The Blue Heel Society

Although All Different, We Face Difficulties & Fears As One Family. - Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-29T12:00:00.000-05:00

Walk the Catwalk… The Diabetes Catwalk

2012-02-27T04:14:00.000-05:00

They were big, and golden; an amber kind of golden. Big, and gaudy. Flashy. A novelty. I'm not really sure how my mom got them. These were about size 11 heels, and my mom was around 5½.

All I knew at the time, was that they were awesome. They were not the same, boring, every day, sensible shoes that *I* had to wear. Brown or black, mom always said. "All you ever need to compliment an outfit, are either brown, or black shoes. Otherwise you end up wasting money, foolishly."

They were always tucked away at the very back of my oldest sister's closet (and she was a size 8)... and every time they came out during a Spring closet cleaning (and for some reason, never disposed of), it was like Christmas morning.

I remember the day I discovered them. Mom seemed almost embarrassed to own them, and seemed to try, rather discreetly, to just put them back where they were. But their glint, and glitter caught my eye... and a love affair of sorts began. I eagerly asked if I could try them on... for role play, I said. I must have been about 6 years old. Amazingly, she easily caved in, with an "Oh, alright... but only for a little bit," which she sternly declared. "And be careful in those things, don't fall and get hurt."

They were just enormous on my little feet, of course... but who cared! They had the tallest high heel I had ever seen... and well, you put them on, you tried to prance "elegantly" down the long hallway with the mirror at the end, and you tried hard not to trip! And at 6 years old, no one really thinks you're going to "doll up," and run off with a boy, while wearing size 11, 'loose woman' kind of heels, so your mom LETS YOU play in them! Oh, joy!!

I loved those heels. I loved everything they represented.

But I grew up... and I never bought my own pair of gaudy, flashy... glittery heels. I was always caught up in the sensible, brown or black, Catholic-school-approved type of shoes. I had almost forgotten the memory of those golden beauties, until about this morning (to tell you the truth). I don't know why I chanced remembering them, now.

Maybe... just maybe... because recapturing that bit of morning joy; that childhood love affair... That's how the Blue Heel Society makes me feel.

You see, it was never comfortable walking in those shoes... and you were always an inch away from falling on your face! Those things were not exactly the stuff of Hush Puppies' commercials... but that was never the point. The point was being fabulous, being a Queen, being the Grande Dame, being... a rock star. Being someone you NEVER thought you could be... with just a pair of shoes. Being... a fabulous diva.

As adults, we tend to lose some of that imaginative edge... And it does seem a lot harder, now, doesn't it? To be inspired to reach those heights? To live out our dreams? To even get up, and get going... because we have a different kind of catwalk, these days. Some mornings, we can barely manage it. You know which walk. The Diabetes Catwalk.

Figuratively, or not, we wear our own painful heels, every day... and we walk down our own long, mirrored corridors, on our own slick flooring, trying hard to "elegantly" strut our stuff. Trying hard to seem every bit the poised people we were meant to be. It's really not an easy walk... and frankly, some of us seem to do it with so much more ease than others. (But boy, if the shoes could talk! I'm sure they'd tell another story...)

The diabetes catwalk is probably, by far, one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. A painful walk, in painful shoes... while facing myself in the mirror, down a long corridor. Facing the mirror; facing the music. Facing a life long, seemingly endless journey.

You and I... We will never wear the same shoes. And we were never meant to, but in a way, we do. We wear the shoes of faith, of pride, of endurance, perseverance, of love, of joy... of hope eternal. The shoes of pain; of tears, sometimes, of anger, exhaustion, and grief... of resentment. We walk them down slick corridors, down gravel roads, down inclines, down every path that life imagined... They fit our feet, in their own unique ways... and they are... their own burden.

But my friend, though your shoes are different, if they walk beside mine down that long, crazy, winding corridor of life... they give me wings. A shoulder to lean on, should I trip. They make that long walk, all the shorter... all the more fabulous, all the more doable. I can be anyone. Do anything; balance on anything. I am, suddenly, the Grande Dame, the fabulous diva, the rockstar... the sexy thang.

Yes, I am proud to be a Blue Heeled Wearing Diva... and I am even prouder, when you are wearing yours, right next to mine. Walk with me. Just for a mile. Or maybe just two. I promise I'll catch you; catch you if you choose.

by Lizmari
http://theangrytype2diabetic.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com//lizzmariposa

'Behind the Blue Scenes' Week ending 02/26/2012

2012-02-26T16:50:00.001-05:00

Click the Play button to listen

Welcome to this week's edition of 'Behind the Blue Scenes', where we share with all of you, some of what goes on as The BHS grows.

Congrats to our Facebook Fan Of The Week Diane Wrona Irvin! Thanks for being a Bluetiful part of the BHS!

We are tickled BLUE to see the most popular item on our Facebook Page for the week was our newly introduced BHS Fan Marquee. Since YOU are the reason we do what we do, it makes us quite happy to be able to showcase how & why you interact with us, and give everyone a chance to be showcased. It is also a great way for us to see what you do (and don’t) like about what you see.

Another one of the top item’s were exercise related, as our friends at ‘Discuss Diabetes’ ask’s What’s your favorite way to exercise indoors? & the folks at Diabetes Care reported that Weight Loss Can be Contagious according to a Study.

If you can’t excersize indoors and need to do so outdoors, there is a service that was very popular that we shared called Type 1 Sitters that say’s “ Having Type 1 Diabetes is hard, but finding a babysitter in your area to take care of your Type 1 child is even harder”.

Another popular item as we shared was that Sanofi US launched the ‘2012 Data Design Diabetes Innovation Challenge’ where they seek to help “Improve the outcomes and/or experience of caregivers, family/friends, healthcare providers and/or people living with diabetes in the US.”

You also showed great interest in our Sister Organization Type1Rider.org, where our CEO/Co-Founder Tony Cervati is featured in a Pre-Trailer for 'Type1Rider the Film' If you haven’t checked this out yet it is a MUST SEE!

This coming week we will unveil the first Component of our ‘Shoebox’, the Application to become a BHS ‘Chapter Luminary’, so we can start mobilizing all of our wonderful peeps that have indicated they are ready. This is also the first & most important step for the BHS to start internally planning where & when our “Shoeins” will occur.

Finally & the most exciting thing to keep your eyes open for is the very first Guest Blog post by our dear friend Lizmari M. Collazo. Lets just say that Lizmari will bring you back in time in joy, as she also shares that she is also a “Blue Heeled Wearing Diva”. It is also one of THE most POWERFUL things you will ever have the pleasure of experiencing. The post will be published early tomorrow morning, so stay tuned.

Get ready for an EXCITING Week coming up & keep on being as BLUETIFUL as can be!

Tom Moore
Chief Shoehorn Tooter

p.s. ALWAYS looking for input & suggestions from YOU. Please send me an email & we may include your idea in our Weekly 'Behind the Blue Scenes'.

Are you GREAT?

2012-02-24T07:16:00.000-05:00

One of my fave quotes is: "Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them". This quote is from William Shakespeare but I think it's very fitting for our Blue Heel Society. Why? Because we are all involved in something great here!! In 3 short months, BHS, has rallied the DOC and you have NOT disappointed us. We LOVE all the pics your sending to us with your blue shoes!! We LOVE when your out and see blue shoes and IMMEDIATELY think Blue Heel Society and diabetes or see someone in the airport sporting blue shoes and tag us in your photo. We LOVE it all!! Keep 'em coming!!

However, I know there are some of you that are thinking, "what's a pair of blue shoes gonna do?" Those pair of blue shoes, you wear, can spark a conversation that educates one person about diabetes. Who then, in turn, educates another person and it goes on and on and on...(I throw my hands up in the air sometimes saying Hey -Yo!) sorry...couldn't help myself!! We all know it is going to take EACH and EVERY one of us to educate the public about diabetes. Why NOT do it in blue shoes??

So on this Blue Friday, go forth and be GREAT!!! And ask yourself: were you born with it, will you achieve it or will it be thrust upon you???

There Is A BLUE Shoe for Each & Every One... Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-22T11:34:00.000-05:00

What BLUE means to me...

2012-02-20T08:26:00.000-05:00

I HATE blue!! Before you get your heels all in a twist...let me explain. Blue has been in my life FOREVER!! Those of you that have attended a catholic school know what I mean. Blue is everywhere...it was in my school uniform, it was in my spirit wear, sports uniforms,shoes, backpacks, sweaters...like I said, it was everywhere...for 8 years!! (I think I chose a public high school just to get away from blue!) I stayed away from blue like it was the plague. If the option was blue or naked...I'd take naked, thank you very much!! Fast forward many, many years and now my T1D daughter is attending the EXACT same catholic school wearing the EXACT same uniform!!!

(My girls, Nora & Evy. The uniform on the left is the one I wore!)

But now with the push for a circle to denote the universal symbol of diabetes and a BLUE circle at that, I've started to see blue, in a different way. Now, I smile when I see blue. I am SEEKING blue, everywhere I go! My first purchase of blue shoes set me over the edge and I became a "blue-for-life'er". I'm one of those people that when I'm committed to something, I obsess. My husband knows this... for Christmas he bought me a blue jacket, blue Converse and a blue Pandora bead. He said I could wear them to all my diabetes events.(Insert "AWE" here...I love that man!) I can't go into a store without looking for blue clothes and of course, blue shoes!! It's so bad that every time I see something blue, I squeal in delight! I've even got my sister looking...and she is NOT a shopper!!

(My first pair!!)

But what does all this mean?!?! (besides the fact that I obviously need therapy!!) Now...blue means: diabetes, DOC, unity, strength, love, but most of all it means HOPE. Hope that with each day, new medications and new devices will improve the health of my diabetic daughter and HOPE for what we all so desperately want...a CURE!! To see diabetics, their family and friends all together, all wanting a cure...people we don't even know yet brought together by this dreadful disease, showing solidarity by wearing blue is a sight to behold.

(WDD 2011 Cincy, OH Artistic Vision)
I wear blue to support my diabetic daughter and raise awareness for diabetes. It's amazing how a blue pair of shoes can turn into a conversation about diabetes. Don't believe me? Try it! It happens to me all the time! So, I guess I've come full circle...the color I've despised for years has now become my new favorite color! I <3 blue!!

HOPE, STRENGTH, LOVE & BLUE!

'Behind the Blue Scenes' Week ending 02/19/2012

2012-02-19T15:19:00.000-05:00

Click here to listen: Blue Shoe Blues by Jive Creek Ramblers

Welcome to this week's edition of 'Behind the Blue Scenes', where we share with all of you, some of what goes on as The BHS grows.

As we celebrated our Happy 3 Month Birthday to the BHS! & Valentines Day we realized as we sat down to write this Post, that we had another BUSY & BLUETIFUL Week!

We were entertained, to say the least, by Allen Tallbott & the Jive Creek Ramblers as they dedicated the "Blue Shoe Blues" to all of the BHS'ers (And some special love at the end of the Tune). How COOL is this!

We were very pleased to announce that Jen Hamilton Loving will be functioning in the critical role of our Chief Content Officer. Jen is very well known within the Diabetes Online Community, and has first hand experience with diabetes as her 11 years old daughter was dx'd Type 1 at the age of 4. Jen currently works as the Chair of The Family Outreach at her local JDRF chapter & much more. You can read all about her here & find out how to contact Jen directly with any & all ideas you may have related to Content.

We were humbled, honored, and blushing in BLUE, over the love shown by Sanofi US on the Article "How Grassroots Diabetes Efforts Support Community Growth" on the Discuss Diabetes™ Blog presented by Sanofi US, a leader in the discovery and development of innovative diabetes products, as part of their commitment to help improve the lives of people with diabetes. And as they state "Blogging isn’t easy for a healthcare company" and the BHS feels that Sanofi US is a LEADER in bridging the gap in Consumer relations, as demonstrated by Discuss Diabetes™ .

We are SO happy to announce that our very dear friend Lizmari M. Collazo, will be honoring all of us with a Guest Blog post from time to time, so stay tuned for that and make sure and visit her Blog where she is “Challenging the Status Quo of Living with Type 2 Diabetes“. You can also follow her journey as “The Angry Type 2 Diabetic” on Facebook .

We are very excited for Dr. Dyer a.k.a. The EndoGoddess, LLC as she will be going to the White House to discuss diabetes in the Hispanic community at the National Hispanic Medical Association 16th Annual Conference. Read more about that on her Blog

We close this week’s segment with THE most important part of why we do, what we do...YOU, our Bluetiful Peeps! Our Facebook Page is sporting some NEW additions, as we have been so graciously gifted full Versions, by the Developer, of what we are calling our “BHS Fan Marquee” & “BHS Fan Of The Week", where we showcase some of what YOU are saying & doing as you interact with us on Facebook. If you or anyone you know have a Facebook Fan page, these are MUST have Apps for growing your Fan base & and MUCH more. Please visit them here & tell them that the BHS sent you!

Get ready for an EXCITING Week coming up & keep on being as BLUETIFUL as can be!

Tom Moore

Chief Shoehorn Tooter

p.s. ALWAYS looking for input & suggestions from YOU. Please send me an email & we may include your idea in our Weekly 'Behind the Blue Scenes'.

The Evolution of The Shoe... Blue Ones Too...

2012-02-16T20:45:00.000-05:00

As defined by Wikipedia:

"The earliest known shoes are sandals dating from about 8000 to 7000 BC and found in Oregon, USA in 1938. The world's oldest leather shoe, made from a single piece of cowhide laced with a leather cord along seams at the front and back, was found in a cave in Armenia in 2008 and is believed to date to 3,500 BC."

The shoe has evolved over the years with the advent of new technologies, creation processes, and materials. In the early 16th Century, the Chopine platform shoe appeared requiring servants to help you walk. This was the Great Grandmother of today's High Heel.

The evolution of colors, style, materials, and function has continued through today where we are blessed with a dazzling array of technologies that allow the making of some spectacular shoes.

Just as the shoe has evolved for the last 5000+ years, The Blue Heel Society continues to evolve and adapt to changes and different styles. What started out as a mere social media post 3 months ago has, thanks to the support of all of you, evolved into something unbelievably Bluetiful!

As part of that process, The Blue Heel Society would like to announce that it has added another pair of heels to the staff! Jen Hamilton Loving will be functioning in the critical role of Chief Content Officer for our organization.

Jen is very well known within the Diabetes Online Community, and has first hand experience with diabetes as her 11 years old daughter was dx'd Type 1 at the age of 4. Jen currently works as the Chair of The Family Outreach at her local JDRF chapter, and she spearheaded World Diabetes Day at Cincinnati's Fountain Square. Through Jen's efferts and persistence, the local businesses to turn their buildings (most notably the Great American Insurance Tiara) BLUE on November 14th.

All of us here at The Blue Heel Society are very excited and grateful to have Jen step into her new position!

Lots of Valentine Love For One And All - Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-15T00:05:00.000-05:00

Happy 3 Month Birthday to the BHS!

2012-02-13T19:06:00.000-05:00

Blue Velvet Cake with Blue Suede Shoes

Happy 3 Month Birthday to the BHS!

Thanks to all the Bluetiful people that have joined us for the ride. We join in celebrating YOU as we turn 3 months old today.

We would love for you to post a Comment as to your favorite thing about the BHS!

'Behind the Blue Scenes' Week ending 02/12/2012

2012-02-12T18:27:00.000-05:00

Welcome to this week's edition of 'Behind the Blue Scenes', where we share with all of you, some of what goes on as The BHS grows.

This week we rolled out BHSBabble on our Facebook Page, thanks to the GREAT folks at Fotobabble, where we welcome you to come share a picture & record audio to attach to the picture, and share with everyone *where* you *wear* and/or see Blue Shoes in action.

Our Facebook Fan Of The Week (chosen at random by computer magic based on interaction) is Megan Floyd. Our Facebook Fan Of The Week get's a FREE copy of the EndoGoddess App, available on Android as well as Itunes,.and also get’s mentioned in the 'Behind the Blue Scenes' Post, as well as bragging rights for being an AWESOME member of the BHS!

Lastly & certainly THE biggest story this week is the introduction of "Diabetic Barbie". She has taken Facebook by storm in just a few short days, all thanks to one VERY smart little girl named Emma, and a WONDERFUL DMom named Amy Ermel. We URGE you to visit & 'Like' her Facebook page, as we all help in every way we can to ensure "Diabetic Barbie" comes to life! Please make sure and visit Amy's Blog Laughing At Diabetes as well.

Still working on our *Shoebox* for applications to become a Chapter Luminary. Keep checking our Blog for details as we give you all you need to bring the BHS into your Community.

Get ready for an EXCITING Week coming up & keep on being as BLUETIFUL as can be!

Communicating with Shoes - Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-08T12:42:00.000-05:00

'Behind the Blue Scenes' Week ending 02/05/2012

2012-02-05T12:32:00.000-05:00

Welcome to this week's edition of 'Behind the Blue Scenes', where we share with all of you, some of what goes on as The BHS grows.

We are thrilled to announce, with many more details to follow in the coming day's, that the kind folks at Fotobabble have given us complete access to their GREAT Products & Services. They have a VERY dedicated Team striving to bring the very best to everything they do, including working with nonprofit organizations striving to make this world a better place.

Fotobabble is an ingenious way to add audio to ANY picture you have from many different online services we all use daily, upload from your computer, AND a FREE Iphone App. We will be incorporating Fotobabble into many area's and we URGE you to visit their Website and create your very own Fotobabble's that can be shared everywhere you visit online, most importantly on the BHS Facebook Page.

One of our Twitter followers demonstrated one of the things we are so proud of. In an Airport she happened upon someone in Blue Heels and shared the Pic In that millisecond it took to snap the pic, the whole time knowing that it represented more than just a Blue Shoe. All of us can do the same and is a perfect *fit* for using Fotobabble. See the Shoe...think of BHS...post a Fotobabble!

Our very own Alexis was featured on a Podcast with Tony Rose from Blogging Diabetes and as always Alexis WOW's & ROCKS the interview with her passion & drive that we all know & love.

We were just tickled BLUE beyond words to be shown some LOVE from Kerri Sparling at Six Until Me (SUM) in her Blog post What We Document.: Solving for "Why." Make sure and visit her Blog and be AMAZED at all Kerri does & tell her we sent you!

Our Facebook Fan Of The Week (chosen at random by computer magic based on interaction) is Moira McCarthy Stanford. Moira is one of the BIGGEST & BEST diabetes advocates you will ever know. She is an accomplished writer & blogger, and make sure and visit her Blog "DespiteDiabetes". Our Facebook Fan Of The Week get's a FREE copy of the EndoGoddess App, available on Android as well as Itunes,.and also get’s mentioned in the 'Behind the Blue Scenes' Post, as well as bragging rights for being an AWESOME member of the BHS!

Final touches being put on our *Shoebox* for applications to become a Chapter Luminary. Keep checking our Blog for details as we give you all you need to bring the BHS into your Community.

Get ready for an EXCITING Week coming up & keep on being as BLUETIFUL as can be!

Thanks,
The BHS Team

"Defeated" Is Out Of Style. Time For A New Pair. - Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-01T10:14:00.000-05:00

'Behind the Blue Scenes' Week ending 01/29/2012

2012-01-29T18:32:00.000-05:00

Welcome to this week's edition of 'Behind the Blue Scenes', where we share with all of you, some of what goes on as The BHS grows.

THIS JUST IN...Dr. Dyer, a.k.a. The EndoGoddess not only graced us with her very first Blog post this week, but also announced the availability of her EndoGoddess App, on Android as well as Itunes. Remember that every week our Fan Of The Week, chosen randomly by computer magic based on participation on our Facebook Page, get's a FREE copy of her App!

Our Bluetiful peeps just keep on amazing us as you show that no matter what may ail us & bring us together, we can still transcend it all & still walk the talk in a fun and uplifting way. As we do this together, you are asking us HOW you can bring the BHS into your community.

As we put the finishing touches on the BHS "Shoebox" we have also made our Logo available for use in awareness efforts. You can view the details on the 'Our Logo' Page on our Website. Stay tuned for the 'Shoebox' Tab coming soon!

As we look forward to a new Week, we ask you to think of photos in a whole new way...more to follow soon!

Keep on stompin BHS'ers as we continue to take it to the next level!

Where Will YOU Wear Em'?

2012-01-26T09:57:00.001-05:00

Let's backtrack a bit, shall we?

Only a few months ago The Blue Heel Society was born. This is more than an excuse to rock a fab pair of Blue shoes (who needs an excuse, right!?), but a mission.

"The mission of The Blue Heel Society is to deliver a clear, united voice via organized assembly within our own affiliation, and also at local and national gatherings, events, conventions, and other venues, helping to dispel myths, offer education and to champion the needs of people affected by diabetes.

We choose to stand up, be seen, and be heard in our Blue Heels."

Each one of us live a different life, different form of Diabetes, Diabetes management, and views. Its up to us individually to advocate, and make Diabetes known, but to do so as a community.

United.

We are here.

Now listen.

Whether you're a person with Type 1, 2, LADA, gestational MODY or any other form of Diabetes, the parent of one of the above, caregiver, friend, endo, CDE, or someone who wants to get involved, your voice counts.

As do your feet.

So we want to know, what are you doing to spread awareness in your community?

Where did you wear your Blue shoes?

What is on your agenda in your hometown to bust some D myths and look fab while doing it?

We each have our own platform, from the housewife to the stockbrocker to the football player, each our own connections, circles, and therefore an individual avenue to advocate and spread awareness.

If we each take one (BLUE) step forward, the possibilities are endless......

So what will YOU do today?

And This Little Piggy Made Insulin - Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-25T16:06:00.000-05:00

High Tech High Heels

2012-01-23T14:55:00.000-05:00

For as long as I can remember I have loved fashion for the way it changes how we see ourselves. I'll never forget the thrill I had when I discovered that with a long towel over my back while running around the yard I could be a superhero. Or, when I put on large sunglasses and a trench coat I could be Jackie O.

It is from the same place in my heart that I love the Blue Heel Society. By wearing blue shoes, we can all become diabetes advocates. Recent discrimination about diabetes in the media last week shows me that advocacy foot soldiers have some work to do with our blue shoes in explaining the truth of diabetes. I look forward to sharing my thoughts with you on advocacy and advances in diabetes here in the spirit of blue shoes each month.

One advance that I think all blue-shoe-wearing diabetes advocates should be aware of is nanotechnology. With nanotechnology, insulin injections may soon be a thing of the past. At UCSF, professor of bio-engineering, Tejal Desai, implants millions of pancreatic cells that secrete insulin into tiny capsules that can be implanted into the body in an effort to create an artificial pancreas. When blood sugar flows inside the capsule, it stimulates the cells to produce insulin to control sugar levels. The device has nano pores, pores so small that the body's diabetes antibodies cannot get in to attack the pancreas cells, but large enough that the insulin made by the cells can flow out and into the body. The device is undergoing extensive testing in animals right now and is not yet available for humans. However, I recommend following these developments closely with your doctor to see if you or your loved one might benefit from participating in a trial when trials start.

- Jennifer Shine Dyer MD, MPHdrjenshinedyer@gmail.comColumbus, Ohio

Founder, EndoGoddess LLC
Chief Medical Advisor, Duet Health (Eproximiti)
Blog/website: http://endogoddess.blogspot.com/
Website: http://www.duethealth.com/
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinedyer
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/EndoGoddess
YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/drjenshinedyer

'Behind the Blue Scenes' Week ending 01/22/2012

2012-01-22T17:30:00.000-05:00

Welcome to this week's edition of 'Behind the Blue Scenes', where we share with all of you, some of what goes on as The BHS grows.

This past week we celebrated the Birthday of Dr. King. As he once said, "Faith is taking the first step, even when you don't see the whole staircase." That pretty much sums up our efforts, as we begin to see the staircase more clearly each day. As we see things more clearly internally, it also means the ideas & concepts we *talk* about, have a clearer path defined as we all grow together in way's we could not have dreamed of, but are certainly humbled by.

We added some features to our Facebook Page that allow you to add a Blue Heel Society Badge to your profile pic. We also enjoyed our Co-Founder Alexis, on DSMA on Blog Talk Radio & DSMA Live, as she *SHINED* brightly as always.

We can also share our excitement of the upcoming SPECIAL Blog post by Dr. Dyer, a.k.a. The EndoGoddess Stay tuned for that! Dr. Dyer has been kind enough to give a FREE copy of her EndoGoddess App, available on Itunes, to the person that get's chosen as our Fan Of The Week

We need your help in the continued effort to spread the word about The BHS into your circle of friends, both online and in your everyday life. You have taken that first step by being an all inclusive part of all we build, and all we do in the future. We need body's to take the Message & Mission of The BHS to the next level...TRUE grassroots activism.

The best part is our task is well defined and we have all taken that "first step" as Dr. King said, and the 377,581 Bluetiful people we have reached on Facebook, coming from 20 different Countries, speaking 10 languages, ALL speak FOR the same purpose.

Diabetes does not discriminate, it speaks every language, it lives everywhere. Let us also remind diabetes that because WE are everywhere...we know where you are...LOOK OUT!

Keep on stompin BHS'ers as we take it to the next level!

Hippies and BLUE Shoes Enter Through The Side Door

2012-01-19T21:10:00.000-05:00

There are many trends that come in like wild fire, and everyone MUST have. Very quickly, as soon as everyone is sporting the "look" it rapidly vanishes. To be replaced by another johnny come lately style cue.

Who can forget hairstyles like the Bee-Hive or Mullet:

Saddle shoes:

Skinny ties:

Leisure suits:

And the old athletic shorts:

Wouldn't is be nice if diabetes just went out of style....

Yes, We CAN ALL Wear These - Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-18T11:51:00.001-05:00

2012-01-15T23:40:00.000-05:00

Send us a video....of you...yes.....YOU....doing what YOU do....in your FAB blue shoe......for all the world to view.Keep it clean...keep it real....show us how it can feel!! Give us your best catwalk....in those heels!!

Submit your 1 minute or less videos ( we will edit out sound or the what nots) to:

YOU@blueheelsociety.org

Who are you?? Fabulous. Let us show the world. Be creative and have fun!! GO!!And while you are at it.......

We are still accepting emails for *The REAL Chefs of the DOC Cookbook"!! We have hundreds of recipes submitted and we want yours too....email your submissions along with your nutritional info and who you are...and your connection to the DOC to:

recipes@blueheelsociety.org

Rock it Dolls!!

WHAT? You....you don't like my shoes??

2012-01-13T23:53:00.000-05:00

This shoe goes with everything! So....why is everyone looking funny at me?

As it turns out....this may or may not surprise you....it appears this blue heel may clash with your more *earth* friendly counterpart. Scandalous.

So...I wanted to discuss why a trusted blue shoe...sturdy and reliable suddenly comes under attack by a more *new age* style that fits into our new modern lifestyle and pokes fun in the face of traditional fashion.

Diabetes *yet again* has a cure.

*PALM TO FACE*

Be true to you. DO NOT let anyone dissuade you from advocating for not only yourself but for your family....which as we in the DOC know....is vast. If you see a sale that is too good to be true....chances are...lambs....it is.

We are in this fight for the right reason. It is a sin to see the scavengers literally feeding off the hopes and dreams of our loved ones entering into the diabetes world.

We are family....and with that...we can leave our shoes at the door.

United In BLUE. Everyone Speaks Shoe. - Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-11T14:08:00.001-05:00

Do You Have These Blue Heels In Size 10? Mens.

2012-01-09T20:58:00.000-05:00

Most of the time I get to talk diabetes in a very natural and comfortable setting for me - with my bike, when training or racing. I am surrounded mostly by guys who also love the sport of cycling, attempting new races, testing new bling titanium and carbon parts, reading maps, dodging wildlife, dealing with weather, and wrestling with my BGs along the way.

The day before World Diabetes Day, with the launch of The Blue Heel Society, that changed.

A bit.

It's definitely not that the BHS community is unkind. Quite the contrary. All involved, from the co-founders to all the folks awesome enough to post pics of Blue shoes, are the most thoughtful, encouraging, non-judgmental, and courageous people I've ever encountered.

It was just that instead of being surrounded by Trek Superflys with big knobby tires and 100mm of suspension travel, I find myself immersed with delicate Choos and Loubutins with a 5" heel.

At first it was intimidating to say the least. I was completely out of my element. I didn't even know the vocabulary. A Dolly Shoe? A Peep Toe?

Oy.

Then there is the whole looking for Blue shoes, and trying to capture photos and talk to people about them, while out in public. A little bit of a social mine field to say the least.

As time progressed, I began to fit in a little bit with this group made up of mostly women from all walks of life. I learned the buzz words, and opted into conversations about shoes, diabetes, diets, and insulin to carb ratios with them. Heck, I think I even noted once when Nordstrom had a sale.

If you stop and think about it, the social aspect is really JUST like when you or a loved one first get diagnosed with diabetes. You are nervous. Not sure what questions to ask or who has the answers to them. Haven't learned the diabetes vocabulary. Not even sure what styles you like - MDI? Glucophage? Pump? Retinopathy? CGM?

After a while you begin to find your footing. You make close friends in the Diabetes Online Community. You find organizations like the Blue Heel Society and Type1Rider.

You learn. You feel safer. You become more sure of yourself.

And, in the end, your realize that although all who deal with diabetes, in any capacity, are very diverse, we are all very much the same.

So yes. Blue Heels. Size 10. Men....

- Tony

Every Princess Needs Blue Shoes!

2012-01-05T23:03:00.001-05:00

We are truly blessed, I must say. So many amazing members of the DOC have been so wonderful as to feature us on their blog!

Today we are over at one of my personal favorites, Hallie and Sweets over at The Princess and The Pump!
If you have never read Hallie's blog....YOU MUST. Seriously, a beautifully written blog, with honesty, love, laughter, and a heck of a lot of kick butt advocating!

Here is a little more about Hallie:
Hallie Addington is the author of the blog The Princess and The Pump (www.theprincessandthepump.com).
The Princess and The Pump chronicles the highs and lows of raising a child with type 1 diabetes.Hallie has been married to her husband, Jason, for 7 years. Their daughter, “Sweetpea”, is five years old. She was diagnosed with type 1 on April 27, 2009 – just a few short weeks after turning three years old.

Since that day, Hallie has been committed to raising awareness and funds to find a cure for diabetes. In addition to being a full time pancreas, she is also a kindergarten teacher and the Government Relations chair for the Southwest Ohio chapter of JDRF.

Thank you Hallie (and Sweets!!) for showing BHS some love, you are both simply Blue-tiful!!

Wordless Wed.- "She is serious about advocating!"

2012-01-04T10:25:00.001-05:00

While normally no words go along with a Wordless Wednesday post...we have to give major props and thank you to Kim of Texting My Pancreas! Thank you for this amazing cartoon!

Our Shoes just got some MAJOR ‘Shine’!

2012-01-03T11:22:00.000-05:00

“Fashion is a social agreement, the result of a consensus of a large group of people.”

-Stella Blum

The Blue Heel Society is VERY pleased to announce that Doctor Jennifer Shine Dyer, MD, MPH, a.k.a ‘The EndoGoddess’, has graciously agreed to honor The Blue Heel Society by acting as our Medical Consultant, as well as some very exciting contributions still in the works. Please join us in welcoming Doctor Dyer into our Family, and stay tuned for some VERY exciting plans.

As Johann Wolfgang von Goethe said “We are shaped and fashioned by what we love", and what we love most is YOU! What 'shape' we take is in great part driven by what you ask of us, and part of our passion & mission is to ensure The Blue Heel Society has the very best resources available, to do our very best to help everyone affected by what brings us together, and we truly believe Dr. Dyer will bring a whole new angle to our fashion & is a perfect fit!

About The EndoGoddess:

Jennifer Shine Dyer, MD, MPH, is a stylish pediatric endocrinologist and tech entrepreneur by day, and a Vogue-loving, Jackie O Fashionista by night. Dr. Dyer believes strongly in empowerment through style which oddly enough translates to her day job...patient empowerment in health through information and technology. As a physician, social media enthusiast (@EndoGoddess), app developer, and mobile health entrepreneur she has a patient-centered focus looking to make health outcomes better for people living with diabetes or other chronic diseases.

In partnership with Ohio mobile software startup Duet Health Eproximiti (http://www.duethealth.com/), she has developed the EndoGoddess App (http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/endogoddess/id464431379?mt=8) available for download since September 2011 for patients with diabetes who require insulin therapy. based on BJ Fogg's health behavior model with the following features: iTunes reward motivation, a unique social business plan, daily inspiring quotes submitted from the diabetes online community, multi-media informative diabetes content, social media links.

Dr. Dyer is a board-certified physician in both Pediatrics and Pediatric Endocrinology previously at Nationwide Children's Hospital affiliated with the Ohio State University College of Medicine in Columbus, Ohio where she recently earned her MPH degree in health behavior studies. She received her medical degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio in 2000 which was then followed by pediatric internship, residency, and then pediatric endocrinology specialty training in 2000-2006 at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas.

Dr. Dyer is also an experienced nutrition researcher with several original peer-reviewed publications, specifically with regards to the influence of macronutrient food components on metabolism and chronic disease evolution during early fetal development.

She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and has been selected as one of '2010 and 2011 America's Top Pediatricians' by the Consumers Research Council of America as well as selection by the OrganizedWisdom Medical Review Board as a top expert curator helping people discover the best health information online. Dr. Dyer is a media-trained pediatric endocrinology physician expert on Dr. Oz's interactive online physician network Sharecare, and a frequent health expert on both local and national television media.

Founder, EndoGoddess LLC

Chief Medical Advisor, Duet Health (Eproximiti)

Blog/website: http://endogoddess.blogspot.com/

Website: http://www.duethealth.com/

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinedyer

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/EndoGoddess

YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/drjenshinedyer

These must be mislabeled....they don't fit.

2012-01-01T13:54:00.001-05:00

Numbers. They are just the bane of existence in Diabetes-ville. One place you are gonna find discussion on numbers is the DOC. More about that in a minute.Let's talk about sizes.

Those boots Lexi ordered before the holidays were her size. But...they didn't fit. She didn't change shoes sizes. She bought some from the competitor....and they fit like a glove....or a killer knee high boot. Yes.....I have blue boot envy....so what.

The number on the label said 7.5. Wait...or was that an A1c I just read? They all blur together. Numbers. Between committing carbohydrate counts to memory or learning what current dosage of prescription Glucophage is actually creating stability in your blood sugars....and what is the price of gas now? I can't keep count.

There are a flurry of blog posts and social media discussions about numbers lately. Topics ranging from respected bloggers revisiting A1c numbers and conversations about whether they should be off topic.....and a literal firestorm of discussions on several forums and social media sites about "good"and "bad" numbers. What defines a good number or a bad number? A speeding ticket that costs $100.....bad number. Over 1000 "likes" on Facebook for Blue Heel Society? "Good". Unbelievable. Awesomeness. Need we go on?

But ,blood sugars are information right? A1c....just a snapshot of a period in time? What is the big deal?
It's a personal choice as to whether or not you discuss your numbers. Our co-founder has posted his blood glucose levels and his A1c on his social media sites for years. His choice. He was recently asked to talk about a "low" blood sugar. The conversation was interesting. The parties remained civil and committed to a real and frank discussion. In fact....great information was exchanged and several other people who live with diabetes chimed in. It was refreshing to see how differently we really all see this disease.

The blood glucose reading in question? 31. Thoughts? Ya. The collective *gasp* was enough. Is that a bad number? We'd love to hear your thoughts on this.

At the end of the discussion, they actually THANKED each other.

Why are we so divided about talking about it? And is there no benefit?

What if that discussion fostering growth and promoting friendship between a varied group of people affected by diabetes instead caused harm? What if it encouraged disparaging comments and yielded a fall out of people feeling disheartened if the numbers they are told are "good" aren't yet on their horizons? How can we support and learn if we are silent? Is the silence about those "target" numbers the answer?

Difficult to navigate this disease. It's hard not to want to sing a "favorable" A1c on the highest mountain. No one is really singing about a 12. Or....should we? Why can't we embrace the spectrum of challenges we are all facing without judgement?

Recently, I had the pleasure of enjoying a dinner out. The dressing on my salad boasted "light"! Great.

The serving actually had 22 grams of fat. I'd hate to see what they called "regular". What works for some, certainly doesn't for others. This was their definition of "good". I am no nutritionist....but that seemed off the mark. Down right "bad".

My knee-jerk reaction was to become indignant and send it back....what self proclaimed health food restaurant serves this nonsense? The gentleman beside me, took two and didn't even look at the label. *sigh. Bigger fish to fry there, eh?

Should we have a disclaimer? My feelings are __________ about your diabetes or should we just stop individualizing it and unite to fight?

This Is Caleb, In Blue Shoes?!

2011-12-29T15:58:00.001-05:00

We are soooo honored that today one of the most amazing D- bloggers, D moms and all around Diabetes advocate Lorraine of This Is Caleb, has so graciously blogged about BHS!

If you don't know Lorraine here's a brief description, that doesn't do her fabulousness much justice..

Lorraine is the mom of three children. Her second child, Caleb, has been living with type 1 diabetes since the age of three. Lorraine and Caleb both write about their experiences at "This is Caleb..." in the hope of creating awareness, providing support and sharing information.

Please go check out her post, say hi, and definitely follow her blog!

Thanks Lorraine, you are Bluetiful!

Did Santa bring you BLUE Shoes too?

2011-12-28T22:46:00.000-05:00

From Our Blue Shoes To Yours.....Wordless Wednesday.

2011-12-21T10:22:00.001-05:00

Happy Chanukah!!!

Wanna walk in our shoes?? One size fits all....

2011-12-19T22:14:00.000-05:00

Feeling rather full of joy and happiness at BHS Headquarters these days....we are feverishly finalizing our February 4th meetup in Boston and working on our Coast to Coast take over with our next meet up in.....VEGAS, baby!! That's how we roll.....

We decided tonight...collectively....that we really want to hear how you, our REASON for being here, walk the walk.

So, here is our deal....stop us if you've tried this one on....

We are offering a guest blog spot....to....YOU.

You, our friend, our ally, our family.

You will be treated to a one on one phone interview with BHS co founder "Guess WHO??" and given carte blanch to tell your story, share your photos, plug your job, advertise your blog, everything.....

Here is how to do it.....

We are starting NOW....the 850th "LIKE" on our Facebook page found here gets our first spot....then, we will continue to promote your stories every 50th "LIKE"!

Spread the word...show the love....

Wear the shoes.

We Took A Trip Today....

2011-12-18T21:12:00.001-05:00

That's right!

Today we have the absolute pleasure of being featured over at My Diabetic Heart.

For those of you who have never met Mike Durbin before let me tell he is one of a kind.

A truly amazing, strong, and outspoken advocate for all of the Diabetes Community.

Mike was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes on December 29, 2008, and congestive heart failure the very next day. Talk about a double whammy for anyone, let alone a 24 year old. Mike is very open about his fight with type 2 diabetes and CHF, and welcomes any opportunity to share his story. He blogs about it at My Diabetic Heart. Mike firmly believes that there is no shame in having diabetes or CHF, and hopes that by sharing his story, he will inspire others to fight on, and live their life to the fullest.

Thank you Mike for supporting The Blue Heel Society, and for your constant hard work in our community!
Now go march your Blue shoes over there and see what Mike has to say!

Equal Opportunity (Blue!) Shoes......

2011-12-15T10:53:00.001-05:00

One my favorite things about The Blue Heel Society, is that much like Diabetes, we do not discriminate.

Diabetes knows no gender, no race, no social status, no age or religion.

Everyone is fair game for this disease.

Whether it be a 24 month old bubbly little boy, a moody teenager, or an overbearing 87 year old Granny.

Diabetes can, does and will affect all people from all walks of life.

Diabetes also comes in numerous forms.

Type 1, Type 2, LADA (1.5), Mody, Gestational and I'm sure right now a researcher has discovered another one.

While all the above are different in cause and even management, the culprit IS the same.

So should be our united front.

Regardless of what Type of diabetes you or your loved one has, we are in this together.

To spread awareness, to advocate for one another, and yes to find a cure!

Before we can bust myths and set the record straight with the media and "outside" world, we first need to do that within our community.

No judgement, no blame game, no types against types.

Just understanding, love, compassion, and UNITY.

For me personally, I rock a Blue shoe for everyone with Diabetes, and my life IS affected by more than just one type.

As many of you know my son is type 1, my grandmother is LADA , and my husband and father are type 2.
I am an equal opportunity shoe wearer and buyer!

So the next time you slip on your Blue shoes, or go look for a new pair, remember with each Blue step we take, we are making moves not just for that one person with Diabetes, but for ALL....

Rock on loves, rock on!

Never know what's in that "Shoe box"....

2011-12-15T03:05:00.000-05:00

This was in my inbox tonight.....from a real person.....with a real desire to see a change in the way people who live with diabetes are treated. It was part of a composition paper....and I am putting it here...because it touched me this much. Love, Diane

"The mission of the Blue Heel Society is to advocate, raise awareness, encourage and support those living with diabetes, caring for someone with diabetes and those interested in learning about diabetes. These goals are accomplished through "fueling our crusade with the strength, dedication, and passion of our partners." (Blue Heel Society, 2011) The Blue Heel Society carries out their mission to "deliver a clear and united voice" through assemblies and gatherings both local and national to help "dispel myths, offer education and to champion the needs of people affected by diabetes." (Blue Heel Society, 2011)

An amulet is "a small object worn to ward of evil, harm, or illness or to bring good fortune." (Dictionary.com Unabridged 2011) For me and my family, that is exactly what the Blue Heel Society is. By donning my blue heels or my blue converse sneakers, I am uniting myself with hundreds of others who share the same passion I do. The passion to advocate. The good fortune I receive from this groups is the support and encouragement I need to advocate not only for my children but for all those who are affected by diabetes.

One of the most wonderful aspects of the Blue Heel Society is the fact that anyone can join the cause. It is as simple as putting on your favorite pair of fabulous, blue shoes. It doesn't cost any money, it doesn't require much time, all it asks is for your passion. It is amazingly simple but extremely rewarding. Simply visit their website, click the "like" button, put on you favorite pair of blue shoes and let the advocacy begin!"

That is why I talk about diabetes. THIS. It is a real disease....with real consequences. And when a person can find a way to have a real affect and evoke real change....well, you join them. And put on a Blue Shoe.

Wordless Wednesday - Even The Small

2011-12-14T03:15:00.000-05:00

It's our Birthday...who's the "shoe" guy??

2011-12-13T21:43:00.000-05:00

What a fabulous BLUE month it has been. BLUE analogies. BLUE posts. BLUE tweets. BLUE SHOES!!

This morning, our impromptu "one month" birthday celebration occurred with much fanfare. We were delighted with retweets, links posted to our social networking sights, mentions about our blog, and, of course, YOU, the backbone of the Blue Heel Society all standing there *clicking* your heels.

With over 740 members in four short weeks, we are humbled that an idea formed on the eve on WDD resonated and struct a cord with so many people, for all the right reasons. "

"A blue shoe for every foot!!" We say....

We kid. You can have them both. ;)

We are earmarking our birthday by welcoming our friend Thomas Moore to our ever expanding Society.

Thomas brings vast experience in the area of social media marketing and so much more.....Thomas is well known in the DOC and has 17 plus years dealing with the ins and outs of Diabetes.......please take a moment to welcome him with the same love and respect as you have so graciously extended us....as we intend to expound upon his duties in the coming weeks.

You can personally welcome him at Thomas@BlueHeelSociety.org.

It is hard to contain the excitement and enthusiasm from just bubbling over when people like Thomas and YOU continue to encourage growth and development in such a monumental way. It was suggested that Mr. Moore acquire himself some Blue knee high "KISS" rocker boots.

We concur.

Looking ahead, the Blue Heel Society will be a flurry of activity. We will be positing about our scheduled meet ups, our "Shoe Ins", contests, and so much more....all while continuing to raise awareness of diabetes as a disease.

With class and dignity.

In style.

Natch, lambs.

Big Blue Steps

2011-12-11T21:27:00.000-05:00

Under normal circumstances, we tend to post generically on the blog, but for tonight I will to post as me, Diane, because I want to talk about my first true experience as an advocate. I had the pleasure on Saturday to attend a diabetes charity spin-a-thon at Gold's Gym in Burlington, NC.

Did I mention this is my first time officially doing this, if not I will probably mention this again.

How does one dress for a spin class, exactly? Skinny jeans, wool blazer, pink Blue Heel Society shirt, and blue stilettos. Natch. In truth, I DID pack yoga pants and sneakers, but was secretly grateful I didn't have to be seen in public in them.

We arrived at the gym in time to meet Katie-Rose Darby, the manager of fundraising and special events coordinator for the ADA in Raleigh, NC. Minutes into our conversation, I warmed up to her personally and professionally. She is passionate about her job and fundraising, while at the same time being personable, approachable, and ridiculously adorable. Felt like I made a friend and an ally, all in the same person.

Throughout the morning the class was peppered with people donating their money and spending their time spinning for a cause near and dear to my heart. I got to personally thank them for their efforts. On a microphone. With a southern accent. To people that had a southern accent.

And it still freaked me out. Did I mention this was my first public speaking "gig"??

Tony Cervati was the "celebrity" motivational speaker....and my friends, he is just that. Motivating. Moving. Brutally honest, sincere, and grateful. Impressed would be an understatement for what I felt watching him interact with these amazing people.

Despite my outwardly vocal position on social networking sites, public speaking isn't something that I engage in or feel comfortable with. However, it was important to go out and say thank you on behalf of my son, and for everyone who has posted a picture of a blue shoe. Everyone who has stuck a finger. Everyone who has left a comment...

I wasn't looking to go out there and promote the Blue Heel Society, so much as I was there to thank them on behalf of all of you... the members of BHS.

I wanted to tell them my story. Once I started, I began to get teary, as I quickly realized that they all had their own stories too. Just like mine. Yet different.

Just like diabetes.

I just wanted to hug all their necks.

The two women who road all 4 hours. The woman from Elon college. The people who volunteered to be the ride leaders. The pharmaceutical rep, Rick, and his wife, Heidi, for sharing their personal stories and supporting all the attendees. Michelle, the Gold's Gym employee who brought her children to work there as volunteers as she oversaw the entire event.

Half way through the ride, a very spirited blond "Belle" made her presence known in the facility, and commented on my 5" blue heels. We exchanged banter about how blue shoes go with everything. I said sheepishly that I have a specific reason for wearing blue heels. She took the bait and asked me what it was. She permitted me to give the thumbnail of just what the Blue Heel Society was, who I was, and why I was there.

After mingling for 30 minutes or more with the people coming in and out, and the employees, she came over and handed me her business card. Turns out she is the co owner of this facility. I thanked Ms. Pat for letting the ADA use her gym for a diabetes related function.

She had on red heels that day, but I would imagine the next time I see her she will be wearing blue ones.

Point of this blog... and I do have one... is that even if you don't know it, diabetes is everywhere.

Put These On For a Second....

2011-12-09T09:20:00.001-05:00

Come with me, and see the world through Blue Colored Glasses.
Just imagine if you will...
You pass the bakery, all the donuts in the window are glazed in an eye catching Blue.
You go to the park. All the kids are riding their bikes, and you notice they have Blue circle stickers all over them.
You're dropping your parents off at the airport. As you approach the jetway, you notice all the planes are sporting Blue circles on their wings.
At the local bar with some friends - the commericals about diabetes are correct. People of all ages are shown. All types of D. The truth was spoken.
You get to your daughter's school for assembly - all the girls are showing off their Blue hair in honor of Diabetes awareness month.
You have a meeting at church tonight - collecting strips and insulin for those in need. No one will go without.
Your son's birthday is tomorrow - at the buffet, there's carb counts for every single item. Scales, & measuring cups at every table.
Can you see it? A world where Diabetes gets noticed for what it IS.
Not what people think it IS.
Where we are accomodated as we should be, things are easier because the world is taking notice.
Where we don't feel uncomfortable or singled out, but are, instead, welcomed and understood.
These are just some of the things I see when I put on my Blue glasses.
Truth. Support. Awareness. Advocacy.
All dressed in BLUE.
Tell us what you see in your BLUE world.

The Clog Blog? Imma stiletto gal!

2011-12-08T13:21:00.000-05:00

Funny thing about shoe shopping. You can find a million shoes you like...in the store...but it is often difficult to find the "right" one....for you. Bring a trusted friend....Opinions count.

Case in point....Clogs.

I see clogs everywhere....omg....Nursing clogs, Croc clogs, wooden ones, well, on a paint can....once, moving on....it is the "must have" in comfort. I put them on...blech. HATED them. WHY must I desire the shoe that makes me walk like a deer on ice? Wouldn't a simple ballet flat suffice? No. It just isn't me.

No particular style of management in your Diabetes care can be mass produced either. Regardless of your diagnosis "type"...YOU have to find the "style" that works best for you. Don't be afraid to try it on to actually SEE if it fits. Find your support system and ask "Does this "Clog" work...for me?

Wordless Wednesday---Getting The World To Take Notice

2011-12-07T09:58:00.001-05:00

*Big thank you to Hallie of The Princess and The Pump, for sharing Sweetpea's beautiful photo!

Those heels can't run, if you are Blue....

2011-12-04T18:11:00.001-05:00

It is her calling. She holds that heel in her hand.
It is her passion. She smiles, knowing more than anyone...it is far from just a shoe.
It is the sound of the heart that broke at the utterance of that word: Diabetes. Her heart.
It is the winds that blows her through it.... On the days when her heart was too heavy to rise.
God only knows how....she carefully navigates that life sentence. No judge, no jury, no pleas.

She doesn't run. She can't.
Warrior women stand....they stay.

She collects her thoughts.
She has begun. She listens, heals, conquers.

Her love. Her fight. Her family. Her spirit. Her journey.

Warrior women. Mommies. Sisters. Lovers. Wives. Family.

We are standing. We choose. We stay. We fight. We wear our Blue Heels for you.

*this is for you.

The D mama at 3 am...again. For yourself, unfaltering. For that wife who watches the battle from her pillow....
for the sisters, both literal and in spirit. YOU don't run. YOU are BLUE.

Diabetes Comes In All Kinds of Shoes.....

2011-12-04T14:29:00.001-05:00

When it comes to Diabetes, there's enough to go around.

From babies to the elderly, from supermodels to the farmers, from the poor to the insanely rich, this disease does not discriminate.

Type 1, 1.5, 2, Gestational, Monogenic. All forms of a disease that affect our loved ones organs, emotional well being, and every aspect of their lives.

There are no breaks. Ever. Every moment of the day is crucial to Diabetes management, from a sip of that ice cold lemonade to walking the mall for 2 hours in search of a fierce Blue Heel.

When you sleep, we are up checking blood sugars, changing sites, giving juice to raise that low or insulin to bring down that high.

Christmas, Birthday, Holy Communions, Weddings, you name it. It is there.
The tricky thing is YOU can't see it.

But it is there.

When you're not looking a blood sugar is being obtained through a finger stick, a site changed in a public bathroom, glucose tabs stuffed down throats looking like a kid just eating candy....it is all there.

It can't be put aside, shrugged off, or put on hold until later.

Hence our Blue Heel.

Shoes from the outside, look amazing. Glamourous, attractive, sparkly. You want to have them as yours and feel that sense of pride wearing them, like the person across from you.

What you don't see is the pain, discomfort and royal (BLUE) pain in the a** they are.

Like Diabetes.

You see our kids and loved ones smiling, playing, bickering with siblings, working 12 hour shifts, dancing, cooking, raising babies, running business, but you can't see the internal turmoil that this disease can cause.

We are saying.... INVISIBLE NO MORE.

We will be seen.

In our Blue Heels (shoes, clogs, kicks, if you prefer), showing support for all those who live day in and day out with Diabetes.

We won't take our shoes off, because they can't stop having Diabetes.

And yes even cute stinky footsies get the Beetes.....

Do these shoes make my heart look big??

2011-12-04T14:04:00.001-05:00

It occurs to us that many of you are out and about on the hunt for the elusive perfect...blue....shoe...for...you.

Who are you shopping with?
What are you telling them?
Are you making it a family affair?
Mother-daughter time?
Girls? Are you taking your special loved one with you?
Fellas...shopping for your lady friends?

You see...that is the beauty of the Blue Heel Society....it is an all encompassing campaign. You need not do anything except show love for someone who lives with diabetes. AND...you get some fabulous blue kicks out of it.....

Tell us your story....how did you and your husband/girlfriend/child/sister/bestie find the perfect blue shoe??

The point all along is to share something unique and special with someone you love. That is what we get to do every day....with you. <3

Which Shoe....drives you??

2011-12-03T17:57:00.001-05:00

So, we are all super excited to have set a date for our first official meet up. Plans are being laid for having some phenomenal guest speakers as well as meeting all of YOU! It actually puts a twinkle in our step as we are overwhelmed with the outpouring of support and love you have shown us. It is rather humbling to be in the company of powerhouses like yourselves. We will never be able to articulate just what it means...but we will certainly try...and pay it forward.

Let us know if you will be in Boston, Saturday, February 4, 2012. We will announce our venue in an upcoming post and will announce our fabulous guests!

Tonight, we were all chatting about inspiration...and you are certainly ours.

WHO, we wonder, inspires you? Do you read a certain blog? Follow a D peep faithfully on Twitter or FaceBook? Do you participate in DSMA? We would LOVE to hear about the people who totally read your mind, and say your words!

Email us at 187C@blueheelsociety.org and tell us who you love and we will feature you and them in our blog each month. Free advocacy the RIGHT way....

Keep those fabulous shoe photos coming, dolls!

Our First BHS Inaugural Gala...

2011-12-02T21:23:00.001-05:00

‎"Meet up" is now in the planning stages for our Inaugural Blue Heel Society gala and lambs, we have set a date!

Saturday, February 4, 2012 in Boston Massachusetts.

We have all the delicious details in the works, and will be posting them directly when we secure our location!

IT IS A MUST ATTEND EVENT DOLLS!!

Stay tuned!!!

I love her...heart...and sole.

2011-12-01T19:53:00.001-05:00

Just want to share some thoughts about the woman in the blue heel.

You love her. She is your wife, the mother of your child, your "sister", your friend, your equal.

She walks the halls at night, every night. Meter in hand, testing the tiny hand.
She walks the halls of the office, earning her way.
She walks the schools, the stores, the yard...the mile.

She is the person who you rely on. She is your best friend. She is a mother. She is a fighter. She is a lover. She is a victim of this disease too. She is beautiful from the inside out.

When she slips that blue heel onto that tender foot, look into her eyes and remind yourself how wonderful that woman really is....because she is DEMANDING that her love for her family is above all. She is showing you her love for you. She is fighting for you. For her child. For herself.

She is elite.

Wordless Wednesday- Lifesaving Blue Heels

2011-12-01T00:53:00.001-05:00

Do you have to ride "side saddle" in high heels?

2011-11-28T23:13:00.001-05:00

Oh, lambs!! We have done it now! Grab your Choos...and watch us make a little history. Our first ever TourdeCure!! New England is proudly welcoming our Society in for a leisurely bike excursion and we want YOU there....We have supplied you with the link....sign up! Let's get our "bike" on in FABULOUS shoes.....and do it for our loved ones!!

http://main.diabetes.org/site/TR?team_id=527215&fr_id=8028&pg=team

Thanks for all of the love....Right back to you....and your blue awesomeness!

BLUE Steps...

2011-11-27T20:43:00.001-05:00

With each BLUE shoe we see love.

With each BLUE shoe we see our dreams coming true.

With each BLUE shoe we feel our community coming closer.

With each BLUE shoe the outside world sees we mean business.

With each BLUE shoe another low blood sugar is treated.

With each BLUE shoe another high is bolused.

With each BLUE shoe another child is diagnosed.

With each BLUE shoe another life is lost.

BLUE shoes represent all of us. Type 1 or 2. Children and adults. But those living, loving and dealing with Diabetes.

With each BLUE shoe we take another BLUE step towards awareness, support, and a world where those we loved are NOT judged for living with this disease.

I take a step in my BLUE shoe.....so that YOU can move forward too.

Who will you wear BLUE shoes for?

Wordless (Blue) Wednesday.

2011-11-23T09:59:00.001-05:00

Sent from a supporter of Blue Heel Society.....
AMAZING.

If the shoe fits.....

2011-11-21T22:41:00.001-05:00

Shoe shopping is exhausting. How much do they cost? It takes time to find the right style. Do they have your size? How does it fit? How does it look from the side? How practical is this heel?

It's a lot like work. They are both four letter words and cause a cramp in your day if you have the wrong ones.

That is what makes this organization so unique. It's the dream shoe. IT. FITS. ALL. OF. YOU. That one perfect compliment to every outfit.

This isn't your grandmother's "Society"...and I am sure your uncle had an affiliation with a "Society" once too....THIS is the NEW BLUE MOVEMENT.....Our campaign is about changing that perception. We are making people TALK about Diabetes in a whole new way. It makes no matter your "type" just as it makes no matter what "type" of shoe you wear....(just make it blue).

We are going to talk about Diabetes. All of it....the good and the bad. And we are talking "types" too. This isn't a blog designed to choose teams. We are Team BLUE! And we are on a mission.

Where did you get those Blue Heels??

2011-11-18T20:54:00.001-05:00

Hi Dollfaces. Sitting tonight, thinking of how quickly this little idea blossomed into something I can wholeheartedly endorse. Today, I was out, and realized how much I found myself looking at peoples'...footwear. Not that I didn't do that already, but today was different. I was looking for blue shoes. How brash! I honestly chuckled out loud and shook my head, and snapped back into reality...how silly of me to think that this "little" ambassadorship had gone viral into mainstream Target-land...and there in the aisle between the swiffer pads and the toiletries.....I would find a little blue swarm of hands* in* the* air , blue-heel clad D peeps waving and calling me over...oh, yes, my mind went there...(hence the giggle). No, there were no blue shoe wearing advocates in Target today, or at the gas station.....and I made peace with that. For today. Because not seeing those shoes gave me a gift. I realize that for the first time....in a long time....I believe in myself. I believe that I found the right people, the right passion, and the right reason.....not getting all sappy on ya... but, I believe that if you are reading this, and you are...cause we are WHERE IT IS AT....then you too, looked for someone in those shoes.... Something so simple, yet identifiable as DARE I SAY IT?? Not. yet. ;) We are all looking for that connection. We all want to know we are not alone. What would I have done if I had seen someone in some killer Stuart Weitzman blue mules? I would most assuredly...without a doubt....cried. Then coveted their footwear. Don't act like yall don't know me!! We'll touch on this more.....another night...when I can see through my contacts....tonight, I can only see blue. We are all in the same little shoe store together, friends, looking for the right fit. Let's pass the love around. Size 7, please!!

On another note, Supah D mama, and co founder of The Blue Heel Society, my dahlin' Lexi will be walking TALL tomorrow at the JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes. Wishing that every step she takes fills her heart with joy and pride and that she knows how much love and support the Society, proper, is sending to her. ROCK that walk, gurl.

Don't forget to email us...or tag one of us on Facebook!! Look up there...to the right....a little more....THERE! Click that link and like our page! Tweet much?? Follow us on Twitter! Tag us in your photos of you sporting your best BLUE KICKS! Have a great weekend Lambs, we'll chat soon! Smooches~DWOWW

Watch where you step!

2011-11-17T21:44:00.001-05:00

Ahh, the love from the Diabetic Online Community is so overwhelming....we cannot explain how wonderful and welcoming it is to have so many of our friends and family RALLY to support such a noble cause so close to home. It warms our hearts and "soles" to see the list of support grow each hour!

We want to say to you, our life's blood, to be careful in your heels out there!! By all means, grab your BLUE Sunday best...if you can. We, in no way, are excluding those who may not be into the stiletto...it is our thing, should it not be yours...grab your best BLUE shoe...and "sock" it to us. Keep checking back as we continue to grow our Society here with advocacy and awareness in style! Smooches, lambs.

2011-11-14T08:55:00.001-05:00

On the eve of World Diabetes Day, 2011...a movement was born. A simple but so powerful statement made by persons living with and affected by the different Types of Diabetes. On this night, we....birthed the Blue Heel Society. Our mission? To spread advocacy and promote awareness about all Types of Diabetes by identifying ourselves in killer footwear. Our tag line? Type 1? Type 2? Whatever your "type" you can ROCK a blue shoe.

It's very straight forward, dolls. You need not offer any money nor raise funds. We don't want your money. We want your passion. Our organization is in it's infancy and already planning to do "shoe-ins" to raise awareness....all you need are blue shoes. Man or woman. Come show love and support for all of our kids...our husbands, our parents....yourself. Be part of the change today. Keep checking back. We have you covered coast to coast in the States. We want you to wear your blue...with pride. Thank you for being part of it.

The Blue Heel Society

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