A few years ago, I was at dinner with my dear friend who is an Oklahoma Justice. I can’t recall where we were having dinner, but I am willing to bet it was somewhere swanky. As the food was en route to our table, I made a comment about shooting up. She kindly brought to my attention that it was a bit awkward to say “shoot up” at the dinner table especially considering her profession. Note To Self: the term shooting up makes others think of intravenous drug abuse, not keeping a T1D alive.
In years past, I would excuse myself to the restroom because I didn’t want to draw attention to myself. I’m not sure if I was embarrassed or if I feared making others feel uncomfortable. I am totally over that.
Fast Forward – I would say about 99% of the time I am at peace with whipping out my syringe and dialing up the units. I now make a comment that I need to give a shot and tell others not to look if they fear needles. Most of the time, people inquire about the disease and it presents me with an opportunity to educate.