Thursday, July 17, 2014

New job or routine can mean a NEW card-to-insulin ratio!

So I worked in an office for the last 10+ years, typing away forming HTML code and editing photos, and mainly sat on my butt for 8 hours a day.  I remember when I would force myself to get up routinely for water and bathroom breaks....  My legs would need a good stretch, my neck was stiff, and I felt tired.  While I enjoy sitting on a regular basis, I finally convinced myself to take the leap and go for a TOTALLY different career where I would be active and on my feet.  I really wanted to be in a field where I would be helping others, and yet have a valuable skill.  This revolution mainly happened after I was diagnosed with diabetes.  Diabetes was the PUSH I needed when it came to trying to achieve ultimate happiness in my life.  I left my job shortly after and really did not hesitate once about the decision.  I always remember to remain positive about the future!  It can be bright :-)


I am pursuing a career in Ultrasound, Cardiac Ultrasound.  I found it interesting and challenging at the same time.  After a few longs months in the school of nonstop studying and test taking, full time, I finally started clinical sites at a local hospital.  I work 36 hours a week, shadowing other Sonographers, scanning patients hearts, and getting use to being in the field.  I get to talk to patients and help make a difference.  Coming from where I was, it is TRULY different...... that is the best way to describe it!

Being diabetic, using flex pens, you have the carb-to-insulin ratio that is SO very important.  You count your carbs per meal, and you inject - and done!  Well, that ratio was when I was sitting for eight hours, and not on my feet going to see patients in there hospital rooms pushing a very heavy ultrasound machine.  Needless to say, I was fighting lows the first 3 weeks and remained pretty nervous about going TOO low.  So of course, THEN I was fighting highs ... again, fearful of going too low.  These are the things I hate about diabetes.......but who would like them?  
I made the very conscious effort to STOP and redo the entire carb-to-insulin ratio.  It only took a few minutes to read my log book and see the changes.  My ratio went way down and my activity has definitely increased since I started this adventure.  I also remember to carry a few pieces of candy with me in my scrub pockets, that has definitely helped :-) 

I find it important to pay attention sooner than later, and in the end you will benefit and be happier.  For me, a more rewarding career, and to be in the environment where I can help others is definitely beneficial.  I think we would all agree Type 1 Diabetes is not terrible IF you have a control on it.  Control- meaning you know your limits on certain foods and/or you know how those foods will effect you...you pay attention to yourself!  It is all about loving and respecting yourself, diabetic or not.