On Monday, I spent a little time talking about what I’ve learned from the Diabetes Online Community. Today, I’d like to talk a little bit about what I love about the DOC. Think of it as my letter of thanks on the day before Thanksgiving here in the USA.
- This is going to sound sappy (I really don’t care if it does), but I have never encountered so many helpful, supportive, and unpretentious people as I have in this community. That even includes church communities.
- It’s pretty safe to say that Wednesday nights are my favorite night of the week. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, join us on Twitter by following @DiabetesSocMed and the #DSMA hashtag beginning at 9:00 eastern time(US), and maybe Wednesday will become your favorite night of the week too.
- The way the DOC mobilizes and helps people is inspiring and heartwarming. See Spare a Rose, Save a Child, Strip Safely, and YouCanDoThis Project for starters.
- I love reading people’s stories. Whether someone is getting comfortable with an insulin pump for the first time, participating in a clinical trial, handling work and their diabetes or school and diabetes (or both), there’s nothing like watching those accomplishments through another’s eyes. You all suck me in and make me invest emotionally in your lives, and it’s the greatest show on earth.
- The global nature of the DOC is incredible. I’m not only talking about people living all over the globe, but also people living all kinds of different lives all over the globe. If you’re new to this community, I think you’ll be surprised by the fact that you’re very likely to find someone just like you. “Me too” is indeed powerful.
About four years ago, I was feeling about as low as you can imagine. Today, there is so much for me to find out about and celebrate. Given enough time, I suspect I could double or triple this list without too much trouble at all. There is so much joy and information and advocacy and encouragement out there. I am very thankful for the DOC and what it has meant to my life these past few years.
Help me add to this list: What do you really love about the Diabetes Online Community?
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Comments
Beautifully said, Stephen. And you are one of the many special people in the DOC.
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Great post. Stephen! Love it. So grateful to have your voice in this community and to be able to know you. Thanks for all you do, and for sharing this. Happy Turkey Day!
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