HELP SUPPORT AND EDUCATE DIABETES

   This is it. I'm down to the last week before before the one century ride I've been doing each year that means a lot to me, The Tour De Cure. If you check this blog out all the time or just every once in a while, then I ask you one thing....Tell someone else about it. Most of my readers know how bad Diabetes can be, but for those who don't...do a little research and you may be shocked. So.....donate to the American Diabetes Association and help get people educated and support research. Thank you because you rock!

Tuesday's - What's in your Bag?

   That is "What's Your Secret Weapon"?

Mine is a very sticky substance called "Benzoin Compound - Tincture". It's an oral mucosal protectant that is 77% alcohol. When I first started using a pump, I couldn't keep some of my sites attached to my person, for the life of me. I needed something stronger than your typical site prep pad that I had been using. In southern Tennessee it is very hot and humid here throughout good portions of the year. Combine that with endurance training and you can forget having sites on after a workout. And yet, this stuff, recommended to me by a good friend. This stuff is the bomb. It's not perfect, but it's as close to perfect that I've found so far. Every once in a while after a really sweaty workout I'll have to re-apply, but this is rare and usually during warmer summer weather. So....what is your secret weapon?

Wednesdays Thoughts

   Well, the Tour De Cure is off to a great start this year. I'm heading up the Red Riders team as their captain and enjoying it. So far we've had 3 rides. With the assumption that my teammates are riding on their own also, everybody is getting good mileage in the bank. We century riders will be doing a little bit extra riding to hit the spot. We've been hitting the media and local events to raise awareness and funds about diabetes and just how many people it effects. Most people have no idea the size of this issue. Diabetes is the next epidemic and it's here. It feels good to spread the word, to see that person you're telling finally understand the impact.

   On a secondary note. I listened in on my first DESA conference call last night. I'm holding great hope for getting something going with a local chapter for DESA. Step-by-step I'll find those interested and in need of such things here in Chattanooga and I will plug everybody into this. I see great potential here and am excited about. Basically what a local DESA chapter will be able to provide will be an outlet for educational events/meetings in the area, a way for local folks with diabetes to connect with peers, experts and or mentors, and medical professionals who have a clear understanding about how to deal with the issues that come into question with diabetes and all types of endurance sports and exercise. THIS IS GOING TO BE AN AWESOME THING.