In my final Hot Topics New to Diabetes blog, I wanted to share an interview with Theresa Garnero, author of Your First Year with Diabetes, What to do, month by month. (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1580403018/rx4betterhealt04)

I asked Ms. Garnero about her motivations for writing this book and she said,

“The American Diabetes Association contacted me to write an innovative book for those newly diagnosed. They wanted me to hold the hand of people who just found out they have diabetes and answer the question, "What do I do now?" So, when the mothership called, I got motivated.
I see this book as functioning on many levels: as a daily handbook and a long-term reference. Everyone is different in how they approach and deal with diabetes, and this book allows versatility in how it's used. If readers are interested in a topic that is presented later, they can flip ahead. The visual icons make this easy. If you want to focus only on food, thumb through to look for the apple symbol. All self-care behaviors, of which are the foundation of my book, are key for people with type 1 and 2. Anyone can pick up my book and find something of use regardless of when they were diagnosed.”

My next question was specific to women, how did this book speak to women’s health issues?

“Women will find a thorough section on sexual issues which includes everything from pre-pregnancy planning, to how to not kill the mood, to avoiding sex-induced hypoglycemia. In addition, readers will find an in-depth section on menopause (welcome to my world), depression, and many approaches on healthy eating. Exercise is sliced up every chapter with a wide range of topics from how many steps to take for health, putting the fun in function, when is the best time and type of exercise, home exercise programs, basic yoga illustrations you can even do at work, and what to do if you can't or won't exercise. Plus, there are many tips on stress reduction.  Information overload is common with diabetes and this book prevents information dumping by giving some reasonable bits and pieces to ponder.   Women can take 5 minutes just before bed to read what they'd like to consider for their health the next day. ”

Ms. Garnero writes with a humorous tone and I asked why she felt that was important for newly diagnosed patients. She said, “Humor helps to put things in perspective and take things in stride, not that there is anything funny about having diabetes. Diabetes is frightening. Humor gives balance to the negativity associated with diabetes. This book offers a lighthearted and "you can do this" approach that helps women gain the confidence needed to successfully live and manage diabetes.”

Well said. Take a look at this reader friendly, informative book; it might just make you smile.