Travelling with Diabetes…Important Facts

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Do You or Your Travel Partner Suffer From Diabetes? Here’s What You Need to Know When Traveling Domestically

by Brett Holzhauer with www.diabetesforecast.org.

Diabetes currently affects 30.3 million Americans.  That’s nearly one in ten!

The odds that either you or someone you love suffers from diabetes are alarming.  It can be a difficult disease to handle, especially along your travels.  Whether you’re a diabetic with an ambitious bucket list or you’re traveling with a diabetic who needs your care, we’ll give you the need-to-know for your upcoming domestic travels.

Just like anything else, each situation is very different and should be handled on an individual basis.  Not all of these tips will apply to everyone with diabetes.  After all, there are different types of the condition:

  • Type 1
  • Type 2
  • Gestational

Here are some tips to exercise in preparation for and during your travels on how to manage diabetes.

Your diabetes shouldn’t control your urge to travel!

Travel With Confidence as a Diabetic

With finding cheap flights, reserving the best hotels, mapping out activities, and planning finances, it’s difficult enough to construct the perfect trip WITHOUT worrying about diabetes.  Managing your diabetes or your loved one’s diabetes can make it that much more overwhelming.  A few of my family members have diabetes, and we’ve learned to construct our vacation plans around meals.

But there are ways to quiet your stress and amplify your excitement for your adventure.

Preparing for Your Trip

One cardinal step you can take to prepare for your trip is to research pharmacies in the area you plan to visit.  That way you’re not scrambling for the best options during an emergency!

Gather Documentation

It’s true that we’re living in a non-paperwork era.  But nothing can ever replace a proper doctor’s note.

This is especially applicable to seniors and children traveling alone.  However, it can’t hurt to have a conversation with your doctor about any recommendations they would give for traveling with diabetes.  You might have questions such as:

  • Any vaccines you might need
  • If you should expect any unusual effects from your upcoming activities
  • If your insulin doses should be modified

Be sure to get the doctor’s appointment well ahead of time so there is no last-minute rush.  You should also have a written prescription on your person.  If you are carrying syringes and/or insulin, it is important to carry documentation that the medication is for you specifically.

Diabetes is considered a disability, so it is always a good idea to have documentation.  And to be doubly prepared, keep in mind airport policies & accessibility options around the country.  Here is a quick sample of airport wheelchair policies & accessibility options from a few of the busier airports in the United States:

Airport Accessible Restrooms Handicap Parking Wheelchair Service
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) All restroom facilities are fully equipped for wheelchair access. Four sets of “Men/Women” restrooms are located on each concourse. One set is located at either end, and two sets are centrally located on each concourse. Two sets are in the Airport’s Domestic Terminal atrium, including one set in the arrival’s lobby. Additional restrooms are located at the International Terminal, with a set on both the departure and arrival levels. Unisex family restrooms for those traveling with an attendant are located throughout the Airport: Domestic terminal arrival’s lobby (2) T2, T4, T8 and T12 A6 and A27 B9, B23 and B27 C15, C18 and C37 D4 and D32 F4, F6, F9, F12 Concourse F mezzanine level, departure level and arrival level An adult changing table is located in the family bathroom at Concourse F departure level near French Meadow Cafe. Parking for passengers with disabilities is available in all Airport parking areas. Once you enter the parking lot, just follow the signs to the designated parking spaces, which are closest to the Airport’s terminals. Passengers with disabilities are encouraged to use the Airport “Park-Ride” facility, which offers convenient service to the domestic terminal. A free, wheelchair-accessible shuttle bus will pick up passengers at their vehicle and take them to curbside check-in. Vans taller than 8 feet should park in “Park-Ride” lots. Upon returning to Hartsfield-Jackson, “Park-Ride” customers are picked up at the ground transportation area. “Park-Ride” parking rates are $1 per hour and $9 per day. For additional information, contact ABM-Lanier-Hunt 24 hours a day at (404) 530-6725. Airline representatives are available to provide wheelchair assistance. To reserve a wheelchair, contact the airline directly before your scheduled flight. Passengers with limited English proficiency should contact their airline for language assistance. Due to partial closures on the North Terminal roadways, passengers who need wheelchair assistance for drop-off between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. should contact their airline’s wheelchair company at least five minutes before arriving at the Airport. Prime Flight (Air Canada, Alaska, American, Contour, Spirit and Turkish) – 404-530-7049 Prospect (JetBlue, Southwest and United) – 404-209-0503
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Each terminal has at least one wheelchair accessible restroom. If you need assistance locating one, just ask at the information booth located on the Arrivals Level in any of the terminals. The terminals and parking lots at JFK are divided into five areas, each specified by a separate color. For your convenience, the parking lots nearest the terminal entrances have a limited number of spaces for travelers with disabilities. To park in the spaces, official license plates issued by a municipality or state of residence must be prominently displayed. Parking fees for these vehicles are equal to the lowest rate available at the airport. Contact your airline prior to travel for wheelchairs. If you’re traveling with a motorized wheelchair, please ask the airline when you purchase the ticket about their policies regarding battery-operated wheelchairs.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Each terminal has at least one wheelchair accessible restroom. All parking facilities have designated handicap parking stalls. Requesting a Wheelchair To Request wheelchair service, it is recommended you contact your airline 72 hours in advance. Wheelchair service is provide free of charge by your airline. Tipping is not required for wheelchair service. Most individuals requesting wheelchair assistance are transported via wheelchair from ticketing to their aircraft. Airlines are required to provide curbside wheelchair service when requested. On your return flight, you should remind a flight attendant near the end of your flight, that you will need a wheelchair upon arrival. Curbside Each airline is responsible for providing wheelchairs for their customers with disabilities, from curbside drop-off to the aircraft. Contact your airline’s reservation desk a minimum of 72 hours prior to your flight to reserve wheelchair service. Wheelchair service is provided free of charge. Tipping is not required. From Parking Structure Airlines are not responsible for providing wheelchair service from parking structures to terminals.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) Each terminal has at least one family restroom with a private area to change clothing or disposable undergarments. Ask for directions at any information desk. Accessible parking is available in all garages closest to the elevators. In the East Economy lot, accessible parking is available north of the PHX Sky Train Station. In the West Economy Park & Walk, accessible parking is available at the east end closest to Terminal 2. If you need extra time at the curb, Airport staff on the curb may issue Special Needs permits. Over height or oversize parking is available in the uncovered economy parking areas and Oversized Vehicle parking area east of Terminal 4. Request a wheelchair when checking in and tell a flight attendant during the flight. If you are departing, you may request a wheelchair from a Sky Cap at the curb or from a Sky Cap or the airline on the ticketing level of the terminal. You can also request wheelchair service ahead of time when you book your tickets with your airline. Ask your airline about traveling with power chair batteries.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) Companion Care Restrooms for travelers needing companion assistance are located in all terminals, pre-security and post-security. All airport parking facilities have convenient parking for vehicles displaying a: DP (Disabled Person) license plate DV (Disabled Veteran) license plate Disabled Parking placard The Domestic Garage has standard parking at all levels. Van accessible parking is available through ParkVALET on Level 4 Departures near Terminal 1, Boarding Area C. International Garages A and G have standard and van accessible parking at all levels. In Long-Term Parking, accessible parking spaces for standard and van accessible vehicles are located on the first (ground) floor. SFO’s Long-Term Parking shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible. Travelers requiring wheelchair assistance are encouraged to advise their airline of their needs when making flight arrangements. Upon arriving at the airport, travelers with wheelchair or other special requests should approach an airline representative for assistance. At Domestic Terminals 1, 2, and 3, airline staff can be approached at curbside and check-in areas. At the International Terminal, please proceed to your airline’s assigned counter or dial 1-6210 from specially marked phones at all terminal entry doors. Arrangements for assistance to and from other locations at SFO can be made with your airline.

Contact your airline customer service for further questions and assistance while traveling with someone with diabetes.

Bring a Schedule

As you are traveling, be sure to consider time zones.

Because we are all prone to some level of jet lag, this can significantly affect daily routines, including eating and time of insulin injections.  If you don’t establish a schedule, your travels can be railroaded quickly with the potential fluctuation of blood sugar levels.

Jet lag can foil your idea of a good time – especially if your rigid schedule as a diabetic is compromised

Pack Healthy Snacks

It’s vital to carry healthy snacks in case you or your travel buddy are running on low blood sugar.  We all practice irregular eating habits while we travel, whether it be indulging in unhealthy food, drinking more than normal, or not getting enough water.

Eating out at a diabetes-friendly establishment isn’t always cheap, so bring and use your favorite restaurant rewards card to get the best bang for your buck for food.  It’s a nice way to get a return for money you’d spend anyway.

You can also take control of your diet by packing your own food, including items you know are diabetes friendly, like:

  • Cheese and crackers
  • Apples and peanut butter
  • Hard boiled eggs
  • Trail mix
  • Beef sticks
  • Dried fruit
  • Yogurt

It’s good to mix a few non-perishables in there to ensure you’ve ALWAYS got sustenance in your back pocket.  This can be the difference between an enjoyable adventure or an unfortunate trip to the hospital.

Hitting the Road

Just as you go to the doctor’s for a check-up prior to a vacation, take your car for a check-up, too!

If you are planning to head out for a road trip, be sure to take your vehicle in for an inspection at least a week before you hit the highway.  If there’s something wrong with your vehicle, you are giving yourself a few buffer days between a potential problem and your vacation.

However, do consider renting a car.  Sometimes it makes sense to pay for a rental car and put the miles on a vehicle that’s not your own.  And if you do decide to rent a car, be sure to explore all of your options when it comes to using rewards cards for car rentals.  Along with that, be sure to use cards that will give you the biggest return on gas purchases.

If you’ve got room, consider bringing extra medical supplies and snacks.  If you’re making a long drive through parts of the country where medical access isn’t readily available, you’re obviously going to want as many fallback solutions as you can get.  Bring enough food to account for low blood sugar, and pack a cooler for insulin in case you are traveling through high temperatures (not directly on ice, though!).

Lastly, driving can be extremely tiring.  Whether you are driving or not, being cooped up a car for hours on end is taxing.  Taking frequent breaks will allow everyone to stretch to keep blood flow moving and prevent fatigue.

Traveling by Air

While traveling by air is a bit more luxurious, it can still be hard on your body.

Notify the Proper People

If you decide that flying is your best mode of travel, be sure to let the appropriate people know (for example, your flight attendant while you’re boarding the plane).  That way they’ll understand when you press the call button and request a cup of juice to stave off hypoglycemia.

This is particularly wise if you’re traveling alone.

In the same vein, you can even use a TSA notification card that will make your airport security process a little less of a headache.

Store Your Medication in Your Carry-On Bag

Also, consider bringing medical necessities in your carry-on bag instead of putting them into your checked bag.  Do this for a few reasons:

  • You always want access to your medication.  If you end up stuck on the plane longer than you anticipated, or if onboard meals are delayed for some reason, it could lead to a bad situation if your supplies are in your checked bag
  • You don’t want to subject your insulin to frigid temperatures in the cargo hold
  • Checked bags get lost, misdirected, stolen, etc.

In fact, because airlines allow you 1 personal item (separate from your carry-on), you may want to bring a dedicated diabetes pouch filled with snacks, insulin, and tablets.

Personal items are considerably smaller than carry-on bags, but you can still cram plenty of necessities in there!

And don’t scrimp on the amount of snacks and medicine – bring WAY more than you imagine you’ll need!  Remember, diabetics don’t have to abide by the 3.4-ounces-of-liquids rule like everyone else when going through airport security.

Use Airport Lounges to Stay Comfortable

To keep your comfort levels up, consider entering airport lounges to rest up and have access to snacks and drinks before your flight.  This is my all-time favorite travel accessory.

Airport lounge access isn’t as expensive as you might imagine, especially if you have the right credit card!  If you are anticipating a long flight, it could make a world of difference.  Many lounges have hot meals, free beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and even showers!

Bottom Line

Just like anything else in life, preparation is key to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.  If you or someone you are traveling with is diabetic, taking steps ahead of time could save you from a potentially health-threatening situation.

Diabetes shouldn’t stop you from seeing the world!  See: www.diabetesforecast.org for details.

 

Something You Need to Know: 24 Hour Insulin vs Fast-Acting Insulin

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The last 25 years of my life, I have had to use a BASAL/24 Hour Long Acting Insulin along with a before Meal-Time/Fast Acting Insulin.  This is most, but not inherently, due to wearing an insulin pump.

The 35 years before that, I used syringes twice a day.  I am dependent on insulin.  I am an insulin addict.

The following guide and charts will be of good use to you, the T1D and or T2Ds in need of insulin.

Please use this with your doctor(s).

 

Skyrocketing Insulin Prices by Ashley Klann

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Posted on facebook February 15, 2019, “Judge Denies Insulin Makers’ Motion to Dismiss Class-Action Lawsuit Regarding Skyrocketing Insulin Prices,” this article is definitely worthy here at Buckroth’s Blog.

“Attorney representing individuals living with diabetes against the pharma defendants says judge’s opinion “blows the insulin racket wide open” to expose deals with PBMs.”

“NEWARK, N.J. – Today, a federal judge’s opinion has greenlighted a national class-action lawsuit filed against Sanofi, Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly for their systematic overpricing of insulin and concealment of a behind-the-scenes arrangement orchestrated to hike insulin prices, according to attorneys at Hagens Berman.

“Hon. Brian R. Martinotti, U.S. District Judge for the District of New Jersey granted in part and denied in part the drug companies’ motion to dismiss the case. The opinion allows state law claims from plaintiffs – people living with diabetes who Eli Lilly, Sanofi and Novo Nordisk have forced to pay skyrocketing insulin prices – and gave attorneys representing them ability to address concerns regarding individual state representation. To the extent the court requires a patient from each state, attorneys say they can and will add clients to satisfy the court’s concerns.

F”ind out more about the lawsuit and sign up.

Regarding the plaintiffs’ state claims, Judge Martinotti’s opinion read, “This Court finds Plaintiffs have adequately alleged fraudulent, unfair, or unconscionable conduct.” The court also held that the plaintiffs “adequately pled an ascertainable loss.”

“The lawsuit states that in recent years, Sanofi, Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly have raised the sticker or “benchmark” prices on their drugs by more than 150 percent. Some plaintiffs now pay almost $900 dollars per month just to obtain the drugs they need, according to the firm.

“Hagens Berman filed the first-of-its-kind lawsuit in 2017, detailing several accounts from patients resorting to extreme measures to survive rising insulin prices, including starving themselves to control their blood sugars, under-dosing their insulin, and taking expired insulin. The complaint also detailed how class members having intentionally allowed themselves to slip into diabetic ketoacidosis – a potentially fatal blood syndrome caused by lack of insulin in the body – so that they can obtain insulin samples from hospital emergency rooms.

“Steve Berman, managing partner and co-founder of Hagens Berman, was named co-lead counsel in the case by Judge Martinotti.

“In general we are pleased with the decision because we can now bring consumer protection claims in most states,” Berman said. “This ruling also clears the way for us to begin obtaining discovery from the manufacturers and PBMs so we can shine the light on exactly what has driven insulin prices sky high.”

“This ruling blows the insulin racket wide open,” he added.

“The complaint states that this once affordable drug is now out of reach for many patients due to a behind-the-scenes quid pro quo arrangement between drug makers and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs): “increased benchmark prices are the result of a scheme and enterprise among each defendant and several bulk drug distributors. In this scheme, the defendant drug companies set two different prices for their insulin treatments: a publicly-reported, benchmark price and a lower, real price that they offer to certain bulk drug distributors.”

“Are you Affected? Sign up for the Case Now.

  • Attorneys are currently looking for those who purchased Lantus, Levemir, Novolog, Humalog Apidra, and/or Toujeo from the following states: Alaska, Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Virginia, West Virginia or Wyoming. Sign up here.
  • Did you purchase Humalog in Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oregon, Tennessee or Vermont? Sign up here.
  • Did you purchase Novolog or Levemir in Colorado, Montana, Nevada, or Washington? Sign up here.
  • Did you purchase Lantus, Apidra or Toujeo in Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Tennessee or Washington? Sign up here.

“About Hagens Berman Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP is a consumer-rights class-action law firm with 10 offices across the country. The firm’s tenacious drive for plaintiffs’ rights has earned it numerous national accolades, awards and titles of “Most Feared Plaintiff’s Firm,” and MVPs and Trailblazers of class-action law. More about the law firm and its successes can be found at www.hbsslaw.com. Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw.”

Media Contact: Ashley Klann, ashleyk@hbsslaw.com, 206-268-9363

Books: “My Diabetic Soul – An Autobiography” versus “My Diabetic Soul – An Autobiography Revised Edition”

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Let me explain….

My Diabetic Soul – An Autobiography copyright 2010, remains a good read for those of you that have a copy.  As it was originally published through an Indie Publisher, typos in this original version had not been addressed – until now.

Only available for sale as an audio version, read by the author, your quick download via Audible.com is efficient and sufficiant.

My Diabetic Soul – An Autobiography Revised Edition copyright 2018, has taken its place.  Its plot and setting are not too different from the original.  However, this book holds recent updates with diabetes care, has a delightfully useful Index along with Internet Reference Resources from research.   This latest version not only has a bright, colorful title cover, it is crisper to read with available and comfortable inner space.  It has been profesisonally copyedited and proofread.  Shorter Chapters with new Titles increase clarity and voice through the story.   It is also proudly included in the Library of Congress under #2018961888.

After numerous months of efforts, it is available through Amazon.com in paperback and e-book formats.  The Nook by Barnes & Noble carries the e-book format, of course.

ISBN- 13; 9781492839682  and ISBN- 10; 149283968X; it is 324 pages, 45 Chapters, with photos.

I just wanted to let you know.

Best regards,

A. K. Buckroth (#buckroth)

 

 

“How Much Does It Cost To Produce Insulin?” Written by Dana Howe

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“Half of the estimated 100 million people worldwide who need insulin do not have reliable, affordable access to the medication that keeps them alive. The three largest manufacturers of insulin — Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, and Sanofi — control 96% of the global market volume. Right now, there is no competitive biosimilar market to drive prices down. The lack of competition has resulted in price increases, intensifying the life-threatening issue of access to insulin both in the United States and abroad.

“So how much does it actually cost to produce insulin? And if a truly competitive market existed, how much could insulin cost per person?

“Researchers from Imperial College London, the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, and Liverpool University set out to answer these questions with support from the ACCISS study, aiming to improve access to insulin globally. A recent study estimated the price tag associated with creating regular human insulin, analog insulin and their biosimilars.

“What is a biosimilar?

“Biosimilars are insulins designed to work similarly to an insulin product that already exists and has previously been licensed. This allows for lower costs of research and development, streamlined governmental and regulatory approvals, and ideally lower costs for the product.

“Few biosimilar insulin products have come to market in the United States. In some instances, current insulin manufacturers have taken active steps to prevent new biosimilars from coming to market. For more on this, read “Where are all the generic insulins hiding?”.

“What is a “reasonable” price for insulin?

“With an active, competitive biosimilar market, this study estimated a reasonable price for analog insulins to be between $78-130 USD per person per year (except insulin Detemir, which was higher). Regular and NPH was even lower — between $48-72 USD per year. Yearly costs are based on an average dosage of 40 units per day (a World Health Organization statistic).

“The numbers proposed take into account not only manufacturing costs, but many of the other variables involved in production including the cost of active pharmaceutical ingredients, cost of other ingredients, cost of vials, cost of transportation, operating expenses and the added cost of bringing a new biosimilar to market. These numbers are “competitive but profitable” to manufacturers based on experts’ analysis.

“This study makes suggestions in the context of government procurement of insulin directly from an insulin manufacturer. The numbers should be interpreted as a price point for what a government might expect to pay per person per year if they were negotiating a dollar amount directly with an insulin biosimilar manufacturer.

“Why am I paying so much more than $130 per year for my insulin?

“Right now, there is no competitive biosimilar insulin market. Not just in the United States – anywhere in the world. This study sites the insulin oligopoly, regulatory challenges and regular incremental developments in insulin as three reasons we haven’t seen the emergence of a healthy biosimilar market. In order for the low prices suggested here to become a reality, multiple new manufacturing competitors need to enter the ring.

“Not only are the big three insulin manufacturers financially opposed to biosimilars entering the market, they’ve actively taken legal steps to prevent it. In July 2017, Merck received FDA approval for Lusduna Nexvue, a biosimilar of Lantus. It has not launched in the United States because of an outstanding lawsuit — Sanofi, maker of Lantus, sued Merck for patent infringement. Just this month, Merck announced that Lusduna will not come to market because of the cost associated with getting it there.

“The answer to why you’re paying so much for insulin depends on where you live, what kind of insurance you have, and a slew of other variables. The study’s authors remind us: “final prices to patients or health systems may include additional mark-ups added during the supply chain. These mark-ups will vary between countries, as they may be subject to local negotiations, regulations, and other factors. In some cases, these additional markups can be very large.”

“The United States is one such case. For the majority of Americans, the insulin prices we see are not negotiated by the government but by a long list of supply-chain players. Private insurance companies, pharmacies, and pharmacy benefit managers all have a hand in negotiations that impact the list price of insulin set by the manufacturer.

“The $1200 price tag a patient in the United States might see for a month’s worth of insulin reflects the total of money exchanged throughout the supply chain. Exactly how much profit each cog in the insulin-pricing machine rakes in is unclear. Between insulin manufacturers and customers, insulin passes through wholesalers, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), pharmacies, and insurance companies. The lack of transparency at every level makes it nearly impossible to understand the scope of the problem. Read more about the insulin-pricing machine here.

“Rising costs are taking a more serious toll than ever because patients are increasingly paying the entirety of the massive price tag out of pocket every month. Health insurance plan design has changed — more people are being forced to pay full prices for the first several months of the year after switching to a high-deductible plan. That is, of course, if they are lucky enough to be insured at all.

“These numbers put in sharp relief the remaining work there is to be done in insulin access globally. Less than $130 per person per year for modern insulin analogs represents an aspirational goal for a more affordable future. A future where no one dies because of a lack of access to insulin, with a competitive market made up of more than just three manufacturers, and where government regulation helps set affordable prices for insulin that everyone has access to.”

Obsessive Comparison Disorder by Madeleine Kando

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Jan 14, 2019, 8:45 PM (3 days ago)

The eye doctor looked at my chart, then looked at me. My right eye was bloodshot, red as red can be. Like a vampire’s eyes. She placed the chart on the desk and said: ‘Your chart says that you are 75, is that true?’ 

‘Of course not’ I was tempted to reply. ‘I only wrote that so I would get preferential treatment. People give up their seat in the waiting room, open doors for you and don’t strike up annoying conversations, thinking that you are gaga anyway.’ Instead, I said: ‘Yes I am 75’.

‘You look great for your age’ the doctor said, as she told me to put my chin on the chinrest and peered into my bloodshot eye through the retinal camera. As I was trying to avoid eye contact with someone whose face is a few inches away, I wondered if she looked good for her age. I had no access to her chart, but if she was 50, she looked terrific; if she was 40, she wasn’t too bad looking, but if she was 35, she looked downright awful.

I wondered on what facts she based her statement about my looks. How is one supposed to look at my age? She was a pediatric doctor to whom I had been assigned on an emergency basis, so her judgment could not be based on comparing me with her other patients, who ranged between 2 and 7 year olds.

I couldn’t let it go. Sitting in my car after the appointment, I googled: ‘How is one supposed to look at 75’. Did you notice that Google never admits to not having an answer to anything? It didn’t say: ‘Sorry Madeleine, I do not know what a woman is supposed to look like at age 75’. Instead, it offered me numerous images of wrinkled, grey haired faces – faces of women I didn’t want to look like at any age.

My usually chaotic mind led me down a stream of consciousness path, and I started to wonder if we could know anything about anything without comparisons. How do I know I am a human? Without other humans around, I could be a cat walking on its hind legs, or a worm with 4 appendages. Would I know I am alive without all the dead people buried in the cemeteries? Ok, so I admit that comparisons serve a useful purpose. Without it, the world would be one big bowl of blended pea soup.

But you see, we have come to a point in our evolution where comparisons are running amuck. We, as a species, suffer from what some have dubbed ‘Obsessive Comparison Disorder’ (OCD), especially Millennials. It must be exhausting to have to adjust your self-image, not knowing who your are without a day to day, hour by hour, minute by minute comparison to your peers via Facebook and Instagram.

There was a moment in our evolutionary history called the ‘Ediacaran period’ (about 635 million years ago), when living beings spent their blissful lives as stationary and motionless creatures, anchored to the ocean floor. All they had to do was gently sway in the current, wait for something edible to float by and feed on it. They peacefully minded their own business, ignoring other stationary creatures, in a Zen like trance. Scientists actually call this evolutionary period ‘the secret Garden of Ediacara’. Comparing themselves to other Ediacarans was the furthest thing from their minds.

As professor of philosophy and deep sea diver Peter Godfrey-Smith explains in his book Other Minds: the Octopus, the Sea, and the Deep Origins of Consciousness: ‘Ediacarans’ lives seem not to have been lives of conflict and complicated interactions. It was a garden of relatively self-contained and self-possessed beings. Macarons that pass in the night.’ But good things never last, so after this heavenly period in the distant past of life on earth, nature came up with the bright idea of giving living beings the ability to move about. That was the beginning of our troubles. Once you go down that path, you are bound to meet other things that move and if you don’t want to end up as someone else’s lunch, you have to equip yourself with all sorts of claws, pincers and poisonous stingers.

You have to develop a tail and fins so you can flee and a nervous system that can process and react to what’s out there, and the whole dance starts to revolve around the relationship between you and the world. Gone are the good old Ediacaran days of navel staring, when all you needed to worry about was find a nice spot on the ocean floor and anchor yourself there for the rest of your life.

But even that wasn’t enough for busy mother nature. She insisted that some living beings, at a critical point in their evolution, should become self-aware. Once we were able to anticipate other creatures’ (usually evil) intentions, to read their mind so to speak, we turned this ability around and employed it to our own mind. Self-awareness was born.

Self-awareness is usually viewed as a positive trait, but why do we need to know that we know, instead of just knowing? Isn’t it enough to feel, without feeling about the fact that we are feeling? Did it give us an evolutionary advantage? Does my cat Emmy, know that she knows? She certainly knows a lot, but I don’t know if she bothers knowing that she knows. It does not serve any purpose in her life.

So, considering the current downsides to self-awareness, awareness of how much better off your peers are, how good or terrible you look for a 75 year old, our ability for self-awareness might be more harmful than beneficial.

I read that Obsessive Comparison Disorder diminishes with age. Soon, there will only be centenarians I can be compared to, and eventually I will be dead. That will be the end of my comparison troubles. Although, someone is bound to visit me in my coffin and say: ‘She really looks good for a corpse’.

Rush Introduces Insulin Access For All Bill

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Jan 9, 2019
Press Release
WASHINGTON —Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) introduced H.R.366, the Insulin Access for All Act of 2019.  This bill, cosponsored by 33 members of the House Democratic Caucus, eliminates the cost sharing requirement under Medicare and Medicaid for insulin.
“This bill, introduced with significant cosponsors, addresses the appalling issue plaguing Americans who have one of the most devastating and debilitating diseases of modern times — diabetes.   There are many who simply cannot afford the insulin they need to live longer, active, and productive lives.  This legislation tackles that issue head on and ensures that those suffering from diabetes no longer have to pay out-of-pocket costs for insulin.  No American should go without life-sustaining medication,” said Rush.
This legislation was inspired by countless stories like that of Alec Raeshawn Smith, age 26, who died because he was forced to ration his insulin after he aged out of his parents’ insurance coverage.  Stories like this are further proof that we must do something to lower prescription drug costs.  “I am pleased to see that House Democrats’ agenda includes work on this vital and life-saving issue for the people,” said Rush.
A study by The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology journal predicts that by 2030, 79 million adults with type 2 diabetes are expected to need insulin to manage their condition and if current levels of access remain, only half of them will be able to be able to get an adequate supply.
Members cosponsoring this legislation include Representatives Alma Adams (N.C.), Karen Bass (Calif.), Joyce Beatty (Ohio), Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (Ga.), Anthony Brown (Md.), G.K. Butterfield (N.C.), André Carson (Ind.), Yvette D. Clarke (N.Y.), William “Lacy” Clay Jr. (Mo.), James E. Clyburn (S.C.), Danny K. Davis (Ill.), Val Demings (Fla.), Dwight Evans (Pa.), Marcia L. Fudge (Ohio), Steven Horsford (Nev.), Sheila Jackson Lee (Texas), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson Jr. (Ga.), Robin Kelly (Ill.), Al Lawson (Fla.), Barbara Lee (Calif.), John Lewis (Ga.), A. Donald McEachin (Va.), Donald Payne Jr. (N.J.), Stacey Plaskett (Virgin Islands), Ayanna Pressley (Mass.), Cedric Richmond (La.), Jan Schakowsky (Ill.), David Scott (Ga.), Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (Va.), Terri A. Sewell (Ala.), Bennie G. Thompson (Miss.), Bonnie Watson Coleman (N.J.), Frederica Wilson (Fla.)

Why English is so hard to learn by Marlene Cavis

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“You think English is easy?  Check out the following:

  1. “The bandage was wound around the wound.
  2. “The farm was cultivated to produce produce.
  3. The dump was so full that the workers had to refuse more refuse.
  4. “We must polish the Polish furniture shown at the store.
  5. “He could lead if he could get the lead out.
  6. “The soldier decided to desert his tasty dessert in the desert.
  7. “Since there is not time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present to his girlfriend.
  8. “A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum.
  9. “When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes.
  10. “I did not object to the object which he showed me.
  11. “The insurance was invalid for the invalid in his hospital bed.
  12. “There was a row among the oarsmen about who would row.
  13. “They were too close to the door to close it.
  14. “The buck does many things when the does (females) are present.
  15. “A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line.
  16. “To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow.
  17. “The wind was too strong to wind the sail around the mast.
  18. “Upon seeing the tear in her painting, she shed a tear.
  19. “I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.
  20. “How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend.

Heteronyms

“These are brilliant.  Homonyms or homographs are words of like spelling, but with mote than meaning and sound.  When pronounced differently, they are know as herteronyms.”

Found on the facebook page of English Professor June Gillam (JuneGillam.com), I needed to share this with you.  Consider this a lesson for today!

Sincerely, A. K. Buckroth

A Dog named Money

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This brief blog regards my dog named Money, not cash-in-hand or monetary concerns.

Adopted in 2008 through a facility in Colorado at eight months old, his original name was “Buddy.” At that young age, he was more than willing to be loved, accepted, and happy.  Driving him home to California, his name was changed to “Money.”

Due to another family dog, a Bichon Frise name “Picasso” after the infamous painter, use of another infamous and favored painters’ name, “Monet,” came to mind. Hmm.  “Buddy Monet” or  “Monet Buddy?”  Wanting an attractive name change for selfish reasons, we knew an original name would bestow his belonging to our family.  Therefore, we settled on “Money,” “Money Buddy” to be exact.

Before arriving home on this pleasant yet long drive, repetitions of this name became gladly accepted. It fit him well and depicted a fun-loving and original character.

After licensing, chipping, neutering, and veterinarian visits, this black Labrador Retriever/Highlander Newfoundland puppy mix learned manners. For instance, his entering or exiting a doorway was paused to allow a human to enter or exit before him; he sat nicely while his food bowl was prepared or a cookie snack given; through daily walks, he encouraged his owners to exercise.  And the goodness went on.

On first impression, you’d think he was a Labrador Retriever with long hair and long legs. Gosh he was tall!  He ran with the wind and always found me when I hid behind a tree.  His paws were the size of those of a tiger, quite discerning through a wet or muddied print, giving an intimidating impression of his size.  His strength matched his girth at his climaxed adult weight of 104 pounds.  His kind, loving attitude and guard-like behavior matched his size.  There was a lot of love!

Grateful to have the insight to write an illustrated chapter book with Money as a main character, he will live long into infinity.

2018 saw a slow but apparent decline in his mobility ̶  dysplasia had sent in.  Oh no!  Comparable to arthritis in humans, this condition is painful.  Veterinarian prescriptions helped ease this scenario for a short time, allowing Money to walk but at a slower pace.  A healthier diet of brown rice, blueberries or a diced apple with diced carrots and fresh meat was also incorporated.  We were looking for a miracle.  However, he slowly became worse.  Experiencing the sight of him in pain, we made the tough decision to have his veterinarian give him peace.  Therefore, December 30, 2018, we said our loving, tender and tearful goodbyes.

Surrounded by his beds, his toys, his jackets, his food and water bowls, these items were laundered, cleaned and given to the Disabled American Veterans thrift store. Copies of Me & My Money… accompanied these treasures.  Money will never be forgotten.

Sincerely, A. K. Buckroth

Latest Book Release by A. K. Buckroth

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Here it is, finally, the of My Diabetic Soul – An Autobiography Revised Edition by me, A. K. Buckroth.

This revision contains a sharper, cleaner context making reading easier; a wider page format providing wider page borders for ease of holding the paperback to read; a new TOC (Table of Contents) with chapter clarity; an easy-to-use Index for you to look up details; and, the best part…a new cover.  Sure, the cover still holds a depiction of a caduceus symbol, but it is now in blue, the international color of diabetes.

Yes, it remains available in paperback, e-book, and audio book through numerous retailers such as Amazon.com, Kindle .com, Nook.com, Smashwords.com, Audible.com…for your convenience.  Googling will assist you, of course.

I’m sure you will enjoy this revision as much as I did writing it!

Thank you for visiting Buckroth.com.  Please leave a comment and come back soon for further updates.  Also, look forward to upcoming updates in 2019 with my other books.

With my best regards…A. K. Buckroth