The world of Diabetes books has just gained a wonderful new addition. The World's Worst Diabetes Mom by Stacey Simms, host of the well-loved Diabetes Connections podcast, was released in October through her website and became available on Amazon this month. It is currently available in paperback and kindle editions, and an audiobook will be released in the future.
Stacey is the mother of Benny, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 23 months and is now almost 15. She has been living in the D-parent world for a long time, and she is ready to share many of her experiences, both good and bad, with us through her book.
I wish this book had already been written 33 months ago when my daughter was diagnosed and someone had handed me a copy. In addition to Think Like a Pancreas, which is still my favorite book for understanding what it means to have diabetes, this is going to be the go-to book that I recommend to parents whose children are recently diagnosed with diabetes. For parents who are afraid that they will never be able to live a normal, happy life again, this book can serve both as a comfort and as a breath of fresh air.
Stacey's mantra regarding her son's life with diabetes is, "not perfect, but safe and happy". She shares stories of her family's successes and failures, including the time they realized Benny's pump site was blocked by sand after going immediately from a day at the beach to dinner at a restaurant.
Beginning with the story of Benny's diagnosis, each chapter details an aspect of their family's life with diabetes and connects it to parenting any child with diabetes. Some examples are "Life Goes On", "School Skills", "Brothers and Sisters", "The Backup Plan", and "Summer Camp".
In case the honest, helpful text in each chapter isn't enough, every chapter also ends with a series of questions that you can ask your doctor to give you an even greater understanding of the topic at hand.
Stacey's writing style makes you feel like you're sitting down with her over a cup of coffee and chatting about raising a child with diabetes. Even though she has a wealth of experience to offer, she doesn't present herself as an expert, just as a mom who is a little further along in her journey and wants to bring others along with her.
When Kittygirl was diagnosed, we were blessed to already know a few D-parents who were raising healthy, happy kids as well as a few adults with T1D. This was a huge help to get us over the initial fear that our lives would be ruined and our kid would never be healthy and happy. However not everyone has those connections. In fact, I would venture to say that most people don't have those connections. In those situations, this book would be invaluable.
Whether your child was diagnosed 14 days ago or 14 years ago, I think this book has something for you. I'd venture to say even many adults with diabetes could relate to it and even learn a few things. I'm so glad Stacey decided to contribute to the wide world of diabetes books.
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