Public Employee Press

Book Review
Facing challenges and living dreams with diabetes

Judith Jones-Ambrosini uses some of the best techniques of modern journalism - brief and interesting stories of real people - to spread important messages for women - and men - coping with the disease that now afflicts 26 million Americans.

Her book, "Sisterhood of Diabetes: Facing Challenges and Living Dreams" informs and inspires with accounts of the lives of 38 accomplished women athletes and scholars (aged from 8 to 94) who live with diabetes. A few examples:

Mallory Zorman, who was an Olympic-level speed skater for Canada, says her diabetes has been a tough, life-altering disease, but that sports taught her "discipline that helped my approach to the 24/7 job of coping with diabetes."

Zippora Karz played the Nutcracker's Sugarplum Fairy for the New York City Ballet. "The Sugarless Plum," her memoir of triumph through acceptance of the disease and perseverance, offers courage and strength to anyone with diabetes.

Chloe Vance Steepe, a wilderness first responder, mountain climber and educator - has hiked, biked and canoed on extended trips in Canada, South America and Australia. She founded Connected in Motion, a non-profit team that involves diabetics in outdoor adventures.

Through these captivating and motivating life stories, Ambrosini provides readers with two important lessons: Exercise and an active life are vital parts of successful diabetes care. And with a positive attitude and determination, diabetics can advance beyond any imagined limits.

The author herself is a powerful example. Living with diabetes for over 50 years, she has become an expert on the role of exercise in coping with the disease and is active in the American Association of Diabetes Educators. When she's not biking, distance walking, practicing t'ai chi or inventing recipes, she devotes time to family, friends, theater, gardening and her husband of 40 years, Assistant Director of DC 37's Blue Collar Division, Danny Ambrosini.

"Sisterhood of Diabetes" is available for members to borrow at the union library on the 2nd floor at 125 Barclay St.