Diabetes Themed Christmas Gifts?

What do you want for Christmas? is one of the most difficult questions in the world for me to answer. Perhaps it’s because I’m extremely indecisive. Or because I’m simply lucky enough to have a lot of the stuff that I want already.

This week, I feel particularly proud of myself for having completed all of my Christmas shopping on December 4. I get to go home in the afternoons contemplating nothing further than a walk, and perhaps a trip to the beach on Friday.

Strolling through the shops at this time of year reminds me of how I honestly couldn’t think of any Christmas gift worse than a mug and cocoa set, a spice rack, jam jars, candles, toiletry sets, or character shaped tins of cheap biscuits.

So when it comes to the subject of a diabetes themed holiday gift, I actually don’t think it’s such a bad idea. There are so many awesome diabetes accessories online that I spend more time than I’d care to admit looking at – adhesives, stickers, bags, tees, jewellery, phone covers, mugs and so much more.

I totally get that a diabetes themed holiday gift won’t be for everyone. Not everyone wants to wear their diabetes loud and proud, or be reminded of their condition on Christmas morning. There are definitely diabetes themed gifts that would equally insult me (please don’t ever put a box of anything sugar free or ‘diabetic friendly’ inside my Christmas stocking. Unless you’re joking. But even I wouldn’t test me on that one). But equally, I’m sure there are people out there who would appreciate those gifts. So ultimately, knowing the person who you are buying for is key.

Diabetes is an extremely expensive condition to live with. I am forced to spend my hard earned money on supplies that I’d rather spend elsewhere. So for the most part, I can’t really justify spending money on cool accessories when looking at the bigger picture.

However it does make my task of answering that dreaded Christmas question much, much easier. Last year, I asked for a Myabetic bag. This year, I’ve requested FreeStyle Libre sensors. I’m planning to trade in my Christmas cash for some more Libre sensors. I also wouldn’t be offended by the likes of a diabetes book, t-shirt or other cool accessory.

Managing my diabetes is one of the most monotonous tasks in life. Every day I stare at the same devices, perform the same tasks and take the same actions with the aim of keeping my blood sugar levels in check. I don’t get a break over Christmas and New Year, nor at five o’clock or on the weekend.

I personally couldn’t think of a better Christmas gift than one that might help me to feel a little more enthusiastic, less burdened or reenergised in the daily grind.

If that doesn’t float your boat, I don’t think you could go wrong with a donation to one of these charities supporting people with diabetes in Australia and beyond.

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