ABOUT HEATHER
I've had type 1 diabetes since 1982, when I was 12, back when there were no glucose monitors or insulin pumps. Although diabetes management has made technological leaps, the psychosocial component, "What diabetes means to you," is still decades behind.
This book illuminates the struggles with diabetes and the resilience that it takes to live with a chronic disease that requires constant attention. It also describes life with diabetes and an eating disorder, which is not usually discussed at doctor appointments, and often is ignored.
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As Associate Professor of Medicine at Penn State Hershey College of Medicine, I am the primary investigator for many humanistic research studies to improve psychosocial outcomes (psychological well-being and quality of life) for people with diabetes (see achievements for more).
TESTIMONIALS
ABOUT HEATHER
Heather’s book illuminates the challenges and experiences of living with Type 1 diabetes and consequential eating disorder (diabulimia). To see the problems represented in literature as a main theme would mean so much to the diabetes community. This book could reach over 1.5 million American adults with Type 1 diabetes alone, as well as unknown numbers who struggle with secretive eating disorders.
Robert A. Gabbay, MD, Ph.D.
Chief Science & Medical Officer
American Diabetes Association
Recovery from an eating disorder is an intense reorganization of someone's basic identity... a client is forced to give up their sense of control (even if it is literally killing them) in exchange for the power that comes from self-compassion and growth. Recovery is difficult... manipulation, rebellion and recidivism abound. This book is a brave and authentic look into the fight that clients go through to get back their life, their power, and their bodies. My hope is that it will serve as a beacon of hope to others who are contemplating stepping into the warrior's arena.
Christine Schneider, PhD, LCSW Integrative Mind Institute
Heather’s book brings awareness and illumination to some of the often unspoken struggles a person with Type 1 diabetes may face. Having struggled with self- image issues in the past, my peers and I purposely kept elevated glucoses in efforts to feel “in control” and maintain a thin appearance, I know the importance of normalizing these conversations whether it be with health care providers , counselors or family and friends. Heather’s book, through the fictional characters, takes a look at difficult issues such as distorted self-image, control issues, OCD and problem drinking among persons with Type 1 diabetes . I applaud Heather for the sensitivity and thoughtfulness that was put into raising more awareness about these topics.
Kendra Durdock, RN, BSN, CDCES Certified Diabetes Care and Education SpecialisT