Hi
@h4kr,
Like @ Ellie M,I was diagnosed a while ago, 1966 in fact, at age 13. As Ellie M said no gluco-meters, only two insulins both of which were unreliable in their absorption rates , no disposable syringes and needles, and pumps were just a glint in researchers' eyes. Urine testing, guessing and juggling insulin doses for the conditions at hand, learning by experience, diet and exercise were the orders of the days, weeks and years. Hypos were a reality to be faced and the funny stories which emanated from such events helped to counter the hard slog that is was back then.
Yet I hiked, sailed. canoed, got into university, worked as a health professional, sired children (which of course in nothing like giving birth to them !!) and am now retired and, at now 51 years on my old friend insulin, have had a total sum of: both cataracts removed/replaced and some nerve pressure and trigger finger releases. Of course I blame the Australian sun as a co-conspirator with the diabetes for my cataracts but I think other TIDs (Type 1 Diabetics) may have had similar experiences elsewhere.!!
My specialist tells me he now informs new Type 1 diabetics he sees with a recommendation to plan for normal age retirement, treatment and management is that good these days! I reckon he would be saying the same if he were speaking to your 8 year old.
I was also fortunate to be a volunteer at camps for diabetic children and their parents.
Camps provide a great way to destress, for children to see they are not alone and that fears like giving injections are common but can be overcome etc.
Some things I learned ( and I am still learning about).
One step at a time. Altering too many things at once causes confusion.
Check any changes etc with DSN/doctor first. People on this site have given you a lot to think about but changing insulin doses etc is for you to discuss with your DSN and doctor first. We can suggest but not advise/order changes. But seeing what the rationale for what has been suggested is a helpful way to learn.
Ask questions - that is how we learn and have a good communication line with your DSN and doctor and you have found this site and will no doubt build connections with other parents who face similar challenges with their diabetic children.
Explore and look for information _ There are posts on Libre readings, their accuracy and otherwise and comparisons with Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) which might to applicable in use with an insulin pump.
Learn about hypos( short for hypoglycaemia - low blood sugar) and how best to treat them (and see the section on this site) .Diabetes associations, medical books and professionals and other places of information regard
hypos are the more immediate concern and need the most attention. Diabetes complications take a long time to show, if they ever do and there is plenty of time to get things sorted with her blood sugars. Often my wife can tell if I am going low in blood sugar before I do, by my appearance, behaviour and using all her other senses. That is what
parents learn about their diabetic child and with experience and through time can pass on their observation to teachers, friends, siblings etc.
Give attention to all your children because they are all special, need love and sometimes siblings feel left out when parents have to pay so much attention to the one who has been unwell. And finding the correct balance between being too over-protective and too lassiez-faire takes time and experience
Plan ahead: hope for the best, plan for the worst: one attribute of TIDs is that they learn to plan for all eventualities, like taking extra food on an outing in case they have a hypo, or a meal is delayed or they are held up getting home. They pack and carry insulin, injection equipment, pump supplies, extra battery, testing kit and strips even when they expect to be home later on. The question they learn to ask is 'What if such and such happens. If I do not have a spare this or that can I get home in time? Do I have to rush to a chemist ? And Another important one, what if I go unconscious, how will people know I am a diabetic? soo..
Arrange identification e.g bracelet or necklace identifying who your daughter is, contact details, medical information etc No doubt your DSN and doctor will help with this.
I think I have said enough for now.
My Very Best Wishes to your daughter and you and your family.
