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lindabelle
09-25-2007, 09:48 AM
I am just wondering how does diabetes effect your work or does everyone/anyone know in your work environment? Did you ever let diabetes talk you out of things in life? For example a certain profession , continued education ,etc?

Gangrel
09-25-2007, 09:57 AM
Well, being diabetic since I was 7 meant i never got to seriously consider a profession I am not allowed to be in.

As a kid I did enterain the thought of being an Astronaut or Firefighter, or a pilot in the Air Force though. But, those got thrown out the window! I will admit to be seriously sad about the fire fighting, as I still can get misty watching a truck go down the road......

But as for where I am at now, and what I've done, diabetes doesn't really affect me in my cushy office job, lol. Sometimes I'll be hypo and need to eat and not do any work, and stuff like that.

I've also taken a few days off sick time after sleepless nights of hypoing or yo-yoing..... but nothing major.

soso
09-25-2007, 10:19 AM
it can be a bit rocky for me sometimes at work, if I have clients and am rushing around, plus doing a lot of lifting and carrying.. I sometimes have to eat something quick and then just carry on and pretend i am feeling normal.. I must look a bit wierd sometimes... they prolly put it down to artistic temperament..lol...
I would like to do the West Coast Trail sometime, but have serious concerns with regard to my blood sugar management ... I haven't ruled it out yet, but before dx I wold not have hesitated,,,
ss

belyro
09-25-2007, 10:48 AM
I'm really not a risk-taker, and a lot of the pilot/firefighter/etc. jobs out there are more risky than I'd like. I prefer to be safe and boring in my office job. :)

That said, growing up, two things I loved to do were act and dance. (Unfortunately singing isn't my thing.) I lived in a relatively small town, though, and we never had good acting/dancing lessons available so even though I took some lessons when I was older, I never really got the training at a young enough age to try making anything of it. I sometimes wonder today, though, whether I could have made it in one of those professions with the right training.....and I always come back to "I don't know...it would be so hard with diabetes". That's definitely not to say that it can't be done, but I have to admit that it's affected my views on whether or not those jobs would have even been an option for me. In reality, though, there are a lot of other things about those jobs that make them a bad suit for me too - in addition to the extremely significant lack of training. :)

xMenace
09-25-2007, 11:06 AM
I'm really not a risk-taker, and a lot of the pilot/firefighter/etc. jobs out there are more risky than I'd like. I prefer to be safe and boring in my office job. :)

That said, growing up, two things I loved to do were act and dance. (Unfortunately singing isn't my thing.) I lived in a relatively small town, though, and we never had good acting/dancing lessons available so even though I took some lessons when I was older, I never really got the training at a young enough age to try making anything of it. I sometimes wonder today, though, whether I could have made it in one of those professions with the right training.....and I always come back to "I don't know...it would be so hard with diabetes". That's definitely not to say that it can't be done, but I have to admit that it's affected my views on whether or not those jobs would have even been an option for me. In reality, though, there are a lot of other things about those jobs that make them a bad suit for me too - in addition to the extremely significant lack of training. :)

For some reason I had you pegged as a hunting guide :eek:

I am an accountant/computer programmer. I rely on my eyes. I don't know what I'll do if/when my vision gets too bad. Can I sign any of you up for insurance over the phone ahead of time? :stupido:

dar917
09-25-2007, 11:21 AM
I'm a musician, I just have to watch a bit more closely when I'm doing a show or something. I haven't had it long enough to really see how it affects it yet though.

lindabelle
09-25-2007, 01:11 PM
Well, Im going to school for dental hygiene and honestly I haven't done alot of things because diabetes. Sometimes I think what ifs. Only because Im diabetic. What if I cant keep my hands still because Im low? Things I know are avoidable. especially with a pump and control. I guess I didnt grow up being told I can do anything dispite diabetes. When I was growing up I thought dyalisis and kidney failure were inevitable and right around the corner. Which in turn I guess made me think I couldnt do much in life and is a really bad thought from the time your little. Well thats silly isnt it! I have even asked my hubb what if I get sick , develop medical issues and cant pay off all my loans? Stupid things like that then I have to remind myself you cant stop living because of stupid worries and things you can't predict.
Sorry It sounds like Im being a downer!!! :eek: I dont mean to! :D I"m really am not a depressed person.

peej07
09-25-2007, 02:31 PM
As I've gotten older with more issues it has dictated to some degree my work choices. First off now my employeer must offer good health insurance. I chose my current job as a web designer for VW of America because of the freedom it offers me for Dr apts.

RobiJo
09-25-2007, 03:00 PM
I'm a teacher and have always wanted to be one. Only time I'm bothered is when I'm low. Dealing with 27 6 year olds and a low at the same time is not fun. I got very concerned with how long I'll be able to teach after my eye problems last year, but now things are looking up with that. We'll see how the driving gets as it gets darker in the mornings.

Going to D camp as a child really impacted me and reinforced to me that I wanted to work with kids. Ironically, all the non-medical staff at the camp I work for has become teachers.

notme
09-25-2007, 03:25 PM
I wanted to scuba dive in Hawaii and I had a hard time finding a dive master to take me out. I did finally get to go, but I had to sign a waver. I didn't tell when I went to Turk Caicos. They never would have taken me.

I was turned down for a police dispatching job in my early years because it was a night position with only one dispatcher. I was mad at the time, but ended up with a job I liked (probably) better anyhow.

I don't let diabetes stop me from doing much. I have had a few battles or hid the fact I had diabetes a couple of times. :o

blue_eyed_devil
09-25-2007, 05:11 PM
it influenced my choice of profession for sure. i had sooo many **** expereiences with nurses judging me and treating me very poory i decided to become one - only to find out i can't seem to make a difference, as many of the pt's i have don't want to take control of their conditions (any condition, not just diabetes). it's very disheartening.

also i now work eveyday with a bunch of people who "know more about diabetes than i do" and watch every single piece of food i look at, let alone eat... and all stare at my bg meter everytime i test... grrr!!!

diabetes has not effected my ability to learn or made me believe i can't proceed with what i want, however i did use it as an excuse throughout high school hence why i have no formal education from high school...

and i intend to go to med school, so stop me? not at all.

grace girl
09-25-2007, 05:57 PM
I was a grown woman when I was dx'ed, and I was already doing the same things I'm doing now...I homeschool my kids, and I'm an artist. The only thing it has stopped me from is this: our church youth group is going on a missions trip to Trinidad next summer. I opted out because, though I wouldn't hesitate to travel to a foreign country with D, I don't want to do that while being responsible for 20-30 children who aren't my own. I imagine there are many here who wouldn't agree with me on this, but I take being responsible for other people's children very seriously.

JediSkipdogg
09-25-2007, 06:19 PM
Diabetes has never stopped me.

My current job is a police dispatcher. Sometimes I'm the only dispatcher working since we are a small department. On the weekends, I may be the only one in the entire police department. When I was hired I let them know during the interview that I was diabetes and that I wouldn't have any problems doing the job. Heck, at the same time I was applying for my job I applied as a police officer to alot of other departments. The diabetes never got in the way, just the fact that I couldn't run 1.5 miles in 12 minutes that did or that I didn't have past experience (police or military.)

I also rock climb, although it's been a while, and I've never let diabetes affect me then. Heck, I'd love to climb to the top of Everest or K2 if I could 1) find the team to do it with 2) find the time to take off work and money to fund it 3) figure out how to do it with an insulin pump that wouldn't freeze the insulin.

Diabetes never stops me and I have no problem letting people know before I do something that I'm diabetic. That's mainly in case something does happen that they know when they call 911.

xMenace
09-25-2007, 06:31 PM
I can't do dishes. :(

soso
09-25-2007, 07:31 PM
I can't do dishes. :(

LOL....

good idea...I can't vacuum....

ss

cheryl
09-25-2007, 07:54 PM
I am a momma, that is my chosen proffession even though I was advised two kids only as my kidney would fail if I had more and blah blah blah....I know not a job, but still I think if your diabetic you can do anything your heart desires, as long as the law allows you too that is....

I think I did the hardest thing you can put your body thru, and I am alive and ticking just fine.....there can't be too much more strain on yourself and all then that, and the risks...so if I ever decided on a career, eventually I think I can do whatever I want as long as I am allowed to cause of the diabetes....

Cheryl

dodo
09-26-2007, 06:58 AM
I studied in translation so I would be able to work from home and it would be easier to deal with diabetes at work. Also, as my own boss it wouldn't be a big deal if I want to take days off work.

I also teach French part-time and don't have to work long hours. It makes things a lot easier for me!:)

jimbob
09-26-2007, 08:15 AM
When I was hired I let them know during the interview that I was diabetes

So you're the son of a ***** that did this to me! :mad: Man if I could I'd drive down to Ohio and kick your .... :D

Really in all seriousness I've had desk jobs for a long time and it doesn't affect me or my decision to sit on my tail and type away. It actually helps me since I get to hang out with all of you!

lindabelle
09-26-2007, 08:48 AM
Thanks everyone I really got a kick out of evreyones responses! Im going to have to remember to tell my hub I couldnt vaccumm and do the dishes today seeing as I was 'feeing a tad low all day' **** diabetes!
I dont think it would cut it in the real world. :( Ok ok I probably wouldn't even get away with it at home. :T
Or would I ?.....................

BriOnH
09-26-2007, 05:12 PM
I can't do dishes. :(

lol!!!!! Love it! :)

I have never let diabetes stop me from doing anything. However letting people know I have diabetes has tried to stop others from me doing things, but never at a professional work level.

I have been a computer programmer the past 7 years (actually a Software Architect but everyone knows what a programmer is) and sitting in an office all day or a conference room blows. I have kinda done a 180 (well more like a 90) as far as careers go and having diabetes I believe gives me an edge above my peers who do not have health problems or loved ones with health problems. We all have to study medicince to a greater extent as patients with this disease.

Bijou
09-26-2007, 06:26 PM
Has it stopped me from doing what I wanted to do? NEVER.

Has it altered the way I do stuff? Yes, it has. Not in a bad way, but I just need to think and make sure that everything will be okay.

I do theater, musicals, light design and I am the Production Corr for my theater. I just have to make sure that I'm safe and I have an action plan in case somthing happens. All you have to do is think a little more. :)

glashalful
09-27-2007, 05:44 PM
I'm simply CRAZY at work, and I HAVE to watch out for lows (wouldn't do for a manager to be flat on her butt in front of everyone -- not to mention the embarassment!). I keep Dr. Pepper available at all times and close my door to have a little drink when necessary. I purposely run a little high when planning busy activities so I don't have to worry about it -- that way I can still enjoy it!

Sharethesecret
09-27-2007, 09:45 PM
I went on the pump while I was doing my medical internship- because I knew I was going to be working crazy on-call schedules and such. Now I am out of the medical field, and I run a huge toy store... Christmas time is crazy busy. Don't know what I would do without the pump! Now, through my busy season, I pay out of pocket for the CGM to keep me on track through my long 10 plus hour shifts 6 to 7 days a week.
I keep cans of slim fast optima in my office. They are easy to slug down in a few seconds, and they have the perfect amount of carbs to bring me out of a funk. Plus...it's healthier than candy or soda.

ant hill
09-28-2007, 04:00 AM
I was going to be a ballet dancer till i was diagnosed in '71, Just cannot keep the lows away. :(

Maddogg
09-28-2007, 04:57 PM
I was a full time mover for North American/Allied agents for 2 years, the money was great, the work was back-breaking (and more annoying in the winter), the hours were long (summers would average about 70 hours a week, the most I did was 85 hours in a 5 day work week!).
I got into really great shape doing this kind of work but it also really did a number on my health. Being a mover is very inconsistent. Some days I'd would have highs, but I would also have hypos on an almost regular basis. My insulin dosage during the moving season would usually be cut by 50-75% on days that I worked and I still managed to get hypos!
There were a few incidents where I was so low they had to send me home. I also passed out at least once on the job. Its more difficult to feel the symptoms of hypoglycemia when you're sweating and physically exerting yourself for 10 straight hours. If I knew I was low I usually had sugar on hand to rectify the situation...
After my second near death experience with that job, I quit, it wasn't worth the risk or the money.

Since then I've been between jobs and now I work for a Fotune 500 company (Insurance company), I get full health benefits (since day 1!) and the people I work with are great! The only thing I miss is the physical activity, don't get much of that with a desk job.

kidvid
09-29-2007, 04:10 AM
It effects me on the job mentally. I manage a small but active purchasing department. When I get a low, my brain instantly can't make good decisions. Just recently I couldn't decide between two accounting codes, and confused one of my employees because of this.

I triggered me to chase down all the details involved in getting a CGM. I know it's not the answer to all my problems, but it is one more tool to help. I expect to have one soon.

I absolutely hate it when I can't think clearly. And I hate diabetes for causing this.

Joe

Wildbill
09-30-2007, 04:27 PM
I don't know for sure that it was necessary, but I quit working in the OR when I started insulin. I was doing very long cases, like 5 hours or longer, and I just thought the chances of going low during a case were too great. It wasn't really all that hard to accept, but occasionally I regret that decision. But it was in my patients best interest I figure.:cool:

oogie_boogie888
09-30-2007, 05:47 PM
My dad was a Marine and my sister is a Marine. I'm also a musician and my ideal job was to join the Marine's band. Boy was I excited. A great career and doing what I love most.....


The second I told them I have diabetes they turned me down. :(


Now I'm hoping to study to become an Animator, Graphic Designer, and a Photographer. o.0?

JediSurfer
10-03-2007, 04:39 PM
I used to have real trouble telling people about my diabetes as a teenager and lost plenty of jobs because they thought I was a junkie. These days it doesn't bother me and I will explain to anyone who is willing to listern. Taken me a good few years to train my work mates and employer but everything is ok I suppose. I do keep get overlooked for promotion due to diabetes related illness and absence. But even that doesn't bother me. The call me "top dealer" which means I am at the top of my profession and could easily work anywhere in the world.........errrrr....apart from the healthcare/insurance issues. Maybe only France would be a realistic option. Hopefully have these screenplays finished by next Feb and I can change my career path.

Injecto
10-04-2007, 08:13 AM
I'm an accountant. Sometimes hypos make me mess up the numbers and I accidently deposit company money into my own personal bank account...

Does anyone want one of my spare Lambourghini's






:T

JediSurfer
10-07-2007, 01:44 PM
Had a strange conversation with my GP last week. He said he wasn't happy about me returning to my job as a croupier. He didn't really make it clear why this was. Maybe he doesn't like my working hours or something. I am confused by this really.
For me to reach the level I have in my current employment will take along time and lots of hard work. I told the doc this and that I am determined to carry on with my work. Especially after all the diabetic ignorance I have encountered over the last 7 years and have managed to overcome in some ways.
I am actually thinking about returning part-time but still need to discuss this with my employer.

nutrijen
10-07-2007, 02:10 PM
I've worked numerous desk jobs over the years and I can say that at times it was difficult for my coworkers and supervisors to understand my limitations (e.g., lows and highs). I have 8 years of experience in the health insurance industry and usually I didn't have many problems with gaining the understanding of my teammates. However, in my last job, I was an IT recruiter. This required working from 7:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. on most days. I was unable to find much time to exercise and we were required to constantly take potential consultants out to eat for lunch. This was very hard on me with my diabetes. I gained 10 pounds, which I have been unable to lose. My blood sugars bounced around like crazy. My employer didn't understand when I just needed to walk away to change out an infusion set, to take a physical shot of insulin, or to drink some juice or eat glucose tabs. Our desk space also was shared. This was problematic because I could not keep an extra supply of insulin pump supplies, test strips, etc. on hand in a space that wouldn't be touched/bothered by others. It was terrible. Thankfully, I was only there for 6 months.

I am now a Corporate Trainer and have a very supportive team of co-workers. I have my own office and can keep as much juice, food, test strips, and insulin supplies as I need. I carry 100% Capri Sun juice pouches with me so that if I am facilitating for a class and feel low, I can treat it immediately. I test quite frequently to begin with, which also helps me to keep on track. I'm not afraid to tell anyone that I am a diabetic or to explain what I will need in what situation. I usually tell most of the employees in my classes so that they, too, are aware. I find that most people are very understanding. I do make sure that my blood sugar is okay before I begin teaching, especially in front of a group of 80 pilots. They can be a little tougher of a group to explain this to.

Otherwise, I don't let my diabetes stand in my way, but I respect my limitations when I need to.

kk5483
10-11-2007, 01:06 PM
I was dx at age 17 and became a Deputy Sheriff at age 22 i did not let it affect me besides not going in the military. I enjoy my job now but I can't help but wonder if it is keeping me from becoming a K9 Deputy because i have put in for the spot over 5 time and keep getting beat out by less qualified Deputies. But as long as i am working in this profession i will be happy w/ myself!

dar917
10-12-2007, 07:53 PM
Now I got to thinking, I wonder if it would be a better idea for me to take my Lantus in the morning rather than at night, since I often have rehearsals and shows in the evenings, sometimes until late. Hmmm....

TenderVittleS
10-14-2007, 12:58 AM
High stress job + tight control diabetes = an early grave.
Low stress job + mediocre control diabetes = longer better life! :)

jeggeman31
10-14-2007, 06:04 AM
High stress job + tight control diabetes = an early grave.

Then I should be dead very soon :eek:

kk5483
10-15-2007, 10:32 AM
High stress job + tight control diabetes = an early grave.
Low stress job + mediocre control diabetes = longer better life! :)

I'll must have 1 foot in the grave! But I love my job! I don't know what I would do I i was told i couldn't do my job???

JediSurfer
10-15-2007, 11:13 AM
STRESS, STRESS, STRESS

may it not lead to your death.

Stressful situations I walk the **** away from. No amount of money can be put on my well being. Maybe thats why I am still a grunt. But I am the cheif, A mutha lovin No1, the duke, the jedi. They call me Skywalker because I can make profit from thin air. I could more than likely empty Chuck Norriss's bank account without even blinking.

The bills are paid and I'm happy, healthy and will live many many years.

My main job is keeping the **** alive. numbers, profit and percentage are just numbers and worth nothing.

Life is for living.....

...............and surfing...

...... and climbing..

Nixo
10-15-2007, 11:22 AM
I am a portage worker.I go into the homes and work with children with additional needs under 5.It is a very rewarding job,can be tiring.I have to drive for my job,and to lose my licence would be my worst nightmare.My manager is leaving at Xmas,and her job is available.I have thought very hard about applying,at first thinking I wouldn't because of my health issues,then I decided I shouldn't let diabetes get in the way of me pursueing my carreer.Now I have another dilemma,I have found a lump in my breast,and have an appointment at the hospital on the 23rd October,so everything is on hold until then,as I can't think past that date.

JediSurfer
10-15-2007, 11:29 AM
Hope all goes well for you Nixo. Lisa had a similar scare a few years ago and after already having a lump removed many years before it was an anxious time. Luckily all turned out OK.
I hope the same for you. Be strong, stay ahead and keep on fighting.

All the best

Rich

JediSurfer
10-15-2007, 11:30 AM
Hope all goes well for you Nixo. Lisa had a similar scare a few years ago and after already having a lump removed many years before it was an anxious time. Luckily all turned out OK.
I hope the same for you. Be strong, stay ahead and keep on fighting. And go for that job nomatter what if its what you want.

All the best

Rich

TgrsKrstn
10-15-2007, 09:59 PM
I never let diabetes control me. Life is no fun that way.. I am the boss, there for I call the shots. I think it is really important to maintain an "half-full" view at all times. Life is way to short. Enjoy what you can get out of it.

jess
10-22-2007, 09:17 AM
I would love to say 100% that being diabetic has not stopped me from doing anything. Luckily I never had dreams of being in the emergency/armed services so didn't miss out on profession of my dreams. I went away to university, I lived entirely on my own for over a year and have travelled wherever I have wanted to go. However I would like to scuba dive and that is not an option, similarly I hate not going home after a night out as I want to avoid in inevitable alcohol induced low the following morning at a friends however understanding they are; for me it is more the fear that I'll go low somewhere dangerous ( I once nearly got hit by a car, attempting to cross a road whilst v.low trying to get to a friends house for some help - pretty scary). I believe I would be less determined and certianly less orgnaised if I had never been diagnosed, having an ongoing illness does actually give u sum v.useful skills! lol!

lisa821
10-26-2007, 09:14 AM
I write and illustrate children's picturebooks. My goal is to one day create a picturebook for diabetic kids that isn't sappy, preachy, or judgmental. It scares me to see how many more Type 2s are diagnosed in children these days. I was diagnosed as a Type 1 at age 13, but I think there are many similar issues between Type 1 and 2 diabetics--like denial or stressing out over one bad blood sugar reading (or someone else making them feel bad about a high blood sugar reading)--that I want to share with kids who have this disease and feel lost over what's happening to them.

I've been lucky to find a part-time job as a graphic designer that offers health insurance, so I can continue creating books with the rest of my time. Insurance has always been a factor in the jobs I've had, but as far as how I chose my profession, having diabetes was not a factor. Or maybe it was--without realizing it, diabetes may have made me stronger as a person, more determined to live my life the way I see fit.

modbom
11-02-2007, 06:41 PM
I was 30 when I was dx with type 1 so it definitely freaked me out. I've had a crazy and intense work schedule the whole time and it's been fine. I just test a lot and keep sweettarts on me at all times. Right now I work 16hrs a day and sleep on a tour bus. I'm a video engineer on the road with The Blue Man Group. Sometimes I go low a few times a day but I travel with cases of sweettarts so I'm always ready. Scuba diving has often required me keeping my diabetes a secret until we're out on the water. Then I casually mention it in a conversation about the many other times I've been diving. Having said all that I do, however, wish I had a more normal 9 to 5 schedule. It would make my life easier, but less interesting. :)

Richard157
11-03-2007, 06:15 PM
My parents did not want me to go to college. My doctor agreed with them. They wanted me to stand at the window at the post office and sell stamps. My father worked there. I ignored them. I graduated 13'th in high school so I thought I could make it in college. My parents refused to help but they let me live at home and they did not charge me for room or board. My father gave me a used car. So they did help but not with college expenses. I graduated from college with a BS in Math. I graduated with honors. Then I received an MS in statistics from Va. Tech in 1963. I had trouble with diabetes along the way but I managed very well. I taught math at the college level for 34 years. I still had some hard times with my diabetes. Sometimes in class I would have to stop and test and eat glucose. Before glucose monitors it was much more difficult. I had major problems in the mid-1990's. I developed insulin resistance even though I am type 1. It was due to weight gain. I was double diabetic then. A type 1 with symptoms of type 2. I had much trouble with the roller coaster ride I was on. I had to retire at the age of 57. I continued to teach part-time for several more years. Along came Avandia which helped my insulin resistance very much. My insulin dosages returned to normal. Avandia for 8 years now, it is a life saver. I had to retire 5 years before I wanted to but our debts are paid. Not easy. My wife was a stay at home Mom and earned no salary. That was quite normal in the 60's when we were married. We cannot afford expensive vacations and luxery of any kind but we are comfortable and happy. I always wanted to tour the globe. No such luck! We can't have everything we want. My health is very good after 62 years of diabetes. I shouldn't ask for more than that.

Richard

Alaska
11-03-2007, 08:25 PM
I am a service director for a motorsports dealership. We have two stores and I over look the service departments. In the past I have also worked for Microsoft.
I have never ever let diabetes stop me from what I've wanted to do. Whether it's been hunting 40 miles from the nearest road in Alaska to professionally roadracing motorcycles on the west coast and Canada. I've always been a huge risk taker and always will be. I refuse to let diabetes make me sit on the sidelines of life and just watch.
The only time diabetes has stopped me from doing what I wanted was when I was roadracing. I had to have laser surgery on both my eyes and once that was done I lost a great deal of periferial vision. Which is bad for me and other racers. So, I gave it up and retired. I STILL will go to practice days on the track though. No rush like doing 200 MPH on two wheels.
Currently I ride my street bikes, dirt bikes, atv's and snowmachines. I hunt waterfowl and other upland game birds, I also fish alot for salmon, halibut and trout.

Aggie06
11-03-2007, 09:29 PM
However I would like to scuba dive and that is not an option


Jess,

You certainly *can* scuba dive. I am a PADI Certified Rescue Diver. Although, I was certified prior to be diagnosed, I have since been diving and had almost no issues while diving.

Type 1 certainly does increase the risk, but it can be mitigated if you follow the the DAN guidelines (http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/news/download/SummaryGuidelines.pdf)

Scuba did make my BS plummet like a rock, but I tested constantly and made sure to keep plenty of fruit and powerade on hand between dives. The only issue I had was a self-imposed cancellation of a dive due to my BS being lower than I was comfortable.

Gary_W
11-04-2007, 04:37 PM
Rather than holding me back, I think diabetes has given me a bit of a push and direction. Strangely, I think it has actually increased my confidence level. I was 26 when diagnosed and I was needle phobic; couldn't even watch a needle on TV, the thought of a blood test would make me go faint. I overcame the needle phobia very quickly (you have to really) and I think my brain realised that if I could do that I could do pretty much anything.

I was an engineer at the time at a local hospital fixing medical equipment. It was a job for life, though that wasn't really the life I wanted; my wife and I were rather tired of living where we lived etc. In short, we were both bored. I decided I needed better qualifications and did an OU degree. The degree took 5 years of home study, but I passed with 1st class honours.

Whilst half way through the degree, I called up a company that I knew of who made ultrasound machines. I asked them for a job as a field engineer and as luck would have it they had a position. One interview in a pub later and we moved 3 hours North. I was a field engineer for them for 7 years.

They get taken over and working for them became a pain as opposed to enjoyable. I heard about a sales job going at a rival company. I phoned them and told them I wanted it; I kind of knew the chap that was the manager. I had never sold anything in my life and would be expected to manage a territory with a healthcare population of around 9 million people. I got an interview in a bar :) A couple of hours later, I was offered the job there and then.

I've been doing this for 3 1/2 years now and I'm a very good salesman. The year before last, I was the top salesman from the international group in our company and that was my first full year in the job. I really enjoy my job and I get an awful lot out of it.

I very often have to watch surgical proceedures, and if I hadn't overcome the needle phobia due to diabetes I'm not convinced I could be doing this for a living. It's a funny old world....

As far as I'm concerned, letting this disease stop you doing anything is letting it win. You obviously have to be responsible and do what you need to do to keep yourself well and safe, and sometimes it can make you feel so rough that it holds you back but other than that why let it spoil your life?

Gary

notme
11-04-2007, 06:33 PM
I have also scuba dived and never had an issue. It is something you can do jess. I have tried to never let diabetes stop me from doing what I want to do.