This article is sponsored by Blue Circle Health, a virtual care program providing no-cost comprehensive support for individuals living with type 1 diabetes.
It’s no secret that being a mom is a demanding job, filled with joy and challenges. Now, imagine navigating motherhood while managing type 1 diabetes. For mothers living with type 1 diabetes, the daily responsibilities of caring for a child can add even more layers of complexity to blood sugar management, meal planning, and stress levels.
That’s where organizations like Blue Circle Health come in. Blue Circle Health understands the unique needs of people living with diabetes, offering comprehensive services designed to empower and support them. Their approach focuses on personalized care, providing access to endocrinologists, certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians, and other healthcare professionals who can offer guidance tailored to the specific challenges faced.
From assistance with insulin pump management and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) interpretation to crafting healthy meal plans and addressing the emotional toll of managing a chronic condition, Blue Circle Health aims to reduce the burdens and enhance the quality of life for people with type 1 diabetes.
In this article, we’ll delve into real-life experiences and expert advice from three Blue Circle Health team members, Sherry Roberts, Becky Koerner, and Carrie Matuzsan, who are also moms living with type 1 diabetes.
Common Challenges Moms with Type 1 Diabetes Face
For Sherry, Becky, and Carrie, being a mom with type 1 diabetes brought forth a common concern: the potential for their children to inherit the condition.
Sherry’s biggest challenge was the persistent fear of her four children developing type 1 diabetes, particularly as they approached the age of her own diagnosis. Although the worry hasn’t entirely disappeared, she’s found comfort in the advancements in diabetes technology and the knowledge that she has modeled a life of strength and resilience for her children, they know diabetes won’t stop them.
Carrie also grappled with the fear of her children developing diabetes. She found comfort in celebrating each passing year and key milestones, such as her children reaching an age where they could utilize technology like CGMs, if they were to develop diabetes. Proactively screening her two children for type 1 diabetes, and receiving negative results, also provided her with peace of mind.
Becky experienced similar concerns and she also faced the societal stigma surrounding diabetes when she had her four children. In a time when awareness was limited, she encountered shock and disbelief from others that she could have healthy babies as a woman with type 1 diabetes. However, she’s witnessed a significant shift in public understanding, with increased awareness of CGMs, pumps, and the realities of living with type 1 diabetes.
As a parent, life is often a whirlwind of unpredictable schedules and constant chaos. So, what are the go-to tips for keeping levels stable amidst the diaper changes, sports practices, and bedtime battles? Here is what our Blue Circle Health moms shared:
Sherry’s Strategy: Meal Planning for Sanity
“When my kids were teenagers, their after-school activities were non-stop,” Sherry recalls. “Having evening meals planned was a lifesaver.” Her secret weapon? The crockpot. By meal planning and prepping meals in advance, she eliminated the stress of last-minute cooking, ensuring she had healthy meals ready, which significantly helped with blood sugar consistency.
Becky’s Approach: Preparation and Automation
Becky emphasizes the power of being prepared and embracing technology. “Looping has been a game-changer for me,” she says. “It helps prevent lows, especially when meals are delayed or schedules are disrupted.”
She also stresses the importance of being prepared by always keeping the diaper bag, car, and bedroom stocked with low snacks and making restocking a regular part of your week.
Furthermore, she finds ways to incorporate activity into her busy days by using her kids practice times to take a walk when the weather allows.
Carrie’s Insight: Pattern Recognition for Unpredictable Moments
Carrie focuses on anticipating and preparing for those “out-of-the-ordinary” moments. “I try to identify patterns during unique events, like recognizing the likelihood of going low at birthday parties, and then preparing accordingly.” This proactive approach allows her to navigate unexpected situations with greater confidence.
Managing type 1 diabetes while parenting requires a combination of planning, preparation, and flexibility. By incorporating these practical tips, moms can better navigate the daily chaos and maintain stable blood sugar levels, allowing them to fully embrace the joys of motherhood.
Words of Wisdom: Advice for New Moms with Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes can feel overwhelming, especially for a new mom. To offer support and guidance, we asked Sherry, Becky, and Carrie what advice they would give to these women. Here’s what they shared:
Sherry’s Emphasis on Self-Care and Grace
“Take time for yourself,” Sherry stresses. “Care for yourself so you can care for your children.” She acknowledges the immense pressure new moms face and emphasizes the importance of self-compassion. “Give yourself grace,” she advises. “It’s okay to turn on the TV for a few minutes so you can treat a low.” Recognizing your own needs is not selfish; it’s essential for both your well-being and your ability to care for your family.
Becky’s Advocacy for Open Communication
Becky highlights the importance of involving your children in your diabetes management. “Tell your kids what you are doing and why you are doing it so they understand.” By explaining your actions, you not only educate your children but also foster a sense of understanding and support within your family. Open communication can help normalize diabetes in your child’s eyes and prevent fear or confusion.
Carrie’s Encouragement for Flexibility and Empathy
Carrie reassures new moms that there’s no single “right” way to parent with type 1 diabetes. She highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment, even if it is not always pristine, and recommends having low snack baskets around the house.
Carrie points out the valuable life lessons that kids can learn from watching their parent manage their diabetes. “It is a great way to teach your kids empathy from a young age,” she emphasizes.
By embracing flexibility, open communication, and giving yourself plenty of grace, you can create a positive environment for both yourself and your children.
How Blue Circle Health Can Help: Tailored Support for Moms with Type 1 Diabetes
Navigating motherhood with type 1 diabetes takes a village. Having a dedicated and understanding support system is key. Blue Circle Health offers a range of specialized services designed to address the unique needs of moms with diabetes, all from the comfort of their own homes.
It is worth noting that Blue Circle Health does not support women during pregnancy at this time due to the need for regular in-person labs, exams, and monitoring. However, they can provide referrals for in-person care and support pre- and postpartum.
Accessible Virtual Care
Blue Circle Health is 100% virtual which eliminates the need for travel, making it easier to access care. The program is also 100% free, removing any financial barriers.
Blue Circle Health is currently available for adults with type 1 diabetes in Florida, Maine, Vermont, Ohio, Delaware, Alabama, Missouri, New Hampshire, and Mississippi, with more states coming soon.
Comprehensive Program
Blue Circle Health offers a 6-month comprehensive program which includes:
- Insurance Navigation: Blue Circle Health provides assistance with navigating the complexities of insurance, a significant relief for many moms.
- Community and Connection: Blue Circle Health facilitates connections with other individuals living with type 1 diabetes through 1:1 peer support and group sessions, fostering a sense of community.
- Social Work Services: Social workers can help identify and access valuable resources within your local community, addressing practical needs and offering additional support.
- Diabetes Supportive Counseling: Recognizing the emotional toll of managing diabetes, licensed clinical social workers are available to help develop coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and more.
- Diabetes Education: Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists and Registered Dietitians provide personalized guidance on self-care, insulin management, healthy eating, and other essential aspects of living with type 1 diabetes.
- Endocrinologist Care: Appointments with endocrinologists are allotted a full hour, ensuring plenty of time for thorough consultations. Endocrinologists provide insulin adjustments, can refill and prescribe diabetes medications and supplies, and help people get started on CGMs.
Flexible and Personalized Approach
Blue Circle Health understands that everyone’s needs are different. You can utilize the services as much or as little as needed during the six months you are enrolled in the program.
In addition, all services are 100% free, without needing to go through insurance. Late appointments are available, with hours from 8 am to 8 pm EST, accommodating busy schedules. Most appointments are scheduled for an hour, allowing for unhurried, relaxed, comprehensive care.
In Summary
It is clear that balancing motherhood with type 1 diabetes comes with a number of challenges, from the emotional weight of your kids potentially developing type 1 diabetes to the daily juggling act of managing blood sugars. Organizations like Blue Circle Health can further empower moms by providing accessible, comprehensive, and free virtual care.
From expert guidance on diabetes management and emotional support to insurance navigation and community building, Blue Circle Health addresses the many needs of moms with type 1 diabetes.
By prioritizing self-care, open communication, and embracing the support available, those of us who are moms living with type 1 diabetes can navigate our journeys with greater confidence and well-being, proving that motherhood and type 1 diabetes can coexist!
Sign up for Blue Circle Health today to take advantage of this incredible resource!