***The Importance of Little Things that Inspire Us by Judi Moreo

Some time back I received this letter from one of my clients. It so touched my heart, I decided to share it with you. I take it out and read it from time to time as it reminds me how important doing little things are in our lives.

Dear Judi:

My Grandson, Tristen was diagnosed 7 months ago with Diabetes, Type I. This came as a huge surprise to us because Tristen is what they call a “natural athlete” so he has always been very active. His parents have watched what he ate – you know, no candy, no caffeine, etc. Tristen turned 10 in November.

One of Tristen’s major challenges is that his Pancreas still produces insulin so his numbers are all over the place. If his Pancreas was not producing, he would inject himself on a set ratio for the carbs he eats. However, because his body is still creating insulin, his adrenaline, emotions, and activity challenges his sugar level on a continuous basis which causes his body to be either high or low depending on the circumstances. When this happens, he not only has to inject himself when he eats carbs but must “correct” depending on whether he’s high or low.

Last year when you spoke at our District, you gave me a bracelet that says “Expect Miracles”. I wore this bracelet from time to time as an accessory until Tristen was diagnosed. At that time, I reached for the bracelet and realized that it was a perfect symbol of support and expectations for Tristen. He and I discussed the bracelet, it’s symbolism, and what it meant to each of us. I have worn the bracelet every day since then. He knows that this symbolizes our constant prayer for a miracle for him.

Last month, you gave me a bracelet that says “I am more than enough”. You also gave me one for Tristen. Once again, we had a discussion about his condition and how it relates to the bracelet. He wears this bracelet daily to remind him that he is indeed more than enough and I wear both bracelets.

I can’t close this message without telling you about this remarkable child. Diabetes Type I is a major change in anyone’s life, let alone a 10 year old athlete. I won’t say that his attitude is perfect every moment; who’s would be? I will say that these moments are few and far between. Tristen did his 5th grade science project on Diabetes and took the school’s first place. He has researched athletes with diabetes and learned that he can continue to be successful with the sports that he loves so much. Tristen is looking into starting a childrens’ Diabetes “walk” in his area to bring an awareness to the community. Since he is so strong in math and science, he’s beginning to talk about possibly going into medicine – perhaps he’s been chosen to find the “cure”. Tristen’s attitude is remarkable – he strives for a positive attitude, continues to live a “normal” life even when he has to inject during half time at soccer. We as adults could take lessons from this child and I am very proud of him.

When you gave me the first bracelet, I had no idea how important it would become in our lives. Tristen smiles when he sees it on my wrist and we all know that while we respect science and medicine, that we also hope and pray and “expect miracles”.

Thank you, Judi. You will remain in my heart and mind forever——I wear what you stand for every day!!

Val