I used to feel so weird and guilty when I would go out to eat with some new acquaintances who don't know much about me but do know that I have diabetes. Time would come to order dessert and the shocked look around the table when I would order and oh my god actually eat it. But it's not sugar free?! She's going to die!
If I'm seen eating a piece of candy people start to judge me and tell me I can't eat that or they'll think I'm not taking care of myself. People I am taking care of myself. In fact I am working my ass off trying to be and stay healthy. Maybe that candy was for a low or maybe it was a craving I'm finally giving into. Or maybe it is because sugar free candy causes horrible gastrointestinal issues that I can't even look at it before I'm running to the bathroom clutching my stomach in pain.
The amount of grace and patience it takes to deal with unwanted and/or misguided Diabetes advice can take a toll on any person.
DP: You there, put down that cookie.
PWD: What? Who? Me?
DP: Yes you. You have diabetes and can't eat that.
Problem is, I don't think I know how to deal with them. I mean after over 20 years with diabetes I should know; I should be a pro. But I'm not. A lot of the time I just brush it aside and just smile and nod. Other times I may seem like I'm just brushing it aside when in reality I'm telling them off in my head. The worst is when they give me sugar free candy. That stuff makes me so sick to my stomach. I would rather bolus for the carbs in regular candy and not get sick to my stomach.
How do you handle the Diabetes Police? What is the worst you've encountered?
