BANGOR, Maine (WABI) – For Vicki Murray, sweet hard work is a way of life.
Fifteen years ago, she opened a bakery in Camden in response to her calling. A big laugh, a big laugh.
“I really enjoyed that aspect of it,” Murray said. “I think I enjoy the memory-making aspect of it.”
Let's just say that the world of baking was not new to her, thanks to her mother and grandmother.
About six months after opening the store, another event surprised her daughter that would change her life forever.
“She was in fourth grade,” Murray said. “She came to the store after school. We were right next to the school, and she looked white, and she was pretty lethargic and tired, and she fell asleep at the table, and a customer came in. Did you see her?”
That's when she realized something was wrong and later found out her daughter had type 1 diabetes.
After three days at Barbara Bush Children's Hospital, Murray and her family learned how to keep their daughter healthy.
When she returned to Camden and the store, other challenges arose, along with misconceptions about the disease.
“Many parents commented to their children that Sheena had diabetes because of my occupation,” Murray said.
WABI spoke to a certified physician assistant at Northern Light Health to learn more about misconceptions about diabetes.
“The biggest misconception is that people get diabetes through their diet and that it's inactive, but as I said earlier, type 1 diabetes is actually an autoimmune disease, and type 2 diabetes has several “There's a genetic predisposition to this,” says Kenny Ashay, a certified physician assistant. Northern Light Health.
“If you're that type of person, it's okay to eat cupcakes, you just have to consider the carbs,” Murray says.
Murray learned about the need for diabetes education in Maine.
She has hosted fundraisers for education and research in the local community, including the Sweet Shot Invitational, which raised $25,000 this year.
Her new book, “The Cupcake Lady,” includes an entire section dedicated to diabetes education that incorporates feedback from local doctors and parents.
To keep up with the cupcake lady, follow her Facebook page.
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