In January of 2011 we had taken a vacation to my home state. During the 10 hour drive home my 3 year old son was feeling sick. At first I chalked it up to the trip and maybe catching a little bug. The next week I noticed he was drinking more and more and was just not back to 'normal' yet. I have two brothers with diabetes and knew the signs. I told my husband that I thought Ethan was diabetic and called his pediatrician. I was told by the receptionist that they could get him in the following week for an appointment. I argued that it was urgent and I knew what was wrong. After demanding that I speak with his doctor right away, his doctor told me to get there within the hour. I was there within 10 minutes. After a short blood test my fears were confirmed, WE had diabetes. (It's OUR disease not his.)
Ethan was given insulin right away and we had an appointment the following morning in Milwaukee. He didn't need hospitalization because I knew the signs and was adamant that he be seen that very day. I thank God that I trusted my gut.
Ethan is now a happy, healthy, pump wearing, 6 year old boy that loves Mario! We walk for a cure and have helped to get a golf outing started in our area. We just held the second annual golf outing this past week.
In May 2005 I lost my younger brother, then in February 2012, I lost my older brother to diabetes. I know the ugly and refuse that fate for my son.
January 24th 2011 will be forever in our minds as the day our life changed. It is the day that made us stronger and closer as a family and to God. It is a day we became Diabetes advocates and educators to the public. It is the day our superhero began to show us his strength. It is now a day we celebrate with a diagnosis party, to celebrate all of these things.
Appleton, WI
