Conflicted

I have been going to a free clinic for sometime now because, as a diabetic, I cannot afford not to have medical treatment, blood work, eye exams, medications, and blood testing materials. I have been diabetic long enough that I am the one in charge, not whoever I am seeing. This is invaluable in reminding them when you need something, so it is not overlooked.

In a free clinic setting it is difficult because you see different people every time you are there. Currently due to economics in our state, Republican Governor Scott Walker is trying to disenfranchise the poor from every program possible. I am very grateful I found adequate medical care without Badgercare involvement.

I have maintained regular medication, access to Hemoglobin  A1C testing, care by a Certified Diabetic Educator (CDE), and eye exams. Hopefully I do not have to wait very long to be accepted to a group health plan now that my employment is becoming full time.

I have not had care by a podiatrist in a long time (but I do keep a watchful eye on my feet and use special foot care lotions and such to keep them soft in the dry winter weather). I plan on preventing damage to my feet as much as possible.

So why am I conflicted? I just was offered a spot in a special clinic for diabetics but it will be during my training in another state for my new job. I hope I can push it to a subsequent month so that I can attend, but if insurance kicks in maybe I can get my care another way. I plan on diminishing as much as possible the damage diabetes can do to my body . . . I really like my toes, my eyesight and my kidneys.