I am currently 33.5 weeks pregnant and have had 4 ultrasounds so far. It has been wonderful! I get to see our baby grow and progress. I also have a dynamic and dedicated team of professionals monitoring my pregnancy. I feel lucky and privileged. Since this is my second pregnancy, I feel like I am a pro. Not really. I forgot most stuff but its slowly flooding back. Just like riding a bike, right?
The one issue I have had, is the confusion with my diagnostic label. Even though all my main physicians have documented evidence of my Monogenic diagnosis, they continue to write type 2 on forms. Firstly, i needed to clarify with my genetic team before I jumping to any conclusions. I clarified whether Monogenic Diabetes and Type 2 were the same. They firmly said no.
Okay, then my gut tells me that our medical model has no room for growth. I have no issue educating people on what my type of diabetes is, but when i do, and they still say I have type 2. I am left feeling invisible.
Diabetes is already an invisible illness. What more can we do to educate the public of the various types of diabetes? Well, I thought I must blog about this. Yes, It makes me upset every time i see Type 2 written. Yet, I am sad that our medical model refuses to understand the other strains. It tells me that there is a lot more work that needs to happen. If our medical practitioners feel that they can only manage Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational Diabetes under their treatment scope, well that is a problem.
One day there will be a change, but for now I must continue to correct medical professionals and be prepared with literature for proof. It is all I can do.
(photo taken from cliparts.co)