God has already prepared…… he gave your husband a different set of repsonsibilities, at church, and hopefully Jeff will be more available to help you and your son. At least at the beginning while everyone is getting over the shock. Another thing….. you have a very large audience/following…. don’t waste this illness. Use this as a testimony for God’s goodness. You’ll never know how many folks you will touch by sharing your faith and your courage. This has got to be the hardest obstacle in your life, but I have faith that you and God and the doctors will be able to continue to make a wonderful childhood for your son. You are in my prayers. Vicki in Louisville KY

194. We can take bad news about ourselves much easier than we can about our children. I was diagnosed with celiac disease many years ago and took it on the chin. When they tested my daughters and one of them had it I was a basket case.
     I am a registered dietitian/nutritionist at a hospital and sometimes I think type 1 children do better than type 2 adults! I am reminded of a young, athletic boy with an insulin pump who did so well! It was just second nature, a part of him.
     I would also like to add that many of the long term consequences of having type 1 are lessened now with new technologies and advancements. I heard a lady speak once who had type 1 for 65 years. She used to have to limit her food intake and check her urine for ketones all the time etc. She managed and now at 80 still volunteers, travels, gardens etc.
     My thoughts are with you. I have a food blog with celiac and diabetes friendly recipes if you ever need anything.

195. I’m so sorry you and your family have received news that has shaken you to the core. My longest and dearest friend’s grandson was diagnosed three years ago with Type 1 Diabetes. They, like you, had many concerns. After months of monitoring his food, meds, etc,. life has become almost normal again.The grandson now knows what his needs are.He can tell his parents when he needs insulin, etc. He goes to a summer camp for diabetic children and has a great time with friends he has made over the last two years at camp. I send this post hoping it will give you encouragement. Good luck with this journey and many prayers will be sent for you and your family.

196. I have a friend whose granddaughter was diagnosed as a toddler. The parents and grandmother have taught her to take care of her ” broke pancreas”. She is in school now and is teaching her classmates about a broken pancreas. She keeps her meds in the classroom because it is as she says her problem not the school nurses’ problem. Children accept things easier than we do and it will just be a part of your lives and your normal.
     Linda

197. First I want to thank you for sharing this with your readers. You are correct is saying this is more than a DIY blog, it is an extension of you.
     Secondly, by sharing with us you have not just a village but a whole army of soldiers praying for you and your sweet little guy.
     Sending you lots of hugs, lifting him and your family in prayer.

198. Wow, I do not have the words for you. I will pray for you and your family.
     Leticia

199. Marian, when I read, “something wasn’t right with my youngest son” I knew the rest of your story. Nine years ago my ten year old daughter was diagnosed with type one diabetes. I too knew that many parents went through diagnosis that were much worse, but nonetheless it is life changing! It’s a time to be thankful and a time to grieve, all at the same time! He hasn’t given you anything that you can’t handle!
     I know your life has been turned upside down, I remember it seemed like I had the responsibility of another child (it took forever to just get out of the house), but give yourself a few months to handle this big transition, and you will be handling it like a pro! After nine years of living with type 1 diabetes I can say that our family is stronger and better educated because of the diagnosis. The Lord has given Abby such a compassionate heart for those with health issues. She is now studying nutritional Science at University of Florida, with the intent to be a P.A.
     If you ever would like any info or helpful hints I would be happy to help…but I won’t overwhelm you at the present time. You are not in this alone. You have support from your readers and most importantly The Lord. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

200. It is the kind, loving and alert parent who recognizes that something isn’t right with their child. They face it head on and deal with it. God never gives you more than you can handle and I am sure that you will handle this superbly.

201. Love and prayers to you and your family. I’m sure you’ve had a lot of these type of comments but I also want to share that my father has Type 1 and he is very, very, very healthy, and has had zero complications despite living with the disease for over 40 years. I also wanted to say that there have been frequent occasions when I have been surprised by how brave my own young children are. Sending you love, best wishes, and lots and prayers that you feel God’s peace in your heart.

202. Yes, your life has changed and yet it will all be OK. Everything that is overwhelming at first will become second nature. My daughter was diagnosed just before she turned 11. The closest I have ever come to a panic attack was when they handed me a bag full of insulin and syringes and told me that I was in charge of it all. But it was ok. She played sports, was in marching band in high school and college, studied abroad in Austria and Thailand and is now applying for grad school. Listen to your physicians and other health professionals and feel free to politely ignore the ‘experts’ on the street. There’s a wealth of information out there. God bless you and your family.

203. Our son was diagnosed with Type 1 when he was a young teen year. Our emotions ran from being shocked and overwhelmed to sadness to anger to depression, but ultimately we realized this is a manageable disease and it could be far worse. Our son, who just turned 30, is athletic and currently is in his second year of medical school. He’s thriving despite his diabetes. I’ll be praying for you and your family during this period of adjustment and beyond.

204. Thoughts and prayers are with you, your family and your wonderful son. With lots of prayers and knowledge, you and your family will get through this and be stronger.

205. In every adversity there is personal growth. God will guide you. We, your loyal friends and followers, will send forth prayers for you and your entire family. Do take all help offered….please. You will get the chance to reciprocate……sendind loving thoughts your way.

206. Marian,

     Sending prayers and positive thoughts your way. I’m sure by now someone has told you that they know of someone else who is in the same situation. My daughter’s friend and neighbor received the same diagnosis for her 7 year old daughter last year. She is doing very well and is now in 3rd grade. I know her mom was dealing with the same apprehension. Learning all you can about his situation is probably the best way to approach it…..that and trusting in God, which I’m sure you do.
     God bless all of you.

207. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family. I pray also someday a cure for this disease will be discovered as it affects so many people – and so difficult with the young.

     Perhaps that day will come soon. Your attitude is wonderful and that will serve you well on this journey. Best wishes to all of you!

208. Reading this reminded me of Jeremiah 29:11…”I know the plans I have for you, they are good not evil, plans to prosper you, not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Marian, He’s with you all. You’ll be in many hearts full of prayer. Keep us posted..your little guy will do awesome and so will you!

209. It’s funny… I was considering sending you an email regarding one of your old blog posts that I happened upon. Now, however, I’m going to send you an email with what I hope will be encouraging words. For many years I was a molecular biologist at NIH in the NIDDK branch. The D stands for diabetes & I worked with many wonderful scientists who had dedicated themselves to understanding this disease. My personal focus was on Type II (or NIDDM) diabetes but I want to tell you how much knowledge is gained DAILY about all facets of diabetes. The scientific community has made gigantic strides in understanding the mechanisms of insulin, insulin receptors & other components of diabetes, especially juvenile diabetes. Although it doesn’t seem like a positive, it’s very fortuitous that your son has been diagnosed this early. He can- and will- lead a normal, productive life! Especially since he has such loving, devoted & supportive parents. NIH has a wonderful website that can be very helpful in answering questions or simply providing support. You and your family are in my thought.

210. Oh, Marian – Praying with & for you all. I am so very glad that you know His ways, while often incomprehensible to us, are purposeful in the very BEST way, with the ends of His glory& our good always first in His mind & heart. Do allow everyone who can, to help. Rest & be blessed.

211. I am probably one of your older followers, and my career was in nursing. In addition, I have diabetes myself…a different type but the news is always devastating in the beginning. You will get through this. There are so many others out there struggling with the same fears and concerns. Find yourself a support group for parents of diabetic children. It can be such a help and lead you to new friends who will give you the support you need. I can guess someday, you will also be a help to someone else who is going through this same experience. God will be with you through this journey. A big hug from someone you don’t know but whom feels she has come to know you through your blog. I will keep you in my prayers.

212. Dear Marian, I’m glad they caught it when they did. Just like everyone else said, I know you are in shock but this too will become second hand. Your boy is so young he will surely be frightened by the needles but this too will pass. Place your hand in God’s hand and keep on walking! xoxo

213. I’ve prayed for You and your family and will continue to do so. God is good all the time.

214. Marian,
     I will be praying earnestly for you as you walk through uncharted territory (for you but not HIM) ;). My oldest brother was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes (old school term) at the age of nine. So many advances have been made in the meds & way that diabetes is handled from when my brother started. It will take adjustments but I am confident that you & your family will handle this well.
     Father, I pray that the Parsons family will lean solely on you as they walk this new path. Give them strength, a calm spirit and a renewed focus on You and your Word. In Jesus name, Amen.

215. My heart is broken for you as we received this news for our son 5 years ago. (9 yrs old)
     It is life changing and still, the grief is sometimes overwhelming. Please find a large support group with your family and friends. Most people, even with best intentions, do not understand the severity of this diagnosis. Please, take off as much time as possible to learn all the new information. Do not pressure yourself to return to “normal” life before you are ready. I really wish someone had told me to take as much time as we needed to return to school/work. It will be overwhelming but it will be okay. It really will. Stay strong and keep the good fight. You can do this. You are strong enough.

216. Your family and especially your little boy are in our thoughts and prayers. My daughter is a diabetic educator and our family is very familiar with auto-immune diseases! There are 4 of us that have celiacs and my daughter also has crohns as well as a few other auto-immune disorders. I have about 4…why God chose us for all this, I don’t know. Some days it can be tough, but then, like you said, it could be oh so much worse. You and your family will adjust!! Your days at the grocery store are about to get a little bit longer….but maybe healthier too!!

217. Darling Marian, how I wish I was close enough to wrap my arms around you.
     Jesus HEALED MY HUSBAND OF DIABETES THREE YEARS AGO.
     He is SEVENTY-SIX YEARS OF AGE!!!
     I had never heard of anyone healed of diabetes, but I am living with
     one who had BEEB TOUCHED BY THE HEALING POWER OF THE
     SAME HOLY SPIRIT WHO RAISED JESUS FROM THE DEAD!!!
     How hard can it be for HIM TO HEAL YOUR PRECIOUS SON?
     In the meantime, remember how He has led you to CHANGE YOUR
     OWN LIFESTYLE & WAY OF EATING. You have been prepared by
     THE ONE WHO WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU NOR FOESAKE YOU!
     Our GOD IS LIVING, LOVING, KIND, HEALING, MERCIFUL, FAITHFUL,
     & THE SAME YESTERDAY, TODAY, & FOREVER!!
     Imagine Jesus seeing your son in the crowd NEEDING HIS TOUCH,
     Don’t you think He would reach out & touch him??
     He is still IN THE HEALING BUSINESS & HE TENDERLY LOVES YOU
     & YOUR MEN!
     EMMANUEL ~ GOD IS WITH YOU!
     I love, admire, & pray for you daily.

     1. Amen!! Love your post Peggy. My husband was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes a few months ago. Marian, I will be praying for healing for your son and my husband. We are in the ministry too and have seen and heard many testimonies of physical healing. Jesus told us we would have trials, but He is also our Healer! Thank you Lord for giving us hope! He gets me excited!

218. Hi,
     A friend of mine sent me your blog today. She follows you and I can see why –given her business that is in line with your business and the way you so beautifully express yourself she feels like your friend! Bobbie knows I have been a diabetic for 47 years and mentor as a volunteer through the Juvenile Diabetes Research foundation.As I have lived with diabetes for a long time and I am not a Dr or nurse I have a different view point. I would LOVE to talk to you. It makes my heart feel good to help families when they have a newly diagnosed.
     How can I get you my phone number- privately?
     You will be doing well in a short time -given proper education and support. I hope we can connect.

219. I am so sorry to hear about your family’s new struggle. It will get easier with time. My son was also 5 1/2 when he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. It was very difficult for the first few months, more so for me than him. He became used to the pokes in his fingers & the shots fairly quickly… it took me a lot longer for me to get used to giving the shots. When he was able to go back to school, he stood up in front of his class and explained why he had been gone and what type 1 diabetes was in a way that they, and he could understand (his good insulin producing cells getting karate chopped so that they could make what his body needed). His classmates were really understanding and caring. They all learned about diabetes and carb counting right alongside of him.
     He is now 11 and in the 6th grade. For the past 3 years he has gotten up in front of several schools, explaining what diabetes is and acting as his school districts ambassador for the JDRF Kids Walk to Cure Diabetes. He has helped to raise over $30,000 for JDRF and personally raised over $2,000. He also does everything that any other child does… Soccer, basketball, football, zip lining, indoor skydiving, etc. He even has the occasional cupcake! He still has some tough days, but now it has just become a normal part of daily life.
     I hope that it isn’t too tough on your little guy and your family. A new diagnosis of diabetes in your child flips your world upside down for a while, but it will right itself again with time.

220. “When I am down, You pick me up. When I am dry, You fill my cup. You are my all in all.”
     Those were the first words that popped into my brain and they are so true. This will be OK. Trust, rest, rely and lean not only on Him but on your friends. That’s what we are here for.
     Love you sweet girl.
     Cindy

221. That photo of your two little boys hiking the trail together and holding hands is so tender…a perfect ending to your post. Like it is with all things it will take time for this new routine to become normal but gradually it will. You and Jeff and the rest of your family will see to it that your son has all his needs met. Also it sounds like you have a very good doctor. Offering prayers for strength and guidance during the day and nights of peaceful rest.

222. I have read all the previous posts and have nothing new to add. I wish you, your husband, your son who is not affected and your son who is the very best. Take time to learn what needs to be learned and I am sure that your love for each other will see you through to a new ”’normal”.

223. Dear Marian,

     I have been reading your blog for a while and am not much of a commenter but I would like to offer some words of encouragement to you and your family as you are confronted with this diagnosis. I am 34 years old and this year marks my 20 year anniversary of being a type 1 diabetic. I know that the time after receiving this kind of news is overwhelming as there is so much information that you have to work through while feeling scared . Especially as parents you are confronted with so much fear for the future of your child – I know my parents were when I was diagnosed. Let me just assure you that life with diabetes is as great as any life without diabetes. It does have its challenges in the beginning but diabetes does not define you or your life – it just becomes a small part of who you are. You can still do anything (ski, skydive, parasail or dive – I have done it all) and be anything you want to be. Diabetes forces you to listen to your body more closely and to treat it well which certainly is a good things in these times. I work in the pharma idustry and have seen so many diabetics work with such passion towards helping other people with diabetes live better lives – so many nurses, doctors and scientists who have diabetes and strive to improve the lives of others with the same diagnosis that I am convinced it brings out the best in people. Please do not be discouraged by this diagnosis – life might be a bit more challenging but also very rewarding and I am sure your son will be unstoppable even with diabetes. If you have any questions please don´t hesitate to ask.

     I wish you and your family, especially your son all the best.

     Warm regards from Austria.

224. I am sorry! I can empathize. As mothers, we want to protect, nourish and provide the best life possible for our children. When medical issues “pop up”, our worlds are shaken. Normal…what is that? I used to worry and be angry with God. That only got me depressed and hopeless! My new mantra…”LET GO AND LET GOD!” Good luck to you and your family during this time of adjustment in your lives!

225. I am writing this to encourage you as a mom who also has a child with type 1 diabetes.. As I was reading your blog my eyes welled up with tears as I so accurately remembered when my 7 year old dtr was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The overwhelming emotions of why us?, how could God let this happen , having to learn how to take blood sugars, give shots,count carbs. All the tears of a little girl who did not understand why she had to have multiple shots and sticks a day.It was difficult at times but we have learned so much because of it. My dtr is now almost 21 years old and is a beautiful, vibrant and healthy young woman. She has learned the importance of taking her blood sugars ,eating right ,exercise and giving her insulin. She educates her friends on diabetes and that one can lead a very normal life. if you have any questions, concerns or just want to pour your heart please feel free to email me. Sometimes it is good just to talk with someone who has been there before you. I will be praying for you and your family.xoxox

226. Hi Marian,
     I’m sorry that you all have to deal with diabetes. We do not have juvenile diabetes in our family, but my father & all my siblings, plus myself are type 2. There is a wonderful Dr. who has juvenile diabetes & has written a few books…Dr. Richard Beirnstein…http://www.diabetes-book.com/ I used his books to help me adjust to my new life style. Being a type 1, he has much insight to share regarding living with diabetic issues. There are also I’m sure many Facebook sites that you might find support while going through the adjustments of life style. Sending you the best & I appreciate that you shared.

227. Wow, I am very sorry to hear that. I hope that everything turns out okay.
     Kerry

228. Marian,
     How wonderful you are that you shared this life changing news with your readers. Your sons are darling, just like their parents! You have been so brave during the many changes in your life and I pray that with God’s help you will continue to be brave during this set back. I believe in miracles because with God all things are possible!

229. Dear Marian, God Bless your son and your family as you struggle with this. I know that Type 1 is far more worse then Type 2 I saw my mother struggle with the type 2 and because she didn’t take care of it properly she died to me a early death at the age of 63. My husband, my daughter and sister have type 2 they struggle with trying to cope with it my sister is 54 and she had damaged nerve pain in her legs she can’t walk. My daughter just had our first grandson and he almost died at birth he is 8 weeks old and doing wonderful. I think your son has an advantage he has it at an early age and knowing the loving mother that you are you can train him to take care of his self, no one likes for their children to be sick and my heart aches for you, it seems like adults are hardhearted and don’t listen. I love reading your blog and know by the way you post that you are a good person. I will pray for your little son and you and your husband and children. God Bless you

230. If I can help you in any way, please feel free to email me, I would be happy to give you my phone number too. Doctors are wonderful, but sometimes we need another mom to talk to for everyday advice.

231. OH gosh. Thank you for sharing this with us.
     May our prayers unite in support and send well wishes for your little man.
     It WILL be OK. This too shall pass. Children are so resilient. I’m praying you and Jeff can be too.
     Giant hugs.

232. My nephew was diagnosed at 5 years of age also. That was 5 years ago and he is handling it very well. One thing you should be aware of is that it is common for Celiac to accompany this type of diabetes and some would even say that the gluten causes the diabetes. Not sure of those claims but something to consider.

233. Marian, I just wish I had the words to heal your heart but I know Who will be on this journey with all of you every step of the way.
     “He will cover you with his feathers,
     and under his wings you will find refuge;
     his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” Ps. 91

     When it is the right time, please let your little one know that there are people who pray for him who have never met him, but care about him.

234. Bobbie’s quote of Jeremiah 29:1 is the first that came to my mind …
     With love & prayer
     Blessings!
     Eileen

235. Marian,
     I am so glad that you have God in your life and a great attitude to see you through this life altering experience; it will help finding a “new normal” a little easier. Prayers and love to you and your family.

236. Dear Marian, my heart hurts so much for you and this present situation. Yes, you were so right in sharing this with all of us. Yes, we all love all the decorating stuff you share with us. But after following you for some time it’s become more like I know you and am glad to share not only your successes but the hard times also. Thank you for sharing and please know that not only my prayers but I’m sure many of us will be praying for you and your little boy. I absolutely believe that there is nothing impossible for God. So will be praying for his complete healing. God bless you and all your family.

237. Praying for you as you face this health challenge with your son and as a family! Though we may be taken by surprise by things like this, God is not. Praying that you feel His presence & love during this days.

238. Oh Marian. I know that is difficult news. My grandson was diagnosed with the same when he was 5. And you are right, it will become the new normal. It will make your entire family very carb conscious. It is manageable, but it is still very overwhelming. My daughter in law has managed it so well and doesn’t get upset if he fusses about checking his blood sugar. She just calmly tells him, “you know you have to do it to stay healthy”. Try not to worry, easy for me to say, I know. But he will be fine. I wish they would call it something else because people in general do not understand it. They confuse it with type 2. Oh, he ate too much sugar,eh? No, no, no! Something happened and his pancreas ceased to function, and will not get better. They also do not know that he will never be CURED. He will maintain his health with insulin for the rest of his life, and thank GOD it can be treated that way. Since this has touched our family in the same way, my heart goes out to you all!

239. Dear Marian,
     I have been a nurse for 30 years, and worked with many diabetics. There is so much information at first that it can be overwhelming, but you will learn what you need to know and everything WILL be ok. Your son will lead a normal life. You have some adjustments ahead, but, you, too will be ok. Take your time. Be gentle with yourself. Your readers love you and will help you through this. You have so much support, so many friends (and judging by the above comments,really smart ones) to turn to when you need information or help. My prayers are with your family. Love, Robin

240. You are awesome. This blog is awesome. This post is so true. Every word! Love it. Love you.:-)

241. Your family in now on my prayer list. Today I taught “Jesus Walks on Water” to our 4-5 year old BSF Class. Our scripture verse is “When I am afraid, I will trust in you.” Psalm 56:3. God will hold you all in the palm of his hand!

242. Marian
     My grandson’s best friend was diagnosed when they were in first grade, his friend is amazing and because of being exposed to this my grandson has developed goals. He told me one day “I promised Devon that I will work hard so that I can be a research scientist and I will find the cure for diabetes!” He is 11 years old and I truly believe that all we experience, the good and the difficult, is for a purpose and that the ripple effect from that impact everyone we touch in life. Keep to your faith and know that that which seems such a burden could just be a blessing in disguise. Thinking of you and yours during this trying time.

243. This initial shock and grief upon discovering this information ‘shall pass’! I see already you have support and advice, and am stunned to see how many are affected by Diabetes! My good friend has had it since her late teens! She is one of the best people I know, and so resilient, which I believe comes from dealing with her health – being conscious of it on a daily basis -which the rest of us are guilty of being complacent about! I’m sure with your life now being turned ‘upside down’ that you will come out the other end of it being much more ‘right side up’!

244. The eye doctor kept my 2 kids at their annual appointment for six plus hours. I was ready to lose it with him and his staff when he came out and said we needed to get my daughter an immediate MRI and head to Duke neurology afterwards, possible brain tumor. It wasn’t, it was lesions on the back of her optic nerve which meant tons of steroid drugs, etc. The weight gain was so hard for her! Finally got her sorted out and she did some of the normal good and questionable teenage and college things, but with limits. She fought us often on it. After high school and college, she graduated, got a job in her field, married, moved away (same state). Then the call, “Mom, they say I have RA (rheumatoid arthritis) and it may be severe. The floor fell through. Lots of drugs, special diets, etc. She’s still working full time, attending grad school, happily married, and looking forward to being a Mom herself. She’s doing well. What finally pulled me up off the floor was Christmas. I got, “Mom, I am so happy, I love my life. I know I acted up, I know my health issues were hard work, I know you still make special dinners, etc., and I’m so happy that I’m so worth it to you and Dad, and my brother and my husband. I’m so loved, thanks. We had to restrict her diet, as well as many of her activitieswhen she was young, and even Spring Break a few times. We had to insist she be at home for most dinners, get regular sleep, a lot of things other kids didn’t have to do. It was really worth it, not just to us, but to her. Yes, she fought against a bunch of it and it killed us to restrict her. She is very well-liked, very capable at work and school, and the sweetest daughter anyone would ever want. We are so lucky, her experiences helped make her who she is. She is so attuned to other people it’s amazing. The Lord gives, he takes away, and then he gives again…..
     You can do this. Start researching and get ready for some tough work and some real rewards.

245. folks have said it all.. my neice was also diagnosed at 5 years old. She is now 28 and in may she had a healthy set of twin boys..

     God is good . Prayers or your son and your entire family.

246. I remember the day we were given the same diagnosis for our son three years ago. I remember thinking why was this happening to my sweet little boy? I remember talking to God about it and knowing that He uses everything, but asking Him couldn’t He just take this away and not let this be one of those things He would use? I remember feeling overwhelmed and thinking how will we handle this? I am mom – mom fixes everything and makes it better. It’s funny how God works though. As we walked the hall of the hospital to my son’s room, I began to cry. Not for our situation though. I felt so ashamed that I had asked God to take it away. We ended up in a room in the pediatric cancer wing. Our situation seemed like nothing compared to what those children were going through and I thought about how their parents must feel. As He always does, God reminded me that He sees the big picture. He knows far more than I do. What if He could or would use our situation to save someone else’s life (physically or spiritually)? Wouldn’t that be worth it? He can and will use everything if we chose to let Him. I have no doubt where you will get your strength when you feel overwhelmed. God has used your gift of decorating to reach a lot of people. He will do the same with this. I promise you the shots get easier and you and your son will get better at math! We have come along way in three years in many ways. I am better at counting carbs, but I am also better at counting my blessings.

247. Dear Marian,
     I stood in your shoes 11 eleven years ago when my son was diagnosed just shy of his 4th birthday. I am sorry to welcome you to a “club” that no parent really wants to be admitted to. BUT….. Please believe me when I tell you that it DOES get better. Diabetes gets to be a part of your life and you just deal with it. Sometimes it’s no fun and frankly frightening, but other times you almost forget about it – – its that ingrained into your existence. I really do feel that it is fortunate that your son and my son were diagnosed so early – – they won’t remember life before diabetes.
     That said, I realize your are probably feeling absolutely overwhelmed – -it’s a huge amount of info to take in! Please feel free to contact me if you need an ear or have questions. I’ve found that parents actually living the diabetes life are sometimes a better source of practical info. We’re not perfect but have learned a thing or two!

248. The most important part of your post is to remember ‘God doesn’t make mistakes”. When my son was little and diagnosed with asthma he asked me why God gave that to him. I explained that God didn’t make mistakes and that everyone has something special about them. Sometime we can see it, sometimes it is invisible to others. But God made us unique and he had chosen asthma to be his challenge. We need to trust Him and lean on Him with it. And that is what he has done for 30 years now. I pray that your son learns to trust God with it. What a presious lesson to learn so early in life!

249. Dear Marian…….I have been following you for a long, long time, but never felt the courage to submit a comment…..today, when I saw your blog……it just seemed natural to respond and offer you some words of hope and encouragement.

     We experienced a similar scenario some twelve years ago, that you described with your son. In our instance, the news was muscular dystrophy and yes, my world was turned upside down. The best way to describe my feelings of helplessness at that time, was that I felt like I was “free falling” down this long canyon and I was trying to grasp at things all around me, so as to soften the inevitable fall.

     It was very difficult, but God led me, my son, and all of my family down a path of understanding, gratefulness, prayer and hope and restoration. For at one time, I felt and believed that the sun would never shine on us again………But I was proved wrong, and I can tell you with absolute certainty that we were made “whole” by Him.

     Lean on Him, pray to Him, ask Him for understanding……

     I will keep you and your family in my prayers……Love Rose

250. Marian,

     To make a story short, my nephew was diagnose at age 2 with type 1 diabetes and turned out to be a professional hockey player. He is 27 now and the only complain he has about the disease, is how hard his mother was with him. I think it is very important you explain over and over again to your son why you’re doing what you’re doing to him, saying no to ice cream, no to everything etc… My 4th grade daughter did a school project about it and you’ll find a great cartoon on http://www.cartoonMD.com to explain diabetes to children. I really recommend you take a look at it, it is the best and simplest explanation for children to visual. Good luck, it will be fine.

     http://www.cartoonMD.com

251. My heart goes out to you. I just want to send an encouraging word. I have a friend who’s daughter was diagnosed with diabetes in the second grade. Her daughter is now 34 years old and had her first baby two years ago. She is beautiful and healthy. So many advancements were made from the time she was diagnosed until now and I am sure many will be made during your son’s lifetime, hopefully even a cure! I will being praying for your peace with this as well as a cure!!!!

252. I have been following your blog for years hardly ever do I leave a message. How could I read this post today and not leave a message? Take care and it must be a comfort to know that so many people are thinking of you and your son.
     denise

253. Thank you for sharing. I’m very sorry. Your son is blessed to have you and your husband as his parents, in so many ways. You are so focused, you will get a handle on this and help him through it. You absolutely need to continue taking care of yourself. You are going to have to give of yourself and do for your son in ways previously only imagined. It will be easier if you take time for yourself.

254. Lifting your family up to our Heavenly Father & Christ our Savior.

255. You and your family are so loved by your followers and our God. I will be praying for your journey and know that with support and love your little fellow will prevail. Let Him hold you all in his loving arms.

256. Definitely praying for you and your family. I have been wanting to send you a note to let you know how much you have encouraged me in my own life, especially through your book. Maybe the Lord has entrusted this to you and your family to encourage and help others along the way, once you guys get your feet back under you. One of my close friends from high school and college has Type I and she is one of the most adventurous, energetic people I have ever known! She was even the ring leader of her undefeated flag football team in college. She did this while wearing her insulin pump! Thank you for sharing this journey with us.

257. Dear Marian and Jeff,
     We know that God doesn’t give us any more than what we can handle – so easy for someone who didn’t get a diagnosis. A friend where I used to work got the same diagnosis when their son was 7 years old. Because it was so overwhelming to them, his wife wrote and has published a small handbook for parents to help them understand this disease and how to cope with it when it involves a child.

     Their son has graduated college and has a good job and is living on his own. So there is hope for a good long term prognosis. God Bless you all. Stay strong.

     1. I love your blog and often read it. I am inspired by the pieces you redo and have quite a few that I’ve tried stuff out on. I gently disagree with the statement that God won’t give us more than we can handle. I have quite a few dark moments in my life and am a firm believer in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord of my life. This is an article that explains why I feel the way I do: http://lemmonythings.wordpress.com/2014/01/05/god-will-give-you-more-than-you-can-handle-i-guarantee-it/
        My husband and I have worked in camp settings and are currently working at a k-12 school. I can’t understand a parents perspective but I have worked with several students – young and old- who have diabetes. It is tricky and can be overwhelming but there are many people who will step up and help watch your child and make sure that he is receiving the care he needs while you can’t be with him.
        I pray that the Lord would carry in these moments of trying to find the new normal. Take heart the Lord is with you- He will never leave you or forsake you. Additionally you will have many cheerleaders along the way. Take advantage of us faithful readers. It is great to live in a community. A community that may be able to ease your burden with encouragement!
        Rest in His embrace, Darcy

258. I want to thank you and praise you for sharing such a personal matter with your readers. I am terribly sorry about your news, I don’t know a great deal about diabetes so I can understand all your questions and the muddle your mind must be in right now. What I can say though, having been through something so terribly overwhelming myself. Take one day at a time, don’t look at the ‘future’ scenario’s look at the treatment he is able to recieve now and look at each new day God brings, one step at a time or it will become too overwhelming.

     I am a Christian myself and there seems to be no rhyme nor reason why things happen like this. I don’t think God imposes them but it does make us take time out and look at our lives with fresh eyes. Maybe time out with your son is what you need, you work incredibly hard and I find it absolutely amazing you can do all you do with a young family. I am just two of us, my boys are grown up and I know I can’t achieve all you achieve, mentally and physically.

     Praying for your family and your son.

     Lee

259. Marion, we never want our babies to ever hurt, but unfortunately that is what happens in this life, eleven years ago my son was diagnois with a very rare cancer, but prayers, from so many people we did not even know, God’s divine intervension, he is now a cancer survior. Cancer occupied our every day and you will find diabetes now will consume your life, but you will learn to live with it and move on. I will pray for your son and for you the caregiver, and you will make it through this. The Lord will take care of you and your family in the days, months to come and you all will be stronger. Love, Heather

260. While none of my children have type 1, by dear SIL has gone through this twice in the past three years. First, her 8yo daughter was diagnosed while my SIL was pregnant with twins, and then this past November, her 7yo son was diagnosed. I’ve been on the other end of the phone so many times with her as she’s worried and cried. I love her and my niece and nephew so much. It’s a big learning curve, but you will get the hang of it. There will always be a worry about it, but you’ll be lifted up and be able to face the challenge. Hugs to you!

261. Dear Marion, I will pray for your little one and you as you start this new phase of your life. God will not give you or your child more than you can handle. Do not hesitate to reach out when you need love and support from your online family. My nephew’s wife is type 1 diabetic. She is a wonderful wife and mother to the little wild man and even finds time to work as a pediatric RN in oncology. One thing more. Remember to include your older son in your younger son’s care so that he will not feel left out or that little bro is getting more attention than him.

     Remember to find time to Be Still, to Listen to Know that God is with you. You, Jeff and your boys are in our prayers. Pam

262. Sister in Christ to sister in Christ; mom to mom!
     Breathe! Take a deep breath and take this a step at a time!
     You will be able to handle this by educating yourself and your precious family.
     I have complete faith in your abilities. Will you be over whelmed? Yes.
     Remember to BREATHE, talk to God, talk to those who have answers
     And don’t forget to tell me or any of us what you need and how I can help
     And what specifically you want me to ask God on your behalf.
     I am here to support you. 🙂

263. Marian & Family,
     Thank you for sharing with us. You are a strong woman – with a strong, caring family. While this news will is overwhelming, you are so lucky that it was caught it now. My sister wasn’t diagnosed until she went into a diabetic coma and nearly lost her life. She has lived with type 1 diabetes for nearly 20 years. As soon as she was diagnosed and got her medications in order, she felt amazing.
     My mother always tells me that “God doesn’t give us more than we can handle” – at times I find that frustrating, but it is true.
     Your son is in my prayers. Blessings – Jennifer

264. Thoughts & prayers for you and your family, Marian.

265. Hi Marian, thank you for sharing this piece of your life. I believe your last thoughts about your boy being set aside for a special purpose is so key to this new adventure rolling out before you. You just never know what “the plan” is, but when you face it bravely and with an open mind- and certainly a creative one- the world opens up and great things happen. Many people out there are sending positive thoughts to you and your family. Prayers and hugs! Terry

266. Never in my whole Life have I said, “oh, my God” because I honor and esteem His name…until I read the word diabetes in this post. But even then, it was not simply an astonishment but the cry of my heart. Marion, our son is a diabetic. Not your typical Type 2 lifestyle diabetic but your full-on insulin dependent Type 1 diabetic. Nothing…NOTHING has altered the course of our lives so drastically as hearing the dr say those words. I am with you…I am in prayer for you…I am willing to give you my cell phone #. Seriously…I get this. I know your fears…and I am praying for you to have courage…

267. Just wanted you to know I will be praying for you and your family. I have a cousin whose son was diagnosed at about the same age as your son. One of the hardest things for them was him not understanding why he couldn’t eat a lot of the things his friends ate. This was years ago( he’s now in his late thirties), but now there are so many really good diabetic recipes available. I can tell you must be an amazing mom, and God will give you the strength you need. It will probably be quite an adjustment, but with God all things are possible. Prayers going up.

268. Marian,
     This bloggers world has brought a lot of us together and we are all thinking and praying for your little boy and your family. Children are a lot stronger than we think they are and believe me this will just be a part of your life. Keep strong!

269. Oh I am so so sorry, I too have been where you are and I am here to tell you it will be ok, my daughter was diagnosed 2 years ago this month with Type 1 Diabetes. It is going to seem incredibly overwhelming for the next few days and weeks and maybe months, you will get through it, it does get easier, and believe me when I say your life will return to normal. Please, Please, Please reach out to me if you would like to, I know you don’t know me but I have been a follower for the last few years and I feel as if I know you. There are many online communities and facebook groups and support systems for families of T1’s out there, seek them out, they are an amazing source of information and strength. I will keep your family in my thoughts.
     Karin

270. I am so sorry to hear of your son’s diagnosis. I’ll be praying for your family,

271. God be with your family as you address this new challenge.

272. You are entering a new country in your journey through life. You will all learn what it takes to live and thrive in this unfamiliar setting. The Lord will see all of you through this and you will adapt and prosper. Prayers will lift you up and The Lord will see that you and your family will have the strength you need. Love and hugs from here.

273. Diabetes has come very far in recent years and I believe much closer to better management and a cure.

274. I cried when I read this and not for the diagnosis but rather for the pain of a mother thrown into a fear, an insecurity and an unknown. I admit that I first read quickly through the post to find the end and hopefully the problem. I breathed a sigh of relief. I have friends who have diabetic children. So my heart was lifted by the diagnosis. Today is a day we thank GOD for medical science and the miracles they have delivered to keep us healthy. I also believe that your guardian angel was by your side throughout this whole process…isn’t that amazing. Now I know you will take your marching orders from the medical professionals, improve them, and your family will move on through a very happy and normal happily ever after. God Bless. I am a grandma and this mothering thing continues on so I can still relate!

275. I am so sorry that you and your family have to go through this. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I don’t know why this had to happen but I feel sure that God knows what he’s doing entrusting your son to you and your husband. May God always bless and keep you.

276. Hi Marion, what a scary time for you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. 22 years 7 months ago my then y7 month old daughter was diagnosed with Infantile Spasms a rare form of Epilepsy. The doctors told us that 98% of these children will never walk, talk, crawl, recognize us etc. We had to immediately start daily injections of ACTH I had two other children at home so within the first month after weeks in the hospital I had to learn to give the injections myself no matter how heart breaking that was I knew I was saving her life…we also had to have her blood checked three times a week minimally. The ACTH caused her to have no immune system (which completely changed our lifestyle..i.e. no malls, supermarkets, puplic pools, no sick people in the house and so on) We spent many weeks in the hospital for the first three to four years of her life. We made it through it I actually had a fourth child when she was two ….suprise. He was exactly what she needed she began to learn, potty train, walk etc. by watching her baby brother. We started in an early intervention program that was the best thing ever. Today my Chelsea is 23 she runs, laughs, continues to learn and certainly knows her family and friends. Chelsea does have some acedemic challenges especially money, time, dates, etc. but she has turned into a lovely young woman against all odds. She has suffered a few seizures as an adult so she cannot drive a car…but she loves being driven to the mall or the movies.
     Keep putting one foot in front of the other and you will overcome this mountain as well.
     God bless you….this post has stirred so many old memories for me.
     Jeanne

277. We are praying for you and your family. You are a great mothet and you will figure this out.. Please keep your faith and your chin up. God will help you through this. Just say Phillipians 4:13 “I can do all thing through Christ who strengthens me. Big Hug!

278. Marian,
     It was my pleasure to meet you a couple of years ago when you and your entourage stopped by our shop in Raleigh. I will certainly be praying for you and your family, especially your son. Like others, we haven’t faced diabetes but have a 15-year-old autistic daughter who is non-verbal and in a residential treatment facility for behaviors due to frustration. Both her retinas detached this past fall and we weren’t sure if we were going to survive this one as parents. Her left retina was reattached, but they had to remove her lens, so her vision is significantly comprised. All this to stay, God has been so faithful through this as our daughter is content, giving us beautiful smiles. We’re wondering if not being able to “see as much” is more calming for her autistic mind? I know you will be blessed in your faith as you and your son travel this road.
     wishing you God’s blessing,
     Laurie

279. I am a registered dietitian. While I’m not a diabetic teacher, I know several young children with diabetes and they are doing very well. My suggestion is to ask about insulin pumps. Makes their lives much more normal. All will be well. Be still and listen to God

280. You have made the first hurdle, the diagnosis. Yes, this will be with you and him the rest of his life. I am so sorry and he is so young. You will be amazed at yourself once you get into the habit of it all.
     I had a 8 year old in a before and after school program that I was a director of several years ago. After summer break I was concerned. She had lost so much weight. She had gotten taller and her parents just thought that was the reason. Her personality seemed to change. I asked her mother if she had every been tested for diabetes. Her mother was annoyed with me and said that her father was a doctor and they had no reason to have her tested.
     A few months later, the mother called me to tell me he daughter was in the hospital. The night before after visiting her grandfather the doctor, all she wanted at Mc Donalds was the largest drink. She drank it all right away and wanted more. She went to a friends house that had the testing strips. She tested to the max. They took her to Children’s Hospital where she was admitted. She was near going into a coma. This mom was so thankful to me after this happened.
     So (((((HUGS))))) and prayers for your special little guy.

281. Hi Marion, what a scary time for you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. 22 years 7 months ago my then y7 month old daughter was diagnosed with Infantile Spasms a rare form of Epilepsy. The doctors told us that 98% of these children will never walk, talk, crawl, recognize us etc. We had to immediately start daily injections of ACTH I had two other children at home so within the first month after weeks in the hospital I had to learn to give the injections myself no matter how heart breaking that was I knew I was saving her life…we also had to have her blood checked three times a week minimally. The ACTH caused her to have no immune system (which completely changed our lifestyle..i.e. no malls, supermarkets, puplic pools, no sick people in the house and so on) We spent many weeks in the hospital for the first three to four years of her life. We made it through it I actually had a fourth child when she was two ….suprise. He was exactly what she needed she began to learn, potty train, walk etc. by watching her baby brother. We started in an early intervention program that was the best thing ever. Today my Chelsea is 24 she runs, laughs, continues to learn and certainly knows her family and friends. Chelsea does have some acedemic challenges especially money, time, dates, etc. but she has turned into a lovely young woman against all odds. She has suffered a few seizures as an adult so she cannot drive a car…but she loves being driven to the mall or the movies.
     Keep putting one foot in front of the other and you will overcome this mountain as well.
     God bless you….this post has stirred so many old memories for me.
     Jeanne

282. You and your family are in our prayers. You will get through this and all be stronger. all of you.
     Take care
     Pat

283. God bless.

284. Praying for you all. Marian. Like really, not just saying that.❤

285. Thanks for sharing this. I had an uncle with type I diabetes and grew up being tested along with my younger brother. We never received the diagnosis that you just did for your son. I married a type I diabetic and have been married now for 31 years. We are the parents of four (all tested and came back clear while growing up) and the grandparents to three. (again all clear right now) My husband is now on an insulin pump after having done injections for many years. As a side note, Life with an insulin pump is probably the greatest thing ever. It makes the diabetics life as close to normal as possible. I won’t paint it as though it were a life of roses, but we adjust, we deal with it, and we lead a practically “normal” life. And I do say “we” cause it is a family diagnosis. My hope and prayer is that they will find a cure during your sons lifetime. I know you are now on overload trying to process everything that is coming at you, but know you’ve got this and there are so many places to go to for more info. The American Diabetes Association is a great one. Prayers for this journey !!!!

286. Praying for you and your family!!!

287. Praying for grace, strength, and courage for you and your family as you deal with this diagnosis. From personal experience, I know how difficult it is to cope with a child’s illness. Prayer, family, and friends will guide you.

     Also, I’ll second the suggestion to look into the insulin pump. My nephew was diagnosed with type 1 when he was 12. He got the pump maybe a year later. Today he is a smart, funny, engaging, popular college senior — excited for graduation and the next phase of his life.

288. Praying for you and your family.

     I know there are lots of support groups out there….find a good one and arm yourself with solid information.

289. marion, i have diabetes and do all the shots and stuff don’t be nervous just handle it the way you would anything else head on and steady give yourself at least 6 months to get the hang of it all you are a great mom and will do wonderful wish i had had a marion around me when i was diagnosed what a comfort that would have been you are a national treasure and yes there is a reason and you may never know what or why but you touch so many lives and our Lord has trusted you with this,who knows you maybe the one to finally find a cure for this horrible disease….sending up prayers for you and your family my friend, susan

290. Thank you for sharing, Marion. How can we pray if we don’t know? 🙂 Prayers sent for health and wisdom and peace. ♥

291. Thanking for sharing Marian. I just want you to know that I will be praying for your family, praying that God will give you peace and the doctors wisdom and that all will be ok. God doesn’t give us more than we can handle, I know from experience That God has it all under control. My youngest daughter was hit by a car when she was 9 and our lives are not the same but God is and Every morning is a new beginning to see Him in all of it. Just trust and all will be ok and will be for His Glory.

292. Thoughts and prayers are with you all. Be strong.

293. You are in my thoughts and prayers. My heart aches for you; sending you a big hug.

294. It took a lot of guts for you to put this out here and expose even more of your personal life.

     I am a retired teacher who has had numerous kids in class with diabetes. The treatment has advanced so much in recent years, especially if he can have a pump. All my students have done fine and lead normal lives. One is even going to college on a baseball scholarship. Another (boy) was my nurse when I wound up in the Cardiac Care Unit after a cardiac arrest.

     You are probably in a state of shock/panic wondering how you are going to handle this. Look at how much you have “handled” since starting your blog and business. You go, girl. You can do this with God’s help. And you will probably be floored by the number of encouraging words you get from this post. Visualize all the prayers going up on you and your family’s behalf. What a picture!

     Lahna

295. Marion,

     Your son will be ok, and he will grow and thrive. I am a diabetes educator, have worked in this field for over 20 years, with hundreds of patients and their families. Although his diagnosis was a shock, so many improvements have been made in diabetes care making life more tolerable. Once they get his medications regulated he will feel so much better!

     My biggest advice to you…insist that his therapy fits his lifestyle, and fight to keep his life as normal as possible. It can be done and there are many smart and wonderful professionals to help.

     Your blog has been a wonderful source of inspiration for me. Feel free to reach out to me if you need any diabetes inspiration. I would love to return the favor!

296. Your son will be added to my prayer list of type I’s. My oldest (18 now) was diagnosed at age 16 months. There have been so many wonderful advances just in those years. In the years to come for your son (and mine) there will be even more amazing advances!! Amazing. You will worry and you will be scared, but it’s doable and it’s manageable. Might I suggest you buy stock in fruit snacks? They’ll be your very good friend with an active boy!! And my last suggestion, take the time to cry about the loss of health for your son. It took my six years because I knew he could have had such a worse diagnosis (like you said). But when I finally grieved, it was such a relief. Again, prayers for your son and your family.

297. Marian
     My heart goes out to you and your family. Yes the diagnosis could have been much worse, but when it’s your little one ANY diagnosis can be devastating.
     I still remember taking my little guy to the doctors many years ago for what I thought was strep. It turned out to be Rheumatic Fever that had damaged his heart. I remember my doctor saying the same thing…”Ginger, you need to call your husband to meet you and leave and take him to Rainbow Childrens Hospital” immediately. After a weeks stay he was sent home and put on meds that he would need to be on for life. Scary isn’t it?
     God has a plan though and trust in that. As a child of God we know there will be trials, but He is there for us through it all. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”
     Much love and prayers
     Ginger

298. Hi Marion! I have never left a comment before but have followed your blog for quite some time now. My heart just bled as I read your entry concerning your son. My precious son, now 23 years old also has type 1 diabetes. He was 6 years old when he was diagnosed. I can remember the pain, the shock, just being totally overwhelmed by the news. I can so relate to how you feel. I am so sorry. Just a word of encouragement- you will get through this. You will find a new normal. At times it can be very difficult but you just find a way and get through! I am a strong Christian and at times it can still be heartbreaking.However, I know that God is in control . Austin had a very normal childhood, played high school football and was even recruited to play football in college! He now has a very special place in his heart for children with diabetes and has worked some at Vanderbilt Childrens Diabetes Clinic. I feel that this diagnosis has helped shape him in becoming the very sensitive and caring young man that he has become. If I- we – can help you , please just let me know. I promise that I am praying for you and your dear sweet family as you adjust to this new way of life. May God bless you and your precious baby boy!

299. Dear precious Marian,
     I am so sorry about this diagnosis and for your heartache. I will pray to the Blessed Mother, Mary and she will comfort you and console your heart through this transition. She knows the pain of watching her own Son suffer and she will cradle you and your sweet boy in her arms.

     P.S. I am thinking of the “coincidence” of your diet/nutritional transformation over this past year and can’t help but think that God was working in you, preparing you for these changes by getting you to become more conscious about food/ nutrients in general. Interesting also that your parents moved closer and that your husband will now be working with you and therefore will be more accessible in helping to manage this “new life.” Lord, thank you for giving us what we need, when we need it.
     Hugs and prayers to you and your family

300. It is never easy to hear that your child has a chronic illness and my heart goes out to you. I am certain that you and your husband will handle this very well.

     This may not be he perfect time to mention this, but this post is a good example of an issue that I would respectfully like to raise. it is obvious that you and your husband are committed Christians and that you occasionally post about more personal issues and there is no problem with that. However, you have some very faithful followers who are not Christians. Rather than writing ” I know that God doesn’t make mistakes and that He gives His children good things that are for His glory and our good ” would you consider prefacing it with “My faith teaches that…” or “We believe… I know it seems like such a minor thing, but it makes a great deal of difference to people like me. The first type of statement assumes that everyone follows your belief and statements like that are exclusive. The second states clearly that it is YOUR belief. It makes a very big difference.

     As I said, this is not the ideal time to raise this, because you have more important issues to deal with, but it was done out of respect. I wish you and your family healing and peace.

     1. You are correct Kathleen, this isn’t the perfect time. I can’t believe someone could actually get upset over such a petty thing. She Is clearly upset and I can bet your post helped alot Geesh Have A heart!
        With that being said, Marian I have never posted on here before but I read your posts everyday. You are an inspiration.. God has truly blessed you with followers that can give you words of encourgement. I am praying for your son and family.
        God bless.

301. Tears are rolling down my face still from reading your post. I am not a very emotional person, but your outlook on life, your faith, your reasoning have me so filled with appreciation for my family and my life. I can only strive to have the outlook you have. Although you don’t know me and we may never meet know you and your family are in my prayers. God has something special planned out for your little guy. It’s all part if his perfect plan. As you said HE doesn’t make mistakes. Sending you so much love and comfort tonight. God bless.

302. So sorry to hear that. My daughter was diagnosed
     with a chronic illness when she was 2 y.o. It’s
     different from diabetes, but it affects her immune system and
     she’s dependent on shots and meds. With proper medication she’s able to be absolutely
     pain free and active. I compleatly understand the shock and sadness that you are
     experiencing right now, but it will get easier and you’ll become
     stronger. You and your family are in my prayers.

303. Dear Marian,
     Thank you for sharing your life with us. Praying for your son and whole family. I love how strong you are in the Lord. He does give. You have reminded me of His promises and have encouraged me as my family is struggling as well.
     Love and Blessings,
     Laurie

304. Could not agree more with Stephanie!!1 God works in mysterious ways. You are strong and have a loving supportive extended family. It will be a challenge but you will power through.My cousins son was diagnosed with diabetes at about this age. It was overwhelming but they survived. He is now a junior in H.S. ,has an insulin pump and leads a very normal teenage life. Your son will too!

305. Dear Marion,
     Thank you for sharing your world. Be strong. Prayers have been said for all of you..

     Isaiah 41:10
     So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

     Traci

306. Prayers for you and the journey that is beginning for the family. Our strength of character is some times hiding in the small parts of our life we do not always see. I also believe God gives us the challenges and struggles to show us something more. Make us something more. I hope sincerely your sweet boy starts to feel better fast and that he has as few struggles as possible.

307. Thank you for sharing your heart to us, your readers. It is wonderful to be able to connect with you in the virtual world of your blog….your ideas are so inspiring! Certainly life has it’s ups and downs for all of us; so glad you shared and by the number of comments I see, you have a bunch of prayer warriors already working for you! I will join the ranks, as well.
     I read a blog not too long ago by Kierste Wade at http://simplykierste.com/2013/10/nine-year-journey-diabetes.html
     She wrote about her journey with her son who has diabetes on October 14, 2013. it was his 15th birthday. I remembered it when I read your story and went back to look at it. You might find it very encouraging as she describes her journey…..and concludes with a picture of her very healthy, happy son now. He was about the same age as your son when they found out he had diabetes. I’m confident God will guide you, as He has been already, to find the right doctors and the right treatments. I’m so sorry you have to go thru this, but you are not alone and you CAN do it with God’s help.~~Praying, Susan

308. Marian,

     I am so glad you have your faith to help you through this hard time. Your family will be in my families prayers.

     Please know that you have so many christian followers and with all the prayers being said for you and your family God will be ever present through all of this. Do not worry, even though it is hard, trust in our Lord with all your might, all your soul and all your heart. He will continue to take care of you and your family. Please feel free to speak freely on your blog, that is what it is about. I know God has brought us together to be of strength for one another.

     God bless you and your family.

     1. so beautifully said. Marian, we are all here with you and for you. <3

309. Your post is simple, faithful and lovely. Eleven years ago, God saw fit to give me my own “unmade bed” – a mischevious, full steam ahead, live life with gusto kind of boy with many delays and special needs. Somehow, God gives grace and strength and perspective right when you need it and almost never how you expect it. My motto has become ‘one day at a time, one moment at a time.’ xoxo … thinking and praying for you as you process the news.

310. We have diabetes in our family, though not the Type 1 kind so can relate some to what you feel. I remember a wonderful boy I taught years ago, when he was in the fourth grade:G.W. What a delight that boy was even though he needed to go to the school nurse twice a day for his diabetes, G.W. just took it in stride, and was so outgoing and happy. No one cared or noticed. He did very well with it, went on to graduate college a couple of years ago. He was one of the few students that kept in touch with me, his former teacher, for many years. Your boy will flourish! God has already paved the way for it to be for His glory with the soft hearts you and your family have toward pleasing Him. There will also be blessings in this tough stuff.

311. You have encouraged all of us in different ways. Now we get to do that for you and your family. My family is praying for your family.

312. Marion thank you for sharing about your 5 yr. old son. Nothing is beyond the reach of God. We will be praying for your son. Children seem so more resilient than adults. As he learns more about his diabetic disease the more he will be able to handle with time and age. Please do not feel you need change anything about your post and what you share from your heart. God is using you to minister to others and as you stand firm in Christ and do not feel you have to water down anything your heart is feeling and needing to share. It is just like the tv we have a choice turn on the button or turn off the button if we feel something does not interest or pertain to us. Your Son is going to learn through you and your husband that Phil.4:13 we can do all things through Christ Jesus that gives us strength.

     My husband is diabetic and now is on insulin. Two yrs. ago he was at his VA appointment and the dr. said we want to run test. Well we thought my husband’s diabetic history was because of his Mom and his uncles, cousins on her side. Well the tests confirmed that the Agent Orange from Viet Nam causes diabetes and the Va is finding more cases of men his age that is getting diabetes. So now he is on disability with really helps in the cost of his diabetic health care.
     And he has health issues that at times are a challenge for me as his wife but I have my Faith that carries each moment.

313. I will pray.

314. Thank you for sharing your struggle and fears and faith. There is no doubt your faith has reassured you that God will lead you through this and you are right. But, fear rears its ugly head and slithers into your head and heart. Step on that snake with your best boots and turn your heel on its head. Your son will be fine and thrive and your experience and willingness to share will shine the light on God’s goodness and power and glory. I remember very distinctly when a young boy in our community received the same diagnosis as you son. Now some 10 years later as a high school freshmen, he is a star athlete and honor student. We lift your son and you up in our prayers.

315. I have counseled 100s of patients with diabetes. It is not the same when it is you. I am sooo glad he was diagnosed in this day and age, when so much care is available. I have good friends who have had excellent managment for over 20 years and no evidence of the complications you used to hear about. Aren’t we so fortunate that if it happens, it is now with so much to help us.

316. Marian, I am sorry your child has diabetes. But as a school employee, I know that a loving staff will take good care of him at school. As a mom of a child who had severe orthopedic problems and continues to live in pain daily, I know how hard it is to deal with illness and to come to grips with the fact that our children are not perfect. But sometimes sick kids get inspired to take care of other sick kids…and my daughter is starting her last semester in nursing school and hopes to be a pediatric nurse practitioner in time. Your son will do something amazing because he will overcome this challenge and make it just a part of who he is. Also as a mother of another child with significant food allergies, I know the first few months (years) of modified diets are tough. My prayers are with you. You can do this!!

317. It sounds like the health choices you’ve been making were inspired for more than the apparently reasons. You were preparing your family all this time! And your lovely attitude will be such a help. He is such a wonderful boy and I am so grateful such good care and support are available to him. Bless you all as you adjust.
     The Other Marian

318. I am so sorry to hear about your news, however God is faithful and all things are in His control. Everything that happens to His children is filtered through Him first and He knows what He is doing! I am 31 and have been a type 1 diabetic since I was 11. I started out with shots but have been on a pump for 8 years now. I am praying for you and your family as you learn to manage this disease. It may be a rocky start but it is a manageable disease. I know that God will see you all through this!

319. Hi Marion – A lot of comments here! I have read your blog for awhile now and never commented. I’m a decorative painter, artist, knitter, etc. but first of all I am a mom like you. My daughter was diagnosed with diabetes at 6. She is 15 now. She also has hydrocephalus and special needs. The diabetes is the toughest because it is always there and you have to watch it like a hawk. It is all totally overwhelming at the beginning but you will catch on quickly. Good luck and if I can help, glad to. Just last week, we got Julia on a new Medtronic insulin pump with a sensor monitor. It is rather high tech and she wears 2 little computers all day and night long. Amazing technology now. I highly suggest getting your son on the pump once he is on insulin and you have it more figured out. The doctors and nurses are so helpful. And your son’s school staff will be awesome.

     You all will pull through and yes – your son will never remember life without it. Julia doesn’t! Best of luck – Kristin Nicholas

320. Prayers to you and your family. As Shelley said this amazing little blog world is a place where we can share our gifts and talents AND a place where we can be of support to one another. That’s what friends are for . . .

     kerry

321. Have you mentioned something about his health before?If so I don’t remember. It is good that you have found his condition at an early stage. You and he will learn to handle it, be able to manage. God Bless you all.

322. Just prayed for you and your family. God’s blessings to you all.

323. ‘I know that God doesn’t make mistakes and that He gives His children good things that are for His glory and our good. I know all of that is true. Jeff and I have always prayed that God would set our boys aside for a special purpose. Maybe this is an answer to that prayer.’

     Amen! I’ll be praying for your family as you all adjust to this change in your family. We don’t know how God will use this for His glory and for your good right now, but we KNOW that He is faithful – His Word is truth, His promises are from everlasting and He loves the Parson’s family with a perfect, unchanging love! May He bring you comfort and peace as He goes before you on this journey of trusting Him in uncertain times.

324. We just adopted a 12 yr old t1diabetic girl from our states fostercare system. Diabetes sucks! Sorry it does, but it will become your new normal. It will become just part of life and not a huge deal. Especially once you get past the shot stage and into the pump stage. School will settle and you will adore your school nurse. She will be your new best friend.

     My advice is to find a parents of diabetes Facebook group for your area. They will be such a support. Everyone is going through the same thing, you get great advice and support and eventually as you get to know each other relationships form and suddenly you are now friends with people in your area that have diabetic kids also. My group has monthly get togethers, one member lives in my neighborhood and has a son my daughters age. That’s why it’s important that it’s a local area group.

     My second piece of advice is to let yourself mourn. You’ve lost something important and so has your son. I’m glad that you have a grateful heart that it’s not worse but it’s still a loss and a change. It truly is a great time to be a t1 diabetic, if there can be such a thing. It’s so much more manageable and they are so close to a cure. I always here that the medical community thinks it will be 10 yrs and I believe it. God bless you mama. Lean on Jesus and let him mend your heart.

     1. Love your comments Lisa.I say ”ditto”.You are wise and real.My prayers are for your family;and my prayers are for Marian aand Jeff’s.God is for us,He is faithful .

325. My heart goes out to you and your son. My son was also diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes just a few weeks after he turned 6 years old. Even though it was overwhelming at the time, with God’s help we adjusted without to many trials. My son is now 19 years old and has always done a great job of managing his diabetes and makes sure it doesn’t control his life, he controls it.

     The best advice I can pass along for this moment of your journey is to heed direction and advice only from your Dr and diabetes care team. So many people will tell you all kinds of things right now, like how theirs Aunt’s hairdresser’s wife had diabetes and they only ate orange vegetables, and they were cured. Or they will scrutinize everything your child will eat and question you that you’re aware of what diabetics can and can’t eat. (Just so anyone else who reads this understands, yes Type 1 diabetics can eat carbohydrates, even cake, as long as they give themselves enough insulin for it). I learned to listen politely to them, and then just stick to what my Dr’s had told us to do.

     Also, find a Type 1 diabetes support group. They are wonderful, helping you absorb the new information, they will have information and can explain how they handled things like school and finding Dr’s in your area.

     One last thing. I did not know this until recently when my son had to write an essay for his first Collage class, but he said when he heard the Dr tell us he had diabetes he thought it meant he was going to die, since he heard the word die in diabetes. Make sure your son doesn’t feel that way.

     I will be praying for you and you son and family.

326. He’s lucky you are his mom.

327. Oh Marian…

     There are no words…

     “He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.” Isaiah 40:11

     “My flesh and my heart may fail, But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Psalm 73:26

328. You’ve got this, guuurrl! And your little son is stronger than you’ve ever imagined.

329. I am sorry to hear about your son’s diagnosis. I know that can be a real shocker and overwhelming at first. My niece’s daughter was just diagnosed at 4 with Type I as well.

     You are right to be concerned about so many things. It will change some things and require more planning. My son was born with severe disabilities so I know a thing or two about being prepared. There are three things I think might be helpful to you: 1) Get a little emergency bag that you’ll take with you wherever your son goes to keep his supplies. 2) HSN has an item called a “Better Beauty Bag” that is nothing more than a portable bag of sorts that has all of these zippered compartments that would be perfect to organize your son’s supplies. I type labels up for each compartment. It runs around $25 but it will be the best item you’ll ever get for him. 3) Check out a gluten free diet for your son-I am reading more and more about the benefits of a gluten free diet for children with Type 1 diabetes. Good luck Marion.

330. Marian, as evidenced by the many responses to your post, you have a LOT of company! I too am a diabetic, only recently diagnosed, but I have a former student whose little boy has had diabetes since birth. Kristie is a wonderful mother of three and an outstanding Christian. Last year she donated bone marrow to help save the life of a little boy in California! I know she would absolutely love to talk to you (and pray with you!) if you would be interested in doing so. She is warm, funny, loving, and kind (she is also an accomplished artist who travels locally doing unbelievable murals for schools, hospitals, etc.) She has had lots of experience with diabetes and would probably be a great comfort to you. She and I are friends on FB and if you are so inclined, I would be happy to put you in touch with one another. In the meantime, know that it’s going to be ok. When I was diagnosed my blood glucose level was so high it would not register on the meter. Two days in the hospital and several doctor visits later. I am fine. Your little one will be, too! Hang in there!

331. Praying for your little family that God will lift you up.

332. So many great comments! Just wanted to add that you are an amazing family and it sounds like you have lots of support. Praying that things go smoothly as you settle in to your new normal.

333. Wow that felt like a punch to my gut…can’t even imagine how you felt….God only gives us what we can handle right? God knows you and Jeff are extra special parents

334. As you can see with the amt. of comments we all love u so much!!
     Sending prayers 🙂

335. After reading the comments above I would have to say that they all said it very well. I would just like to add that I have been taking my daughter to the Hershey hospital for over 20 years now as she was born with Spina Bifida…you are in good hands there. And just one more thing…you never cease to amaze me with your seemingly endless energy and your go to attitude…if anyone can get through this next chapter in your life it’s you. I have no doubt that you and your family will get through this and come out the other side the better for it. So glad you were sent to Hershey. You will all be in my prayers.

336. Marion,

     I am a relatively newcomer to your blog. I HAD no idea how I found you……..but God did! I was so pleasantly surprised that you are a Christian. I love your fantastic ideas and you have such wonderful ideas!!
     I am sorry to hear about your son’s diagnosis. It must feel so frustrating to not be able to do anything yourself for him. But you have the Creator of Heaven and Earth as your father. And while we don’t know why…..HE does. Trust him , lean into Him and rely not on your own understanding. He is faithful to those who love Him. He loves you and your son. Let that bring you peace. ……know that…..I AM.

     Blessings to you and your family.

337. You and your family and sweet son are in my prayers. Thank you for sharing so we can check in on you and support you. We have 2 young sons too (1 & 3) and pray that exact prayer for our boys too. I never thought about how God could choose to answer it with something so unexpected…but that’s how God works, isn’t it? He sometimes answers prayers in the most peculiar ways and then you just sit back, see how He is moving and growing you through the unexpected and by and by it increases your faith.

     God is working…and He always knows what He’s doing. Of that, I know for sure. 🙂

     Hugs,
     Gail

338. I’m praying for healing and a cure for this disease.

339. I am so sorry for your aching heart…and also giving thanks and praise that you stand in faith on the truth that He may be glorified in all circumstances. How marvelous that you radiate the fruit that the Spirit has cultivated in your life!
     I shall pray for you and your family, especially your precious, little boy.
     Thank you for your living testimony to who God is.

340. That’s why God gave him to you and your husband. He picked the perfect parents to love, nurture, guide and support him through this.
     If I could give you a big hug right now I would (so a virtual one will have to do).
     We are all here for you if you if you need us.
     Praying for you and your family.
     Hugs..

341. so sorry to hear this – it must be quite difficult to hear this about your child. take comfort in knowing he will be ok, and will adapt to this “inconvenience.” you will learn as you go and at a certain point it becomes somewhat routine. i have type 2 diabetes and the hardest part is figuring out the best foods to keep my blood sugar level. then i feel healthy. when i let it get too high, or too low, i don’t feel so well and have to nap. you will learn so much about nutrition and balancing carbs with protein, that he will be able to eat almost anything. mix wheat pasta in with regular, include meatballs or meat sauce, and he can indeed have pasta dishes. i’m sure you will get creative with your meals, as you are a wonderfully talented and creative individual. snacks are important. watching blood sugar during exercise and activity is also important. i’m sure for a child, the injections will be scary at first, but after a while, they do not hurt – the testing on the finger hurts more than the injections. i hope i haven’t scared you, but given you hope that this is very manageable. scary & serious, but manageable. blessings to all of you!

342. Bless you for sharing Marion ,the more we learn about each other the more we realise we are not alone in our trials and tribulations and others can support, love and support us. Prayers and positive thoughts are with you all xxx

343. Marian: I’m so sorry you and your family are dealing with this difficult and frightening diagnosis. I don’t know you or you family dynamics but I’m just writing to encourage you to guide your son to be as responsible as possible for the treatment of his disease. I know firsthand because my brother and only sibling was diagnosed with Type 1 at the age of 10. My parents, mostly my mother, made the mistake of not doing this and understandably overprotecting him at every turn. As a result, it set up a lifelong dysfunction in my brother’s life as well as our family that is still going on to this day. I’m sure you and your family will be on top of things and this won’t be a problem, but everytime I hear of a new childhood case of DM, I think of this possibility.

     I am also an RN and have heard of kids as young as 5 managing their own insulin pumps which is wonderful. My brother’s biggest problem was his fear of the insulin needles, which back in 1978 were huge! A pump would have been so helpful to him.

     I wish the best for your son, you, and your family as you adjust to your new life.

     Sincerely,
     Pam

344. never commented before. i love who you are, how transparent and honest you are. you have become a one sided friend to many out here in blog land. many prayers are going your way. your family is precious and now your priority will have to shift for a while. God nevers wastes a hurt. His destiny has just taken a new curve.

345. Sitting here this morning with my cup of coffee, reading your post. I want to thank you for sharing this with all of us, Marian. Thank you for allowing us to lift you up, lift your son up, as well as the rest of your family. One thing that surfaced quickly in my mind, was something ‘The Other Marian’ stated….about the recent health choices you’ve been making for awhile now. I too, believe God was preparing you, for such a time as this. (Esther) You and your husband’s prayers for your sons to be set aside for a special purpose, may not appear as providential, but we know that God is in control of all things. The choices you made about your own health will empower and strengthen you in ways your son will benefit from. My prayers are with you and your family, and please continue to update us on this new normal in your lives. You’ve become a dear friend to us, even those of us who have never met you.

346. Shannon’s comment about following your diabetes teams instructions and to ignore the random advice you are given from outside sources until you are more knowledgeable about diabetes is spot on! That being said, I sat in the breakfast nook today staring at the giant bolt of hemp I just bought from hemp traders on your advice. Your posts have inspired me in so many ways. God has been “nudging” me since I posted earlier to tell you that you may email me if you need any more support that I can offer. May He hold you in the palm of his Hand!

347. God is good. All the time. He never gives us more than He can help us bear. You are strong and brave to post about God on a decorating blog– and see all the wonderful people who just came into your life. You now have a host of God’s ‘angels’ helping you in your battle.
     If you’re having a down day, let us know and we will lift you in prayer and send encouragement!

348. I think it’s no coincidence that I signed up for your website emails two or so days ago, even though I saw you at a conference months ago. My son has Type I diabetes. Diagnosed at 2, he is now a healthy, active 6’2 seventeen year old. (I was told the diabetes may stunt his growth, lol!) He’s graduating with honors and on the swim team. Test his blood sugar , document, test, document, and test again. It breaks your heart, it’s not fair, but it’s doable. Learn his patterns, learn what foods affect him in what ways, learn how many carbs bring his blood sugar up how much and how much insulin it takes to bring his sugar down. And most importantly, once you learn the basics of how all this works, investigate the insulin pump. Our doctor wouldn’t put our son on one, because he was only 2. So guess what, I left that doctor. Best decision ever. With the insulin pump you can deliver small increments of insulin that small children need. It’s pretty difficult to draw up 1/4 of a unit in a syringe!! We found the doctor that was on the cutting edge and he worked with our needs. My son began using the insulin pump at age 4. His A1C has always been within a good range. Please feel free to contact me anytime if you ever want to talk to somebody who has been there and still is! Love your site. All the best to you and your family.
     Beth

349. Dear Marion,

     As a mother of two I can totally relate to every feeling you had that post. Prayers to you and your family. I know that good Doctors will be able to give you everything you need to care for your son properly. If I may also suggest that you look into Young Living essential oils. I know you have friends in the blog world who are distributors and the health benefits from these oils for so many health issues are beyond miraculous. Just planting a helpful seed if you are open to it.

     Best wishes to your son!
     Deborah

350. Marian, I will keep your family in my prayers. Our daughter was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of 2 1/2. She was on chemotherapy for over two years. It was a terrible time for our family but with the support and prayers of family, friends, neighbors, our church family and community we all came through it. God took care of all of us as he will your family too. Our daughter will soon be 24 years old. She was an A student, played sports, took dance lessons for 15 years attended college and is now attending graduate school (in the medical field) . I can’t tell you how much I enjoy your blog. I’ve been following it for over a year now and originally found you when I searched for information on milk paint. I enjoy all your decorating info and also stories about your family too. When our daughter was on treatment there was no internet but we would get cards and notes in the mail from all kinds of people whom we did not know showing their support and it really was a comfort. Now things are different because so many people can show you their support through your blog. God blessings to your family.

351. Marian, When I read your post my heart ached for you and your son. I also have a child with diabetes diagnosed at age 11 and she is now 19. She is in college and there have been a lot of ups and downs, just recently more downs due to a little bit of rebelliousness and I think just plain denial on her part. She was on the pump in the early years but then chose to switch over to giving herself shots as she does not like having a pump on her body. I am praying that she changes her mind about this.

     I am encouraged when reading all of the wonderful comments that have been sent to you, although not meant for me and my situation, it gives me encouragement all the same. This is an awful disease for a child to carry with them and if I could I would take it from my daughter in a heartbeat, as I am sure any mother would whose child has this.

     I always tell myself it could be worse, at least it is treatable and manageable, and if taken care of one can escape the many complications that can come from it. My thoughts and prayers are with you. This is going to be hard, there will not be a day that you will not think about it or be worried for your son, it is your new normal and his, but you will be given the strength to do it, just when you think you can’t you realize you have no choice, God will give you the strength. You and your little guy are in my thoughts and prayers.

352. lifting your family in prayer…

353. Good morning, Marion

     I am so grateful to hear that you were clear-headed in bringing your son AND his list of symptoms to his doctor. Parents who are aware of the details makes it so much easier for the doctors to do their jobs. I am always sorry to hear of anyone struggling with illness. One of our sons has food allergies and asthma which require a similar type of vigilance and monitoring. The school nurses WILL become a part of your team, and they are happy to support the children –and parents — with daily needs.

     Stay organized. Keep lists, schedules, and phone numbers. We have a red medicine pouch that is always ready-to-go. Whoever has our son with them, simply grabs the pouch on the way out the door. You will develop systems that work for you and it will all become “the new normal,” as they say.

354. What a blessing to have doctors you trust. Thank you for trusting us enough to share this. Prayers for you and your family. -Ella

355. I will pray for you and your little boy.

356. When prayers go up blessings come down…. Stay Strong!!!

357. I am so sorry, Marian. thank heaven you had the courage to go find an answer, so often we talk ourselves into “it’s nothing” simply because not knowing can be easier. I agree with the person who said give yourself time to mourn, because stuff like Halloween will never be the same, but tell yourself you are not reinventing the wheel here, because another mom has been through it before, and go find some support. It will be okay…..just keep swimming

358. Prayers for you and your family.

359. Marian,
     It looks as if you are handling this perfectly. I know exactly what you are feeling right now and believe me, once you have the routine down, this will be your new normal. It’s all a bit scary right now. The unknown always is. Take heart, The Lord works all things together for good, for those you love Him. Hugs.

     1. *who

360. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers, Marian. He has made you HIS parents for a definite reason. Blessings as you walk through this new chapter. Peace. I look forward to anything you share from your heart, as always. It helps us all. Keep sharing and let some love flow back…..

361. Your blog. What an awesome tool. Everything may be overwhelming you right now, but God has bigger plans for this blog. Praying for you.

362. So sorry to hear the news. Yes, you are correct in saying that there are much worse diagnosis. Our son was 7 when he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and ended up in the ICU. I vividly remembering thanking God that he was not the girl on the above floor dying of cancer and this was manageable. He is now 14 and I am here to share that things do get easier. It just becomes a way of life for the family and child. You will eventually know how many carbs everything is without looking it up in the book. You will become very comfortable with drawing up insulin and giving shots. It becomes very second nature. It doesnt stop him from anything! He plays baseball, wrestles, plays basketball and does everything anyone else can! He has become very independent with this disease. I believe even this passed through God’s hands and was allowed for a greater purpose. It will be interesting to see how exactly God touches others and uses my son in this world. God bless and take care!

363. My son’s life also changed forever, but not from diabetes but from a congenital heart condition. When I went to visit him in the ICU, I literally felt like I was being held up by God through His angels once I walked through the hospital doors. I believe it was an answer to the thousands praying for my son and our family. So I will pray for you and your family also, for prayers are answered, and if I can share a verse that gave me strength:

     “For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:11

364. Love and prayers for you and your lambs.

365. My 33 year old son was diagnosed with Type I diabetes at age 8. We were devastated and at the time had no idea how we would get through it. We decided that our job as parents were to make sure his life got back to normal as soon as possible making the necessary adjustments so he wouldn’t miss out on his childhood. He has never let his condition stop him from pursuing his dreams including international travel and playing college hockey for a division I team ranked 5th in the nation. We’re very lucky to be living at a time where there are testing meters and short and long acting insulin to make things easier. Sooner than you think the changes will be incorporated into your life and there will be a new normal. Your son will continue being a busy little boy with his Legos, and overnight visits with friends, and summer camp. It will be OK.

366. Marian, I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Specifically praying for comfort, courage and peace of mind. You have a lot to sort through and think about but I saw (recently) something on a “Doctors” segment (on TV) about a very young boy who has Type 1 also. They have a young dog that is trained to alert the parents when his blood sugar dips too low as he is too young to recognize the symptoms. I’m sure you can find it online if you are interested. It made an impression on me so I just wanted to put it out there. Sending big hugs your way.

367. Thanks for sharing. Prayers to you and your family. Stay strong! God will lead the way…

368. When my daughter was diagnosed with cancer, I reached out to everyone I could think of because I wanted EVERYONE praying for her. Please know our family is praying for yours. One of my best friends was diagnosed with diabetes at age 9. She is a very healthy 45 year old with two children. New developments are being made all the time. I think we will see a cure for diabetes (and cancer) in our lifetime!

369. Marian: When you are feeling down, and it is expected your entire family will feel this way, just keep saying, it could be worse! And we know it could be. TODAY is a gift! Remember?
     You as director/president of the family BEGIN today exercising (A MUST FOR type 1) and eating BETTER. Embrace this new life change and hug your men!!! GOD bless.

370. Thanks for sharing this. I truly believe that we could all help each other more if we felt free to share both the good and the bad. Prayers for your family as you adjust to this new “normal”.

371. My prayers to you and your family, especially your son.
     My little brother was diagnosed at this exact age. It will be a change and a new lifestyle. I will always remember our Easter baskets that first year..no candy.

     I think, watching my brother grow up with this disease and struggle, the best advise I could offer! is to make sure he accepts that he has the disease. Do not try and tell him he is no different than anybody else because that simply is a falsehood. It is a very manageable disease but to be honest with you, it has to be monitored well and his diet has to change.

     I can remember my brother saying in his later years, he did not know what it felt like to feel good. It does not have to be that way. He did not manage himself well as an adult.

     You will do wonderful, as will your son. Best of luck. It will become a part of his everyday life <3

372. I am so sorry your family had this put into your lives, but I am absolutely positive that through both your message and the wonderful comments that followed, help, encouragement, and information is being provided to countless others beyond your family. That is an extra blessing.

373. No one is prepared for such news, even just being diagnosed as an adult your head spins a little on how to deal and take it all in! But God is our Great Physician and has a bigger plan with it all above it all.

     “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” Phil 1:6

     Prayers are with you, and your family!!

374. I know this is quite a shock. My sister is Type 1 as her 2 oldest of her 3 children. It can be overwhelming but please know things will be ok. There are more great resources and new developments/treatments today than ever. The insulin pump provides for great freedom – fight for one if your insurance tries to not pay for it. I would strongly recommend checking out the Joslin Center (http://www.joslin.org). They have been great and have really helped support my sister, niece and nephew. Lastly – be sure your PCP is educated and if you don’t think they are up to snuff on the current findings etc. – change doctors.

     {{Hugs}} It will all be ok.

375. I was a preschool teacher for years and nearly every year we would have a child with diabetes or something that required special medical attention. You would always know which mom it was going thru that anxiousness, she was the one hanging out in the hallway a little longer than the others or maybe in her car watching her child on the playground the first days of a new school year. But always, always there were teachers there that knew what a treasure her child was and cared for “it” as if it were her own. Trust God will put people in his life that will watch him, and cover him with your love and attention when you cannot be there. I believe it, I have seen it with my own eyes!

376. Marion, I’m so sorry to hear the news about your baby boy.
     I want to send you hugs & prayers & much love.

377. So sorry for your sweet little boy but I am so glad that you have the courage to post about it on your blog and that you know that God doesn’t give us more than we can bear. I’m sure HE will use this for HIS glory and I want you to know that I will pray for your son and your family. I love your blog even more now that I know you are a courageous Christian!

378. My mind is blank, as always happens when I should have something wonderful to say.

     My heart and prayers are with your family now and always.

379. Dear Marian,
     I am praying for you and your family. You have such an amazingly strong and supportive family. Thank you for your honesty and inspirations.

380. A friend of mine from high school, Meri Schumacher, has three T1 boys and writes this fantastic blog, http://www.ourdiabeticlife.com/ full of information, inspiration, insight and real life.

     Hugs to you and your family.

     Kimberly

381. He came to bind up the broken hearted, to give freedom to the captives, and the gospel to all. Praying for you and your family, each other, is the joy of family in Christ. You’ve encouraged and shared in so many ways, thank you for sharing your life. Praying for His perfect peace that goes infinitely beyond our own understanding to flood you heart and mind.

     Isaiah 43:19 has been a verse I’ve clung to since Christmas of ’08 or 9 when we used it on a family Christmas card. He is active and near and working His plan. My mother heart wants to insist the Lord heal him…He is able and is our Great Physician…more importantly I hope that I can maturely see as you do opportunities for His greatness, goodness, and glory to be revealed in us on earth. The big picture. Hard to grasp most times for me. Strength, patience, and joy…Lord just cover Marian in your strength, patience, and joy…comfort her Comforter…draw nearer to her and the family as they press in to You.

     love,
     w

382. My younger brother was diagnosed at the same age. He is now 21 and off at college living such a full life. I remember it felt like it would never be that way when he was first diagnosed. But the whole family learns, adapts, and adjusts expectations of what “normal” is. And to encourage you, I have watched the Lord use Sam’s disease as an incredible testimony. God is good, in all things and through all things. This is a part of your boy’s testimony, just as it is a part of Sam’s and our entire family. Praying for you and your family, that peace and patience would wash over your home.

383. One of my friends is 56 years old. She just received the Joplin Medal for living with type 1 diabetes for 50 years. She still works, drives, has good vision, had 2 children … The same life people who don’t have diabetes have. Sending positive thoughts for your family.

     1. omygoodness, every mention of the joslin medals brings me to tears!

        i’m a t1 + have been for 13 years (i am now 28). thanks for the encouragement!

384. One of my friends is 56 years old. She just received the Joplin Medal for living with type 1 diabetes for 50 years. She still works, drives, has good vision, had 2 children … The same life people who don’t have diabetes have. Sending positive thoughts for your family.

385. oh, tears for you………… but, I can tell you, it will be normal before you know it. It will be drastic at first, and then old hat. Especially since he is so young.

     one of my son’s besties, was diagnosed several years ago, and he travels with his little tester and he (we) monitors what he can and can’t eat, if he eats a little too much of what he can’t, he monitors that too, he is a normal rough and tough and “healthy” boy……….. and he is the type of boy who will stand up with his laptop in his lap, or such, quite a spaz as we affectionately harass him, so if he can pull it off, you’re going to be good to go……

     but I know your fears and I will say a prayer……………. (and I say this with a son who has asthma, prone to passing out if he overworks himself, and sometimes endures seizures if his body encounters trauma, but a normal, rough and tough and “healthy” boy) xxoo

386. Just read your blog today. I know exactly how you must be feeling. My daughter was diagnosed at 13. We both felt the same way…numb at first. She has blossomed in the years since and has such great control of this disease. She has followed her dreams…never letting diabetes keep her from what she wanted to do. Robyn had dreamed of being a “dolphin trainer” as far back as 7th grade. At almost 40, she has worked at SeaWorld doing what she loves (working with the dolphins and whales) and has a wonderful marriage with 2 fantastic young boys. If you would like to talk with her at any time, I would be more than happy to have her contact you. Diabetes control has come such a long way. She has used a insulin pump called an OmniPod for over five years that has made all the difference in the world with her control. My prayers are with you and your son as you navigate this new “normal”.

387. I know the blank stare, automated responses, and overwhelming feelings. My son was diagnosed with ALS at 19. No treatment, no cure, and was his primary caregiver. Just as we know God gave our son a special purpose on earth, you will find that he has given your son a greater purpose also. Many thoughts and prayers going out to you in the coming months as your family adapts. If he brings you to it, he WILL bring you through it. Hugs!!

388. I am so glad that you shared. Through the many comments here, others have shared your experience and have come through to the other side. You are not alone. I have watched several of my friends’ children manage their monitoring, own administration of insulin, etc. with much aplomb. Please know that you are being upheld in prayer and much support. HE knows just what you need, and will provide.

389. I’m praying for you. I know this is scary. There is so much to learn. My nephew was diagnosed with diabetes when he was very small. When I would babysit him, I would be so nervous, hoping I didn’t mess up counting his carbs, on his dosage, on his shots. He’s a strong teenager now, and very active and happy. God will help you through. PS: There are camps for children with diabetes. My nephew has attended one for a week in the summer for the past three years now. He learns so much about how to take care of his diabetes on his own. It’s made him very independent and reminds him (and his family) that he can do anything.

390. i know the comments are many but i had to add mine to the masses. your story is my story. 3 months ago our 5 1/2 year old daughter was diagnosed T1D. please consider this a great big virtual hug from one mama who knows to another. we always remind our girl that when bad things happen to us we are not being picked on…we are being picked out…for a purpose. believing God will bless our children through this and ultimately use them to be a blessing. i will message you a few more things…

391. I know news like this can be devastating and life-changing. However, your hope and faith in God will see you through in addition to all the advice, support and help from your doctors, family and community. Thank you for sharing – you can see you are not alone!

392. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.

393. Bless you, bless you, bless you and your husband and your little boys. I hope this encourages you….. One of my 18 year old son’s childhood friends was diagnosed with JD Type 1 diabetes as a pre-teen. He’s thriving ~ just made the Dean’s List his first college semester. There is amazing support for JD out there. Trust the Lord ~ He will be right there for you and He’ll show you the way.

394. Hi Marian, prayers, hugs and love to you and your beautiful family. I have always felt that God gives his special lambs to only the very best parents. You are so strong in everything you do and I know in my heart you and your little boy and the whole family will be ok. You have an amazing family who you know in your heart will be there to help, encourage and see you all through this trying time. Lean on His arm and know He is always with you.

395. Hello Marian, I’ve been reading your blog for several years, now, just enjoying your journey as you have found your niche in life, and blessed so many with your talents and grand discoveries. I have been one of your silent blog followers, but your communication, today, touched my heart; I knew I needed to reach out to you. I am a child development specialist and have worked for many years with families, schools, medical professionals, and children with special needs. I would be happy to visit with you and your family about the new world you have been thrust into; and support you in developing a plan that will help you navigate the many systems and agencies that you will need to access to fully support your son’s needs. The road is long, but as is so evident in all of the comments you have received from this blog, you have a vast community of individuals who love and support you, not for what you do, but for who you are. Please feel free to contact me, if you think I could be of service. I don’t live far from you. Take care, Sheila

396. I have only uplifting and warm thoughts for your son and your family. You are strong, your family is strong and there is no doubt you will find your way through this. Big hugs.

397. Hi,
     God brought me to your blog today, thus Y’ll are added to my prayers! From the very beginning you are giving God glory in this – thank you for silencing the debate in your head as to whether to write this post, and answering with your heart!

398. thank you for sharing with your reader family! If only everyone could respond to such news with grace, faith, and dignity. You are amazing and have shared this in such a tender and realistic way. Prayers for your sweet boy!

399. Marian ~ It rocks your world doesn’t it? My oldest daughter, who is 13, was diagnosed just 3 months ago. Because she is older it has been a bit easier to maintain in some ways then being diagnosed at 5, but you will do it. You will get through it. You will remember your son not having diabetes, but as you said, he probably will not. There are so many organizations out there and unfortunately, so many kids being diagnosed everyday, that type 1 is becoming not so out of the ordinary. Since my daughter’s diagnosis, she has met so many others who share her new “lifestyle” and she has come to accept that this is how life is now. I pray for you and your son that the transition is smooth. I also am a firm believer that there will be a cure found for these kiddos during their lifetime. God Bless.

400. When I look at your beautiful little boys face my heart breaks for you… But at the same time I know everything will be ok. My niece was diagnosed with type 1 at 18 months old.. She was not even able to speak. Today she is 23 and teaching 7th graders. Still very healthy and we believe in a cure…someday.

     You have a huge strong extended family and an even stronger close family and that will help you in this journey. I hope you never hesitate to reach out.

401. Dear Marian,

     Thinking of you and praying for you and your family. Your boys are so beautiful and the Lord will be with you through this.

     Blessings,
     Jean Chapman

402. So sorry to hear about your little boy being diagnosed with Type1. Type 1 has no rhyme or reason to it…and can be frustrating to try and manage. I was diagnosed 13 years ago as an adult, and have found a new normal — counting carbs, wearing an omnipod and recently a continuous glucose monitor. Diabetes will not hold you boy back from following his dreams and living fully. With the help of Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and many other researchers we hope that TypeOne will turn into Type None. The artificial pancreas is in clinical trials now and will be a reality in the near future. My thoughts are with you.

403. Wow… reading this gave me goosebumps… I love the way you are handling it with such good grace. Here’s the deal though, I believe medicine is going to advance so much in the next 20 years in ways that are almost inconceivable to us now. I truly believe that in the not too distant future there will be a cure for this through stems cells, or some crazy biomedical stuff, and he won’t have to live with it the rest of his life… ! I’m just sure of it! So that’s kinda a cool way to look at it…

     Cindy

404. Please know that I have gone through what you are feeling right now when my son was diagnosed. I was so angry, especially when the educators were teaching us how to do injections into an orange. The thought of sticking a needle into my son made me physically sick to my stomach; I could not handle hurting him on purpose. Almost everyone had a story of how their aunt, sister, brother, son, etc. had Type 1 and they were fine blah blah blah and I just wanted to scream. I didn’t care what happened to their relative or friend, I just didn’t want my child to have this horrible disease when he had done nothing wrong. You have a right to whatever feelings you have. You will get through this. YOu will always worry about him.

405. My daughter was diagnosed at 2 1/2 yrs old. I remember the blur of being rushed to the emergency room, the 3 day hospital stay and all of the meetings with Dr’s and dieticians etc. If it was not for my mom being there also I would’ve been lost because everything they said kinda sounded like Charlie Brown’s mom in the cartoons! I didn’t really get any of it. But, what I can tell you is that God is good! We struggled with everything you mentioned in your article but just took one day at a time, kept her diet as clean as we could and I am happy to say that by the time she was 15yrs old she was no longer insulin dependent and is completely able to control her diabetes thru diet praise God! My favorite thing to do is to tell people that thru his grace she was healed… The look on the Dr’s face is always priceless! Your family has a new “normal”, you’ve got this and God has you all! I will keep your family in prayer.

406. I am so very sorry! I am not a diabetic but have many friends that are. I have a friend whose daughter has had diabetes since she was around 2 yrs old. She leads a perfectly normal
     I think you handled this very well, especially when you don’t expect to get that kind of a diagnosis! You are good Christian people and God will lead you in the direction you should go. While this is all very new to you, you seem to be a very grounded and organized individual and I know as much as it is heartbreaking for a mother, you will persevere.
     God is good and watches over his sheep and I know that this little “lamb” will have the best
     of care! You have my prayers and many more are going up for your beautiful family!
     God Bless you!

407. Oh my goodness Marian I’m praying for your family right now and that sweet little guy of yours. My husband and I just found out that he has type 2 diabetes just yesterday. We had no idea. My husband was kind of down about it but I told him that there is very good treatment for it and we are blessed to be living in a day in age that they have these medicines available. We both just dug right in and found out as much as we can about it and with the doctor plotted out a plan to stay healthy. I’m so happy that you found out what was ailing your little guy and now you can address it, I know he’s going to be feeling much better soon. He has a great mama and daddy and a wonderful Lord looking out for him. Praying for you sweetie.

408. Hi Marian. I know that this is a hard thing to go through. My sister was a diabetic and my nephew is a Type ! also. I am Type II. With proper management and dietary observance, you can handle this disease. Proper sleep, nutritious foods and plenty of exercise will allow your son to have a full rich life. You are in our prayers . I have one question? Did you boy have a cold or flu like infection just before the onset of symptoms?

409. Marian, you are still reeling from the shock, I’m sure. But God is still in control and He loves your son even more than you do! He has great and mighty things planned for your son’s life. I will lift you all up in prayer. With all of these wonderful women (and maybe some men too) praying for you, may you feel surrounded by His presence daily.

410. My wife was diagnosed in 5th grade. She’s now 39 y/o, under excellent control of her condition, and we have 2 beautiful daughters. There is a lot to managing Type I diabetes, but it is doable and he can still have a full and exciting life. I’d recommend looking into an insulin pump. considerably flexibility there for managing diet, meal-times, and activities/athletics.

     “Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. ” Ps 55:22

411. As the mother of a type 1 daughter (diagnosed at almost 3 years old) and wife of a husband with type 1 (diagnosed at the age of 33- yes, it can show up in the early 30’s- that’s why calling it type 1 instead of juvenile makes more sense) I highly recommend getting into a support group for parents of type 1 children. It helped me so much! Also, my daughter, who is now 22, loves her insulin pump. My heart goes out to you, even though I don’t know you.

412. My heart goes out to you and your son. Rear your child with the attitude of ” I am xxxx and I happen to be diabetic” – not “I am diabetic and my name is xxxx.” I am 62 and have two children. I am mindful of my diet, track my carbs and glucose. You and your son can handle this. The medical world is making great strides, and who knows what treatments/cures will occur in his lifetime? Be positive and God Bless.

413. When I read your heart breaking letter this morning I couldn’t help but cry. Not about the diabetes, because you will figure all that out in time. You are a strong woman and your husband is very supportive, and God is on your side, win win win. The tears are for you and all mothers that are presented with the heartbreaking realization that we can’t protect our children from life. I spent years worried that my kids would be hurt or worse, it didn’t happen praise God. Finally I learned what you already know, give them to God and just live day to day and love them. I read your blog everyday, so pour your heart out to your online friends, we will support you and keep you in our prayers. Love Gramma Pam

414. Marian, I’ve been thinking of you and your family all day after reading your post about your son’s diagnosis. I remember the feeling of the earth shifting beneath me as I heard frightening diagnostic news about my own son, decades ago now. As a parent, there is no horror like it. And yet, you did what needed to be done, and will continue to do so with the help of God and your family and friends. I’ve been a nurse for over 30 years and I’ve seen so many technological advances in diabetes management over my career. Take heart. There are options for active kids that work awfully well. You will be astounded at the capacity of your boy to take his illness in stride as he learns and practices new skills. All of you can grow through this experience, painful though it now seems. My prayers join many others for your family today.

415. Dear MMS, Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I’m so sorry this has happened. I wish I could give you a hug. Hugs, Anne Boykin

416. Hi Marian,
     I have been with my husband for twenty years and he is a Type 1 Diabetic. He was diagnosed before I met him when he was 21 years old. His cousin was diagnosed as a teenager a couple of years ago. My husband was on shots for years and his sugars were always too high and too low. I am very in tune to his behavior and can spot a low blood sugar coming on way before he even knows it. It is not always easy and I always worry about him especially when he is away on business. I do thank God that his condition is treatable, maybe not curable yet, but he can lead a pretty normal life.
     A few years ago he switched over from shots to an insulin pump. It is very expensive but worth every penny. His sugar levels are MUCH better and he is in better control over it. I worry a lot less. It is also great because he does not have to eat on a set schedule like he did when he was on shots. He can eat when he wants to. I give him a lot of credit for being able to stick his fingers multiple times a day to check his sugars and even give himself a needle to insert the pump tube.. I am not sure I could do it. I feel for you having to see your son go through this. He really can live a great life despite this. My thoughts are with you.

417. I’m glad you did share this, Marian. I will be praying for you and your family 🙂

418. Hey… Just read your update… Wanted to share that my Son #1 was diagnosed with Type 1 at the age of 2 1/2… He is now a thriving eleven year-old… Who is bright, athletic, and loves Jesus… He was placed on a pump at the age of 4… It has worked out beautifully… Please feel feel to contact me if you are in need of extra encouragement… In the meantime… Our family will be praying for your little guy and for you brave Momma ((hugs)) from Chicagoland…

419. Sweet lady you and Jeff will handle this like everything else prayfully and with grace. You can handle this and yes it will be a life change for all of you. I wish you many blessings. Di

420. Dear Marion, I have followed your blog now for several years, and just love everything you do. I love to paint furniture, decorate, and also have my own booth. I have your book and buy your paint. You are one of my “heroes”! 🙂 I also am the mom to two boys…two boys that have diabetes. My heart just cried for you when I read this blog. My oldest was diagnosed at the age of 4, and three months later my 15 month baby got it. I will just tell you, the first years were not easy. Only by God’s grace and strength did we survive. Ps 139 became very special to me especially the verses about God knowing when we sit down and get up and He’s acquainted with all our ways. Nobody else might know what you are feeling and going thru, but God does.Please keep us updated on things. My boys are now 16 and 12…life does get easier, but now I’m having to learn to let go. My 16 yr old just got his license 🙂 Please contact me if you have any questions. Praying!!

421. A boy at my childrens’ school has had type I diabetes since first grade. The teachers, aides and school nurses are wonderfully helpful and understanding. But I must say, this little guy is so well educated on his condition and knows how to test himself, administer shots, eat if he needs to…he is now in 8th grade and wears an insulin pump on his arm wrapped in a bandage. He is a straight A student, very kind and well liked and participates in football, basketball, track and baseball. If not for the bandage, one would never know that he has an issue. I am the mother of a special needs child, so I completely understand your concerns, but I just wanted to share that my child’s classmate lives a seemingly normal life and I know that your child can too.
     Sending hugs.

422. He knows the plans He has for you, even before you were born. God will walk with you through this adventure just like He always has. I’m sorry that your son, and your family is going through this, but I know that God is good all of the time!

423. Oh Marion that sucks!!But as so many have already said, it is totally livable. Things have changed so much so fast in medicine, and I also believe that a cure will be found before long. My MIL was diagnosed as a child with type 1 and she is now 77. She monitors her health very well and lives a very FULL life. I’m keeping y’all in my prayers. The new normal is going to be OK, It really is. ((HUGS)) Vanna

424. I am so glad you shared with your “blog family.” our thoughts and prayers are with your family. You are right, it could be worse but it is a life-altering illness. Be thankful you caught it as soon as you did.

425. Marian, God gave you an incredible attention to detail which all of your followers have admired when it comes to decorating-and that was not wasted when it came to mothering your son! He certainly knew what he was doing when he entrusted your children to you and your husband! Now we admire you all the more! Good will come of this-hang on to that!

426. Marian,

     I know you’re a Redskins fan, but I’m a Ravens fan, and when deciding whether to try for a 61-yard field goal or attempt a 4th down conversion in the most important game of this season, the Raven’s kicker Justin Tucker said to the head coach – “I got this.” You “got” this, Marian. Faced with impossible odds, those with strength of character and faith can get through most anything. And you will, for your son.

     Take care,
     Deb

427. So very sorry to hear about your little boy. I admire the grace and courage you display as you face this news. I know the fears you are facing as my son was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 13. He turns 38 tomorrow and is the happy, healthy, successful father of two. He was an outstanding student, participated in competitive sports throughout his years in school and has traveled extensively. Your son will go on to achieve great things as well. Although you face challenges ahead, know that you can and will meet those challenges as you establish a new normal. God will give you and your son the strength to meet these challenges and excel. As others have stated, medical advances are progressing and I feel strongly that your son will see a cure in his lifetime. Sending hugs, Patricia

428. Lifting you and your sweet children up in prayers tonight. Gods peace fill your heart beyond understanding. He loves you and yours.

429. I know you may already know this, but the Lord is not surprised by this one bit. In fact, you are his mother and he is your son and you are his parents because He has wired you all specifically for each other. I heard a little bit of a sermon that Chuck Swindoll was preaching yesterday on my drive to take the girls to school and he said, “He gives us according to what we can respond to.” I am fully confidant that not only will you respond well to this, but that you will be used to help other parents cope as well and He will ultimately be glorified in this and through this.

430. Oh, Marian, I can’t imagine how your mind must be racing. Please know that you and your sweet family will be in our prayers. I know that your faith is going to be such a weapon for you as you face the new normal. And I have no doubt that you will face it with strength (both yours and His). Hugs and love to you!

431. So sorry, Marian. Been there…am there… 🙁 My son, who is now 18, was diagnosed when he was in first grade. Very similar situation to yours–very sudden onset, going through all of the motions, but what does it all really mean? I found that I was so overwhelmed with caring for his life-sustaining needs, that I had little time to mourn what could have been. But you know what? Those things do eventually come to be! It will be difficult at first, but I promise it will get easier. Whenever you’re ready, I encourage you to get involved with your local JDRF chapter. I’m certainly available to communicate at any time…just let me know. Something I could never imagine, my son going off to college, but it’s happening (sooner than I’d like)…the next right place for HIM! All the best to you and your family… <3

432. So sorry to hear this about your son….mine is 35 and was diagnosed Type 1. He lives out of state and as his mom all I wanted to do was hug him, and try to make his new life better. I know how you feel. God bless your boy and I pray that he handles his new “normal” easily. Poking isn’t easy once a week, let alone several times a day.

433. Marian I know what you are going through. Our two sons at age 12 & 16 were diagnosed within two weeks of each other with Crohns Disease and it’s overwhelming to take it all in.
     Children are amazingly strong and adjust to these circumstances a lot of times better than the adults. Our sons are now 25 & 30 and have been doing good. The 25 year old is now working in research for Pediatric Crohns and Colitis. God has a plan and he will be with you all the way. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.

434. I’m sure if feels like a whirlwind, but you seem to already have a great attitude about it and that will make such a difference. I was diagnosed with type1 at 11 years old. At the time my dad had had it for 10 years (he has ran 15 marathons!!). His attitude was what influenced my attitude. Make sure he knows that he can live a full and great life. I still had sleepovers, I played sports, I was on the dance team in high school, I went to college ( and am now returning), I now am married and have a beautiful little girl. I have had many struggles with it and at times it can be overwhelming. I always TRY to keep in mind and be grateful that it is a treatable and manageable disease. It is just a part of everyday life now and honestly it would be weird to live without it. 🙂 It will take some getting used to, but you’ll get there! I would recommend to get on the pump as soon as possible! You’ll do great! feel free to e-mail 🙂

435. Praying that you all find your balance! And grateful that your kids have an amazing mom who is so in tune with them that symptoms were recognized immediately! It is obvious that you are a Mom first, the most important job / career!

436. I feel for you , my daughter was diagnosed at age 8 she is 19 now , her father had type 1 so I knew about it but its different when its your child . They have so much now for diabetes the insulin pump will be his lifesavor , Its overwhelming in the beginning but God will get you through it ! Find the best endricronologist for children, support groups help the parents and diabetes camps are great in the summer , God Bless! Tammy

437. Hang in there! I have a daughter,that as a young child was a very sickly asthmatic. She also has peanut and shrimp allergy/anaphylaxis. She is now24, finishing grad school, a healthy, well controlled asthmatic, and a remarkable young woman.

     Marian, You are so resourceful and creative, and have a real gift for transforming tired old furniture into amazing furniture. ( or as they say, lemons to remarkable lemonade). I have no doubt those very same gifts: your resourcefulness and creativity and the ability to literally transform things, will prove invaluable in this new, unfolding chapter of your life with your son’s diabetes.
     If I had to make a guess, I wouldn’t be surprised if you might “just move mountains…”
     When you are ready, get involved in the diabetes patient education and support organizations. Patient education and support groups are invaluable.
     You are in my prayers.
     B.

438. You have said it perfectly…your lives will not be the same but with Christ as your guide I know you will find the path for him to lead that long and full life of purpose you mentioned. I would welcome any and all moments when your lovely blog can be used for sharing this journey you have begun….and I’m sure I’m not the only reader who feels the same.

439. Thank you for sharing this personal family matter with us so that our prayers can be united for you. Blessings and God’s will to all of your loved ones.

440. Sending you many prayers and cyber hugs while you absorb this shocking news. But if there’s anyone out there who will adapt and overcome, it is you. I know you will take excellent care of your son as you are a strong, resourceful woman. With respect to “the public”, It seems God has given you another purpose in addition to your creative one! Many blessings to the whole family.

441. Remembering your family during this shocking time. You have such a positive attitude even during troubled times. Many prayers!

442. Hi MMS,
     As a mother of a child with Cystic Fibrosis I understand that doctors visit and all the new information you are trying to process. Please know that things will get easier and you will learn your “new normal”. Your lives won’t be the same, they will be enriched by everything that little boy and the strength he has will teach you and your family. God bless.
     Susan

443. My son was diagnosed at 2 yrs 4 months old with Type 1. Yes, it is a manageable disease (compared to, say, cancer) but that doesn’t mean it sucks any less. My son is now 11 and he has been checking his blood sugar and giving his own shots for a while now. I just wish I could love it out of him. There will be good days and bad, days that his numbers are always in range and days that you won’t be able to get it right, but all you can do is the best you can. Most days it still won’t feel like enough. However, they are making great advances and we pray for a cure everyday. May God bless your family as you take this journey.

     Oh, and my best advice is to always keep a carb/food/insulin log!

     I’m sending lots of love, peace, and healing your way.

444. Dear Marion I must confess that I look at your blog when I get a chance to gather inspiration for my home. I read and admire all that you have done. I sit silently wanting to respond but have never felt compelled to. I feel as thou I know you your family and friends. As I read your post I became so emotional–you see your words took me back to when my sweet son was diagnosed at the age of 5. He is now 19 and it seems like yesterday. Everything you felt I felt and more because I don’t have that blind faith in God that you do. I was angry at him and still am. When I took a Disney cruise when he was just diagnosed and the cleaning staff brought me a container to put the used needles in I realized how many shots my son was enduring every day–i just couldn’t come to peace with God’s plan. I felt compelled to write you now. I felt compelled to read everything about diabetes, joined every support group I could even had to change jobs because I couldn’t cope. It creeped up slowly. There were good days and bad days like when my son would ask me “mommy why me”. I didn’t know how to answer. All I could say is that he was so special and sweet that god gave him extra sugar. As the years go on it gets easier and harder at times I truly wish you all the best and know you and your family. Don’t make him feel different This will be hard with school, teachers, friends and family. I know you don’t know me and who am I to give you advice but now I know we share a special bond. Something more precious than paint. My thoughts are with you and your family.

445. I am so very sorry to read this, there are no words that are going to make you feel better. I think that it is wonderful that you can share this with your friends/readers for that is what we feel like when we come here. We come for more than decorating.

     I have you in my prayers and added to my prayer circle. Trust in God and all will be revealed.

446. Marian,
     I just read your post and I know first hand the feelings and fears you are feeling each day. My almost 6 yr old was diagnosed in August the week before he started Kindergarten. It was so overwhelming the first few months. We still have good days and bad days. However, I know that God has a plan for them and for us. It is with prayer and patience that I will wait and listen. You all will be in our prayers as you navigate new waters.
     Ashley

447. Marian,

     I am reminded tha the Bible tells us that God provides for the sparrows in the trees; therfore He will surely provide for his faithful children. What a gracious comfort!

     I believe he will provide for your son and your family.
     Blessings to you

448. Hi Marian,

     I don’t know much about your blog, but my mom is a devote follower!

     I heard about your son’s diagnosis, and I can truly say that I understand what you guys are feeling right now.

     I was the third child to be diagnosed with Type One in January of 2013. I haven’t had it terribly long, but after almost my first year, I can say that I may just be getting the hang of it!

     Both my two younger siblings have Type One also. I started a blog two weeks after my diagnosis. I’m not quite the incredible size you are, but I have made some investments to make it slightly “note-worthy” 😉 ( http://www.typeonetrio.com )

     Please contact me if I can do ANYTHING to help you! Trust me, the beginning is overwhelming, confusing, and intense! Each day will be an adjustment to the “new-normal”.

     Please know I will be holding you and your family in prayer!

     “Fear thou not for I am with thee, be not dismayed for I am thy God; I will strenghten thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” -Isaiah 41:10 This verse helped me through my stay at the hospital following my diagnosis. I hope it will encourage you also!

     Your friend,

     Caleb Hatchett

449. Dear Marian, I cried with you and even more when I read the beautiful encouraging message that Caleb (above my comment) left you.
     Yes, God is with you. You are in our prayers. And yes, this will be another challenge, that you and your beautiful family will overcome. Look at Caleb above, isn’t he wonderful? Reaching out to help others! Amazing.
     Please keep us posted.
     Sending my love to all of you.
     Claudine

450. Dear Marian,

     My heart goes out to you and your family. I don’t have a child with diabetes, but I do have a child with a special condition and have had to sit through those dr. appointments where you have to hear really hard stuff about your precious child and where you feel like you can’t process all the info being dumped on you. I will be praying for you and a your family. God is faithful and He will help you. His words are true and utterly reliable. AND He is near to you and loves your boy and mine. I am blessed by your words of faith.

     with prayers,
     Jenn

451. You are right that, after the learning curve, it will become the new normal. I will pray for a gentle trip around that curve. I also wanted to tell you that I have a friend with type 1 diabetes, who is the most brittle (hard to control) diabetic I’ve ever heard of AND the healthiest person I’ve ever known. She knows how to manage it, and has the healthiest eating, and exercise, and personal habits of anyone I know. I admire her greatly, and try to emulate her very well rounded approach.

452. Thoughts and prayers, Marian, and I’m glad you shared.

453. I have been following your blog for the last few months and it is interesting that I read it today. I have a 4 year old boy who was similarly diagnosed with type I diabetes a year and a half ago when he was 2. I was feeling the very same things as you when we found out. Like you said, there were things that were not right, like he was urinating a lot. I mean a lot. He was wetting through his sheets twice a night and I went through a case of diapers in a week….odd. But it was summer and hot and I could rationalize it away. There was also behavioral issues where if the temperature changed at all or we went outside to play he would have a melt down if I did not have a water bottle for him and he could not deal with stress at all. He was a busy child anyway and I thought it might be just a coincidence. Two is hard sometimes.

     I went on for a couple of weeks and then I thought, I had heard about symptoms like this in people with diabetes and thought I would check with my pediatrician and see what he though. I thought it was weird to ask the pediatrician if it was weird if my son was drinking a lot, so I scheduled a wellness exam and sure enough he had type I diabetes, just like your son.

     I just want you to know, that, yes it is difficult at first to manage all the information they give you, but I promise it will come with time. It is hard to mess up. If you give too much insulin, you just feed them. If you give to little you give a little bit more. You will be amazed at how your son will adapt to the shots or pump and all the poking that goes with it. Children are amazing. And you, will get used to having to administer all of the shots and counting carbs and all the figuring that goes with it. Be patient. It will come.

     You are also correct about it being a blessing. It is hard when your child has a chronic disease, but count your blessings. It is something that is treatable. We live in an amazing time when there is so much available for us in terms of medicine. It is not cancer, or muscular dystrophy, or any of the hundreds of other things that can go wrong with kids. Your son will be different than the other kids because it does take quite a bit of care, but he will get used to it and it will just become part of him. It is not too much to expect to also have him be responsible for taking care of it himself and that will be a great help as well.

     I wish you luck and if you need anybody to talk to about difficulties or challenges you face, I would love to share what I know if you want to email me. Time has an amazing way of making things normal and changing our perspectives.

     Good luck and God bless,
     Danette Johnson

454. Thank you for sharing your story! I have kept you and your family in my prayers!

455. Just catching up on your blog a bit today Marian – and I’m sorry you have to deal with this – and yet I hesitate to even say ‘I’m sorry’ because God is good – all the time. And the trials He hands us always work out for our good. I love your attitude and I love that photo of your little darling. One thing that came to me immediately is your journey to a healthier lifestyle for yourself and I had to think how much better you are set to handle something like this than I would be. You already eat healthy yourself and I’m sure that carries over to your children. The transition to low sugar stuff and healthy eating for your son seems so much better from where you are than from where I am and what my kids eat! God is so good and works things out for us when we don’t even know it. All that being said I know it is still going to be an adjustment and there will be hard times. I pray God carries you and gives you strength as you find that new normal.

456. He is beautiful…
     He is alive…
     He can talk and he can walk…
     He can think and he can understand…
     He can write and he can draw…
     He can play and have friends…
     He is amazing!!!!
     He is your son!!!!

     Mine?
     He is beautiful and alive and can walk..
     He is my son, my hero, my angel….

     Celebrate his cans!!!!

     (This post just brought on my tears – I can’t stop crying – I guess I needed to do this…
     b/c my can-nots for him are so endless…. there are days when I can’t imagine going on another minute b/c life has thrown so many challenges our way… The seizures, the sickness, the endless nights, the triple diagnoses – what was life like before autism? what was life like before profound mental retardation – there are so many words for it that I don’t even know the politically correct word anymore… what was life like before his grand mal seizure? Why? I had to do something that wasn’t grateful b/c God took more away from him – all the words/language he had – gone – no receptive understanding/ no expressive communication – not even pictures…. TBI? Did I complain? If i did, why him? Why not me? These are things that I cry about every day…. and more days than others…

     Celebrate his cans!!!!!
     xox

     1. Beautiful encouraging words. My heart and prayers to you too.

457. I pray God gives you and your family everything you need at just the right time.

458. First of all, KUDDOS to you, Mom, for knowing there was something “not quite right” with your kid! And yes, the diagnosis is life altering for your entire family. But you are infinitely flexible and adaptable and able to accommodate these changes.

     I have a niece who was diagnosed around the age of 6. She is doing great, survived the ups & downs of hormones and the rollercoaster that it has on their system. One thing that has REALLY helped her through middle school and high school was attending a diabetes camp here in the Dallas area (Gainesville). It is sponsored by UT Southwestern and is absolutely AWESOME and takes ALL ages. There is nothing like having friends and families who are going through the same thing become lifelong friends. It is how she was exposed to having a pump….a big decision for her. But after she spent a summer watching many transition to it, it was no big deal.

     Bottom line is…..there are resources. And there is life…..and it is good. Sending prayers and hugs your way……

459. Hi Marian – I’m so sorry to hear of your son’s diagnosis. I’m sure it must be scary for you all. I have a client who’s son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes right before the last birthday party we planned together. We had to quickly educate ourselves about safe foods for him. Anyway, Angie has a few Pinterest boards that might be helpful to you. This one is more information/inspiration: http://www.pinterest.com/AngiePinsLots/diabetes/ and this one is about healthy eating: http://www.pinterest.com/AngiePinsLots/health-and-fitness/. Best of luck to you!

460. We were with your awesome daddy last night and he told us your news. Just want you to know I am praying for you as you learn to manage this diagnosis. May God give you wisdom, strength and peace as you navigate it all. Blessings!

461. Marian,
     I can’t imagine how hard this must be for you and your family. I think your outlook is simply outstanding and so true. We all have a part to play in Gods plan, and He will provide.

     My prayers to you and your family.

     Hugs!
     Kerri

462. I wish I could hug you and Tello you that IT will all be all right.. But since I’m all the way in Puerto Rico I’m sending my hugs this {{{{ }}}. And telling you that IT will be all right. I’m a kindergarten and first grade teacher and know that kids are so resilient, he’ll be fine. Besides, he’s got you as a mom and you are a terrific mom. There are diabetic kids in our elementary school and they are just great. Keep the faith and know that once you get to know all you need to know and teach him, it will be like second nature to all of you. For now, you and all your family are in my prayers. I hope to one day be able to meet you and see you in action. You are one great lady. Thanks for sharing with us your work and life. You are an inspiration to many!

463. My heart goes out to you. I’ll keep you in my thoughts & prayers.

464. You are so blessed and have so much to be thankful for. I know that you know that. You’re right, some parents get much worse news about their child. Praise God it’s diabetes. Oh that just doesn’t sound nice to say but remembering it could be so much worse…? I will keep your sweet one, and your family, in my prayers.

465. Sending you some uplifting words that help me through when I need it the most…..

     1. The will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you.
     2. Don’t you give up. Don’t you quit. You keep walking. You keep trying. There is help and happiness ahead…It will be alright in the end. Trust God and believe in good things to come.
     3. The secret to joy is to keep seeking God where we doubt He is.
     4. The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still. (Exodus 14:14)
     5. Have patience, God isn’t finished yet. (Philippians 1:6)
     6. Let your hope make you glad. Be patient in time of trouble and never stop praying. (Romans 12:12)

     Blessings to your family Marian.

466. My daughter Piper was diagnosed at the age of six, 28 years ago. My heart was broken. Today there are so many strides made in the treatment of diabetes that if their glucose is kept under control, a person can lead a healthy life. Someday, hopefully a cure for diabetes will be seen in your son’s lifetime! I am a nurse and the best advice is educate, educate, educate. I pray your son will also be active in learning about his body and keeping it healthy. There are juvenile diabetes camps all over and I encourage that for any child. My daughter had a very hard time because she “wanted to be like everyone else.” and there they can see they are not alone. Acceptance and responsibility go hand in hand with diabetes. Prayers for you and your family. Blessings to you all and an extra xo for that sweet little boy.

467. Marion
     So sorry to hear the news about your son. Praying that you will feel God’s love and care in a huge measure as your family works through all the details. Rhondi xo

     1. I think we might know each other from high school, in Williamstown WV, send me a message!

468. The disease itself is not the biggest problem, even though it seems so at first. The attitude toward it can be the true enemy. Not letting him think of himself as “sick”, and not letting others treat him as ‘sick” will be so important. My thoughts and prayers are with you, your son, and your family as you meet this challenge.

469. First- I want to tell you how much I love your blog and how much you have inspired me in so many ways.

     Second- My heart aches for you and all your family is facing. My second son was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes just before his second birthday. He is now 10 years old. It has been a roller coaster of learning and emotions. It can feel overwhelming.
     He has been on an insulin pump for about five years and it is so much easier. Less strict diet and less pokes.

     You probably aren’t to this point yet- but please email with any questions you may have or just want to talk about it. I will be praying for your family through this storm.

470. It will all be Ok, just take a little time to adjust and everything will fall into place….sending you thoughts and prayers.

471. Ouch, that’s rough. I have a son who has autism, and believe me, that was hard to hear. I felt like he had died. .Prognosis with autism generally isn’t good, but my guy is now 22 and is talking, holding long conversations about movies and videogames and breaking them down with his brother (they broke the fourth wall, (meaning the actor spoke to the unseen audience,etc.)
     He couldn’t answer a question till he was five.
     It will get better…

472. Your perspective is so admirable. Prayers to you and your son.

473. I’ve been busy with work and just catching up on your blog. I am so sorry to hear about your son’s diagnosis. As a mother of four, my heart aches for you, your son and family. I will lift him as well as you in prayer. You are a strong woman and will work through this challenge. God bless!

474. My boyfriend of several years was diagnosed with Type 1 while we were in college, and at the time, it was really daunting. Not just the new way of life, but all the information about what could happen if the condition wasn’t managed properly. It was scary and overwhelming. But a friend told me that eventually, his diabetes would not seem like big pieces of furniture in the room, but more like wallpaper. It would color and affect everything, but also just sort of blend into the background. It was really helpful and comforting to me, and I thought the decor metaphor might appeal to you, too.

     Good luck, and I know you’ll figure out how to make it work for your family.

475. Marion, I just wanted to send you a note to say I will pray for your family. Your little boy is so sweet, thank you for sharing the photo, and your news. It helps to know many people are pulling for you, and that you are not alone.

476. Hmm, everything for a reason…and I agree that you will get the hang of things which will undoubtedly help others, you are a voice for a reason Marian, and your little one will benefit in more ways than one having you as a mother. Love to you all.

477. Marian : my heart goes out to you as I too was that Mom feeling overwhelmed scared & sad 6 years ago. My son was dx in 7th grade with type 1 diabetes . I remember sitting in the endocrinologist office after being sent directly over from pediatrician office with over 600 blood glucose level and crying the whole 4 hours of crash diabetes training 101. I cried the whole 4 hours we were with the diabetes trainer & I know she was thinking ” lady, you need to pull it together!”. remember thinking who is a nurse on our street, I must beg to see if she can come over once a day for his shot. There is no way I can give a shot. Before we left the office my husband and I gave each other a saline shot to each other for practice . I also learned a shot once a day was an very uneducated guess as he really is testing 5-6 times a day and an insulin injection 3-4 times a day. But my heart was sooo very sad for my son who already had some other medical challenges : thyroid, …… I also wondered what life was going to look like, how kids were going to treat him and just every day life the more she told us and the formulas she was telling us to figure out his dose for insulin. I can tell you now he is a happy healthy successful smart college student with a part time job ad Dairy Queen ( imagine that ! Lol )great place for a diabetic huh? He has been on a pump for 2 1/2 years now . It gets easier, WE ADJUSTED & learned a lot with our great docs & their office. the pump has been amazing for him to fine tune his management of his diabetes & he didn’t really want it at first. We have traveled internationally & he has traveled alone just fine . I want to give you HOPE and just let you know I am here if you have any questions or just want to cry on my shoulder or vent . I will tell you one of the most empowering things he did was give a speech in his health class in 7th grade . He told his classmates what exactly is type 1 diabetes, how his pancreas stopped working and all that he had to do to manage it. It really made him feel like he was educating his friends on what he was really going thru and shut down silly young ignorant thinking. I will keep you all in my prayers as you transition to this unknown . Hugs my friend

     1. Susan, what great information that you shared. So happy to hear that your son is doing so well at college and loved the part about working at Dairy Queen! Your son’s story was inspiring. Thanks for sharing.

478. I have not gone through all of the messages left on the site but I thought I’d share something that might be helpful. I am a Type 1 diabetic. I have been since age 9. I’ll be 41 in March. Things have changed significantly since I was diagnosed – thank goodness! More importantly, I’d recommend joking the JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) – you can find them on Facebook, Twitter, etc. the best thing my parents ever did was say “We are so sorry this has happened. It isn’t what we’d want for you but it is what you have and you have to live with it. We will figure it out together.” Ii went to music camp a week after I was diagnosed because there was a nurse and I’d been looking forward to it for 2 years. And I was fine. I was a competitive swimmer from 4th grade through high school. I babysat for years for a little girl at our church who was a Type 1. Cheerleading, drama, speech and debate, graduating from a college out of state, being married and having a beautiful little boy who is now a teenager. – I’ve been able to do it all and have Type 1. I didn’t enjoy the juvenile diabetes camps – it just wasn’t for me (you know your kid, it will or it won’t be something he enjoys but it is there which is great). My health is not 100% perfect and I’ve developed other autoimmune disorders but my eye sight is fine, my kidneys are doing okay, and I haven’t lost a toe, foot, or any other appendage. You will hear so many things in the next several years but trust your instincts – you will be educating yourself and you know your child. It IS going to be okay.

479. I echo the sympathies written here and send my own to you and your family. My son, 2 1/2, was diagnosed just this past September and, as I read your post, I vividly remembered the feelings you so aptly described: the mixture of relief and gratitude that the diagnosis was not worse, that the resources and treatment are plentiful, and also the sense of worry and loss at the start of a new path for your son, self, and family. Sadly, no words of reassurance will take away the diagnosis and although it is true that a new normal will be established and they are making new strides in science technology, etc. it is also important to allow your son, yourself, and your family to feel the different stages of loss and acceptance as they present themselves to you each, though not necessarily in the same way or at the same time. It is a major transition for everyone in the family, although it is manageable. There are days where you’ll feel on top of your game and others where you’ll feel worn down and done with the extra hassle around every meal. In some ways, Type 1 diabetes is like you’ve had another child join the family. At first, like a newborn, the diabetes will need a lot of deliberate care and focus, but as time goes on, it will not be as time intensive and you all will become used to how it fits into your family. From my family to yours, we wish you all the best on your own journey and hope to see you on the other side: a cure for our sons.

480. Marion,
     I’ve just read this post as I am behind on my blog reading. I have had Type 1 diabetes for almost 30 years. God has been so good to me. He has used this in my life to help me trust Him fully each day, often times meal to meal, blood sugar check to blood sugar check. Feed your son the best healthiest foods you can, get some exercise, learn how insulin works, but most importantly, rely on God to make it all work together. I cannot tell you how many times God has used my health to minister to and encourage others. It happens all the time, and I say thanks to the Lord for allowing me to suffer in His name and for His glory! Lately I had been convicted to feed my body in a way that acknowledges fully that my body is God’s temple. I highly recommend The Daniel Plan by Rick Warren and others. This diagnosis may have surprised you, but it didn’t surprise our Heavenly Father. As the Psalm says, He is our ever present help in time of trouble. You might not imagine this now, but they day will come when managing this disease is 2nd nature to your family!
     Praying God’s grace for you as you learn to live with chronic disease,
     Donna

481. hello dear marian,
     I found this wonderful blog called Delighted Momma. She writes about family and personal care and recipes. The reason I wanted to share her with you is that she writes about being diagnosed at age 7 with Type 1. She’s now 27 . I thought she would be such a great source of encouragement and help to you.
     Blessings-

482. Oh my heart aches for you because I went through the same thing with my boy when he was three. There really is an adjustment period (I felt like I was grieving a death). Instead I was grieving my old life. Wow! all I can say is do your very best. There will be times when his blood sugar is high and sometimes when it is low and you haven’t changed a thing in his routine. Don’t fret and think you’re a bad mom. Just do the very best you can everyday. In time it will seem very normal to you and you can live your life to the fullest. My son is now 16 and is healthy and strong. We still have our ups and downs but diabetes doesn’t control us. We make the best of it and I have to say 13 years later that life is great! Give yourself some time for figure it out. You will do a great job taking care of your little boy!!!!

483. Dear Marianne,
     Do your best, angels can do no more. This is what my grandmother always told me and it is a comfort. Please give your family big hugs and you will get on the other side of this bump in the road. Prayers to you all………..

484. Your son has the most gorgeous green eyes, breathtaking! Prayers for him and your family as you learn your new normal.

485. Marion,
     My heart hurts for you and so very sorry about your news. Our children are the most important thing in our lives. We want all harm and sorrow to never come their way. My three children are all in their 40’s now and that never stops.
     God does not make mistakes and more so, he gives some of us something for good. You will never know what it is for a long time and only he will know for sure. You must have Faith. I am sure that he can as he grows up can be a wonderful witness to other children and their families. I know it is a life change for all of you;but not as bad as you think. In no time everything that you and him need to do will go very smoothly.
     Most important is stay close to Jesus. Ask Him daily for strength and knowledge. He will not leave your side; but you must ask for His help. We all need to be so close to God these days and days to come. The devil is out there trying to get everyone he can.
     I will pray for all of you . I know it is difficult but consider it as a blessing. We don’t know why; but I am sure it is. I have had a condition that is called the suicide desease. It is the most painful condition known to mankind. I have had to call it a blessing. I witness to other people who come down with this horrible condition. I know that is why I am allowed to have it. I have had it for 6 years. I did not really realize what it was until 2 years ago.
     Take good care of yourself. Thanks for sharing this will all of us. You are such a charming lady.
     God bless you and keep you close,
     Cheryl Lewark