I think this is the longest I've ever gone without posting. I've thought about posting a lot, but have not made time to do it.
I've been around. I've been reading blogs from time to time and I've commented a little here and there.
Here are some highlights.
* Holden is officially a Senior. I can't believe this is his last year of high school.
* My dad was diagnosed with throat cancer last week. He's going to a lot of doctor appointments. He will be starting radiation soon. I'm worried about him and my mom. The doctors are very optimistic that he will be fine. Still, I worry. I've only got one dad.
* Riley started first grade this week. I went the week before to educate his teacher. He is giving his own insulin this year and doing a great job with it. His teacher is also doing really well with helping him out. Still, I worry about him from time to time throughout the day.
* The school nurse job is going OK. It's more stressful than I thought it would be. I love the kids. It's the parents I don't like dealing with.
* Lately Riley has been saying: "Diabetes is stupid." and "I hate diabetes." Although I agree with him it's still hard to hear him say it.
* The kids starting back to school, my new job, and my dad's recent diagnosis have made the stress build up so much that sometimes it feels like I'm a rubber band being stretched so far that I'm in danger of snapping into.
* I received my school nurse test results today. I passed and am now officially a certified school nurse. The test was hard and I really wasn't sure if I passed or not. I had to pass it to get a raise. But, the raise isn't really a raise. It just puts my salary at what it was when I worked at home health. I had been worrying about what we would do financially if I didn't pass. When I got the results out of the mailbox I did a little dance in the driveway. A goofy, white dance. But, a dance none the less.
* There is a little girl in my school who is in 4th grade. She's had D since she was 2. Her mom goes to school with her every day and spends all day at school. She's afraid to leave her. I'm working with the mom on letting go a little at a time. It's helping the mom that I have a kid with D so I understand where she is coming from. I can't imagine how that mom does it. She really has no life of her own.
* I'm tired and I have a huge headache so I'm going to go now.
If you're still reading I'd love to know. I could use some good comment right about now.
19 comments:
Everything sounds like it's going really well overall, 'cept your dad. That sucks. Prayers are with him. And I hope that your support will help the other D mom. I think you'll definitely help her. You got a good head for diabetes so I think she'll listen to you - eventually.
::Hugs!::
Stay strong! Glad to see (read) you again. Sorry to hear about your dad, give him & your family all a hug (always seems to help!).
I have a 12yo son w/ D. I just found your blog. I'm sorry for all your stresses, but congrats on the job. I will pray for your dad. And I hope you can help that other mom.
S has had D for less than 2 years and yesterday started middle school. So much to worry about--getting his supplies to school, educating teachers, etc. I've forgotten what it was like to only worry about school supplies and backpacks.
Today S tested before getting on the bus and was allowed to come home to an empty house by himself. He called me when he got home. How normal for other kids his age. How incredibly huge for us.
From one diabetic to one diabetics mother: If you haven't cut out refined sugar and hydrogenated oils from your sons diet, then please try it. If you do this; be aware that his need for insulin may decrease drastically (beginning in the first week).
My prayers are with your dad.
I completely understand not posting. Do it when you want to.
Oh my, a senior! What a fun year. Please try to enjoy in between the angsts.
You're going to be a wonderful school nurse, and yup, the parents can be the pits.
Hang in there!
Penny,
I'm so sorry to hear about your Dad. You are all in my prayers.
Congratulations on passing your test. I knew you would!
Don't worry about not posting. I think you owe it to yourself to take time out whenever you feel the need.
Maybe the whole reason you found this job as a school nurse is to help that Mom. I know (as do you) how hard it is to let go. I know that you can help her to feel more comfortable and have a little time for herself.
Hang in there. Hopefully your stress will lessen soon. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Penny,
Congrats on passing the test. I am so sorry about your father. I will keep him in my thoughts and prayers. I am sure you are the most AWESOME school nurse ever. It is great what you are doing for the mother who has come to school everyday due to D. Keep you chin up Penny. Hugs from Wendy and Doggie kisses from Penny and lilly.
Hi Penny,
I was happy to see an update from you. Not so much about hearing about your dad. The outlook seems promising. I'll send good wishes to him and hopes his treatment and recovery is a swift one.
I'd love to hear details about the test. What does it entail and how is it administered and what kind of certification do you get?
I'm so sorry about your Dad -- hopefully his treatments will be swift and effective.
I wish so much you were my daughter's school nurse. I understand that other mom -- if I could I would never leave my daughters side. But I have to work; and really I think the more independent my daughter is the better for everyone. Probably no one could help that family as much as you can.
When you get the time I would love it if you would give advice on how to be a good parent talking to the school nurse. You see it from both sides so can give the best examples. My daughter won't go to kindergarten for two years and I'm already stessing about "the school nurse" and how not to screw that relationship up. -- Stellasmom
Great to hear from you Penny.
I'm sorry to hear about your dad, though it sounds like the docs are feeling good about him - so that's good! He'll be in my thoughts and prayers.
Hi Penny, I am so sorry to hear about your dad. Its always hard to hear the word cancer when it comes to family and loved ones, no matter the out look. I will pray for your family through these times.
Congrats on passing the exam!
Amber
Penny,
So sorry to hear about your Dad. I'll be in prayer.
I'm sure you'll be a great school nurse, even dealing with the parents....since you are one yourself.:-)
Thanks for the comments guys!!
I'm still out here reading, but like you, not nearly as much or as often. I haven't posted in months, but will get back to it eventually.
I know it must tug at your heart strings when Riley complains about 'D', I know it would mine. My youngest son is a 'little person' and while he never complains I know it grows tiring having people stare incessantly and while we've modified our home for him life is still tedious at times.
I hope as Riley matures he will be able to 'count his blessings'. I had a birthday yesterday and was counting my many blessings as this year I will celebrate(?) my 40th year w/diabetes (w/out complications) and while I don't enjoy it, I don't have to look far to see people in much worse shape.
Take care and stay strong!
I'm still here, Penny. I'm sending good wishes to you, your dad and the rest of the family.
I am delighted to read the comments from people who are praying for Penny's dad and my brother. We are all thankful for any prayers lifted up for him. I am feeling positive about his treatments and a cure. He is a very special man, I am proud to call him my brother.
Thanks for the prayers!
Penny's Aunt Linda
Wow, Penny, you've got a lot going on. I'm sure you feel pulled in lots of different directions, and I hope you can carve out a little bit of time for you so you can destress.
Sending prayers for your dad, congrats for Holden, hugs for Riley, and peace of mind to you!!!
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