Posted by Sue on December 23, 1998 at 10:27:53:
In Reply to: responding to sue posted by the runna on December 23, 1998 at 01:57:16:
Ayden,
Thanks for responding to my post. I know there is much apathy in the community regarding diabetes. I would just hope we could get those with diabetes on our side. As you say, we have all been fed the line that we are fine and that we shouldn't complain, realizing that there are those worse than ourselves. I guess I'm just a strange bird in that, even though I have no complications, I have never bought that line. However, I don't see those who are trying to live "normal" lives because their health professionals said they could, and afraid to believe in a cure, as apathetic, but rather people without hope, who have been beaten down by negative beliefs, attitudes, comments and media coverage about the disease. My hope is that we can educate, excite and sprinkle a little hope regarding a cure into the lives of these people. I know it's not easy with the brainwashing that goes on regarding this disease. However, I fear that insinuating people with diabetes just don't care will alienate them even further.
I am very interested in your proposed speaking tour to London schools. You have a very genuine and natural way of speaking to children. So many staff members commented on the excellent message you brought to the kids. It is not easy keeping the attention of a thousand kids, ranging in age from junior kindergarten to grade 8, but there was hardly a stir in the gym as you spoke and answered the many questions the students had. What kind of sponsorship are you looking for? Please let me know as I would love to be involved in this.
Thanks again for your determination to see this disease beaten. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas season back home with your family. If you're ever in London, your family knows where we live!
Sue