After I interviewed Anisha Dharshi from the American Diabetes Association for episode 40 of my podcast, I asked if she'd be interested in preparing a guest post for Arden's Day that detailed how parents and people with diabetes can utilize the ADA's free assistance program (it was a topic we talked about on the show). I sincerely hope that you never need the ADA, but if you do... they can be a great resource! 

When to Reach Out to the American Diabetes Association

If something does not feel right, it may not be legal. 

Reach out if your child is not getting the right diabetes care at school, or you are not being allowed to test your blood glucose levels at work. The American Diabetes Association can help. The Association has representatives waiting to speak, chat online, or email with you to help avoid problems and find solutions when problems do occur.

How to Get Help

Call our Center for Information at 1-800-DIABETES, there a dedicated representative will serve as your personal guide for information on all our programs and events by answering your non-medical questions in English, Spanish or other requested languages.

If you prefer to Email us at askada@diabetes.org, you will receive an reply with information and the next steps to take within 24 to 48 hours. 

What Happens Next

The Center for Information will give you a form to complete and return to the ADA. If you don’t have time or cannot complete the form, please ask your ADA representative for help.

A Legal Advocate will contact you within 7-10 business days after receiving the form. The advocate can explain the law and help educate your school or business about its responsibilities, help you negotiate a solution and give problem-solving tips, give sample letters and background resources and review your materials. If you need to litigate, the advocate will refer you to a network of local attorneys. 

ADA Center for Information Hours:

    1-800-DIABETES:    Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. EDT

    Live chat:                 Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EDT

    askada@diabetes.org is available 24/7/365

The American Diabetes Association has been a resource of reliable information and support to people living with diabetes and their caregivers for 75 years. The Association’s Safe at School® campaign is particularly dedicated to making sure that all children with diabetes are medically safe at school, are treated fairly, and have the same educational opportunities as their peers through tools, resources, and the guidance our legal advocates provide to families. For additional information please visit the Association’s legal assistance webpage. 

You can listen to my conversation with Anisha below, on iTunes, at JuiceboxPodcast.com and everywhere that podcast are available.