Hello. Just want to let you know that we have a Family Resource Network in Jacksonville. We are supported by the American Diabetes Association. I've been a volunteer for FRN for years. We organize social and educational events, help families with back-to-school success, and link families together who know what we are going through. My son was diagnosed at age 7, and is a happy, healthy 15-year old today. Regarding sickness...I completely understand that you want to be ready to help him when and if the time comes. We were always a bit nervous about that too, because we heard some scary stories. First, don't be alarmed; you will handle it just fine. When your children are sick, you monitor them, right? That's what you'll do for you son with diabetes. You'll keep him pumpled up with fluids, give him something for the fever, monitor his blood sugar. Sometimes, he will need more insulin to bring down the high blood sugars, that's why you'll want to check more often. You'll also always want to have ketone sticks on-hand, and check for ketones while he's ill. Sometimes, ketons can even be present during normal blood sugars; more likely present during high blood sugars though; which is a signal (the ketones) that their body is not getting the proper amount of insulin to keep blood sugar in control. Really, you will do fine. Please feel free to call me if you like.
Take care and keep up your persistence in learning all you can!
Peggy, ###-###-#### during evenings and weekends.