Mrs. Brocato-Elliott

Dear Parents,
After speaking with Mrs. Dean earlier in the year,I decided to talk to all 3 third grade
homerooms regarding my medical issue. I am a diabetic. I wanted to speak to the children in
order that they know what it means if I suddenly need a soda or to sit down due to low blood
sugar. I tried to present it to all classes as just a medical condition such as allergies or
asthma. I repeated to them several times I was not telling them this information in order to
scare, upset or worry them.
I answered some questions and reassured them that they cannot "catch" diabetes from someone. I
also explained there are factors as to why people develop diabetes. I explained my own risk
factors such as people in my family with diabetes and being overweight. ***I also clarified that
you can have relatives with diabetes and not develop diabetes as well as be overweight and not
be a diabetic.
I wanted the students to be aware of my issue in case I would have a very high or low blood
sugar day...so they would know how to react. I also told them I have never had to leave school
and be admitted to the hospital. Thank you in advance for your support with regard to this
issue.
~Mrs. Brocato-Elliott