We were given a challenge! I wasn't going to mention this on the blog, but since I know a few of you follow Jeremy's diabetic links on the sidebar, I thought we'd include the details of how this came about. AJ was given N's bag to decorate. N is a diabetic. Now, who better to put together his treat bag than AJ, with his Daddy being a RN CDE (Registered Nurse-Certified Diabetes Educator)?!
So, what should we put in the bag? If you look at the suggestions above, and put your diabetes glasses on for a moment, it really reads carbs, sugar, carbs, sugar. N has a certain # of carbs he can have for a snack. I spent part of one morning at the store scouring the snack and sweets aisles. You know those 100 calorie packs? Fantastic idea, right? Sure, till you look at the carbs. The magic number here was 15g, so I was looking at the serving size and how many carbs accordingly. I only found one that was under 15g. None of them were 15g even. Most were 16, 17, or 19. Yes I know they could have counted out how many pieces from the 100 calorie bag he could of had, but I was trying to avoid that. I was aiming for something on the sweeter side, since it was supposed to be a treat bag.
If you are thinking, did you try sugar free items? I did. I looked at the sugar free cookies. He could have one chocolate chip cookie. That would have been "ok", but I really didn't want this to just be "ok" for N. Jeremy (yes hon, I'm bringing you into this!) has talked about how it felt to be a kid with diabetes on certain holidays when he couldn't eat the candy the other kids were eating. There are ways around those feelings gosh darn it! We're determined!!
I went to the candy aisle. EEK! Heidi, you just typed about sugar and carbs and more sugar being no, no, bad. What on earth were you doing in the candy aisle? First let me say, diabetics CAN have sugar. Big misconception. I could write a whole post about that. But moving on... Blam the candy aisle on my Grandma. She has discovered the sugar free versions of Russell Stover Peanut Butter Cups, Pecan Clusters, Mint Patties...need I go on? Hershey's has sugar free candies too. I picked up the bag of Hershey's Sugar Free Chocolate nuggets and read the label. 5 pieces (serving size) = 25g carbs. BINGO! He can have not 1, not 2, but 3! I found the rest of the items for N's bag and left rather pleased.
On the way to pick AJ up from school, I called Jeremy and shared my frustration. How frustrating to not be able to find fun foods for a diabetic kiddo for snack. Do you feel a brainstorming coming? I do!
Below is N's bag. I watched him tear into his bag today during the class party. His face just lit up when he pulled out his treats. He was thrilled when he learned he could eat not 1, not 2, but all 3 chocolates! He also enjoyed the transformation of his water, exclaiming "red"! (See below) His reaction totally made my day and made AJ giggle!
-Water Bottle
-Single Serving Sugar Free Drink Mix Packet (Cherry)
-3 Sugar Free Chocolate Nuggets
-Light Up Yo-Yo
-Playdoh
-Brown bag
-AJ's coloring skills
-Valentine paper
-Sandwich baggie (top cut off)
-Silver cord
AJ colored the bag
Finished Product
I wrapped the water bottle, drink packet, and playdoh in fun V-day paper:
Jer, if you have anything you want to add to this, COMMENT!
For those of you that do not know me I am AJ's dad and yes a RN CDE. However, my wife being as creative as she usually is gets all the credit for this. She came up with the idea's as well as targeting the 15g carb. I have to say I was extremely impressed. I normally do not post but with Valentines day coming up I have to say that my wife is the best! She goes out of her way for our family as well as others to make life special for all. She meets a challenge head on and try's her best to conquer it! If you follow the blog you know what I mean. I have to say I am proud to be your husband. I love you!
ReplyDeleteJer
And with that, I'm crying. I love you too!
ReplyDeleteHeidi
Heidi,
ReplyDeleteI completely share in your frustrations in shopping for diabetic friendly snacks. My father is only allowed 15g Carbs per snack and 45g per meal. It can be a trying experience, but very educational, once you see what you are actually eatting with out thought. You are such an awesome mom and friend for working so hard at this...AJ is extremely blessed to have you!
Hi Heidi,
ReplyDeleteI work with Jeremy and I have to give you kudo's for all the thinking you did for this child's bag. You did GREAT!!! I read your blog all the time and it often gives me tears or smiles with all you do for AJ. He is blessed to have you and Jeremy as parents. keep up the good work, both of you.
Pam Lee