Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in school-aged children.
Young patients with diabetes do not get a break from managing the deadly disease. They must maintain proper blood glucose levels throughout the day during class, field trips, athletics and after school activities.
“In recent months, several parents have brought to our attention the difficulties they are experiencing with school nurses and personnel in securing rights for their children,” said Julie Frieman, Associate Manager of the American Diabetes Association.
Injecting multiple insulin shots and taking oral medications on their own while balancing their food intakes with appropriate levels of exercise can be daunting. Students with diabetes are constantly making adjustments to their diet and activity to avoid hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar.)
To help parents understand their children’s rights and campaign for better diabetes care in schools, the Maryland Chapter of the ADA will host a Family Matters workshop on December 2 in Baltimore. The workshop is a part of the ADA’s national program, Safe at School. For more information, call 800-DIABETES or visit www.diabetes.org.
