A Christmas Poem

Type 1 and LADA
1

Posted by my friend in 2008, after her young daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

T’was the night before Christmas

My Dexcom went beep.

And so rudely awoke me,

From a deep, cozy sleep.

The juice boxes are lined up

On my dresser with care.

In the event that I need one,

They will always be there.

Then what to my wondering eyes

Did I find?

But a normal blood sugar,

That gave peace of mind.

I then heard the noises

From downstairs below,

And heard Santa laughing,

Ho ho ho ho ho.

He said to me, now what would you like??

I answered him,

Santa, help me rid of this fright.

I spend my days worried

about the highs and the lows,

and the long term affects,

because nobody knows.

and while visions of sugarplums

dance in my head.

I count all the carbs,

With anxiety and dread.

I so want a cure

For this disease to be gone.

To throw out the insulin

And needles so long!

And Santa said,

The two things you need,

Are things you have now,

Just remember to believe.

The first one is Faith,

and I’m sure you’d agree.

That God’s always there,

Even though you can’t see.

The second is Hope,

and it’s what keeps us going,

so pray for all people,

and your faith will keep growing.

And then with a wink

And a twitch of his nose,

He blew me a kiss

And up the chimney he rose.

So I sat by the tree

And I said a long prayer,

For families with diabetes,

Who were full of despair.

I felt very peaceful,

Full of much Christmas cheer;

And thanked God for that insulin,

That keeps her here! :slight_smile:

8 Likes
2

I know I replied on a different platform, but truly this is soo well done. Love it and it’s so true.

1 Like
3

How beautiful as it reminds us that we should count our blessings and be grateful that we have a condition that is treatable. While diabetes always will be a part of our lives, it does not have to be our entire focus on life, nor does it have to define each of us. So be smart about taking care of yourselves, but love those around you, feel good helping others, bask in the glory of each new sunrise, and be thankful that each day gives you new opportunities for life, love, and joy.

2 Likes
4

Yes it reminds me that this community is first generation insulin users. Maybe also second third and fourth.
But since 1921 was the first time insulin was used it means that no one before that time survived.

If I had a type 1 grandparent, he or she would likely have not lived to have kids

We are all very fortunate that we have it no matter how irritating it is.

I condenser myself on my second life.
First one ended in 1986. Second one started the same day.

That means my current life puts me at 34.5 years old.

All those years are a big gift, marriage and a daughter and a career all would have never happened.

Not so poetic but very poignant.

3 Likes
5

Edit:. Apologies. I deleted my original response to @Timothy I didn’t realize this was the Christmas poem thread when I posted. I thought this was the life expectancy thread, where my response would have been more appropriate. Didn’t mean to drag down a sentimental thread reminiscing about what I remember of my Type 1 Grandma.

2 Likes
6

Honestly, I would have loved to have read that! Hopefully there will be an opportunity for you to post about your Type 1 Grandma in an existing or newly created topic. :smiley: :hugs:

John

2 Likes
7

@Richard157 I love this Christmas poem. I have always been a fan of the poetry style. I wish to offer my verson for everyones enyoyment. I wrote my version quite some time ago and have posted it here several times over the years. I hope everyone enjoys it as much as I enjoyed what you have just posted.

D Night Before Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house
Not a creature was stirring not even a mouse

I had just settled down and was so soundly sleeping
When all of the sudden my CGM started beeping

I arose from my slumber and looked at the screen
With down pointing arrows I am low it does seem

As I sat in the kitchen treating my low
I can’t help but notice the beauty of the new fallen snow.

With BG recovered I head back to my bed
When I come across a gentleman all dressed in red

Forgive Dear Santa I’m not here to spy
Diabetes required attention I hope you understand why

I know you my child and I know of your burden
There was a tear in his eye of this I am certain

I remember your wishes from so long ago
That I can not fulfill them still troubles me so

To change you this night is not within my power
If my magic could cure I would do so this hour

Thank you Dear Santa, I know you must take flight
With so many children to visit this night

With this he did exit my humble home
Off into the night in his sleigh he did roam

I heard him exclaim as he rode out of sight
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT

4 Likes
8

@Stemwinder_Gary, that is another very good poem. Thanks for posting! :slight_smile: