Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Casey Johnson

It is always unpleasant when we hear of someone so young passing. It seems as though Hollywood has had more than it's share of such tragedies in the recent news. I always feel bad upon hearing about these young celebrities. No matter how a person lived their life, death is always sad. It certainly seems a shame that people who are loved by so many and have so many privileges can succumb to such a tragic end. That certainly seems to be the case with Casey Johnson who recently died at the age of 30 from unknown causes. Although I didn't know Casey her death has hit closer to home. Casey was a young socialite who was known in the tabloids for her famous lesbian affairs and party girl life style. What is not as well known is that she also suffered from Type 1 Diabetes. In fact, her father Robert "Woody" Johnson, owner of the Jets, is chairman of the JDRF. At this point we don't know how, or even if, her diabetes played any part in her death.
Besides feeling sad I also feel a bit angry. Perhaps it's just timing. As I write this a dear friend is literally fighting for her life. Yet, Casey, who had so many opportunities available to her seemingly threw her life away. I know that nothing has been proven yet, but it does seem fairly obvious that she was involved with drugs and alcohol. This can't be healthy for anyone but it is of particular concern for anyone with a serious health condition.
This leads me to the next reason that her death has me upset. I know that at some point soon my son will start asking me questions relating to his own lifespan and the effects of diabetes. I already find myself quickly changing stations whenever Type 2 diabetes commercials are on. They mostly always mention the long term side effects of diabetes, such as impotency, heart disease, etc.
Aiden is a very active participant in his own diabetes management. He can check his blood sugar. When told the number of carbohydrates, he can use his pump to give himself insulin. We have talked often about how we all need to work hard to keep him healthy. However, I struggle with how much much information I need to share with him. After all he is only 5! He has enough added stress in his life. I don't want to scare him with the repercussions that can happen if he doesn't take care of himself. But is omitting the truth the same as lying? What do you think?

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7 comments:

Anonymous said...

My grandmother had diabetes and lived to age 99. She cared for herself up till the end of her life.

Nancy said...

Ok, so a few things: yep, the Casey Johnson thing annoyed me for the very same reason...what a complete and total waste of life. AND SHE HAD AN ADOPTED CHILD?!?!?! Just crazy. Life and the ending of it is just so mysterious. Who gets a long healthy life, who doesn't...it's all a big gamble. And that's why I say education is key with what you're dealing with. It seems you're doing an awesome job if he can already manage the way you explained. As for explaining long term effects...I'd feed him mouthfuls of information as you go along. Too much is always a bad thing, but too little leaves one vulnerable and unprepared. You've got a good thing going already - keep it up. And keep up the fight! As we both know, life is precious and short and we should hold onto each day as it comes. Good luck! You ROCK! Stilllll love the hair! :)

Chris said...

This is Erika, and my computer always logs me in as Chris!
Omitting info at this point in his life is still being helpful, you don't want a depressed and sad young child. Nancy is right, little spoonfuls of info, as the discussions arise and things pertain to him. The simplest and shortest answer is sometime still the best one for kindergartners! I had bloodwork done on Tues and an endo. appt. today and the boys know that Mommy gets more check-ups than most people. That's all, they never ask any more info. When I give blood every 6 weeks, Seth asks, will I have to do that when I am older too Mom? Nope--OK, off to playing, in his mind that was all he needed to know!

Mike LeBlanc said...

My daughter is 9 and I've been asking the same question. I got many different answers when I posted the same question on the TuDiabetes site.

I'm still not sure what the right answer is.

Hang in there though. I think that the answer will come to you when the time is right...

Mike
www.thetype1game.blogspot.com

The poor diabetic said...

I think with parenting you are doing the right thing by withholding some of the information, since he is 5 you can bring him along slowly as he grows with diabetes and learns how to live with it for life.
am sure when the time comes he will be ready god bless and good luck

Anonymous said...

Love you Jennifer and thinking about you tonight!!!! ~Dawn G

Anonymous said...

Just wanted to say hello and meet some of the Philly mom bloggers since I am one myself yes I agree omitting the truth is lying. You are not be truthful that is the bottom line there is no other way to look at it.