An uncle’s perspective

I talk a lot about Squeakers, and if you’ve been reading this blog long enough, it’s easy to see why. This adorable child (along with a few others) is the inspiration behind so much that I do regarding diabetes awareness and outreach. Squeakers has a tremendous network of support! Her dad and paternal uncle rode 111 miles in a JDRF ride last year in her honor. Her best friend has hosted a bake sale two years running to raise money for the local JDRF walk. Her mother is a tireless and active volunteer and voice in the local community regarding type 1 diabetes. Today, I’m sharing a poem her maternal uncle wrote in her honor. This kid is so blessed to have such a wonderful and supportive family! Watch out for this down the road … she’s going to be something else.

2005 was a great year in my life,
In August, (Squeakers*) was due to arrive.
When I first saw her, cuter than most
Truthfully tho, the prettiest of all, I boast.
An infant like all others,
With the same midnight bothers
Until the year 2007, when it all changed
My niece’s life became rearranged.
Sarah and Ross, awesome parents in the making
Thrown a hurdle in the life they were shaping.
At the age of two, type 1 was diagnosed,
Major calculations made, shots to be dosed.
The learning curve is steep and fast
A 24-hour marathon leaving you gassed.
Counting carbs, apples, goldfish
In an attempt to make a portioned dish.
You get the highs, and the lows
Always aiming for the even flows.
The life in their hands, twice complicated
To balance on their shoulders, a task weighted
To make a mistake, a fear to be had,
Easier to accept, if made by mom or dad.
Others needed to be prepared
So the burden could be shared.
Grandparents were slowly initiated,
Panic and stress gradually alleviated.
Now at the grand age of six,
(Squeakers*) is able to be a part of the mix.
Living a child’s life to the fullest,
And is never, ever one of the dullest.
A challenged life ahead, sure
Helped by JDRF’s fight for the cure.

— Written by Brian Busta, proud uncle
*name has been changed to protect the kidlet