March 2014

For as long as I can remember and especially the last 6 years living with multiple food intolerances, I bring food with me wherever I go. It can be anything from a full balanced meal to one snack or two (or more!) if it’s a long day away from home. I take my health seriously and do not chance getting hungry or low while away from home. It is not easy to find food that is free of gluten, corn, nuts, refined sugar and dairy in a pinch.

A number of years ago a family physician that worked at my previous endocrinology clinic let me know about a diet exemption card — it allows someone with diabetes to safely bring food with them wherever they go (no restrictions), including the Twins baseball games my husband loves so much! Seldom do I have to pull it out, but tattered and torn and expired since 12/2/09*, it has come in handy a few times to let authorities know there are several important medical reasons I need my healthy food and not the crap sold at concession stands! Of course, if you are enjoying a treat at an event, no judgment at all! I would be partaking once in a while too in nachos, popcorn, ice cream or chicken strips if I could!

*Why do these expire anyway? Makes no sense!

Another T1 (Thanks Thea!) shared an article this morning of a Type 2 in New York that was escorted out of a movie theater for eating strawberries (link below). Ridiculous! After a google search, I was able to find a new diet exemption card that I was able to print myself (yes, I’ll have to admit, it was an exciting moment for me… lol) – that I’ll have my endocrinologist sign at my next visit. Although this is for the state of Minnesota, I am sharing it here with you to possibly use (I have never had anyone read the fine print on the back of the card) or as an idea to check into if your state may offer this handy and necessary tool to ensure our health and safety as individuals with diabetes and/or food sensitivities/Celiac, etc. I recommend doing a Google search and entering in your state + diet exemption card to see if one is available for your state to guarantee the efficacy of the card for you.

Does anyone else carry one? Have you heard of a diet exemption card before? It means business! Lol. 🙂

Ridiculous article of snack-eating T2 pulled out of theater: http://nypost.com/2014/03/28/theater-calls-cops-on-diabetic-man-with-strawberries/
Printable Diet Exemption Card: http://www.health.state.mn.us/diabetes/products/dietcard.html

In Peace, Light & Health,

Cynthia

Too cute. A Mom of a T1 contacted me (due to my food intolerances) to ask what would be a good gluten and nut free pre-packaged snack to bring for treat day at her daughter’s school. As I have made a conscious choice to cut way back on processed food, I was at a loss of what to suggest that wouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. I assumed that the gluten and nut free treats were for her 12 year old Type 1 daughter — I was informed otherwise. Her daughter is just fine but there are two other kids in class – one who cannot eat gluten and another who cannot eat nuts. This sweet T1 girl said, “The other kids bring in things like cupcakes for all, and the girl who is on a gluten free diet doesn’t get anything…” Not wanting for any child to feel left out, she worked with her mom to find a safe snack that everyone could enjoy. Eventually deciding on individual bags of carrots and little boxes of raisins for each child. Perfect!

I was just so touched by her heart. Diabetes is really a challenging and at times unbearable condition that I wouldn’t wish on anyone. But… this is a perfect example of how diabetes can change even the littlest of souls. And help us be better people — kinder and more considerate of others and their needs because of the pain and struggles we’ve endured. I wanted to share this touching story with you to remind you that there is beauty in the struggles. Love despite the pain.

Bless this young T1’s heart and all the little T1’s out there who are learning what the true meaning of empathy is and are truly wise beyond their years.

*Thank you to the mother who graciously allowed me to share her story and provided me with this sweet picture.

**Story originally published on the Facebook page for Diabetes Light.

In Peace, Light & Health,

Cynthia

A Diet Exemption Card: Why You Need One!

Carrots and Raisins: A Lesson in Empathy