Type I

My doctor called me at home last night to tell me that my lab results came back conflicted. My C-Peptide test said that I am still producing some insulin, but my GAD was "elevated," meaning... I forgot. Basically, in layman's terms, my pancreas is on its last legs, which points to Type I diabetes.

I e-mailed my favorite nurse, Renita, and she explained things a little further for me. She has been advocating heavily for me at that huge hospital to try to get me into the best endocrinologist in Atlanta, Dr. Welch. The waiting list to see him is over one month long, but Renita and her manager at the diabetes resource center are trying to work some magic to get me in this week. Please pray that this happens!

Regardless of whether or not I see Dr. Welch this week, I have to go back to the hospital soon and learn how to take insulin shots. WAAH! I am shaking as I type. I'm not a fan of shots. I know, however, that God is good, and he wants me to trust him. Here's what I read in my devotional, Jesus Calling, this morning:

(These are written to be God's words to me!)

Be prepared to suffer for me, in my name. All suffering has meaning in my kingdom. Pain and problems are opportunities to demonstrate your trust in me. Bearing your circumstances bravely - even thanking me for them - is one of the highest forms of praise. This sacrifice of thanksgiving rings golden-toned bells of joy throughout the heavenly realms. On earth also, your patient suffering sends out ripples of good tidings in ever-widening circles.

When suffering strikes, remember that I am sovereign and that I can bring good out of everything. Do not try to run from pain or hide from problems. Instead, accept adversity in my name, offering it up to me for my purposes. Thus, your suffering gains meaning and draws you closer to me. Joy emerges from the ashes of adversity through your trust and thankfulness.