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you would like to have your family featured on this page,
please contact Teresa Howard at
(269) 792-6552
or teresamhoward@yahoo.com |
Melanie's Story
In September 2005 my daughter Melanie was complaining
of stomachaches. At first, I didn't think anything of
them but after getting tired of hearing about them, I
decided to bring her to the doctor. After a test was
completed her blood sugar was at a dangerous level of
500. We were sent immediately to the endocrinologist
for diabetes training and insulin management.
Initially we were shocked, not knowing anyone in our
family affected by Diabetes. I also felt terrible for
not responding sooner to her complaints.
Melanie and I spent the day learning about Diabetes
and how to give insulin. Since then, we have really
struggled with her disease and managing it. Melanie
has been admitted to the hospital six times for
ketoacidosis. We struggle a lot with diet and
Melanie's acceptance of her illness.
Along with Melanie's struggles, I am a single parent
with an eight year old son who has Downs Syndrome and
a six year old daughter who has severe ADHD. With all
of this, we are trying to keep our heads above water
and keep Melanie out of the hospital.
We recently started a full intensive insulin therapy
program and Melanie's A1c went from 10.4 to 8.2 which
is a sign of hope. Melanie has gone for the past two
years to the diabetes camp. She has started to attend
the JDRF support group. Melanie is in sixth grade at
West Side Christian School. Melanie has missed a lot
of school this year because she has experienced a lot
of ketones.
At Melanie's age she wants to be like other kids
especially those who don't have Diabetes which
contributes to our struggle with Diabetes. Melanie is
on a high dose of Lantus, I get up twice a night to
test her because she has several lows which have
required emergency intervention. One low was treated
but Melanie remained unresponsive and was admitted to
the hospital.
As you can see, our family faces many challenges and
limited social support. If anyone is interested in
mentoring Melanie you can contact me, Helene at
616-458-3911.
