At Least You’re Not Dead
My medical team is amazing. And I’m grateful for the countless others that have positively contributed to my care along the way.
Of course there are the outliers I’d love to lecture for being insensitive and misinformed. And honestly, I usually do. However my approach has dramatically improved over the years.
Some of my favorites:
“How many candy bars did you eat today? Blood sugars don’t rise like this for nothing.”
“You better take care of yourself, or you’ll be blind and have no legs by the time you’re 25.”
“There is no difference between types of diabetes. All you claiming to be type 1 just want to feel special.”
“My grandfather has a stoma. He got it when he was 86 and just turned 95. His life hasn’t been impacted.”
“My mom has a stoma and it’s been a disaster. She hates it and wishes she never had the surgery.”
“My cat has diabetes too. It’s really difficult for her to deal with.”
“At least you’re not dead.”
I was back to the ER for a stoma block that wouldn’t surrender gracefully.
I was in pain. My blood sugar was angry. And I felt defeated. I started the usual, what did I do wrong? Why can’t I fix this?
I also prepared for the doctor reveal. Who would it be this time? Would they understand? Or simply jump on the, “what did you do wrong this time” bandwagon my mind drives so well.
As the door slowly opened, I prepared for the worst.
I was met with a caring, careful, fact finding doctor. He didn’t simply judge or assume, but asked questions.
Then said, “you’re the expert and know your body. I’d like to run a few tests but is there anything I’m missing that has helped in the past?”
Do what?
Did we just become colleagues? Do I get my own coffee mug?
It was refreshing to collaborate with a doctor I’d never met before. One that realized quickly how seriously I take my health and wanted to work with me to resolve the situation.
Thankfully the med and fluid approach worked and I was well enough to go home to continue recovering.
History has involuntarily transitioned me to go on defense as soon as the door opens. But this doctor proved me wrong, and I hope the next one does as well.
