Diabetes is a disease that can affect anyone at any age. That’s why the Mary Lanning Healthcare Diabetes Program is available to assist families no matter their diabetes situation.
During Diabetes Awareness Month, two area families want those with diabetes to know about the help and kindness they have received by participating in the MLH program.
Laura Sweley-Buettner, an MLH Clinical Lab Assistant and chiropractor, said she came into contact with the MLH Diabetes Program when her daughter, Libby, now 10, was just 7 months old. Libby was diagnosed with a rare genetic form of diabetes at just 8 weeks old. She was put on an insulin pump at 7 months.
“They not only gave me advice about the pump, they helped train me one-on-one,” Laura said. “MLH feels like home to me. They give a lot more personable care versus at other hospitals where Libby has been a patient.”
The MLH Diabetes Program has helped Libby and her family keep everything on track. Libby has participated in the program’s annual summer camp. In addition, the family comes to MLH for telehealth appointments with Children’s Hospital in Omaha. During those appointments, MLH Diabetes Program staff members help with getting blood drawn, taking Libby’s vital signs and checking in with her.
“It’s awfully nice not to have to drive to Omaha every time,” Laura said.
Hastings resident Peggy Thaut said an MLH healthcare provider originally recommended that she consult the Diabetes Program when she was experiencing some health issues and felt her type 2 diabetes was getting out of control.
“I was so grateful,” Peggy said. “They taught me a lot, and a lot of stuff I knew but they reassured me I could do it.”
Peggy said her diabetes is now much more under control thanks to the MLH support system, the education she received and their help with a continuous glucose monitor.
“The kindness in all of these MLH offices is over-the-top,” Peggy said. “I am so grateful to be at Mary Lanning. I feel like they have this whole little family. That’s truly what it feels like. Family is not just a word choice.”
