Guest Blogger: Dawn Haddad

February's guest blogger is a very important person to me: my sister. She is also Laila's aunt, and Godmother. Here is a letter she wrote to Laila. Grab a tissue.

Dear Laila,

When I think about you, the first thing I think about is your smile. Not your diabetes.

You are a daughter, sister, friend, student, neighbor, niece, dancer, cheerleader, blogger, and many other wonderful things. You are also a diabetic. To me, you are my Godchild.

When your mom asked me to be your Godmother, I was SO excited. I knew from the moment you were born that you were a special little girl. I am enjoying watching you grow up. You are so smart, strong, and especially brave.

You are a role model for other kids with diabetes because you prove that you can do ANYTHING! You love to help your mom in the kitchen when she bakes. You love dance class and cheerleading. You are a great reader. You know the words AND movements to Backstreet Boys’, " I Want it that Way”. You are a kind and caring friend. YOU are just like any other kid. Except that you need to poke your finger sometimes, count carbs, and wear an insulin pump.

You have taught me to not be afraid of needles. You even let ME give you a shot once. I was so nervous, but you helped me to feel brave. You have taught me about diabetes…what it is, and what it isn’t. And I have learned a lot. Diabetes IS something that you have to live with each day of your life. You have learned how to read your body’s signals. You have learned how to take extra good care of yourself. You know more about science and biology and nutrition than most adults, because you have to know how your body works. Diabetes ISN’T something you can see just by looking at you. It isn’t something that will make you stop having fun. It’s just one part of your life. One big part, but not the most important part. The most important part is your beautiful smile, because YOU are Laila.