Does anyone here know someone with a diabetic child I am looking for a child care center that would not mind giving my son insulin or checking his sugar throughout the day. I need child care for three days out the week. I am not looking for a nanny or in home child care I would love for my child to be in a classroom setting.
Hi, Terria!
I have just recently joined mamasource, or else I would have responded to your request just as soon as you had posted it! I am a 42-year-old Type 1 diabetic, who was diagnosed at the age of 13 years. You didn't say what side of town you live in, but have you checked with the hospitals near your home, or with ECI to see if they have any ideas (they serve kids from birth to age 3, but might be able to give you some direction)? Most facilities are scared to death of taking care of a diabetic child. I was in HIGH SCHOOL, and was told that they couldn't LET ME EAT SUGAR when I had a hypoglycemic episode....they actually had to call my mother, who had to come get me, and take me to the doctor!! (Talk about STUPID!! I could've DIED because of the time involved with that one!) They learned real quick that there was more liability in doing that than if they had actually let me get some sugar in my system. (We didn't file a suit, but told them if it happened again, there would be one.)
When your son turns 6 years old, I would STRONGLY recommend that he go to Camp Sweeney near Gainesville. It is a children's camp (ages 6-18) specifically for diabetic kids. Each summer session is 3 weeks, and there are lots of different activities. There is also a 1-week summer session, and there are sessions in the winter, too. It can be expensive, but I went on a scholarship the 2 years I went (13 and 15 years old). Their website is www.campsweeney.org .
The JDRF might be able to assist you with this issue, as well. And the American Diabetes Association, too. If you haven't already, ask your pedi for a referral to a pedi endocrinologist. I didn't have that option because of where we lived, but I would definitely look for one. It will save your son a LOT of misery as he grows older!
Call me or email me anytime! (Sorry this go to be so long.)
~Janette~
972-416-9339
[email protected]