Clubbing with T1D

Despite this post's exciting title - I did not, nor have I in recent memory - gone clubbing.  I, dear friends, was referring to my headlong jump into diabetes-related activities.  Last week, me and other members of the JDRF Walk Team T1DWTF (join or donate now!), went to not one, but two, baseball games all in the name of T1D.  

First on Tuesday, six of the crew headed to see the Oakland A's take on the Los Angeles A's (Oakland won if you are curious). As one of the top-fundraising teams for the JDRF walks, we won tickets to watch the game in style from one of the outfield suites along with some other top fundraisers.  Not only did we get sausages delivered to the room but there was a uncrowded bar in walking distance and most important - a private bathroom. Also, we got a good view of a crew of about 40 folks who apparently attend most, if not all, of the A's games, wave flags and perform, in unison, the "Bernie" dance.   

Friday was the 'big' day in that it was the Kickoff Party for the Bay Area Walk to Cure Diabetes at the SF Giants game which was a tailgate party followed by watching the game as a crowd. It was also the first time to really engage with the JDRF and see what it's all about. Turns out it's about nice people, good food and a great cause. I couldn't have asked for a better evening in the city. It was gorgeous outside and not only were there lots of teammates present but I also got to meet a woman who connected with me via my blog, check in with some of the point people from different support groups in the area (who gave me great advice, contacts, and were incredibly gracious) and I saved a boy.

That's right, you heard it here first - I saved a boy. Well saved him from high fasting blood sugars, but I'll take the win just the same. His family had accidentally left his Lantus (long-lasting insulin) at home. Because of the way this insulin works, it's really critical that you take it around the same time each day so that you don't go without any insulin in your system when the fast-acting insulin wears off. So yay on my first diabetes share (don't worry medical personnel - I had extra pen needles). 

Save for the Giants loss and a low BG reading (it did justify stadium food however), the night was tremendous. Although this was certainly not a club I was seeking, it's one that I do look forward to being a part of. It's amazing the comfort that comes with shared experience. I have been so refreshed by the attitude, grace and overwhelming kindness of those that I have reached out to and those that have reached out to me. In the coming weeks, I hope to get to know everyone a little better, feel a bit more at home at these kinds of events, and hopefully one day I'll be able to help someone do the same.  

Half of Team T1DWTF (and Kevin!) - just wait till we have our team shirts people - it will be epic.