I'll be honest here and tell you that I spend a lot of time complaining. About various things, to be sure, but a favourite target of mine consists of things that I would change, if I could, to make my diabetic life a little easier –or at least more pleasant. So here is my list, as it currently stands, of things that would be different and/or better if diabetics were running the show. Feel free to add any additional ideas in the comments section!
ALL clothing would include smart, pump-friendly details and pockets. Think swimsuits, formal wear, pyjamas, dresses, etc., etc., etc.
Sharps containers would be everywhere, just like garbage cans and recycling bins, because I don't really like carrying around used needles and things. It always makes me feel a little shady.
There would always be Splenda. Everywhere.
Every public bathroom stall would have a fold-down tray table, like on airplanes, so I could test and/or inject easily and discretely, and not drop things on the floor. Every time.
Restaurants would always give a countdown to when my food will be ready, so I can pick the perfect time to bolus. Plus, all menus would include accurate carbohydrate counts, in addition to a variety of delicious low- and no-carb options!
Insurance companies would not get to decide how many test strips or needles or insulin I can use in a given time. And I'd have more of a say in what is considered necessary for my own diabetes care (and should be covered by said insurance companies!).
Glucose tabs and other necessary but non-medical items would never be kept behind the counter at drug stores.
Airport security would always let me bring juice in my carry-on. Not just sometimes, when they happen to feel compassionate.
Chocolate would be magically and deliciously carb-free. And not in the weird way that sugar-free chocolate is currently and questionably made. No, this chocolate would be good!
People would just know what an insulin pump looks like, so I wouldn't have to awkwardly answer questions about it. And for that matter, they would also all know what a low looks like (like my mom does!), which would save me the embarrassment of explaining myself and my ridiculous (and sometimes alarming) behaviour.
There would definitely be a cure by now.
The world would be an even better place!
Doctors wouldn't give just 3 refills on my prescriptions for insulin, test strips, and other things I will very likely need everyday for the rest of my life. Is there some law against double-digit refills??