FEBRUARY 28TH, 1986

Thirty nine years is a long time to remember anything outside of a birth; marriage or a friendship. What I remember is the start of a moment that changed my life for the good. Friday, February the 28th of 1986 was the day I saw a Doctor for what I thought was the flu. It was not the flu. I was skinny; pale; terrible rash on my legs; couldn't ride a bike or swim. No balance. Quite emotional at times. Nausea and dizzy more often then not. To this day my memory is hazy in some places. Got sick a lot.

Blood was taken and the next day, Saturday March 1st, we found out why all this happened. I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and my my blood sugar was 1200. I should of been in a coma. I should of been dead. I walked into the Emergency Room on my own power. They had a crash kit ready for me. For twenty four hours I was on pure Insulin and no food. Doing this could of killed me. Not doing this would kill me. I didn't know most of this for years.

What I was upset at the time was that the Hospital did not get channel 11. I was going to be stuck in a hospital, hooked up to everything that took electricity, and no Doctor Who. What the hell.

My parents had my back on this. My dad signed the waiver solo so if it didn't work that Mom wouldn't be haunted by the judgement call. My Mom stayed with me throughout the whole week. She also learned how to cook healthier at home so no one would be left out. Dad made up charts to keep tabs on all my numbers and health overall. This was a failure is not an option. My brother and sister had my back too. Crazy at time but they were there for me. As to this day my wife daughter have those spots who was never intimidated by what I had to live with. That's love.

It was a long road back. New diet and would be taking injections at least twice a day. Good thing I already like fruits and vegetables. In time I got healthy. Learned to swim and ride a bike. The rash washed off my legs in the shower a few weeks later, literally. The years have been full of ups and downs. Been a struggle at times as Diabetes never goes away. Does a number on your brain; motor skills and everything in between. A tight rope crossing while holding a safe and blind folded.

I have been blessed with many people who have helped me through the years. I can never thank them enough. Had to apologize too for moments of induced anger and a times that I seemed drunk. I do not drink.

The disease is very unpredictable. The good outweighs the bad. I met my wife. Became a father. Shared some wonderful moments with my family and friends.  They all got my back when I needed themI have a good job with a clean bill of health.

I most of all am grateful to God for his grace. For never forgetting me. Never forsaking me. Granting me my talents to make this life mean something. Without HIM nothing is possible. With HIM everything will endure. I get there the long way round.