Diabetes Documentary

[Doetsch]

Hello Everyone :)

I want to ask everyone something. Those of you who have read my profile may know that I write (Screenplays in particular) I have written many movies and I have finally saved up enough to buy Editing Software, a New Computer and by next month I will have a Professional Camcorder. Now with my Question.

I am thinking of making a Documentary on Diabetes and would like everyones input. I am thinking of following a Child, a Pre-Teen, a Teenager, a College Student and an Adult who have Diabetes. I will travel with them through their daily routines through their individual lifestyles and show the world what Diabetes really is and break all of the Sterotypes.

I am thinking of hitting subjects like.

Misconception of Diabetes
Sterotypes of Diabetes
Research of Diabetes
Pharmacuetical Company involvement
Side effects of Diabetes and Complications

The film will transition with me and my experiences.

What I am asking of you ->

I would like your opinion on this project.

I would like to ask you all what you would like to see, What subjects you would like tackled, and what questions and answers to put on the big screen.

I would like to credit Diabetesforums.com and highlight this community in the project if that is okay with the moderators and runners of this great site.

If anyone lives in Texas and would like to be a part of this project just let me know. I won't be able to pay you but it would be a fun time.

Also, If anyone lives in the Texas area and would like to be one of the before mentioned Cast, let me know so I can get started on the project.

I really would like everyones input and suggestions on this. Don't be to nice, you can be as harsh as you would like and be honest. I want this to be great.

Thank's :)

[DaveC426913]

It would be amazing to have a documentary out there that debunked the various myths, misconceptions and stereotypes about Diabetes. I think this is one of the biggest enemies of Diabetics.

As for the other elements (Research, Pharmacuetical, Complications) - I don't know, that sounds like it might be directed more toward Diabetics (as oppossed to ignorant non-Diabetics) and might dilute the message.

[Doetsch]

It would be amazing to have a documentary out there that debunked the various myths, misconceptions and stereotypes about Diabetes. I think this is one of the biggest enemies of Diabetics.

As for the other elements (Research, Pharmacuetical, Complications) - I don't know, that sounds like it might be directed more toward Diabetics (as oppossed to ignorant non-Diabetics) and might dilute the message.

Good Point. I fiirst wanted to give people an understanding in Lamon(sp?) terms of what Diabetes is. Then I wanted to go into myths, sterotypes etc.

Do you have any suggestions?

[KickStart101]

That's a Terrific Idea. I hope it's a Success. :) I also hope
you don't make Diabetes look easy like other shows/commercials have,
'cuz it's not. There are so many problems that go hand- in-hand with Diabetes. Not to mention the other diseases/conditions that can occur
with many Diabetics.

Diabetics are mostly, enduring and determined people who usually
gain control over this insidious disease. What can I say, "We are Remarkable". ;)

[Littlebit63_99]

Don't forget to find a dialysis center. And the statistics involved in that.

I think it is a great idea!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:congrats:

[Doetsch]

In the intro I am thinking of having a very severe, hard core approach that will entangle viewers. I am going to show a small, innocent, fun loving child giving a shot and testing blood. Then it will cut to a person on Dialysis after renal failure, A blind person walking the streets and then an amputee in a wheelchair. All this will be shown while I will be giving dialogue in a voice over giving a brief history of the diesease and its side effects. I think this will set a good tone for things to come.

[JediSkipdogg]

In the intro I am thinking of having a very severe, hard core approach that will entangle viewers. I am going to show a small, innocent, fun loving child giving a shot and testing blood. Then it will cut to a person on Dialysis after renal failure, A blind person walking the streets and then an amputee in a wheelchair. All this will be shown while I will be giving dialogue in a voice over giving a brief history of the diesease and its side effects. I think this will set a good tone for things to come.

Make sure that all of those complication victims are actual diabetics and included in the documentary. I have over 10 years of video production experience and so alot of mistakes made on documentaries drive me nuts. Especially when they show people that don't have the disease, and they use them only cause they have a possible complication of the disease.

If you need any help, let me know. 10+ years of hardcore video experience here, even 4 years of a college degree, now I just do it for fun, lol.

[Simon]

I think it's the hassle from insurance companies where there is most scope for "changing the world". Refused medical insurance, higher premiums on travel insurance or refused insurance all together. Some level of discrimination is acceptable but sometimes insurance companies just exploit the lack of competition for speciallist risks.

[Doetsch]

I think it's the hassle from insurance companies where there is most scope for "changing the world". Refused medical insurance, higher premiums on travel insurance or refused insurance all together. Some level of discrimination is acceptable but sometimes insurance companies just exploit the lack of competition for speciallist risks.

I will research this in more detail and see if I can find a creative way to include these concerns.

Thanks for your interest and your suggestion!

[am1977]

:dito: I agree, I think it sounds like an interesting project. But I think it's important that you show this disease for what it is, and not sugar coat it.

It might be interesting to follow around a few people who have the disease and to record their experiences. In my opinion, I think "showing" the disease is better than just "telling" about it. Meaning, I wouldn't have someone just sitting there giving a lecture on the disease...I think it would be more interesting to have viewers learn about the experience through the Diabetic's eyes and perspective. Does that make sense?

Good luck and please keep us informed with your progress in making this documentary. :top:

[Doetsch]

Make sure that all of those complication victims are actual diabetics and included in the documentary. I have over 10 years of video production experience and so alot of mistakes made on documentaries drive me nuts. Especially when they show people that don't have the disease, and they use them only cause they have a possible complication of the disease.

If you need any help, let me know. 10+ years of hardcore video experience here, even 4 years of a college degree, now I just do it for fun, lol.

I really appreciate that JEDI. I have been writing for quite some time and consider myself a Pro in that arena. I do have some friends that have been giving me some support on the actual filmmaking process. I will definetely take you up on your help if you are interested and I could send you ideas and shot footage via email or other means for your input.

I have already thought of going to a lawyer to get releases for individuals. I will also make sure that everyone featured will be diabetic. I live in a capital city so I have alot of different branches here at my disposal. The state school for the blind is right down the street and I am pretty sure I will find a diabetic that lives in Austin that is blind and willing to be a part of the film (Everyone that becomes blind comes to this school for training in real life situations and to learn how to read braille). I also know a homeless man who has lost a leg due to a Complication - He will definetely be a part of this for me. As for the Dialysis - My grandfather was on Dialysis for 4 years due to a non-diabetic complication. Needless to say I know all of the doctors and nurses at one facility. I will see if I can get permission to shoot and see if anybody there has Diabetes and would like to be a part of the film to talk about their complication.

[Doetsch]

:topic:

Jedi,

I am in the process of getting the camera. I think I have narrowed it down to the DVXa, VX2100, DVC30 & GL2. May I ask you what you shoot with and your suggestion for a low-midline price range camcorder that has a decent picture with Manual controls.

Thank's :)

[JediSkipdogg]

:topic:

Jedi,

I am in the process of getting the camera. I think I have narrowed it down to the DVXa, VX2100, DVC30 & GL2. May I ask you what you shoot with and your suggestion for a low-midline price range camcorder that has a decent picture with Manual controls.

Thank's :)

I am a personal fan of the Panasonic cameras. I have not owned any of the above mentioned but of all of those I would choose the DVC30. My main reason is because the DVC30 has the optional (for $250) XLR mic input box. This will greatly help in the interviewing field area and allow you to plug any kind of microphone into it. The GL2 does not have that option and neither does the DVX, I'm not sure about the VX2100. I have worked with the Panasonic AG-DVX100B and that is a phenominal camera, however, quite expensive and probably more than you need.

EDIT ADDON: Another feature of the DVC30 is the LED light system. The output on that light is amazing and not blinding. It puts a good amount of light out but doesn't cause any problem with the eyes of the person you are taping.

Also, you will need an IMMENSE amount of mini-dv tapes. When you get to the point, I highly recommend ebay and buying a box of 50. Too bad we weren't closer then we could work together on this.

[Doetsch]

I am a personal fan of the Panasonic cameras. I have not owned any of the above mentioned but of all of those I would choose the DVC30. My main reason is because the DVC30 has the optional (for $250) XLR mic input box. This will greatly help in the interviewing field area and allow you to plug any kind of microphone into it. The GL2 does not have that option and neither does the DVX, I'm not sure about the VX2100. I have worked with the Panasonic AG-DVX100B and that is a phenominal camera, however, quite expensive and probably more than you need.

EDIT ADDON: Another feature of the DVC30 is the LED light system. The output on that light is amazing and not blinding. It puts a good amount of light out but doesn't cause any problem with the eyes of the person you are taping.

Also, you will need an IMMENSE amount of mini-dv tapes. When you get to the point, I highly recommend ebay and buying a box of 50. Too bad we weren't closer then we could work together on this.

Thank's for your suggestion. It is shame we don't live close together. What are the odds of 2 diabetics on a diabetic forum that both are filmmakers? By the way I am a huge Star Wars fan. I forgot to mention that to you when I first became a member. If you look at my profile picture you will see some of my geekiness in the background.

[JediSkipdogg]

Thank's for your suggestion. It is shame we don't live close together. What are the odds of 2 diabetics on a diabetic forum that both are filmmakers? By the way I am a huge Star Wars fan. I forgot to mention that to you when I first became a member. If you look at my profile picture you will see some of my geekiness in the background.

NERD ALERT. LOL, j/k. I can't speak much considering I have every Star Wars lego (well, 90% of them.) But I'll do my best helping and reading the script and anything else you need. To bad transfering video over the internet wasn't possible. Well, transfering raw footage video at actual quality. What do you plan on using to edit it? Final Cut? Premier? Please oh please say at least on a Mac, lol.

[Doetsch]

NERD ALERT. LOL, j/k. I can't speak much considering I have every Star Wars lego (well, 90% of them.) But I'll do my best helping and reading the script and anything else you need. To bad transfering video over the internet wasn't possible. Well, transfering raw footage video at actual quality. What do you plan on using to edit it? Final Cut? Premier? Please oh please say at least on a Mac, lol.

My NLE software is Vegas 6. My Mac crashed and I had FCP on it at the time. My wife hates MAC and I had to get a PC. Needless to say i couldn't afford Avid so I got the next best thing. I have Vegas 6, Soundforge 8, Acid Pro 5 & Dvd Architect. Everything I need, Nothing I want.

I can host the footage on some free site and you can see it that way. Myspace ETC.

[Tatermom]

Best of luck to you Doetsch!! We see discrimination already and Taylor is only 5. One child care provider would told us that we would have to take Taylor home if she needed a shot b/c it would be an illness. Then she would have to stay home for 24 hours after the shot. She could not get it thru her head that Taylor is insulin DEPENDENT and that diabetes is an auto-immune disease, NOT an illness. Hopefully, the more people know the easier our lives will be!!:stupid:

[Doetsch]

Best of luck to you Doetsch!! We see discrimination already and Taylor is only 5. One child care provider would told us that we would have to take Taylor home if she needed a shot b/c it would be an illness. Then she would have to stay home for 24 hours after the shot. She could not get it thru her head that Taylor is insulin DEPENDENT and that diabetes is an auto-immune disease, NOT an illness. Hopefully, the more people know the easier our lives will be!!:stupid:

Good luck to you and Taylor.

I was diagnosed while in HS, I didntt have a Moonlight period and my Insulin needs were very strong. The school district said I could not carry my Meter, Insulin or Syringes on me while on school property. They stated that either I would have to leave them at home and I would be allowed permission to leave or they had to stay with the School Nurse and he would have to adminsiter the shots. It took alot of fighting but I was able to take the case to higher ups in order to get permission to have my supplies with me at all times. The school system is one of the most frustrating. How can someone with DKA or an extreme low have to walk all the way across school campus in order to take care of the needs that associate this disease? Absolutely impossible. I feel for you and Taylor and good luck :)

[jen_slc]

In the intro I am thinking of having a very severe, hard core approach that will entangle viewers. I am going to show a small, innocent, fun loving child giving a shot and testing blood. Then it will cut to a person on Dialysis after renal failure, A blind person walking the streets and then an amputee in a wheelchair. All this will be shown while I will be giving dialogue in a voice over giving a brief history of the diesease and its side effects. I think this will set a good tone for things to come.Hey Doetsch, I am in no way a writer/filmmaker/artistic being, but you will include lots of people who are leading perfectly normal, wonderful lives without diabetic complications too, right? :wink: I understand you want to grab viewers at the very beginning, but I might be worried that seeing complications as the very first thing might lend viewers to focus on that and only that, rather than the fact that we can and do lead normal, complication-free lives. Just a thought - depends what message you want (One of my pet peeves revolves around people's ideas that diabetics aren't normal or healthy and will develop complications no matter what). Good luck though, it's a great idea!

[Doetsch]

Hey Doetsch, I am in no way a writer/filmmaker/artistic being, but you will include lots of people who are leading perfectly normal, wonderful lives without diabetic complications too, right? :wink: I understand you want to grab viewers at the very beginning, but I might be worried that seeing complications as the very first thing might lend viewers to focus on that and only that, rather than the fact that we can and do lead normal, complication-free lives. Just a thought - depends what message you want (One of my pet peeves revolves around people's ideas that diabetics aren't normal or healthy and will develop complications no matter what). Good luck though, it's a great idea!

Thank's for your Input Jen. I want viewers to understand the seriousness of the disease but there will definetely be the normal and excelling individuals. This will be shown that anyone can be Diabetic and you probably see a diabetic everyday without even noticing. I am also going to go to the Tour De Cure Bicycle race that involves many diabetics whom ride in a bicycle tour that is over 200 miles over 2 days to raise money for researce and also the Walk to Cure which I am sure many of you have participated in [Hopefully :)]

[Doetsch]

I am really enjoying everyones input and you have given me great things to include and remove. keep them up :)

[JediSkipdogg]

I am really enjoying everyones input and you have given me great things to include and remove. keep them up :)

Jen brought up a GREAT point. In making this there are two sides to diabetes. And personally, I don't see how both sides can be shown in the same video.

Side A) You have those that treat diabetes with great care and have no complications. Some make it their life to get perfect numbers, some just happen to get them great. These people show diabetes as not a problem and that we can do anything. For instance I am a huge climber, many people don't think diabetics should be rock climbers due to the risks, but I do it and have never had a problem. There are other instances of where diabetics have done anything (police officers, bikers, pilots, etc.) without problems because they take great care of themselves. So basically you have the positive side of a story here.

Side B) Now for the dreary side. You have the complications here that include blindness, anger problems, depression, amputations, etc, etc. This side shows what happens if one doesn't take care of themselves properly or the ones that just don't care. It can also show what happens when someone goes a long time without knowing they are diabetic, some can go for years and their body adjusts to running 400+ all the time.

The major problem with side B is that it can give people a bad idea. Side B may only be a small part of the population, but it's enough that it's a problem. If companies see what problems diabetics can have, then they will assume all diabetics will have them and that makes insurance rates more. It can also make getting a job harder.

You just need to consider which side you want to cover. I think both sides would be nice to cover, if you can figure out how to cover them both.

[Doetsch]

I was thinking of having both sides portrayed.

I will show the worst by themselves.

I will show the best by themselves.

I will follow the Cast for a long period of time (Hopefully over 2-3 months.) Within that time I am sure that there will be good days and there will be bad days. This will show that somone can be perfectly fine one minute and in a potentially life threatining moment the next.

I hope that through these experiences it will give viewers the ability to view it how they would like. What could potentially be the Past, Present and Future. Through editing I am sure that I will be able to blend both sides of the spectrum to a balance.

[koblenz]

First off, I think this is a great idea for a project.

Second, I know nothing in this field.

Now, the more I read about the objectives and think about it, I see this almost having to be a "Cosmos" (Carl Sagan) 12-part mini-series type production. Don't get me wrong, I would watch all 12.

I would then order the DVD home edition, rip them, convert them and download to my video IPOD for viewing on the go!

Thoughts I had (for what their worth):

1. As a color piece, get some "normal" people and put them on a diabetes regemin for a few days/weeks/months. Make them watch their diets, test, exercise, and if possible, inject saline. May be easier suggested than done.

2. Talk to as many "type 3's" as possible. How has this affected their lives?

Just ideas!

I would be happy to come out to Texas and be one of the following:
- a key grip (what the heck is that anyway?)
- stunt coordinator (I can prat fall with the best of them)
- continuity coordinator
- Gaffer (it just sounds cool)
- Best Boy (again, it just sounds cool)
- Craft Services (come on, who knows coffee better than I?)

[gettingby]

First off, I think this is a great idea for a project.

Second, I know nothing in this field.

Now, the more I read about the objectives and think about it, I see this almost having to be a "Cosmos" (Carl Sagan) 12-part mini-series type production. Don't get me wrong, I would watch all 12.

I would then order the DVD home edition, rip them, convert them and download to my video IPOD for viewing on the go!

Thoughts I had (for what their worth):

1. As a color piece, get some "normal" people and put them on a diabetes regemin for a few days/weeks/months. Make them watch their diets, test, exercise, and if possible, inject saline. May be easier suggested than done.

2. Talk to as many "type 3's" as possible. How has this affected their lives?

Just ideas!

I would be happy to come out to Texas and be one of the following:
- a key grip (what the heck is that anyway?)
- stunt coordinator (I can prat fall with the best of them)
- continuity coordinator
- Gaffer (it just sounds cool)
- Best Boy (again, it just sounds cool)
- Craft Services (come on, who knows coffee better than I?)
Best boy, huh? Well hon, you already are that to me. :wink: LOL :rofl:

[am1977]

First off, I think this is a great idea for a project.

Second, I know nothing in this field.

Now, the more I read about the objectives and think about it, I see this almost having to be a "Cosmos" (Carl Sagan) 12-part mini-series type production. Don't get me wrong, I would watch all 12.

I would then order the DVD home edition, rip them, convert them and download to my video IPOD for viewing on the go!

Thoughts I had (for what their worth):

1. As a color piece, get some "normal" people and put them on a diabetes regemin for a few days/weeks/months. Make them watch their diets, test, exercise, and if possible, inject saline. May be easier suggested than done.

2. Talk to as many "type 3's" as possible. How has this affected their lives?

Just ideas!

I would be happy to come out to Texas and be one of the following:
- a key grip (what the heck is that anyway?)
- stunt coordinator (I can prat fall with the best of them)
- continuity coordinator
- Gaffer (it just sounds cool)
- Best Boy (again, it just sounds cool)
- Craft Services (come on, who knows coffee better than I?)

Oh, I think Doetsch should take you up on your offer. I'm sure he can put you to work somehow.:biggrin: Maybe you could be his "best boy" :D

[Tatermom]

1. As a color piece, get some "normal" people and put them on a diabetes regemin for a few days/weeks/months. Make them watch their diets, test, exercise, and if possible, inject saline. May be easier suggested than done.

2. Talk to as many "type 3's" as possible. How has this affected their lives?


What an awesome idea. I did the saline in a pump thing so that I could understand, but the fingerstick is a big ouch for me. What is a type 3 anyway?:questionm

[Doetsch]

1. As a color piece, get some "normal" people and put them on a diabetes regemin for a few days/weeks/months. Make them watch their diets, test, exercise, and if possible, inject saline. May be easier suggested than done.

I think that is an amzing idea and I will definetely use that! Thank's. Now, trying to find someone willing to do that. I will most likely have to get a friend or pay someone money. Hmmmm...

Koblenz.....Um...Do you....Umm.. (Twiddling thumbs) Want to .... Ummm... be my .... ummm.. Best boy? :)

Seriously though, If you have the means and are deifinately interested in helping out just let me know. I am sure I can arrange something.

As for everyone else. I am excited that everyone is interested in this. I would like for people (If interested) to gather Research studies that may be of some interest, Statistics on certain aspects (Type 1, 1.5, 2 - Gestational - possible link to alzheimers, diagnosed/un-diagnosed, deaths, age groups Etc. Etc, Etc.). That way we can have some info that will be passed along in certain parts of the film (When necessary) If someone helps me with research i will give a screen credit on the final film. I won't be able to give money but I am sure most of you won't mind, considering most of us are internet junkies :)

Thanks again and keep em' comin'!!

[koblenz]

What an awesome idea. I did the saline in a pump thing so that I could understand, but the fingerstick is a big ouch for me. What is a type 3 anyway?:questionm
A type 3 is usually referred to as an "non-diabetic" supporting a diabetic. So mother, father, brother, sister, husband, wife, or "other" that cares about or for a diabetic.

So in my case, it is my "normal" wife!

[Dewey]

I think that is an amzing idea and I will definetely use that! Thank's. Now, trying to find someone willing to do that. I will most likely have to get a friend or pay someone money. Hmmmm...

Koblenz.....Um...Do you....Umm.. (Twiddling thumbs) Want to .... Ummm... be my .... ummm.. Best boy? :)

Seriously though, If you have the means and are deifinately interested in helping out just let me know. I am sure I can arrange something.

As for everyone else. I am excited that everyone is interested in this. I would like for people (If interested) to gather Research studies that may be of some interest, Statistics on certain aspects (Type 1, 1.5, 2 - Gestational - possible link to alzheimers, diagnosed/un-diagnosed, deaths, age groups Etc. Etc, Etc.). That way we can have some info that will be passed along in certain parts of the film (When necessary) If someone helps me with research i will give a screen credit on the final film. I won't be able to give money but I am sure most of you won't mind, considering most of us are internet junkies :)

Thanks again and keep em' comin'!!
I really like your idea too, Doetsch! Definite :thumbsup: for the thought & effort you are putting into it. It sounds like people gave good ideas thus far, so I really can't add much on that front.

I was thinking of having both sides portrayed.

I will show the worst by themselves.

I will show the best by themselves.

I will follow the Cast for a long period of time (Hopefully over 2-3 months.) Within that time I am sure that there will be good days and there will be bad days. This will show that somone can be perfectly fine one minute and in a potentially life threatining moment the next.

I hope that through these experiences it will give viewers the ability to view it how they would like. What could potentially be the Past, Present and Future. Through editing I am sure that I will be able to blend both sides of the spectrum to a balance
Wish I lived closer, so I too, could help. If ever you need or want to "follow" someone for a week and don't have anyone local that you can do this with, I'd be glad to try & travel down that way to participate. I can also help (if you'd like) with gathering information regarding research & upcoming products. I'm a gadget gal, so I love that kind of stuff! ;) Please feel free to PM me.

[Doetsch]

1 PM beamed over to Dewey :)

[pcgranny]

I think that's an excellant idea. Diabetes is not taken seriously enough by non- diabetics. even in your own family. & sometimes by those who are diabetics. you know the old thing, it won't happen to me.:thumbsup:

[marked]

Congragulations Doetsch!
This is a most excellant idea. Particuarily the hardness and overwhelmingness this disease can bring. The reality of this disease needs to be validated. Keeping a postivie attitude is valid and needs to be embraced, but the struggles needed to be validated just as much, if not denial can seep in and denial breeds resentment and resentment breeds poor control Also, it is my opinion that type 1's have an image problem. Since we only make up 10% of the diabetes out there, we get lost with just being bad type 2's who must take insulin. The stigma of the syringe is also a biggie I wish you much success. Let me know if I can be of any help. Will this video be avaiable to purchase?
Mark

[Doetsch]

I appreciate your insight. And welcome! If you are interested in helping just let me know. I will submit the film into some Festivals first and then we will see from there.

I am thinking about possibly having a viewing of the film for the members here prior to submitting it into festivals, as an alternative I may be able to burn some dvds and send them out to the members as well. I am hoping to have it finished by jan or feb of 2007.

[TvBabe]

I As for everyone else. I am excited that everyone is interested in this. I would like for people (If interested) to gather Research studies that may be of some interest, Statistics on certain aspects (Type 1, 1.5, 2 - Gestational - possible link to alzheimers, diagnosed/un-diagnosed, deaths, age groups Etc. Etc, Etc.). That way we can have some info that will be passed along in certain parts of the film (When necessary) If someone helps me with research i will give a screen credit on the final film. I won't be able to give money but I am sure most of you won't mind, considering most of us are internet junkies :)

Thanks again and keep em' comin'!!

Another "focus" would be to focus on the aspect that it can happen to anyone? I had NO family history of diabetes, mind you another medical condition actually "caused" my diabetes (Hemachromatosis). To date I still have not met another "diabetic" in person. Oh sure, I'm positive I've met other diabetics over the years but I never knew they were diabetic. I'm actually attending a Diabetes Expo on April 1st for the sole purpose of actually "meeting" other diabetics.

[Lynne1]

To date I still have not met another "diabetic" in person. Oh sure, I'm positive I've met other diabetics over the years but I never knew they were diabetic. I'm actually attending a Diabetes Expo on April 1st for the sole purpose of actually "meeting" other diabetics.

Ironically, when I was first diagnosed, I was at the fax machine at work sending my #s to my endo. My boss walked by, asked me what I was doing. I hesitated and he said he was just diagnosed also!

[Vic L]

Doetsch,

I am in the Austin area and I will forward you an email of a meeting coming up which is a Diabetic pump support group. I plan to be there but with my wife due any day I'm not sure I will attend. Date is 3/24.

By the way, I am interested in assisting in any way I can.

I think a recap of finding out you have diabetes (the doctor visit) would be a great way to introduce the effects of diabetes and how to control it. I remember going to see my doctor because I had a feeling something was wrong. Boy was I right! Even though I have a family history of Diabetes I was praying I did not have it.

Vic L

[Doetsch]

Let me know where that is at. Feel free to PM me and I will let you know what type of things I am looking for :)

[Starlight]

I think this a great idea. To simply tell people what its all about. The misconceptions they hold...Thinking that its all about the needles..and nothing else. Take your shot and your done. And that you are a diabetic because its your own fault- you ate too much sugar..Seriously now. Diabetes gets pushed to the back, just like everyone else said. Sure, insulin is saving our lives- but not forever. People dont realise theres worse to come- in the end your stuck with diabetes and a whole lot of other complications that you could do nothing to prevent, apart from tight control- which doesnt always keep the complications from coming.

[etm1109]

Doetsch, I am a fellow Texan too. Houston texas. I have a semi-professional recording studio by the way if your ever interested in music. I'd be interested in comparing notes with your video experience as that is something I'm trying to convince my wife to let me spend some money on. LOL.

As much as I see the 'graphic' presentations of diabetics and the long term outcome, the fact that the disease is becoming more prevalent in the population of America is something that should be strongly emphasized. I don't think it is adverse to showing the 'the true long term' cost of the disease, but opening with such a montage will turn a lot of people off.

The point needs to get across to people that this can happen to you and the older you get the higher chances of being affected if your genetically pre-disposed or have other risk factors. And if you don't take care of yourself, this is what can happen to you.

Another facet of this disease that should be pointed out is the history of Americans diet. A discussion of the average American diet up to and before WWI/WWII and afterwards.

I'm am convinced that the epidemic increases in this disease is directly related to the diet that the food industry has foisted upon Americans over the last 100 years.

A hundred years ago, you just didn't have the access or opportunity to eat some of the foods you can readily get at a supermarket. The introduction of fructose and other sugars as bulking agents over the last hundred years has had to have played a large impact on people.

In combination with the fast food nation we've become over the last 50-60 years since WWII, there should be no suprise at the growing number of people with health problems like diabetes, cornorary disease, etc.

Another aspect is diabetes and work. I looked at your profile and your a young guy. This disease is **** on you when you get older and begin to work in stressful jobs and occupations. As much as you control the disease and stay positive, work can really burn you out and cause you to get angrier and depressed. After my diagnosis, I determined that I had been angry for a number of years very often in work situations that I directly relate to diabetes.

I remember a day where I was in a bosses office having a discussion about my job and I got up rather rudely and told him, I had to find sugar right away my blood sugar was going low. I nearly passed out before I could reach a soda vending machine and get a coke. I had forgot my sugar pills. Luckily my boss knew I had diabetes and his mother had the disease so he was sympathetic.

The fact of the matter is diabetics face enormous hidden and obvious work discrimination because of lack of knowledge and empathy for the disease. Because the disease is hidden, unlike say something like the flu or cerebal palsy(sorry to use such extreme examples), people that don't suffer from the disease can't connect or identify with you. Even health care professionals don't understand this disease.

I recently had a run in with a staff person at my endo's office. I finally asked her point blank , do you have diabetes? No. Then you can talk about the disease, lecture me all about my diet, my issues, my feelings all you want. But you just don't really get it. She was being rude about some of my numbers being high for a week or two. FYI, I was unemployed and vigorously looking for a job. I.e., I was under a lot of stress.


For me, the largest problem I have had is the combination of diet modification and the drugs. The drugs quite frankly make me feel almost worse than the disease very often. I recently told my doctor. I know with this disease ignorance is not bliss, but I felt better pouring sugar into my coffee 3 times a morning over putting metformin into my liver at 1000mg at a time. I often feel like I'm not getting anywhere with the medications. I suspect many Type 2 diabetics go through this.

I've finally found a doctor that listens and emphasizes with me.

Finally, you could end such a film with some of the exciting research going on with the disease. There is some wonderful stuff in the pipeline that gives me hope future generations will not have to suffer like we do today.

[Doetsch]

You bring alot of good points. Thank you. I will definetely look into your suggestions. PM me if you want to talk in more depth about some of this.

[Angelique]

Hi Doetsch , I'm in Cedar Park, Tx. just north of Austin. I think it's great you are making a film about Diabetes. I think one thing I hate to see mistaken about the disease is what happens when we get low bg's. I hate that movie Steel Magnolias where Julia Roberts character flips out when her sugar gets low. I know they needed the drama but I have never and have never seen someone do that, it really bugged me at the time when the movie came out.
People think Diabetes is so limiting but in truth nobody knows you have diabetes unless you tell them.

[Doetsch]

Thanks for your input Angelique. If you are interested I am still looking for more people to interview and if you want to get your views across just let me know and we can set up a time to meet.

[kidvid]

I'd include some scenes that detail reactions, opinions, feelings of people close to diabetics. But here's the twist I'd include - interview those who may not know their friends, coworkers, etc. have diabetes, or only have minimal knowledge of the disease. Like -

Documentarian: "Mr. Supervisor, did you know Tom was diabetic?"

Mr. S: "Yeah, he told me a few weeks after he transferred to my department."

D: "Is Tom a Type 1 or Type 2?"

Mr. S: " Ahh...I think he said he was a 2 or a 3 maybe..."

D: "So does Tom ask for any special treatment?"

Mr. S: "Not that I'm aware of, but it creeps me out every time I see him reach for that black bag on his desk...I saw a needle in there once, and I hate needles. They belong in the doctor's office"

D.: "If you saw Tom in medical trouble, perhaps appearing faint and pale, do you know what to do?"

Mr. S. "911 baby! Speed dial #1 on the ol' cell phone! I'm not giving any sickie mouth to mouth or anything...thats what paramedics are paid for! I might give him a donut or something..."

D. "How has Tom's performance been since transferring to your department?"

Mr. S "He's already used just about all his sick time, going to doctor appointments I guess - I don't ask, I just sign the leave slips. When he runs out it's just gonna be tough luck man - I can't cut him slack just because he ate too much sugar when he was a kid..."

[BriOnH]

How's this project going? Any updates?

[LovemyGSD]

I like the idea of a documentary because Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is one hard condition to understand. I say this as a health care professional :nurse: and as a NEWLY diagnosed diabetic type 2 (D2). I would like to see you keep the informatin simple, not overwhelming. I think the possible complications should be mentioned but not so much as the first introduction to the film. That kind of starts thing off on a negative note. And we do want "people" to see us as "normal" as possible.

As a new D2 I would love to see you explore the initial shock and adjustments in daily living, of the diagnosis. Maybe follow someone that goes for an annual check-up and as a result of the general lab work has to come back for a glucose tolerance test. Yes this is how I found out. I had NO symptoms. So accepting the diagnosis was very hard for me. I was in denial for 8 months. Then when I finally was retested there was no more denying it, I HAD DM :eek: I have had many emotions since I found out. None of them positive. I was very surprised at myself because I :nurse: should know better. But alas I am only a mere mortal who is flawed.... Seriously, please address the emotions of finding out you have DM. I actually feel ashamed, I don't mean to offend anyone here but that is how I feel. I think that brings me to the next thing I think you should address.....MYTHS! My husband thought I had eaten to much sugar and now I can never have it again. And he is a smart man!!

I am still struggling with my emotions related to my D2. Other than my husband I have only told my mom, and my two sisters. I just don't want people to know for fear of negative reactions and long term attitudes towards me. I checked the ADA site in my area and no support group unless you're a pump wearer. I am hoping I can establish a support system on this site :shakehand.

I know what the person meant about feeling lousy because of the Meformin...it just makes you feel generally like ****. You have my deepest empathy!

But enough of my bellyaching. I gotten off the topic. I wish you sucess with your film and would love to see a sneak preview.

Tested in Dec 05
In denial until retested in Aug 06:tomato:
Trying to pull it all together.:stupido2: