Orange Juice Duty: a.k.a. In Praise of the Diabuddy
It was a Friday night and I’m in a crowded bar full hipsters swaying to the bass-heavy, DJ-delivered beats. My husband and I have popped in to a favorite haunt for a night cap and some people-watching. We had walked there from dinner – only a short 10 minutes – but at a brisk pace to fight the cold Portland evening. The walk, plus still-active dinner bolus insulin had kicked my CGM arrow downward, and before I laid my lips on my no-carb vodka soda, I’d need a boost in the BG department.
My husband and I were seated right up against the bar, and I caught the eye of the tattoo-laden, low-cap-wearing, pierced-lip bartender in front of me. Knowing he was slammed, I decided to pull the diabetes card.
“Hey man – sorry but I need a regular Coca-Cola, no ice please. Diabetes – low blood sugar!” I shouted over the din.
His look changed from annoyed to slight concern.
“Do you want juice instead? I have orange and I have grapefruit?”
Why yes, I did want juice instead but hadn’t ordered it because a Coke seemed easier. How did he know that?
“Um, awesome. I’ll take a grapefruit juice!”
He poured a medium-sized glass full of juice and handed it over.
“What do I owe you?” I asked.
“Nothin’ no worries!” he replied.
I had to ask.
“Do you have a friend with diabetes?” I queried.
“Yup, my best buddy is a Type 1, I’ve been on orange juice duty many times!” he replied with a grin.
“Ah ha, I knew it! You get it. Thanks for hooking me up!” I told him, leaving a few dollars for a tip.
“My pleasure,” he said before scooting off to fill the next drink order.
Our Diabuddies are everywhere. They are the people affectionately known as Type 3s – these are the people who love and care for the people with diabetes in their life unconditionally and without judgement. They are on orange juice duty 365 days out of the year. They are also woken up at night by your CGM and a scary low. They are cringing when that pump site doesn’t go in easy. They are there for us even when we don’t expect it or think we need it. Type 3s are a part of what makes this journey possible. Diabetes Awareness Month should include a special thanks to all of you out there who help us live better with this disease. So – from the bottom of my heart – THANK YOU for your support. We couldn’t do it – and certainly couldn’t enjoy our cocktails and hipster-watching - without you!
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