I’ve Been Published

A few weeks ago I got a twitter message asking if one of my tweets could be used in a magazine. I didn’t think anything of it. Sure, my profile is public, twitter is public domain, I haven’t said anything that I should be ashamed of (recently). Why not? Last week I got another message from Kelly Rawlings (@KellyRawlings): “Hello. Your copy of DL magazine shd arrive nxt wk–see p. 39, article about #diabetes support groups. Thx!” Sweet, I’m going to be in a magazine? Wait, I thought print journalism was dead? (Kidding).

Yesterday I received a package in the mail (addressed to “I am Spartacus”, which made me smile) that I could only assume was the previously mentioned magazine.

Hey look...that's me!!!

My twitter post is among a handful featured in the Spring 2010 issue of Diabetic Living. The article, as previously mentioned focuses on Diabetes support groups. Of course this means more than just twitter, but as you have likely seen my eager-reader, twitter can play a key role in finding the support you need when you need it.

Some of this might seem like a no-brainer to veterans of the Diabetes Online Community, but if you are just joining us 1. Welcome and B. I’ll highlight some of the points this article makes. Hopefully this will be the start of a beautiful relationship with the rest of us.

(Until further notice, I’m paraphrasing the article, just assume I’m using quotes)

Participating in a support group can help you:

Feel Connected. ‘Even though family and friends love you and try to help, they really can’t full understand what it is like for you as well as someone who has it…’

Overcome self-blame. Getting together with others can help you get over the shame that many PWDs experience…

Gain a new outlook. Other people can offer fresh perspectives on something that may be troubling you…

Learn acceptance. ‘When you go to a group and hear other people talking, it breaks through the denial and helps with acceptance….acceptance and awareness are two major steps to action.’

Examine cause and effect. ‘Being with other people with diabetes makes me aware of new ideas, regimen changes, and habits that might affect my diabetes.’

(End “quote”)

The article also references some familiar online resources like the ADA, TuDiabetes and thediabetesresource.com. And as mentioned, twitter is also highlighted. I’ve waxed poetic about my appreciation of twitter before, this community has been a life saver. If you’re reading this and you’re considering participating in the madness but have yet to act – Do it. Just lurk for a while until you feel comfortable adding a #bgnow to the mix. This community is very accepting, even if you like pulp.