Episode Summary
In Episode 38 of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, host Gary Scheiner celebrates fathers who have diabetes and those with children diagnosed with the condition.
He is joined by Tom Karlya, Vice President of the Diabetes Research Institute and well-known in the diabetes space as the 'Diabetes Dad.'
In this episode, Tom and Gary explore their personal journeys, the unique challenges fathers face, and effective communication strategies for families dealing with diabetes.
They highlight the importance of being present, supportive, and educated about diabetes, offering valuable insights and resources for all dads navigating this journey.
Meet Your Host and His Guest
Gary Scheiner, MS, CDCES, is the award-winning author of Think Like a Pancreas as well as numerous other books that act as guides for people living with diabetes. A Certified Diabetes Educator, Masters-level Exercise Physiologist, and person living with type 1 diabetes since 1985, Gary was named 2014 Diabetes Educator of the Year by the American Association of Diabetes Educators. He trained at the Joslin Diabetes Center and has dedicated his career to helping others live well with diabetes through education, advocacy, and innovation.
Tom Karlya is a passionate diabetes advocate, actor, and Vice President at the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation (DRIF). Known in the diabetes community as "Diabetes Dad," Tom is the father of two children living with type 1 diabetes and has dedicated decades to improving the lives of families navigating this condition. His personal mission and professional efforts have made him a powerful voice in diabetes care, research funding, and family support.
Key Takeaways
- Dads have unique experiences in diabetes care.
- Communication is key in co-parenting with diabetes.
- It's important for dads to engage in their child's care.
- Finding a community is crucial for support.
- Every experience with diabetes can lead to personal growth. Living with diabetes is a daily challenge that requires resilience.
- Parents of children with Type 1 diabetes face unique emotional burdens.
- Resources like diabetesdad.org provide valuable support for parents.
- Screening for Type 1 diabetes should be a regular practice for families.
- Empowerment through education is key for parents and children alike.
- Maintaining a sense of humor can help families cope with diabetes.
- Understanding the emotional impact of diabetes can improve family dynamics.
- Being present in a child's life significantly affects their well-being.
- Advocacy and awareness are essential in the fight against diabetes.
Chapters
00:18 Welcome and Disclaimer
01:11 Meet Tom Karyla--Diabetes Dad
06:53 Why should we talk about the role of dads in diabetes care?
09:35 How can dads play a bigger role in their child with diabetes' care?
14:00 Are there silverlings to have a child with diabetes?
15:30 Having diabetes is living life with an Asterix
19:15 Understanding the Parent's Perspective
20:47 Resources for Dads with Type 1 Kids
22:22 How do you explain your diabetes to your children?
27:10 How to explain dealing with high or low blood sugars to your children
28:48 The perks of being a dad with diabetes
29:51 Screening and Prevention of Type 1 Diabetes
32:52 Advice for Dads of Children with Type 1 Diabetes
Resources Mentioned
https://diabetesresearch.org/
https://diabetesdad.org/
https://bleedingfinger.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/167718676628352/
Integrated Diabetes Services or email info@integrateddiabetes.com
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Disclaimer
The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.
