Oranges

Insulin means injections. I have searched through my journals from the time of my diagnosis, and there isn't a lot there to document how I felt about it. Did I take it all in stride? Was I in denial? I remember just knowing it was what it was and not really shaking my fist at fate or anything like that.
I don't know how they teach you to inject yourself now, but in 1985, you were given an orange and a syringe and told to jab it in. Get used to the feeling of "throwing" the needle into the somewhat resistant flesh of the orange. I did fine with the orange, but when the time came to do it to myself, I couldn't "throw" it in. I still don't, and it has been 24 years. I poke gingerly, and if it hurts too much, I change sites. I have always preferred to slide the needle in slowly, which is maybe stupid...but what can I tell you.
At that time, I was taking 2 insulins: NPH and Toronto (regular to Americans). I was mixing them in one syringe, and had to learn to do that properly. If I recall correctly, I was taking 2 shots a day, morning and suppertime. But maybe not. It might have been just one. This meant that everything I was allowed to eat for the day was based on my morning shot, no changes allowed. Hungry, or not.
This is why I am thankful now to be taking 5-6 injections a day (I now take Lantus and Novorapid)...smaller and more frequent doses mean I can make changes throughout the day. If I am not hungry I don't really have to eat, and if I am starving, I can eat a little more-just bump up my dose.
Maybe some people are more terrified of their first injection. If so, please share your experience in the comments. The only time I ever felt afraid of injecting was the first time I injected in my stomach...for some reason that gave me the heebie-jeebies. Now it's my preferred spot. ;)