i always felt like the "how many highs/lows a month did you have?" question is just an exquisite torture to make you feel like the worst diabetic in the world :D
@@elenaaverkiou7579No, the only irresponsible ones are the ones with hyperglycemia 90 percent of the time. Speaking only for myself, I don’t track my sugars like I should. I act like my body will take care of itself when it won’t because I have type 1 lol 😂
Hi! I am type 1, diagnosed about 7 years ago just before I turned 19, Im currently on lantus and novorapid multiple daily injections. I get very very changeable blood sugars so I've never really felt in control and definitely am considering a switch to the pump, but it's never been suggested by my team, and I feel very scared to bring it up, but I get sooo much anxiety and burnout currently. I also don't know a single other person with type one so finding your channel and instagram has made me feel less isolated (and a bit emotional because actually having some of my struggles recognised by someone else makes me feel less of a failure for having them!) I guess I just wanna say thanks so much for making this happen! You're so brave for doing this and you've really helped me feel less alone :)
Joanna, oh my goodness, thank you so much for firstly, your honesty about your struggles and also for your incredibly kind words!! YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!! I PROMISE! But oh I completely understand that feeling! This disease can be SO isolating! I think that's why the online community is so important for all of us! :) Regarding your thinking of switching to a pump, I would encourage you to bring it up with your doc, if just as a conversation. There's no pressure to switch or do anything you don't want to do! Ultimately, for me, the pump has afforded me so much more flexibility, and therefore I love it, but of course, as you can see from the video there are so many sides to consider. I think if it's something you want to investigate - go for it! You can also decide that it isn't for you! Sending you so much love and strength! You are strong and you can do this and we are all in it together sweet girl!! XOXO
I was diagnosed around age 20. Fought with needles for about 8 years and finally overcame the fears and anxiety of having a "thing" tethered to me and having to change all the habits I had built to (barely) keep myself alive. It turns out the pump is a tool to handle the stress for you. To do the math yourself once every few months instead of every meal and more and the pump does it for you. Like she did in the video, it's a robot assistant. Just like an alarm clock helps wake you up or a phone app keeps track of appointments. Your insulin pump does so much for you and frees up your mind to live a bigger chunk of your life. Go out to dinner with friends? A bolus "shot" with a pump is just as simple as a finger prick. The convenience of ditching a kit of needles is a 1 to 1 trade off (to me) for having it attached. What you get from it that needles just can't do is kick ass A1C numbers and years of healthy active life. As for show vs hide. I'm a proud ally of the disabled community both visible and not. I'm happy to have gone from an almost completely invisible condition to now wearing my diabetes proudly on my hip. That's the position I choose to take on it. I am also totally sympathetic to feelings of shame and isolation. When people ask me about "that thing on your belt" the thing that gives me the courage to chat openly and frankly about it is all the people that feel alone. If I can share and help make it normal for everyone around us then all those subtle cues and misconceptions that add up and reinforce the shame and isolation of others might be lessened. Please do talk to your endocrinologist. You and them are a team. Your job together is your health and we'll being. Every team member has strengths and weaknesses and blindspots. Don't just assume that because they went to medical school that they know 100% everything there is to know in the whole universe and they for sure don't know your personal individual life experience. Ask questions. Doctors love to solve puzzles so if you ask a question they dont know the answer to right off, they'll probably want to find out the answer as much as you do.
Any update, Joanna? Admit I was a little shocked that a twenty something year old woman with variable blood sugars DIDN'T get the Pump Talk from their doctor in 2019... Whether you decide to pump or not, there is SO MUCH info and support available, at least please reach out online or at some expo or local group that can at least put yourself into contacts with other diabetics with tips and tricks and support. Good luck!
Same thing happened to me and I ripped into my Endo about not even mentioning it to me..ill never be MDI but if you are worried about being tethered then get Omnipod.. Ive been on several pump but this one is my favorite because it a pod and no tube..I will however move to Tandem pump because of their great Close Loop system..im lucky that my ins covers all my diabetic needs
I switched to a pump 6 months ago and WTF didn't i get this sooner?! For me, the MDIs were the "reminding me i'm diabetic" artifacts and sticking to the regimen after 3 decades was just plain tough, emotionally. Although I was nervous and excited, the flexibility of the pump is amazing and without some significant change or discovery, i'll never go back. The pump and the CGM give me so much more control over my life, they've given me a feeling of efficacy i don't ever remember having over my BG (diagnosed 1988). It's embarrassing to admit that i also ran to youtube with medical device questions, but we're fortunate there are many folks like you (and Danica who also taught me how to use an infusion set i was unfamiliar with) making these videos, so _thank you_ for reminding me i wasn't the only one who felt unsure about how to use this potentially dangerous thing i'm leashed to.
Ah! I'm so happy for you!! I totally get that whoel "Hey! Wait a minute!? Why didn't I get this sooner??" feeling!! The quality of life is just so vastly improved by these pieces of awesome technology. I'm so happy you're so happy and that it all works so well for you! And HORRAY for RUclips and Diabetic Danica for giving us a lifeline when we need it most!!
Thank you so much for being so candid about the challenges you faced and continue to face as a type 1 diabetic! Nearly five decades of living with this at times heartlessly demanding disease makes it very easy for me to relate to the fears, frustrations, and feelings of other diabetics. Your story concerning the lack of training and assistance you received when switching to pump therapy both made me angry and sad. I was an out of work photojournalist living in California when I was first diagnosed and although that was nearly 50 years ago I can well remember how I felt when the ER doctor said, "You have a blood sugar of nearly 800 and if you don't get on insulin soon you will die." At the time I had no job, almost no money, no health insurance and was in the process of getting evicted from my apartment. Minutes after being told I was a diabetic I walked out of the emergency room with a bottle of NPH insulin, a box of insulin syringes, and the admonition to eat a healthy diet. Back then there was no internet and no RUclips to turn to which makes me all the more appreciative of what you and other kind and caring diabetics are doing to help those suffering from this difficult disease to get on with their lives by learning the skills necessary for managing their diabetes. God bless you and the others like you who are filling the terrible void created by a medical system virtually hamstrung by financial constraints and a profit over all else motivation.
Thank you so much Hayley! What an AMAZING friend you are to be curious enough to research and learn about her T1D! You're AWESOME!! And thank you for your kind words!
You are such a wonderful friend in world and I appreciate you for this I'm a diabetic patient too and my friend anvi also ask me question so she can learn what I can eat and that I cannot cheat on my own sugars 🤣🤣🤣🤣 yeah she does care she knows I cannot eat sweets I wish everybody haves a friend like you
My beautiful 9-year-old boy was diagnosed as Type 1 just one week ago after an emergency rush to hospital in Cairo where we live. He was suffering DKA. His vitals are stabilised now, but my own emotions aren't. I would do anything to take it from his body and put it in mine. As I scramble for information, and process the shock, this video really helped me. The content, yes. But more to see someone with the same diagnosis so articulate, so collected and so buoyant. You give me strong hope when I need it.
Ian, I am so so sorry to hear of your son's diagnosis. Although I'm sure no words can help the pain you must be feeling right now, please know that this will get better. You and your son and your whole family will find a new normal, and maybe even some positives can come out of this. Sometimes I think the very fact that I am T1D has shaped me into a more special, resilient person, truly. I have another video on my channel interviewing my parents, talking all about what it's like to parent a Type 1 Diabetic child (they had two, my brother and I) and this might be helpful for you to watch. In the meantime, just please keep taking everything one day at a time. There is a ton of support out there on RUclips, instagram, and various other social media platforms. Reach out and don't suffer in silence. Your mental health is hugely important too! You are strong and will get through this! Sending love, Andrea
I am newly diagnosed as Type 1 diabetic (last 2 weeks) and it has been a roller coaster of being overwhelmed. I appreciate your video and your honesty not only about the pump but everything you were going through. It is very encouraging to me that I'm not the only one going through this. Thank you for taking the time to make this video...🙂
I'm a diabetes educator and your "bad experiences" are good to know for training my pump patients. I'm sorry your support was not different. I believe your comments will enable the diabetes educators out here to do a better job at anticipating how to get someone on a pump in a less overwhelming way. I'm not diabetic but profess that if I was I would absolutely go on a pump, but one that comes with that great support every pump patient needs.Thank you for your candid video. Denise M
I've been on mdi since i was diagnosed and felt exactly the same way about pumps (being physically attached to something was my biggest reason to reject the idea of a pump) but i'm seriously considering it now and really hope to get the same positive results as you did. Thank you very much for sharing your experience so honestly 🙏🏻
The video is at least four years old now, so I can't really say "Welcome to the Club" anymore... oh, what the heck... Welcome to the Club! I got my first pump around 2007 and upgraded to my second pump in, if I recall correctly, 2015. I'm about due for another, which I'll likely do in the next year, or so. Prior to that, I was on multiple daily injections for many years, but at the beginning, I was on a single daily injection. The dosage was around 12 units of Toronto and 60-70 units of NPH. I'm not even sure if they make those flavours anymore! But, that's the way it was when I was diagnosed 50 years ago. Pumps are great, relatively easy to use, and do a fantastic job in making me feel more... "normal". They're not perfect, but nothing really is. Keep on keepin' on!
Insulin pumps have been a godsend to me. I started on insulin pump therapy back in 2008 and will be on my fifth pump starting next week - a Medtronic 780G. The freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want, and not have to carry syringes and pens around, nor worry about the terrible results I always had with long acting insulin has been enormously liberating. I can't even begin to tell you or anyone else who might care to listen what a beneficial effect insulin pumps have had on my life.
Thank you so so much for sharing this and I just can’t tell you how much I’m smiling as I read this. Genuinely my heart is so happy for you!!! This is what it’s all about - finding the solutions that work for you and give you that freedom. It truly makes a life 1000000x more full of LIFE! Thank you so much for sharing this, oh and also…I couldn’t agree more!!!
In all honesty I was exactly how you felt on getting an Insulin Pump, I said no way. I was at a store and saw this little old lady had one and I asked her about it and was sold,lol. I hate needles, so I gave it a chance. Very Happy I Did!!!! 2006 was the year I started and never regretted it !!
So glad to hear you made the switch and never looked back!!! I love my pump and cannot now imagine life without it!! YAY FOR PUMPS - but also just YAY for solutions that make life better :) !!!
Your take on the emotional part of it all was something that I needed to hear and I totally wasn't expecting to, Thank you. I was looking for views on insulin pumps and I got much more than that by watching your video." Every minute of every hour of every day " put tear's in my eyes, it's real. I'm also type 1. Good luck to you.
Oh thank you so much J. Diabetes can be so overwhelming and exhausting, but it's a fight worth fighting, for sure. Good luck to you too and good luck with all the insulin pump research. I hope you're able to find the insulin delivery device that's right for you!
Oh my heart as a diabetes nurse educator I feel for you on the lack of support you received from your team😢 every country ( I’m Canadian( every DEC is different but our team does pre- pump training then a saline start and then then go on the pump.( 3 appointments) We follow up daily then weekly. You are a rock star figuring that out on your own!! I love your elegance, wisdom & how you articulate your diabetes! I love watching these videos to make me a better educator!!!
From the bottom of my heart thank you so much for this video. Less than 2 years ago I became an instant diabetic when my pancreas was surgically removed because of renal cancer. I tell people it’s definitely a lot harder to be a diabetic than a cancer patient. Multiple injections and the constant fear of lows much like you were experiencing are exhausting. I am almost 72 and have just received the shipments of my Dexcom G6 and T slim. That’s a lot of scary technology for an oldster! I’ve been watching tons of stuff today waiting to hear back about an appointment with my “educator”. Your authentic expression of your experience gave me such hope. I am also receiving immunotherapy which comes with nausea and decreased appetite. Like you expressed I focus on eating more carbs and my glucose supplements. You gave me hope that emotionally I can get somewhat back to normal after an expected learning curve. I am learning so much from you. I am very grateful!
Oh I am so so so sorry to hear of your recent diagnosis and the struggles you've been facing. My goodness - an instant diabetic diagnosis in and amongst all of that is quite the shock! I honestly cannot even imagine. I can tell you this though - I have the Tslim & Dexcom G6 combo and I think it's by far the most wonderful possible combination out there! So you've got a really winning combination on your hands with that! I hope this brings you some joy and assurance! Of course we're all different - but I really thing this combination is universally excellent and I'm very excited for you to start on it all! And don't you worry - I have faith you're going to get to grips with the tech a ok!! I believe in you and am so grateful to you for your kind words. You are not alone my friend! I'm wishing you all the very very very best and am sending you so much healing and positivity!!!! 🙏🏻💙
I've just been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (two days ago) I loved how you talked about how personal it is. Since I was a kid I saw my grandmother battle with her type 1 diabetes, and always been afraid of it. Today I have it. I have to deal with it... I know everything is going to be allrigth, but I am still in shock if I am honest. Nevertheless, I am here looking to learn to live my new life with optimism. Thank you for your videos! :)
Hi!!! Oh thank you so so much for reaching out. I am so sorry to hear of your very recent diagnosis. Wow - how overwhelming this must be at the moment for you. Your shock is completely and utterly understandable. Please do not beat yourself up or judge yourself on this. You are allowed to be overwhelmed, angry, frustrated, sad, anxious, all of it! Please know that you are not alone and there is a huge online community (both here and instagram too) of hugely supportive and like minded T1D's just trying to live their best life and support one another along the way. I totally encourage you to make use of this incredible community. You are not alone - I cannot stress this enough. And you are strong (much stronger than you think) and will get through this, I promise you! Sending you so much love, strength, and positivity! Your Diabuddy, Andrea!
Please don't worry! You will make it alright . It requires a great deal of discipline and patience. I have had it for 35 years now and switching now to the pump. You will be alright.❤
At age 64, I was diagnosed with Type 1. I wound up in the ICU with blood sugar at 500! My A1C had always been 6.5. WHAT, HOW COULD THIS BE? I'm in the process of switching over to a pump. Just waiting for insurance to approve. I'm so grateful I found you. Yes, my anxiety is high!
I've been a T1 diabetic for a little over 10 years. Just like you, I was battling frequent low blood sugars with daily injections. For whatever reason lantus wasn't absorbing properly for me at the beginning of this year even though I had been using it ever since my diagnosis. Spoke with my Endo and was able to get on an insulin pump with the insurance provided from my work. For the last 3 months that I've been on the pump, my A1C was 5.5 with VERY minimal lows. Happy to see others are having similar successful results with insulin pumps and hoping for the continuous advancements in diabetes technology and maybe one day a cure😊✌️
Oh I’m so happy to hear that it’s been helpful for you too Jon! And I completely agree - I hope (and believe) that the medical technology will continue to advance to make Diabetes management more and more, well- manageable! :-)
@@jaylarutherford2486 What are your numbers before bed time? Do you eat dinner really close to bedtime? Long acting insulin doesn't do a good job of handling dawn phenomenon. Part of your circadian rythm where your liver dumps sugar into your blood to get you ready to wake up and start the day. Trouble is our liver doesn't know our pancreas doesn't work :/
At first I felt the same way about having a pump attached 24/7 its like a ball and chain at first. I also joke that's its like my ankle bracelet 🤣 I got used to it quickly and it changed my life in so many ways...it is worth taking the time to learn and try 😊
Diabetic Danica saved me too when I was first connected! 😂 id only been diagnosed for about 3 months when I got my first pump. It was rushed as I’m allergic to long acting insulin so we were running out of options. I’ve now switched to the tslim but I love pumping so much. I’m binge watching your videos xxoo
Ah! Thank you so much for being here and binging the videos!!! LOVE IT! I’m so glad you love your pump so much too and that it works so well for you - that is FABULOUS!! And YAY for Diabetic Danica saving us!!! ☺️💖xoxo
Hi I'm an old dude almost 76 years old male and to me nothing is more important than feeling good. Although you didn't really directly answer the question since you said you would never give it up in 1 million years I'm assuming that it did make you feel better. The one thing that I have learned over the past decades is that many of the doctors are happier with having your blood sugar a little high than ever letting it go low. For me I want to keep it is perfect as I possibly can and your video was very helpful regarding that. Thanks a lot keep up your good work.
I'm considering switching to pump, my sugars are unstable most of the times and that 24/7 overthinking, whether I'm going to go low or high, if my sugar won't spike after that meal,sometimes I starve so much just to get my sugars down, the consequences I will have to face if I won't keep my sugars in range, the mental health..I cannot manage my diabetes as well as I would love to, even though I'm trying my best.. the only problem with switching to pump for me is, as you mentioned, having something attached on me 24/7. I've been using insulin pens for 6y, haven't had sensor so far, it's all so unknown to me, so thank you so much for posting this video!
I'm so sorry to hear that you've been battling these ups and downs Petra - this is completely exhausting and I can imagine how fed up and frustrated you are. I can only say that I was in a very very similar boat before switching to the pump, and of course I still have ups and downs, but these have levelled out significantly. Going on the pump is the best decision I've ever made, and even though I dislike having something attached to me, this annoyance pales in comparison to the benefits I've seen (both physical and mental) from using the pump. Just my opinion though - you have to find what works best for you. I'm sending you strength and patience with your blood sugars and with your consideration of this decision. Sending love diabuddy XOXO
A terrific piece about your TD1. I guess all of us have our stories and they’re all very personal but similar. I was diagnosed when I was 40 yrs. old, 40 yrs. ago-TD1. I did multiple shots for 11:20 several years, then got my first pump. Now, I just received my new system from the pump company I’ve been dealing with forever. A new sensor system coordinates with my pump and working marvously to keep my bg reading around 90-130….all the time!! It’s almost unbelievable! The company gave me a class, in person, to learn about the new things that my pump would do, and how to use the pump and sensor effectively. They updated the software in my pump perfectly. So far, I am absolutely delighted with the new system! I will be 80 yrs. old soon but I love my pump and sensor!! I have a few “highs” but no “lows” since they warn me of coming lows and/or highs and give me a corrective bolus or stop my basal for a while. It’s amazing! I’m glad you got used to “pumping” , good luck with your TD1 life!
I've been using a insulin pump for the last 6 years and I'm so glad I do because I had very high doses of insulin and had insulin lumps on my legs and arms. Setting new pumps up is very confusing and takes time to get used to.
You are SO right - it is a LOT to cope with! That's why I wanted to make the video! Because it's a lot initially but I think ultimately it's so worth it! I'm so glad to hear you're still loving yours!!
Thank you so much for this video! I'm a 38yo T1D diagnosed at 7 and on MDI. I've been considering a pump and watching a lot of youtube videos but the majority are focused on the physical aspects of wearing a pump. It was so nice to hear your take on the affects on your mental state. Thanks for your honesty. It's given me a lot to think about :)
Oh Mark, thank you so much for your kind words! I know it's a LOT to consider, and I really appreciate your wanting to know about the mental aspects as well! You have to do what's right for you, and no one else. To update you, I'm still on the pump and I love it more than ever. Truly don't know what I would do without it in some ways and it's given me more freedom to actually live my life, so though the tubing and connection to something scared me because I thought I would feel tied down it's actually done the opposite for me in my mind. That's just me though - we're all different! I just wanted to share that with you! Good luck in your search my friend - you will make the right decision for you!
Wow - thank you so much for your kind, amazing words, I really appreciate them and hold them dear to my heart! This was the entire point of this video and your words truly mean so much to me, I'm so happy this helped you and am so grateful to you for expressing this to me!
I can relate to your story so much! I was diagnosed with T1D in May of 1995. It was a month after I turned 6, I am now 29. I was on multiple daily injections for years and when I was 14 I went on my first insulin pump and I was on it for 4 years. Pretty much my entire time in high school. I loved it, I loved the freedom I had and not having to wake up early on weekends to do my shot. It was awesome. Unfortunately after 4 years my body started rejecting the infusion set, so I was having to change it pretty much every day. So I decided to go back on multiple daily injections. I did that from age 18-26 and at 26 I started having a lot of issues with my blood sugars being extremely low all the time and I was unable to feel my blood sugars going low like I had been able to do in the past. I would feel perfectly fine and check my blood sugar and it would be 46. It was awful, I was passing out multiple times a day. I was going low in the middle of the night while I was sleeping and thank god for my boyfriend or most likely I would have died. I had lost my endocrinologist because I wasn’t able to be on my moms insurance anymore and I made to much to qualify for Medicaid. So I was dropped as a patient. It was awful, I finished school and started to try getting a job as a teacher, which I was lucky enough to find a teaching job and with that got amazing health insurance again. My primary care doctor then started to try and get me a new endocrinologist. Because I was in a crisis with my blood sugars. Like I said they were constantly low all the time. And one day I was at work and luckily I was in the teachers break room and one of my co workers who is also a T1D was in there with me and my sugar dropped and I blacked out and I got rushed to the ER by ambulance. I had an amazing ER doctor who immediately referred me to a new endocrinologist in my area. I met with him and he immediately ordered me a pump. I went on it and my blood sugars were amazing. They were in the range where he wanted me and I was no longer having severe lows. I was on this pump for almost 3 years and I teach students with autism and the pump I was on was a tubes pump and I had didn’t really care for the tubes. When I was dealing with a student in a behavior they would grab my tubing and I just realized that a tubed pump wasn’t for me. I then found out about a tubeless pump. I had an appointment with my endocrinologist and went back on shots until I go through my training for the omnipod, which is next Thursday. I have been doing shots for almost 2 weeks now and I’m in the same boat my blood sugars are once again low all the time. I can’t wait until next Thursday when I get on the omnipod. I know insulin pumps aren’t for everyone but for me they are amazing and have helped me tremendously. I relate to your story so much because like you my blood sugars are constantly low when I’m on multiple daily injections and as I’m sure you know when you sugar is low you have no energy, you get moody, and it sucks. I’m so glad that the pump worked out for you and I can’t wait to get back on one!
Hi Zachary! Thank you so so much for watching and for sharing your story. I am so sorry you had to go through all of that. Fighting constant low blood sugar is just so so so exhausting! I'm THRILLED to hear that the pump has been so effective for you in combating this though - and I'm excited for you to get your omnipod!!! I actually know of another person who went on the omnipod because she works as a therapist for adults with learning disabilities, autism, etc, and the omnipod has allowed her to be on a pump without it being ripped out. Her name is @cyborg.queen (she's fabulous and so lovely) on insta and you should go follow her I think - since you two sound like you have very similar lines of work and she is on the omnipod too for very similar reasons it sounds like! I really am excited for you to start the omni, and until then wish you success in controlling your sugars via the pens!!
How is the Omnipod working for you? this pump is working well for myself BUT I may have to look into a tubeless pump as well in my field of work I work in an Emergency Room attached to a Behavioral Health facility so at times I'm nervous about walking near the patients that maybe just courageous of what I have hanging onto me it maybe my mind playing tricks on me ☺ so 1st off I've been T1D since 1984 and I've come along way with the low ISSUES thank God I've always been brought back to work in an Emergency Room ALWAYS was helpful so I've only been on the Pump now for 3weeks but it's really good to know the real deal from somebody of real knowledge of how it's working for them. God Be With US 24/7. ☝👍💕💃
You're so welcome! I'm excited for you to switch!! Well done to you for making that decision and I really hope (I think it will) work out very well for you!! :)
Thank you for your video! I am getting the free style glucose meter to have a better track of my sugars. I'm a rollercoaster, I'm either in the 300's or in the low 70's, there is no in between for me and if there is, its just once in a blue moon. I do have the pens, but holy moly sometimes they can sting. I have been recommended the pump but I'm terrified of the idea like you were, but if it's really done such a drastic change then it might do the same with me .
I’m so glad to hear you’re getting the Libre and taking control - good for you!!! Being on that rollercoaster can be just SO EXHAUSTING. I know it - truly, as that was what was tending to happen to me on the pens. Whatever you do will be the right decision for you - and that’s the most important thing. I really hope your’e able to find something that works for you and keeps you on a bit more of an even keel. ❣️
As a man more or less born with diabetes, I deeply appreciate this video. I'm 34 now. I will get this pump next week and wanted to know more about it, and your video really gave a good perspective Very detailed. Thank you so much. And good luck with your diabetes! ❤️🙏🏼
I’m currently on multiple injections and I can totally relate to when you said training was only two hours and it was so fast. That’s what I’m having difficulty with at the moment. Currently, I am on my own, reading the manual it came with, and although I was taught by a home nurse on how to start up the pump, I was left alone on bolusing and checking my blood sugar constantly. I am afraid of messing up my blood sugar, of going too high or too low, and of relying on something that i don’t know how to use. This pump comes with a continuous glucose monitor, and I have not been trained on how to use that yet, until one more week. I personally feel that I was good with my previous CGM, the freestyle libre, because it alerted me when I was starting to go low and when I was starting to go high, so I had that help and I’d know when to fix my sugar before it happened. But then they took me off that CGM in favor of the pump and the CGM that goes with it. It’s a different brand and while I’m still learning about the pump, I have to wait on the CGM now. My blood sugars are back on highs and lows again. On top of trying to learn the pump. I am scared and anxious all the time.
I feel you - and truly I hear every single word you're saying. Give it time, truly, and have patience (I know - so so so much easier said than done!!) I just found that everything got turned upside down when I started on the pump but then things settled down and really became very well controlled after a while. The transition is hard. Please don't get discouraged - I'm right there with you and you are not alone!!! 🙏🏻
This is the 2nd video I've watched by you and I must say, you do a wonderful job of making a viewable video. The transitions are both technically and compositionally smooth and your information is well organized. I am a retired School Library/Media Specialist so I have taught a lot of video production and I would have to say you're a natural. As a diabetic, however, I would have to say, you probably should be rewarded for the quality of your information. After 30+ years as a diabetic, you hit on all the topics in both videos that I wanted/needed explained. Thank you very much for your labor. I do understand it is a lot of work to post a presentable video. Your information was insightful and the information on the CGM device helped me a lot. I think I could now learn how to use an insulin pump, I don't think my doctor has the courage to learn how to support me in that process. He also thinks that all CGM devices are inaccurate to the Nth degree. It's hard for doctors, they are often too overwhelmed to learn. I wish you the best and I did subscribe.
Hi Tom! Oh my goodness thank you so so much for your kind and generous words - and for subscribing! Really your kind words mean a lot to me. As for the pump - you could TOTALLY learn to use it! If your doctor is questioning this, or doesn't seem to have the time or confidence himself to learn the system I would really encourage you to perhaps look for another doctor as this is pretty unacceptable! This is just my opinion though, and I know things are exactly straightforward in terms of switching doctors, etc. As for the CGM, I understand the questioning of accuracy, however, the Dexcom G6 system actually has such accuracy qualifications that it is considered more accurate than a finger prick! So I can tell you that at least that system is absolutely accurate and not to be dismissed! Anyway, I hope this little bit of information encourages you and helps in a small way! Thank you again for watching and wishing you a wonderful day!!
I've been a diabetic for 8 years now.. I keep getting lows too. My physician recommended a pump multiple times but the idea of something being attached to me is REALLY pushing me off. I'm tired of the frequent lows so currently considering a pump. Thank you for your video, it was informative ❤
I can totally and COMPLETELY relate to you on this - I was in a very similar boat. Honestly - you need to do what works best for you - in your own time! Don't let anyone rush you or force you into a decision - your body, your choice! 💙💙💙
Thank you so much for being so genuinely honest about how important this choice is. Diabetes literally can affect every minute and everything in our lives. Thank you for explaining that (and more) in such a clear, considerate way. You are amazing!!!! ----- just finished the video and wanted to add that you pointed out everything that I have been worried about with making this decision. I am currently taking Novolin insulin 2-3 times a day, but have frequent highs and lows (for me that can be 40's - up to 400+). I have not made the switch yet, but I found your video when researching the pros and cons of going from insulin injections to a pump. I have been telling my doctors "thanks but no thanks". I think I'm now ready to make the switch. Do you feel that learning about the correct bolus amount for each meal was difficult? What other injection areas can you wear the Omnipod?
Thank you so much for sharing your experience Cameron, I can completely and utterly relate. Especially the "Thanks but no thanks" part ;) I didn't find it difficult to learn about the correct bolus amounts, really. It was a bit of trial and error at times (as is every day with diabetes I find lol), but really once I figured it out it's become pretty darn easy. Plus, you can always bolus an amount or via the carb count of the meal, so it's very flexible and easy (I find!). I put my pump site on my thighs, lower back/upper butt, and sometimes arms (I rotate all around those areas). I hope this finds you well and I wish you all the best in your making this decision. :)
Was just looking for videos about an insulin pump, to do research, before finally deciding to get a pump after 23 years of MDI. Came across this video, saying pretty much exactly what is on my mind. I have been so resistant to the idea of a pump because of the thought of having something tethered to me all the time. But lately I have gotten to the point of being in a fight with my BG levels after exercise, and random highs and lows, (and a usless endo whose response is "well, I dont know how to help you if you arent on a pump"), and avoiding eating as much as possible because of the rolling of dice not knowing if I am going to go high, or go low, or have one of those miracle days where it actually stays in range. So thank you for this video.
You are so so welcome, thank you for taking the time to tell me how helpful it was, and what you're going through at the moment. Those days/weeks/months, even years of chaotic blood sugars are so so exhausting, and I'm sorry you're dealing with that. I can't only speak for myself, personally, but I can really relate to what you've written, and a pump has greatly helped me to gain better control. No matter what you do, I'm sending you strength to get through these days and to make the right decision for you! 💙
Hi you've taken the words right out of my mouth! I'm T1 since I was 14 I'm 38 now and it has been a rough road but I'm still alive not very healthy because of being a women with 3 children and hormones play a big role with a diabetic woman. I'm now ready for the pump! My endos have offered over the years but I turned it down because of the look of it on my teenage body was a No and now that I'm older I'm ok with it. Wish me luck and I will let you know how it goes! The future has arrived for so many things for diabetes!! Blessings to ya!
Literally going thru this TODAY and feeling overwhelmed. I can't figure out just how to move around with this thing and even just remembering it's there. Grateful I found your video
I HEAR YOU!!! I PROMISE it gets better - and just remember, you can go back if you don't like it - you are in charge! But I told myself I'd give myself 3 months to decide, and since then, I've never looked back. But we're all individual. I'm sending you all the very best and hope you're managing okay - please just know what you're feeling is exactly what I was feeling - so at least in my mind it's totally normal!!
Hi Lambisco! Thank you so much for you kind words. I'm so sorry to hear of your recent diagnosis. This must be an incredibly tricky time for you. Well done to you for searching out help and camaraderie on the internet - there's an amazing community here to help and support you!! Big love and strength to you!
Thanks for a great video. I have to make the decision myself. But unfortunately I do not know if Dexcom sensors are available for diabetics in the UK. And it has to be a Dexcom?
There are many CGM's out there - it only has to be a certain brand if you're trying to connect it with a pump (ie Omnipod connects to Dexcom, Tslim connects to Dexcom) but if you're wanting to use a CGM only and not a pump, you can use any brand. And Dexcom is available in the UK - I know this, both the Dexcom G6 and Dexcom One, so speak to your GP or Endo because they should definitely be able to help you with this!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and initial feelings about using the insulin pump. When I was first diagnosed as a type 2 diabetic (blood sugar was 898). My Dr. gave me a choice of vials or pens, i chose the pens. Had a few minutes of training with the pen. Went to the pharmacy to pick up the prescription and they gave me the wrong tips and I couldn't get them to fit. So I got very emotional (hysterical), and started sobbing I'm going to die because they gave me the wrong things. Then I got a hold of myself and called the pharmacy and they told me to come back in and they would correct the issue. Now I'm being told I will probably need to switch to an insulin pump, so I'm kind of back in the same place you are talking about. Thank you again for sharing your feelings.
Hi Sewcute! Thank you so much for watching and for what you've written. I completely understand where you're coming from in terms of the overwhelm of emotion! To be given the wrong needles - gosh I can't even imagine! I am a huge believer that this is completely normal and OK! This is our lives we're talking about here! In no other condition (can I think of) do you make several life or death decisions daily. I'm so sorry you're struggling with your levels, but I can assure you switching to an insulin pump is a) not a one way street, and b) has the potential to have a huge positive impact on your BG levels. I wish you strength in making this decision! You can do this!!! And thank YOU for being so open and sharing your feelings as well. :)
Hi Andrea, thanks sooooo much for your video - I live in Scotland, and am about to go on a pump for the first time. I've been diabetic for 41 years, all of which time using manual insulin injections. it's quite scary to think of depending on a machine for something so critical, and not all RUclips videos are as comfortingly realistic and reassuring as yours - thank you! I feel way much better now to see it IS possible, and a really positive change to help you feel so much better physically and mentally.
Hi Susan! Thank you so much for watching and for your kind kind words. What you've written truly means a lot to me. It was very important to me that I highlight all aspects of switching: The good, the bad and the ugly! When I first switched to the pump it was difficult to find content covering the not so lovely aspects of being on a pump and how to combat those, so thus my motivation for making the video. Anyway, what I mean to say is that your words mean a great deal to me - so thank you! I hope your experience with the pump has been positive and encouraging and that you're able to enjoy the upsides of it as well as making it through some of the inevitable growing pains of a new piece of kit!
Thanks Andrea. I've been on the pump for 3 months now and what a change. I'm able to control my blood sugars beautifully overnight - something which was impossible on the previous manual regime. There are still a few times I get it completely wrong - mainly when estimating carbs when I'm out (cakes being particularly difficult!!) however the overall impact has been just great. I no longer feel exhausted each morning. Really pleased I decided to be brave and try it - nothing ventured, nothing gained! and your post encouraged me on this trip, so once again many thanks and I hope you continue to get the benefits from the pump too - I'd recommend it now to everyone, with a careful caveat that you only get what you put in - it needs careful management but is well worth the small amount of effort now required.
Your experience sounds like mine. I’ve been a type one diabetic for 25 years since I was 11. And my doctor never told me that I wouldn’t be taking my night time insulin anymore whhhaaatttt 😭 I deal with sooooooo many lows 24/7 and it scares me just to go to sleep. And only have to use novolog... That’s crazy! I’m so scared to go on my t slim x2. And I haven’t had any training on how to use it or put it on. I’m relying on RUclips videos to teach me. My pump is sitting in a drawer next to my bed. I’m just too scared to try it and have some machine do my job. I don’t like the fact that you have to put in exactly what time you eat every day. But I eat at different times of the day every day! And there’s no pre-bolus :( idk but thanks for encouraging me to get started on my insulin pump 🙂
Hello lovely Katherine! Oh my gosh I'm so sorry you've gone through/are going through all of that. It's so tough when you're depending on doctors and they don't deliver or help you in the way you need to be helped. Truly I get it. ❤️ It's funny I'm reading your message now because I just started on the T Slim x2 and it has made A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE to my lows due to the fact that I use it with the Dexcom G6 and it will automatically adjust basal rates, to avoid lows or highs, but I'm especially enjoying less lows on it. Truly, if you can, I would tell you to go for it if at all possible. I know it's a lot to get your head around - and I hope you can get the support you need from your doctor. Thinking about you and sending you loads of love and strength. Please remember you're a warrior and you've got this!!!
I would say so yes! Because basically you only have to inject (change the site) once ever 3 days on average! So far less poking and prodding which I massively appreciate!
Just watched this video. Andrea, thank you for your honesty and insight. This was a big help as I’m getting trained next week for my insulin pump after living for 20 years with diabetes and mdi’s. I know there’s a steep learning curve ahead of me, but like you, there’s hope that it will all be worth it.
When my diabetic relatives keep asking me when I’m going on the pump I tell them, _”I have no desire to be assimilated into the Borg Collective thank you very much...”_
I have diabetes for over forty years, do whatever diabetes therapy you wish and are comfortable with it is your body ,at time I can't stand my insulin pump,other times I dont miss the 4 times a day insulin injections, so do what you wish
I stopped working for Tandem after less than a year being hounded by their pump in order to please their shareholders, I'm back on Lantus and Humalog injections and feel free again. People feel they have to be grateful for pumps - they replace one set of stresses for another, is all.
Lost good control with pens and finger sticks. Finally followed endo’s advice to go with cgm and pump. Got the cgm first. Right away the constant bg data I received helped lower and reduced fluctuations in glucose levels. Then I added the pump (pod). Sorry I didn’t follow the endo’s advice years ago.
Well that's excellent!! Honestly I think we all have to come to these things in our own time. I too have seen a dramatic improvement in my control with the CGM/Pump combo and somewhat wish I had pursued it sooner, however, like I said, we all gotta come to these decisions in our own time and I think that's A OK! I'm happy you've experienced such improvement - good for you!!
i"m a type two diabetic and have utilized the pump for the last eight or so years. I'm going back to the MDIs. with the addition of a freestyle reader and the ease of pens, i just want to separate from the pump for a little while. Don't know if it will be permanently or just a phase. We will see. Just tired of the connection and issues with infusion sites etc. . I am just going to take a break from it for a few months.
Hi Ron! Oh my goodness I totally know what you mean! Good for you for taking things into your own hands and pursuing the choice that is right for you. Maybe it will only be for a little bit, or permanently, who knows, I just love reading this and knowing you are pursuing what’s right for YOU! I so applaud this and wish you the best in this discovery!!!
Started my day at 57 :/ ate a grapefruit and now am 188. Rollercoaster!! Ugh. I want a pump and CGM sooooo bad. Buuut money. This is America. I never know what my blood sugar will do. I go for a walk and my sugar spikes over 300 or it crashes. I am scared to literally be physical in any way. I tend to run high at night because I don't want to be dead in bed. It's so frustrating. I want this tech sooo bad.
I hear you 10000% my diabuddy. I'm so sorry you don't have access to the technology you want and need...seriously. I hate the system in America, how it prices people out of what they need to live a good life. It just makes me intensely sad and angry all at once. And the rollercoaster...just as a bit of comfort to you...I know I have all the tech, but I still have those crazy rollercoaster days - in fact I've been on the rollercoaster for what feels like the last week! I'm so tired and exhausted from it. Please know I'm thinking about you and pray your situation changes. I know my thoughts and prayers aren't anything concrete but I really hope you're able to get what you need - sooner rather than later. With so much love my fellow diabuddy, you are not alone. 💙
I hear you - this is just completely unacceptable! We need these things to survive!!! I'm so sorry you have had and perhaps continue to have these battles!!
I just got an omnipod 3 days ago- had a two hour virtual appointment and I cried- I have no idea how to take it off and I’m supposed to change it in about an hour
Oh love!! I'm so sorry you're going through this stress!! I wish I knew about the Omnipod and could walk you through it. One step at a time. Look to see if there are any details on RUclips...blogs talking about it. One step at a time. You will be okay. Deep breath. I'm there with you in spirit and cheering you on. You are not alone, you've got this!! 💙
@@ShesDiabetic Thank you!!! I am so glad I found your video, especially knowing that 7 months in you're sticking with it. It's giving me courage to say that I will commit to at least a month! sending gratitude your way
I've been a type one diabetic since 1985 I am 72 years old. I have been on the pump for decades and I'm now being introduced to continuous glucose monitoring connected to a new pump. I am very fortunate that BC is now covering the cost of pumps and pump supplies. However, it is 100 years since the discovery of insulin and we are still trying to have lives while taking insulin. There is no cure. It is just too profitable to "control" for there to be a cure. The most expensive mobile phone is a fraction of the cost of a pump. Why is this? The research is mostly publicly funded, but not with the priority of other medical challenges. Do HIV and Covid come to mind?
I hear you. This is a frustration that tumbles around in the back of my mind too. I've personally found I just have to live my best life possible and try not to constantly get angry about the probability that someone is profiting from my disease. Although...so much easier said than done. I totally hear you.
Thank you sooooo much for sharing your story. I, too, struggled with the switch to an insulin pump almost a year ago. I didn’t really see anyone talking about the difficult areas of switching over, only the exciting parts. I also hate having something attached to me constantly (I struggle almost daily of where to put it), but still I wouldn’t give it up for everything. My A1C has dropped so much, and I just feel so much better on the pump! Also, I felt like the training before I went to the hospital to put the pump on for the first time was verging on excessive (literally took a week) - so interesting to hear the differences between our countries.
Hi! Oh my goodness - reading your comment has totally made me feel like I'm not alone!! I completely know what you mean in terms of just a lot of 'exciting' content over people switching to the pump, but not really much negative or 'challenges of' type content. And oh - I struggle on a daily basis as well - of where to put it and how to style it into my look so I feel confident with it! But yep - like you I just love it, and at this point I wouldn't trade it for the world, but I would trade it for a smaller, slimmer system - that's for sure! Hopefully tech will continue to evolve and we'll have something smaller that can deliver the insulin and results we need and love without the bulk or even tubing perhaps. I'm so glad to hear you've had such fantastic results and I hope this has continued and continues! Wishing you all the best and thank you thank you thank you for making ME feel less alone with your story! :-)
You are so well spoken! Thank you for this honest review. I’m considering an insulin pump as well and the topics you address are my worries and fears, so thank you for sharing your journey!
You are so so welcome - it truly is my absolute pleasure! Thank you for your kind words and good luck on your journey to discovering more about the pump! 💙
Before considered going onto the insulin pump. Did you ever used Dexcom G5 as this system will give you a warning if it is set 4.5 mmol/L for the low reading and also if you set it at say 14.0mmol/L you will also get a warning for a high reading. I have found this was a very manageable instrument to use. As it is I have had type 1 Diabetes for over 72 years. I would be interest to if you have tried the DexcomG5.
I am currently on (and LOVE!) the Dexcom G6. I never was on the G5 as I went immediately went to the G6, but oh! I LOVE MY DEXCOM SO SO MUCH!!! I'm glad you do too!!! And you've had T1D for over 72 years?! THAT'S INCREDIBLE!!!!!! WELL DONE TO YOU!!!!! 🤩
Where do you wear your pump ? I’ll be receiving my pump in a week or 2 .I have been a diabetic for 37 years . 😒I need to watch more videos about this . Thank you and god bless you
I wear it on my waistband or in my bra for the most part. Good luck getting started - you'll do great!!! I'm excited for you! And thank you for watching!
I inquired with my Diabetes Care Team about going on the Omnipod pump and they said I would need to have the Carbs and Cals app which I now have and it's so helpful for working out my carbs intake, however they said I would need to attend a course from 9.30 until 5pm once a week for 5 weeks and sit a test to ensure i understand how to use it and how to solve problems. I can't help but wonder why you only had a 2 hour training session. I'm baffled.
Just goes to show there are different ways of dealing with patients depending on their location, I guess? I'm SO glad you've been given all this support though - that's as it should be in my opinion!!
I was on a Medtronic pump in 2015 and it broke down and my sugar skyrocketed at work and I had to take the day off. I never went back on because of the concern of letting a machine control my health. I was also on a CGM. The out of pocket cost for me was huge. I take 4-5 shots a day since 1973.
I'm so sorry you went through that Adam! I completely understand that the pump isn't for everyone - and that that's totally 100% a ok! Good control comes in all shapes and sizes and it's most important that you're comfortable with how you treat your diabetes! That's all there is to it! 💙
Can you please suggest if i can go for Metronics pump manual one for my four years old daughter..i am afraid that it might be bulky for her. She is having lows in night
I think the pump that might be ideal for a 4 year old is the Omnipod, that combined with the Dexcom G6 Algorithm would be great for minimizing lows overnight as well. That would be the pump I'd suggest you look at. It's tubeless too, which is ideal for little ones I've heard.
Thank you for making this video. My uncle had to do injections about every day for his type 1 diabetes. In some ways, diabetes defined the later part of his life. I remember walking with him in stores or on the street, or simply sitting with him at home, and all of a sudden, he would feel like fainting. Perhaps his quality of life would have been better with personalized care and devices like an insulin pump or a continuous glucose monitor.
I used the pump about 2 years ago, cause I felt guilty of using too much plastic, bruises and bleeding and especially forgetting my Lantus. I used it for 4 months but I hated the Guardian sensor and stopped. Yeah and body told me You can just not use that sensor.
I hear you!! This is the absolute most important thing in my opinion…to find what works best for YOU! It does matter what anyone else says it suggests! And of course I’m right there with you on the Guardian sensor, my body just didn’t jive with it!
Thank you for sharing. I am having a similar experience. I have felt all these things as well. I am so anxious getting use to this new way of life. Just knowing I am not alone helps. So thank you!
You are so welcome! Thank YOU for watching and supporting the channel in this way - and for in turn making me feel less alone with your lovely and very relatable comments!!!! ❤️
Thank You, I'll be starting with a pump shortly, I've using injections for the past 48 years. I have many of the concerns you've discussed in the video. Hearing someone voice them out loud means so much.
Insulin pumps are extremely refined and safe pieces of tech! There are limits to the amount of insulin they can give you at any one time for example to make sure nothing of this sort happens, so I can confirm no, these accidents cannot happen! And yes! I think they’re all people friendly- skinny inclusive!!
Thank you so much. You've say the correct words. I'm 40 and I am diabetic tipe 1 since 10. I switch for the pump since 2 month now. It's been hard ! I cried because it's like seen my diabetes all day. But my blood sugars are soooo good that is worth it! I'm not waking up at night feeling like dying with low sugars. Excuse my English I'm from Puerto Rico. Again, I'm grateful to have find this video.
Thank you so much for your kind words Denisse! I'm so glad to hear you're having such success with the pump - but I totally understand that feeling on having your diabetes be constantly 'seen'! Thank you for watching and for sharing your experience with the community here!
My 11 year was recently diagnosed with Type 1, she is not ready to entertain a pump, we plan on getting her to take a sensor first. This and being Celiac has been very overwhelming. When she is ready to think about a pump I will show her this video. Thanks
Oh my goodness, I’m so sorry to hear of your daughter’s recent diagnosis. I can only imagine what a stressful time this must be for her and all of you. I would say just take it one step at a time, if she’s ready to do a sensor first, go for that, and take it from there. You could always send her my channel and let her watch it in her own time. Sometimes we just gotta take these things at our own pace. I’m sending you and your daughter so much strength and joy moving forward. ♥️💓♥️
Not only i was afraid about maybe u will be have insert needle everyday - thats why patch stays on. i don't want everybody see it n when im busy- i dont have time stopping for happen or get pain with patchy thing
You replace the 'site' every 3 days, not every day, and the site should never be painful or itchy. If it is, you should replace the site. I hope this makes sense! It may not be for everyone - so worry not if this isn't something that sounds like a good fit for you! We're all different!!
My endo hooked me up with Omnipod. I'd never been on a pump before, never seen an endocrinoligist before. I'd always managed to keep my A1c's in the 8s. Which seems really bad but that's another story. I've had to make certain to check my bg every 3 hours and either eat or take a shot or else be sorry for all these years . What I really wanted was a CGM. Insurance didn't have an approved CGM at the time. I'd watched a few other videos mentioning pump therapy so I gladly agreed to the pump. That was back in Oct. 2015. Since then, I finally got approved for a CGM in Jan. 2017 and now my insurance seems to think my T1D is gone and I don't need this equipment anymore because my last A1c was 6.2. lol ;-)
Hello JAOV! Thank you so much for sharing your story! I'm so sorry to hear that you've been on this roller coaster of no approval, then approval, and now pulled approval - what a nightmare. I've actually heard of this happening quite a bit you know, and I think it's just awful, and not right at all! I really hope you're able to get this sorted out with your insurance company and will be able to maintain the CGM. Also - well done to you for achieving such an excellent A1c - that's is so impressive and to be celebrated!!!
I have been on one in the past and had a VERY bad experience and feel pressured being on it again.i wasn't trained properly it almost killed me so try it again has me uneasy and scared.
I was diagnosed Type 1 roughly 23 years ago, I am 54 now. Started off taking 5 needles a day, then the insulin pen, then the pump. I will be soon going on my 4th pump and for those who have never been on a pump I say, if it is affordable for those of you in the USA or elsewhere, or you have insurance then just do it. It will extend your life, have way less ups and downs and only insert a needle in every 3 days instead of the 15 needles I used to have to take every 3 days. You have to do a little carb counting, but hey you would have done that on needles, right? For my new pump I chose the Tandem X2 slim and the Dexcom G5 sensor (G6 available in the USA) an unbeatable pair.
Hi Randy! Thank you so so much for commenting and for sharing your story! It really makes me so enthused and happy to read of the excellent results you're achieving on the pump. I do think it can indeed extend your life - absolutely and utterly. My Dad is now on the Tandem X2 slim and Dexcom G5 and I think it's a match made in heaven! I'm a huge lover of the Dexcom G6 (which I use with my Medtronic 640g) and truly I can't tell you what a difference both have made to my life. Thank you once again for sharing!!! Wishing you a wonderful, happy and healthy day! :-)
I've had type 1 diabetes since 1988 and just got my insulin pump this past month. Actually, today is the one week mark of when I started wearing it. (I had to go through a dosing transition time because my endo and diabetes educator and I were trying to figure out what I should use as my basal and bolus rates once I started.) Side note, I also had an issue with the infusion set my diabetes nurse helped me put in. Less than 36 hours after putting it on, the set got ripped out. So, lesson learned for me: disconnect the pump when kickboxing.....
Hi!! Welcome to the world of pumping!! I can't believe you had your set ripped out - but then again, kickboxing...I bet if anything will do it - that's pretty darn likely to! Ha! All a lesson learned, nevertheless it was possibly overwhelming for you? I felt so overwhelmed in the beginning with all the infusion set fiascos...hope things are settling down now, and you're getting everything dialled in! :)
@@thelogician1934Yes, at least the Medtronic can. They have a “Suspend” mode which allows it to be temporarily shut off and disconnected for swimming, bathing/showers, etc. it will alert you about every 15 minutes in this mode. Note also that the time in suspend mode is recorded, so when the pump data is uploaded for your endocrinologist or diabetes advisor to review later, they will see this (though they don’t usually question small periods of time).
Type 2, was ask would i be interested in patch n scan n use less needles. I say no no thanks- its not attractive spending time with ur partner. No thanks
Hi Rick! Great question! Yes it certainly did. I had pretty good control on pens, but my blood sugars were more up and down and unpredictable. With the pump I don't have such vast fluctuations, and my "Time in range" is far improved, as well as my A1C!
Hi I just started on the Medtronic 640G 3 days ago. I’m feeling quite overwhelmed at present with all the numbers ISF carb ratios etc etc and getting used to the actual device itself. After looking at your video I am inspired to do by best to make the most of this opportunity. Like you I was hypoing so much and treating it with sugar snacks to compensate and constantly spiking and dropping due to insulin over usage :( Hoping when I get my rates right it will make my life so much easier. Anyway rambling here but would just like to say fabulous video and very inspirational. Thank you so much.
Oh thank you so much for your kind words, Tony! I really appreciate your watching and commenting like this! Well done to you for getting onto the pump! It's not an easy decision nor is it a smooth ride (like some would have you believe!). All I can say is 1) it DOES get easier! and 2) I'm sure you can do it! I pretty much cover all of this in the video, but just so you know, it's all true and I am STILL on my pump after all this time and all these struggles, so I promise you, it is absolutely worth the struggle! I hope this helps and hope that you've already seen improvements and changes since writing this comment. Sending you strength and positivity and some much needed pump-patience! You can do it!!
I started the Medtronic pump two weeks ago and went back to multiple injections. After 1 week It was dejavu of my last experience with a pump. Immediate high blood sugars, and feeling less in control. 2 hours of training and off to work. I felt very alone and very anxious about what to do if this or that happens and the what ifs… I hated the thing hanging on me. Sleeping, dressing, going to the bathroom, working as an electrician, etc! I realized later that the Omni pod may be a better fit since the way it is put on your body without a line to the cannula. I’m hopeful to maybe get a chance with that type of pump soon. I hope you are well since this video was 5 years ago! Subscribed! Thanks 🙏🏻
I can so relate to so much of what you've written here! I actually just started the Omnipod 5 and am on a new journey with that pump now. All these systems have their ups and downs to be honest, but I must say I am enjoying the tubeless aspect for sure. Thank you so much for subscribing and welcome to the family!!!
@@ShesDiabetic Thank you so much for your videos, I listen to them on my way home from work now everyday! It makes feel good to hear from someone else like me. I’ve went most of my life with very little support from friends an relatives since none of them really understand some of the things we deal with. She’s diabetic, and now my friend! 👍
Thanks Andrea. My question is would you still switch to a pump if you didn't really go low, never a severe low, had an A1C in the low 5s , and don't mind well over 10 injections a day at all? My diabetes consultant said i should consider it but I'm not sure if it offers me anything.
I would (personally) because of all the automation that is on offer these days, however, you clearly have EXCELLENT control so you should do whatever is best for you! If you wanted to go on a pump - go for it! if you'd rather not, don't let anyone pressure you into that decision or feel like you 'have' to! I'm so so so adamant that we need to do what's right for us in this disease, so truly it's up to you!!
Thank you so much! Firstly, well done for being a T1D Warrior for 46 years!!! That’s AMAZING!!! Ok...so my Dad went on the pump at age 60 after approximately the same amount of time of being T1D...!!! I know it’s no fun but it can be done! And the fun part for me has been...WAY less lows!! I hope you find what works best for you and I wish you all the best in your quest to figure all this out! :)
I have been a type 1 diabetic since 1965. I received my first pump in 1982. It was a time when home blood glucose testing was relatively new. The pump was about three or four times the size of current pumps. I couldn't button my suit coats when I had it on my belt. I've lived through straight needle infusion sets (very painful), bent needle infusion sets (slightly less painful) and sofsets (not at all painful). The main reason I began pump therapy 37 years ago is that the pump could be programmed to give me a bolus in the middle of the night. That eliminated my high blood sugars on waking in the morning. I worked in TV news, and over the years my pumps have been to earthquakes, forest fires, floods, and war zones. They've traveled with me to -- among other places -- Bosnia, Cuba, Uganda, and Chile. I became legally blind about the time I received my first pump. I've had three mild heart attacks. But I am still around and still active. And I believe the primary reason is the way the pump helped me get control of my blood glucose nearly four decades ago.
Hi Craig!! Thank you so SO much for sharing your fascinating story and experience of being on the pump. Wow - those straight needle infusion sets must have been painful indeed, I can only imagine! I’m so glad to hear that your pump has given you such a quality of life and added years to your life and life to your years it sounds like. How amazing that your pump has travelled with you to so many destinations and been subject to such wild weather experiences! Incredible! It sounds like you’ve lived and continue to live a fascinating life - all whilst living with T1D too. This is inspiring to read. Thank you for sharing! I wish you a wonderful, happy, healthy, day and continued quality of life with the pump and in general!!! 🙌🏻☺️
Thank you so much! I was only diagnosed with type 1 about 3 weeks ago and the insulin injections are interrupting my lessons in class (I’m only 13 so yes I go to school) and are making me feel a bit left out at sleepovers when everyone else is eating everything and I have to add everything, give myself insulin and just separate my food from the others. This is making me want to get a pump because it seems so much quicker and I heard all you need to do is put in your carbs but I don’t know anything about them so I’m not sure if it’s right for me. I was looking for some information on different types of pumps and which are best and this helped a lot!
Hi Wiktoria! Thank you so much for your comment and sharing your experience! Please know that everything you are describing is completely normal!! I promise you, it will get easier - so so much easier! You will learn to deal with this disease and count carbs and food tally’s very very quickly and effectively! I love the pump for this reason, because, yes, you’re right, you can totally just plug in the carbs and off you go. I think it’s a wonderful choice for anyone of any age, but particularly younger folks like you! Maybe ask your parents/doctor about the options and see if you can’t get some more info. Please just know, you are not alone, you are doing GREAT, and it will get easier!!!! Big love and strength to you!!! You’re amazing!!! :-)
Hows does it impact ur sleeping? Isnt it incomfortable sleeping with something attached to your body? Impact on confidence when someone is dating or in new relationship.....scary..:(
It does not impact my sleeping at all now. Of course, I must say it took me a week or two to get used to it, but really now, I don't eve think about it! And with regards to a new relationship...I HEAR YOU! This was a HUGE fear of mine. All I can say is that my partner (now my fiancee) was never ever bothered about the pump being attached to me at all. I think when you've got feelings and emotions going...that's not really where people's heads are at - especially if they have genuine love for you. But again, I totally and utterly hear you and understand your concerns! I have a few interviews with my fiancee discussing this topic, in case that would be of interest to you too!
I have recently been diagnosed with gestational diabetes. It has caused me lots of stress and I've been sobbing after each "bad" sugar level (for me usually the first measurement in the morning is the worst, rest of the day I can manage ok)... It's so difficult to go to the doctor and feel judged, although I can't figure out what I'm doing wrong. You T1D guys are such warriors, I admire you so much. I feel ridiculous being overwhelmed just with constant blood measurements and carb counting. Your youtube channel has opened my eyes to see how people can handle such more than this!
Hi Andrea. I know that video is a bit old but I really enjoyed it. I’ve actually listened to it a few times. I’ve been on the pump now for a couple of months. I’ve been getting something that I would describe as “pump bumps”. They seem to appear when I remove the canula and they last for several days. They are sort of tender a bit. I’m just curious if you get these and have you figured out a way to avoid them?
Thank you Denis! I'm sorry to report I've never experienced the 'pump bumps' - those sound annoying and painful! I'm so sorry you're experiencing this! I would say, if I were to experience this, I would check to see if another infusion set would be better for my needs, also you could try changing your infusion set more frequently (most people do every 3 days, but for some people 2 days is better) - just a few thoughts there! I hope this helps you and you're able to find a way to avoid these little guys!!
@@ShesDiabetic I wonder if there’s something I’m doing differently that’s causing these things. I’m going to try to be more strict about changing the infusion sets at 2-3 days and see what happens. Do you keep yours for exactly 3 days?
Your feelings and thoughts before getting a pump are pretty much the same as I experience. But since a few months I‘m thinking about getting a dexcom (a pump still isn’t really a thing for me) but I’m afraid to see my levels changing all the time and I think it’s somehow about getting help to deal with diabetes. I‘m a person that finds it hard dealing with changes so I think I would get a major throwback to when I was diagnosed
I hear you on not liking change - totally and utterly hear you! I think we a diabetics have to deal with so much change and adjustment day to day that throwing anything else on top of that can just take it way over the top! :( I do have to say though, both the pump and the dexcom have been extremely helpful to me, to give me more of a sense of freedom and flexibility. So that way I'm changing my routine to make it fit me, rather than the other way around. But I hear you - everyone has to do things in their own time and when it's right for them - so you do you and do what makes the most sense! :) I hope regardless you have a most wonderful day and find what works best for you! XOX
I'm seriously thinking of going on the pump. I'm tired of injecting myself multiple times a day. I need to do some research of the types of pumps, etc. Btw, I didn't know you took off the pump at night! 😲
Hey Cat! I personally am a huge fan of the pump of course so I'd encourage you to do it - but you must look into it on your own because we're all unique of course! I'm not sure what you mean about taking the pump off at night, you have to keep it on 24/7 - apologies if I confused you in any way on this! Good luck in your search!!
@@ShesDiabetic Oh, sorry! I misunderstood when you said that you, "happily put this thing on everyday". For some reason, I thought you weren't wearing the pump at night and had to reattach it or "put it on" in the morning. I re-saw the video and now understand! 👍
I'm a diabetic patient too and my friend anvi ask me question so she can learn what I can eat and that I cannot cheat on my own sugars 🤣🤣🤣🤣 yeah she does care she knows I cannot eat sweets She asks me "have u taken your dose" In lunch break I'm so luch to have someone like her my another friend navya she is so wonderful when anvi is not around we do pranks and talk about our enemies lol 😂😂😂😂 and we eat sweets when anvi is not around 😌😌😌😌😌😋😋😋🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 so my both best friends 👭 are the most precious thing I've ever archive they"re wonderful ✨😍 thx anvi and nav
Oh I'm so glad you have such a wonderful friend that can provide you support and laughter! This is what life is all about! I'm happy for you my friend!!!
I believe it's water resistant, not waterproof. Whenever I go swimming I unclip my pump completely and then reconnect when I'm done! Maybe other people can chime in and say what they do! 💙🙏🏻
my son (10 years T1) has been on the closed loop (before being on the regular pump/sensor) by medtronic for about a month now, pump and sensor. it really is awesome. his is regularly within range over 90% a day!
I’m glad you like the insulin pump. Many patients that I know will like it too, but their insurance don’t cover it. The frequent hypoglycemia you experienced on injection is most likely due to the factors that your subcutaneous absorption may vary, and, your insulin sensitivity varies as well secondary to your activity level. It’s less a problem for elderly because most of them live a sedentary life.
I've been on several pumps in my 24 years as a T1D, and until about 9 months ago I was last on a pump in 2014. Pretty much have had a Mini-Med pump solely, except for the Disetronic pump I had for a year before switching to a Mini-Med pump. I had a pump for almost 10 years, and due to pretty much the exact same issues you were having with putting the infusion sets on my stomach and they would almost always get kinked. I was, and still am, pretty skinny with not much body fat so I could really only put the infusion sets on the upper part of my butt a few inches below my waistline. But whether it be due to the infusion sets design, or just time itself, I started to get a buildup of scar tissue on the infusion sites. This caused me to start getting abscesses, which required me to go to a surgeon on multiple occasions, have it cut out, and then have to keep changing packing material in what was the 2nd hole in my ass! After about the 5th abscess, I called it quits for the pump. The abscesses caused me to go into DKA several times, miss a lot of work which I couldn't afford to do, and end up with some pretty costly hospital bills. So for 8 years I went back to using Insulin pens. When the first Freestyle Libre sensor came out, I got it immediately and it was an absolute game changer. I was always pretty lax with checking my blood sugars because after a while, no matter what I did my blood sugars seemed to have a mind of their own and I just got fed-up with it all. But the CGM changed a lot of that as I could just scan it with my phone and have the last 8 hours of glucose levels and it also enabled me to see what my sugars were doing while sleeping for the first time. I moved in fall of 2021 to a new state so I had to get established with all new doctors and at my first endo appt, they suggested I get on a pump. I told them all the reasons I went off of one in the first place and the only reason I bit the bullet and ended up with my 4th Mini-Med pump was because it finally had a closed loop system (Auto Mode) My A1C before the pump was an 8.2, which for me was awesome as I'd gotten to a point where if it was below a 10, I was happy. After 2 months on the 770g pump, my A1C dropped to a 7.0, and then 6.9 where it is still holding 6 months later as of today when I saw my endo again. I'll be upgrading to the 780g hopefully in the next week or so and also getting the new Guardian 4 CGM's (I'm just excited to not have to CONSTANTLY enter my blood sugar!) and I hope that it can lower my A1C even more as it will now allow the pump to take even more control and even correct automatically for high blood sugars and even missed bolus's for meals and such (which is awesome because I forget literally at least once every other day) I'm also hoping that since I switched this time around to the Mio infusion sets instead of the Quick Set that I used exclusively on previous pumps, that I will not end up with as much scar tissue as before since I'm still limited on where I can put my sites (I also just got a Pain pump surgically implanted 2 months ago and it sits right under the skin on my right side between my bottom rib and waistline and surprisingly large so no infusion sets there ever again)
What an awesome, honest take!
EpicUniverse thank you! :-)
It takes time , I had one for 20 years its a wonderful thing
i always felt like the "how many highs/lows a month did you have?" question is just an exquisite torture to make you feel like the worst diabetic in the world :D
I thought I was the most irresponsible diabetic with my hypoglycemia. It's kind of a relief knowing that is not only me!
I couldn’t meet eyes, I was sorta dying in my seat.
@@elenaaverkiou7579No, the only irresponsible ones are the ones with hyperglycemia 90 percent of the time. Speaking only for myself, I don’t track my sugars like I should. I act like my body will take care of itself when it won’t because I have type 1 lol 😂
Hi! I am type 1, diagnosed about 7 years ago just before I turned 19, Im currently on lantus and novorapid multiple daily injections. I get very very changeable blood sugars so I've never really felt in control and definitely am considering a switch to the pump, but it's never been suggested by my team, and I feel very scared to bring it up, but I get sooo much anxiety and burnout currently. I also don't know a single other person with type one so finding your channel and instagram has made me feel less isolated (and a bit emotional because actually having some of my struggles recognised by someone else makes me feel less of a failure for having them!) I guess I just wanna say thanks so much for making this happen! You're so brave for doing this and you've really helped me feel less alone :)
Joanna, oh my goodness, thank you so much for firstly, your honesty about your struggles and also for your incredibly kind words!! YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!! I PROMISE! But oh I completely understand that feeling! This disease can be SO isolating! I think that's why the online community is so important for all of us! :) Regarding your thinking of switching to a pump, I would encourage you to bring it up with your doc, if just as a conversation. There's no pressure to switch or do anything you don't want to do! Ultimately, for me, the pump has afforded me so much more flexibility, and therefore I love it, but of course, as you can see from the video there are so many sides to consider. I think if it's something you want to investigate - go for it! You can also decide that it isn't for you! Sending you so much love and strength! You are strong and you can do this and we are all in it together sweet girl!! XOXO
I was diagnosed around age 20. Fought with needles for about 8 years and finally overcame the fears and anxiety of having a "thing" tethered to me and having to change all the habits I had built to (barely) keep myself alive. It turns out the pump is a tool to handle the stress for you. To do the math yourself once every few months instead of every meal and more and the pump does it for you. Like she did in the video, it's a robot assistant. Just like an alarm clock helps wake you up or a phone app keeps track of appointments. Your insulin pump does so much for you and frees up your mind to live a bigger chunk of your life. Go out to dinner with friends? A bolus "shot" with a pump is just as simple as a finger prick. The convenience of ditching a kit of needles is a 1 to 1 trade off (to me) for having it attached. What you get from it that needles just can't do is kick ass A1C numbers and years of healthy active life.
As for show vs hide. I'm a proud ally of the disabled community both visible and not. I'm happy to have gone from an almost completely invisible condition to now wearing my diabetes proudly on my hip. That's the position I choose to take on it. I am also totally sympathetic to feelings of shame and isolation. When people ask me about "that thing on your belt" the thing that gives me the courage to chat openly and frankly about it is all the people that feel alone. If I can share and help make it normal for everyone around us then all those subtle cues and misconceptions that add up and reinforce the shame and isolation of others might be lessened.
Please do talk to your endocrinologist. You and them are a team. Your job together is your health and we'll being. Every team member has strengths and weaknesses and blindspots. Don't just assume that because they went to medical school that they know 100% everything there is to know in the whole universe and they for sure don't know your personal individual life experience. Ask questions. Doctors love to solve puzzles so if you ask a question they dont know the answer to right off, they'll probably want to find out the answer as much as you do.
Any update, Joanna? Admit I was a little shocked that a twenty something year old woman with variable blood sugars DIDN'T get the Pump Talk from their doctor in 2019...
Whether you decide to pump or not, there is SO MUCH info and support available, at least please reach out online or at some expo or local group that can at least put yourself into contacts with other diabetics with tips and tricks and support.
Good luck!
💯
Same thing happened to me and I ripped into my Endo about not even mentioning it to me..ill never be MDI but if you are worried about being tethered then get Omnipod.. Ive been on several pump but this one is my favorite because it a pod and no tube..I will however move to Tandem pump because of their great Close Loop system..im lucky that my ins covers all my diabetic needs
I switched to a pump 6 months ago and WTF didn't i get this sooner?!
For me, the MDIs were the "reminding me i'm diabetic" artifacts and sticking to the regimen after 3 decades was just plain tough, emotionally.
Although I was nervous and excited, the flexibility of the pump is amazing and without some significant change or discovery, i'll never go back. The pump and the CGM give me so much more control over my life, they've given me a feeling of efficacy i don't ever remember having over my BG (diagnosed 1988).
It's embarrassing to admit that i also ran to youtube with medical device questions, but we're fortunate there are many folks like you (and Danica who also taught me how to use an infusion set i was unfamiliar with) making these videos, so _thank you_ for reminding me i wasn't the only one who felt unsure about how to use this potentially dangerous thing i'm leashed to.
Ah! I'm so happy for you!! I totally get that whoel "Hey! Wait a minute!? Why didn't I get this sooner??" feeling!! The quality of life is just so vastly improved by these pieces of awesome technology. I'm so happy you're so happy and that it all works so well for you! And HORRAY for RUclips and Diabetic Danica for giving us a lifeline when we need it most!!
Thank you so much for being so candid about the challenges you faced and continue to face as a type 1 diabetic! Nearly five decades of living with this at times heartlessly demanding disease makes it very easy for me to relate to the fears, frustrations, and feelings of other diabetics. Your story concerning the lack of training and assistance you received when switching to pump therapy both made me angry and sad. I was an out of work photojournalist living in California when I was first diagnosed and although that was nearly 50 years ago I can well remember how I felt when the ER doctor said, "You have a blood sugar of nearly 800 and if you don't get on insulin soon you will die." At the time I had no job, almost no money, no health insurance and was in the process of getting evicted from my apartment. Minutes after being told I was a diabetic I walked out of the emergency room with a bottle of NPH insulin, a box of insulin syringes, and the admonition to eat a healthy diet. Back then there was no internet and no RUclips to turn to which makes me all the more appreciative of what you and other kind and caring diabetics are doing to help those suffering from this difficult disease to get on with their lives by learning the skills necessary for managing their diabetes. God bless you and the others like you who are filling the terrible void created by a medical system virtually hamstrung by financial constraints and a profit over all else motivation.
A friend of mine is type 1 and I love videos like this and learning what her “normal” must be
Thank you so much Hayley! What an AMAZING friend you are to be curious enough to research and learn about her T1D! You're AWESOME!! And thank you for your kind words!
You are such a wonderful friend in world and I appreciate you for this I'm a diabetic patient too and my friend anvi also ask me question so she can learn what I can eat and that I cannot cheat on my own sugars 🤣🤣🤣🤣 yeah she does care she knows I cannot eat sweets
I wish everybody haves a friend like you
My beautiful 9-year-old boy was diagnosed as Type 1 just one week ago after an emergency rush to hospital in Cairo where we live. He was suffering DKA. His vitals are stabilised now, but my own emotions aren't. I would do anything to take it from his body and put it in mine. As I scramble for information, and process the shock, this video really helped me. The content, yes. But more to see someone with the same diagnosis so articulate, so collected and so buoyant. You give me strong hope when I need it.
Ian, I am so so sorry to hear of your son's diagnosis. Although I'm sure no words can help the pain you must be feeling right now, please know that this will get better. You and your son and your whole family will find a new normal, and maybe even some positives can come out of this. Sometimes I think the very fact that I am T1D has shaped me into a more special, resilient person, truly. I have another video on my channel interviewing my parents, talking all about what it's like to parent a Type 1 Diabetic child (they had two, my brother and I) and this might be helpful for you to watch. In the meantime, just please keep taking everything one day at a time. There is a ton of support out there on RUclips, instagram, and various other social media platforms. Reach out and don't suffer in silence. Your mental health is hugely important too! You are strong and will get through this! Sending love, Andrea
I am newly diagnosed as Type 1 diabetic (last 2 weeks) and it has been a roller coaster of being overwhelmed. I appreciate your video and your honesty not only about the pump but everything you were going through. It is very encouraging to me that I'm not the only one going through this. Thank you for taking the time to make this video...🙂
I'm a diabetes educator and your "bad experiences" are good to know for training my pump patients. I'm sorry your support was not different. I believe your comments will enable the diabetes educators out here to do a better job at anticipating how to get someone on a pump in a less overwhelming way. I'm not diabetic but profess that if I was I would absolutely go on a pump, but one that comes with that great support every pump patient needs.Thank you for your candid video. Denise M
I've been on mdi since i was diagnosed and felt exactly the same way about pumps (being physically attached to something was my biggest reason to reject the idea of a pump) but i'm seriously considering it now and really hope to get the same positive results as you did. Thank you very much for sharing your experience so honestly 🙏🏻
The video is at least four years old now, so I can't really say "Welcome to the Club" anymore... oh, what the heck... Welcome to the Club!
I got my first pump around 2007 and upgraded to my second pump in, if I recall correctly, 2015. I'm about due for another, which I'll likely do in the next year, or so.
Prior to that, I was on multiple daily injections for many years, but at the beginning, I was on a single daily injection. The dosage was around 12 units of Toronto and 60-70 units of NPH. I'm not even sure if they make those flavours anymore! But, that's the way it was when I was diagnosed 50 years ago.
Pumps are great, relatively easy to use, and do a fantastic job in making me feel more... "normal". They're not perfect, but nothing really is.
Keep on keepin' on!
Insulin pumps have been a godsend to me. I started on insulin pump therapy back in 2008 and will be on my fifth pump starting next week - a Medtronic 780G. The freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want, and not have to carry syringes and pens around, nor worry about the terrible results I always had with long acting insulin has been enormously liberating. I can't even begin to tell you or anyone else who might care to listen what a beneficial effect insulin pumps have had on my life.
Thank you so so much for sharing this and I just can’t tell you how much I’m smiling as I read this. Genuinely my heart is so happy for you!!! This is what it’s all about - finding the solutions that work for you and give you that freedom. It truly makes a life 1000000x more full of LIFE! Thank you so much for sharing this, oh and also…I couldn’t agree more!!!
@@ShesDiabetic You're welcome, and thank you for the kind thoughts!
In all honesty I was exactly how you felt on getting an Insulin Pump, I said no way. I was at a store and saw this little old lady had one and I asked her about it and was sold,lol. I hate needles, so I gave it a chance. Very Happy I Did!!!! 2006 was the year I started and never regretted it !!
So glad to hear you made the switch and never looked back!!! I love my pump and cannot now imagine life without it!! YAY FOR PUMPS - but also just YAY for solutions that make life better :) !!!
Your take on the emotional part of it all was something that I needed to hear and I totally wasn't expecting to, Thank you. I was looking for views on insulin pumps and I got much more than that by watching your video." Every minute of every hour of every day " put tear's in my eyes, it's real. I'm also type 1. Good luck to you.
Oh thank you so much J. Diabetes can be so overwhelming and exhausting, but it's a fight worth fighting, for sure. Good luck to you too and good luck with all the insulin pump research. I hope you're able to find the insulin delivery device that's right for you!
Oh my heart as a diabetes nurse educator I feel for you on the lack of support you received from your team😢 every country ( I’m Canadian( every DEC is different but our team does pre- pump training then a saline start and then then go on the pump.( 3 appointments) We follow up daily then weekly. You are a rock star figuring that out on your own!! I love your elegance, wisdom & how you articulate your diabetes! I love watching these videos to make me a better educator!!!
From the bottom of my heart thank you so much for this video. Less than 2 years ago I became an instant diabetic when my pancreas was surgically removed because of renal cancer. I tell people it’s definitely a lot harder to be a diabetic than a cancer patient. Multiple injections and the constant fear of lows much like you were experiencing are exhausting. I am almost 72 and have just received the shipments of my Dexcom G6 and T slim. That’s a lot of scary technology for an oldster! I’ve been watching tons of stuff today waiting to hear back about an appointment with my “educator”. Your authentic expression of your experience gave me such hope. I am also receiving immunotherapy which comes with nausea and decreased appetite. Like you expressed I focus on eating more carbs and my glucose supplements. You gave me hope that emotionally I can get somewhat back to normal after an expected learning curve. I am learning so much from you. I am very grateful!
Oh I am so so so sorry to hear of your recent diagnosis and the struggles you've been facing. My goodness - an instant diabetic diagnosis in and amongst all of that is quite the shock! I honestly cannot even imagine. I can tell you this though - I have the Tslim & Dexcom G6 combo and I think it's by far the most wonderful possible combination out there! So you've got a really winning combination on your hands with that! I hope this brings you some joy and assurance! Of course we're all different - but I really thing this combination is universally excellent and I'm very excited for you to start on it all! And don't you worry - I have faith you're going to get to grips with the tech a ok!! I believe in you and am so grateful to you for your kind words. You are not alone my friend! I'm wishing you all the very very very best and am sending you so much healing and positivity!!!! 🙏🏻💙
I've just been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (two days ago) I loved how you talked about how personal it is. Since I was a kid I saw my grandmother battle with her type 1 diabetes, and always been afraid of it. Today I have it. I have to deal with it... I know everything is going to be allrigth, but I am still in shock if I am honest. Nevertheless, I am here looking to learn to live my new life with optimism. Thank you for your videos! :)
Hi!!! Oh thank you so so much for reaching out. I am so sorry to hear of your very recent diagnosis. Wow - how overwhelming this must be at the moment for you. Your shock is completely and utterly understandable. Please do not beat yourself up or judge yourself on this. You are allowed to be overwhelmed, angry, frustrated, sad, anxious, all of it! Please know that you are not alone and there is a huge online community (both here and instagram too) of hugely supportive and like minded T1D's just trying to live their best life and support one another along the way. I totally encourage you to make use of this incredible community. You are not alone - I cannot stress this enough. And you are strong (much stronger than you think) and will get through this, I promise you! Sending you so much love, strength, and positivity! Your Diabuddy, Andrea!
Only 4 days wow Good for you i have had it for 2 years and tmr i am getting a pump. I hope you do well.
Please don't worry! You will make it alright
. It requires a great deal of discipline and patience. I have had it for 35 years now and switching now to the pump. You will be alright.❤
At age 64, I was diagnosed with Type 1. I wound up in the ICU with blood sugar at 500! My A1C had always been 6.5. WHAT, HOW COULD THIS BE? I'm in the process of switching over to a pump. Just waiting for insurance to approve. I'm so grateful I found you. Yes, my anxiety is high!
I've been a T1 diabetic for a little over 10 years. Just like you, I was battling frequent low blood sugars with daily injections. For whatever reason lantus wasn't absorbing properly for me at the beginning of this year even though I had been using it ever since my diagnosis. Spoke with my Endo and was able to get on an insulin pump with the insurance provided from my work. For the last 3 months that I've been on the pump, my A1C was 5.5 with VERY minimal lows. Happy to see others are having similar successful results with insulin pumps and hoping for the continuous advancements in diabetes technology and maybe one day a cure😊✌️
Oh I’m so happy to hear that it’s been helpful for you too Jon! And I completely agree - I hope (and believe) that the medical technology will continue to advance to make Diabetes management more and more, well- manageable! :-)
Jon Kihm same but mine is always in the 200s-400s I was diagnosed abt 6 months ago! I take lantus at night and I always wake up with the same numbers
@@jaylarutherford2486
What are your numbers before bed time? Do you eat dinner really close to bedtime?
Long acting insulin doesn't do a good job of handling dawn phenomenon. Part of your circadian rythm where your liver dumps sugar into your blood to get you ready to wake up and start the day. Trouble is our liver doesn't know our pancreas doesn't work :/
Liver: 😃🤩💙
Pancreas: ☠️
At first I felt the same way about having a pump attached 24/7 its like a ball and chain at first. I also joke that's its like my ankle bracelet 🤣 I got used to it quickly and it changed my life in so many ways...it is worth taking the time to learn and try 😊
Diabetic Danica saved me too when I was first connected! 😂 id only been diagnosed for about 3 months when I got my first pump. It was rushed as I’m allergic to long acting insulin so we were running out of options. I’ve now switched to the tslim but I love pumping so much. I’m binge watching your videos xxoo
Ah! Thank you so much for being here and binging the videos!!! LOVE IT! I’m so glad you love your pump so much too and that it works so well for you - that is FABULOUS!! And YAY for Diabetic Danica saving us!!! ☺️💖xoxo
Hi I'm an old dude almost 76 years old male and to me nothing is more important than feeling good. Although you didn't really directly answer the question since you said you would never give it up in 1 million years I'm assuming that it did make you feel better. The one thing that I have learned over the past decades is that many of the doctors are happier with having your blood sugar a little high than ever letting it go low. For me I want to keep it is perfect as I possibly can and your video was very helpful regarding that. Thanks a lot keep up your good work.
I'm considering switching to pump, my sugars are unstable most of the times and that 24/7 overthinking, whether I'm going to go low or high, if my sugar won't spike after that meal,sometimes I starve so much just to get my sugars down, the consequences I will have to face if I won't keep my sugars in range, the mental health..I cannot manage my diabetes as well as I would love to, even though I'm trying my best.. the only problem with switching to pump for me is, as you mentioned, having something attached on me 24/7. I've been using insulin pens for 6y, haven't had sensor so far, it's all so unknown to me, so thank you so much for posting this video!
I'm so sorry to hear that you've been battling these ups and downs Petra - this is completely exhausting and I can imagine how fed up and frustrated you are. I can only say that I was in a very very similar boat before switching to the pump, and of course I still have ups and downs, but these have levelled out significantly. Going on the pump is the best decision I've ever made, and even though I dislike having something attached to me, this annoyance pales in comparison to the benefits I've seen (both physical and mental) from using the pump. Just my opinion though - you have to find what works best for you. I'm sending you strength and patience with your blood sugars and with your consideration of this decision. Sending love diabuddy XOXO
Your not taking enough insulin then
A terrific piece about your TD1. I guess all of us have our stories and they’re all very personal but similar. I was diagnosed when I was 40 yrs. old, 40 yrs. ago-TD1. I did multiple shots for 11:20 several years, then got my first pump. Now, I just received my new system from the pump company I’ve been dealing with forever. A new sensor system coordinates with my pump and working marvously to keep my bg reading around 90-130….all the time!! It’s almost unbelievable! The company gave me a class, in person, to learn about the new things that my pump would do, and how to use the pump and sensor effectively. They updated the software in my pump perfectly. So far, I am absolutely delighted with the new system! I will be 80 yrs. old soon but I love my pump and sensor!! I have a few “highs” but no “lows” since they warn me of coming lows and/or highs and give me a corrective bolus or stop my basal for a while. It’s amazing! I’m glad you got used to “pumping” , good luck with your TD1 life!
Thanks for posting, having someone else express their feelings about Diabetes is really comforting! :)
You are so welcome and it is so my pleasure! Thank you for watching! :-)
i just want to share, please do search for Dr. Jason Fung about his belief about diabetes
you might find it helpful
"A Spoonful of Sugar" poster is not lost on me!
YAY!! Thank you!! 🥰
I've been using a insulin pump for the last 6 years and I'm so glad I do because I had very high doses of insulin and had insulin lumps on my legs and arms. Setting new pumps up is very confusing and takes time to get used to.
You are SO right - it is a LOT to cope with! That's why I wanted to make the video! Because it's a lot initially but I think ultimately it's so worth it! I'm so glad to hear you're still loving yours!!
Thank you so much for this video! I'm a 38yo T1D diagnosed at 7 and on MDI. I've been considering a pump and watching a lot of youtube videos but the majority are focused on the physical aspects of wearing a pump. It was so nice to hear your take on the affects on your mental state. Thanks for your honesty. It's given me a lot to think about :)
Oh Mark, thank you so much for your kind words! I know it's a LOT to consider, and I really appreciate your wanting to know about the mental aspects as well! You have to do what's right for you, and no one else. To update you, I'm still on the pump and I love it more than ever. Truly don't know what I would do without it in some ways and it's given me more freedom to actually live my life, so though the tubing and connection to something scared me because I thought I would feel tied down it's actually done the opposite for me in my mind. That's just me though - we're all different! I just wanted to share that with you! Good luck in your search my friend - you will make the right decision for you!
Thank you so much. You have truly changed my mind set. I have so much anxiety switching. But telling it like it is, is something I needed to hear.
Wow - thank you so much for your kind, amazing words, I really appreciate them and hold them dear to my heart! This was the entire point of this video and your words truly mean so much to me, I'm so happy this helped you and am so grateful to you for expressing this to me!
I can relate to your story so much! I was diagnosed with T1D in May of 1995. It was a month after I turned 6, I am now 29. I was on multiple daily injections for years and when I was 14 I went on my first insulin pump and I was on it for 4 years. Pretty much my entire time in high school. I loved it, I loved the freedom I had and not having to wake up early on weekends to do my shot. It was awesome. Unfortunately after 4 years my body started rejecting the infusion set, so I was having to change it pretty much every day. So I decided to go back on multiple daily injections. I did that from age 18-26 and at 26 I started having a lot of issues with my blood sugars being extremely low all the time and I was unable to feel my blood sugars going low like I had been able to do in the past. I would feel perfectly fine and check my blood sugar and it would be 46. It was awful, I was passing out multiple times a day. I was going low in the middle of the night while I was sleeping and thank god for my boyfriend or most likely I would have died. I had lost my endocrinologist because I wasn’t able to be on my moms insurance anymore and I made to much to qualify for Medicaid. So I was dropped as a patient. It was awful, I finished school and started to try getting a job as a teacher, which I was lucky enough to find a teaching job and with that got amazing health insurance again. My primary care doctor then started to try and get me a new endocrinologist. Because I was in a crisis with my blood sugars. Like I said they were constantly low all the time. And one day I was at work and luckily I was in the teachers break room and one of my co workers who is also a T1D was in there with me and my sugar dropped and I blacked out and I got rushed to the ER by ambulance. I had an amazing ER doctor who immediately referred me to a new endocrinologist in my area. I met with him and he immediately ordered me a pump. I went on it and my blood sugars were amazing. They were in the range where he wanted me and I was no longer having severe lows. I was on this pump for almost 3 years and I teach students with autism and the pump I was on was a tubes pump and I had didn’t really care for the tubes. When I was dealing with a student in a behavior they would grab my tubing and I just realized that a tubed pump wasn’t for me. I then found out about a tubeless pump. I had an appointment with my endocrinologist and went back on shots until I go through my training for the omnipod, which is next Thursday. I have been doing shots for almost 2 weeks now and I’m in the same boat my blood sugars are once again low all the time. I can’t wait until next Thursday when I get on the omnipod. I know insulin pumps aren’t for everyone but for me they are amazing and have helped me tremendously. I relate to your story so much because like you my blood sugars are constantly low when I’m on multiple daily injections and as I’m sure you know when you sugar is low you have no energy, you get moody, and it sucks. I’m so glad that the pump worked out for you and I can’t wait to get back on one!
Hi Zachary! Thank you so so much for watching and for sharing your story. I am so sorry you had to go through all of that. Fighting constant low blood sugar is just so so so exhausting! I'm THRILLED to hear that the pump has been so effective for you in combating this though - and I'm excited for you to get your omnipod!!! I actually know of another person who went on the omnipod because she works as a therapist for adults with learning disabilities, autism, etc, and the omnipod has allowed her to be on a pump without it being ripped out. Her name is @cyborg.queen (she's fabulous and so lovely) on insta and you should go follow her I think - since you two sound like you have very similar lines of work and she is on the omnipod too for very similar reasons it sounds like! I really am excited for you to start the omni, and until then wish you success in controlling your sugars via the pens!!
How is the Omnipod working for you? this pump is working well for myself BUT I may have to look into a tubeless pump as well in my field of work I work in an Emergency Room attached to a Behavioral Health facility so at times I'm nervous about walking near the patients that maybe just courageous of what I have hanging onto me it maybe my mind playing tricks on me ☺ so 1st off I've been T1D since 1984 and I've come along way with the low ISSUES thank God I've always been brought back to work in an Emergency Room ALWAYS was helpful so I've only been on the Pump now for 3weeks but it's really good to know the real deal from somebody of real knowledge of how it's working for them. God Be With US 24/7. ☝👍💕💃
Belinda Navarro I love it! It works awesome, I’ve never had any issues with it at all.
I've finally decided to switch to an insulin pump after 18 years of having type 1 diabetes. Thanks so much for this video! :)
You're so welcome! I'm excited for you to switch!! Well done to you for making that decision and I really hope (I think it will) work out very well for you!! :)
She's Diabetic Thank you! My pump training day is Thursday morning. I hope it goes ok!!!
Thank you for your video! I am getting the free style glucose meter to have a better track of my sugars. I'm a rollercoaster, I'm either in the 300's or in the low 70's, there is no in between for me and if there is, its just once in a blue moon. I do have the pens, but holy moly sometimes they can sting. I have been recommended the pump but I'm terrified of the idea like you were, but if it's really done such a drastic change then it might do the same with me .
I’m so glad to hear you’re getting the Libre and taking control - good for you!!! Being on that rollercoaster can be just SO EXHAUSTING. I know it - truly, as that was what was tending to happen to me on the pens. Whatever you do will be the right decision for you - and that’s the most important thing. I really hope your’e able to find something that works for you and keeps you on a bit more of an even keel. ❣️
As a man more or less born with diabetes, I deeply appreciate this video. I'm 34 now. I will get this pump next week and wanted to know more about it, and your video really gave a good perspective
Very detailed. Thank you so much. And good luck with your diabetes! ❤️🙏🏼
I’m currently on multiple injections and I can totally relate to when you said training was only two hours and it was so fast. That’s what I’m having difficulty with at the moment. Currently, I am on my own, reading the manual it came with, and although I was taught by a home nurse on how to start up the pump, I was left alone on bolusing and checking my blood sugar constantly. I am afraid of messing up my blood sugar, of going too high or too low, and of relying on something that i don’t know how to use. This pump comes with a continuous glucose monitor, and I have not been trained on how to use that yet, until one more week. I personally feel that I was good with my previous CGM, the freestyle libre, because it alerted me when I was starting to go low and when I was starting to go high, so I had that help and I’d know when to fix my sugar before it happened. But then they took me off that CGM in favor of the pump and the CGM that goes with it. It’s a different brand and while I’m still learning about the pump, I have to wait on the CGM now. My blood sugars are back on highs and lows again. On top of trying to learn the pump. I am scared and anxious all the time.
I feel you - and truly I hear every single word you're saying. Give it time, truly, and have patience (I know - so so so much easier said than done!!) I just found that everything got turned upside down when I started on the pump but then things settled down and really became very well controlled after a while. The transition is hard. Please don't get discouraged - I'm right there with you and you are not alone!!! 🙏🏻
This is the 2nd video I've watched by you and I must say, you do a wonderful job of making a viewable video. The transitions are both technically and compositionally smooth and your information is well organized. I am a retired School Library/Media Specialist so I have taught a lot of video production and I would have to say you're a natural. As a diabetic, however, I would have to say, you probably should be rewarded for the quality of your information. After 30+ years as a diabetic, you hit on all the topics in both videos that I wanted/needed explained. Thank you very much for your labor. I do understand it is a lot of work to post a presentable video. Your information was insightful and the information on the CGM device helped me a lot. I think I could now learn how to use an insulin pump, I don't think my doctor has the courage to learn how to support me in that process. He also thinks that all CGM devices are inaccurate to the Nth degree. It's hard for doctors, they are often too overwhelmed to learn. I wish you the best and I did subscribe.
Hi Tom! Oh my goodness thank you so so much for your kind and generous words - and for subscribing! Really your kind words mean a lot to me. As for the pump - you could TOTALLY learn to use it! If your doctor is questioning this, or doesn't seem to have the time or confidence himself to learn the system I would really encourage you to perhaps look for another doctor as this is pretty unacceptable! This is just my opinion though, and I know things are exactly straightforward in terms of switching doctors, etc. As for the CGM, I understand the questioning of accuracy, however, the Dexcom G6 system actually has such accuracy qualifications that it is considered more accurate than a finger prick! So I can tell you that at least that system is absolutely accurate and not to be dismissed! Anyway, I hope this little bit of information encourages you and helps in a small way! Thank you again for watching and wishing you a wonderful day!!
I've been a diabetic for 8 years now.. I keep getting lows too. My physician recommended a pump multiple times but the idea of something being attached to me is REALLY pushing me off. I'm tired of the frequent lows so currently considering a pump.
Thank you for your video, it was informative ❤
I can totally and COMPLETELY relate to you on this - I was in a very similar boat. Honestly - you need to do what works best for you - in your own time! Don't let anyone rush you or force you into a decision - your body, your choice! 💙💙💙
@@ShesDiabetic reading this on international women's day is really something 🥺❤
You are so well-spoken, thoughtful, and open about your experience. Thank you!
Thank you so much! I really appreciate your kind words!
Thank you so much for being so genuinely honest about how important this choice is. Diabetes literally can affect every minute and everything in our lives. Thank you for explaining that (and more) in such a clear, considerate way. You are amazing!!!! ----- just finished the video and wanted to add that you pointed out everything that I have been worried about with making this decision. I am currently taking Novolin insulin 2-3 times a day, but have frequent highs and lows (for me that can be 40's - up to 400+). I have not made the switch yet, but I found your video when researching the pros and cons of going from insulin injections to a pump. I have been telling my doctors "thanks but no thanks". I think I'm now ready to make the switch. Do you feel that learning about the correct bolus amount for each meal was difficult? What other injection areas can you wear the Omnipod?
Thank you so much for sharing your experience Cameron, I can completely and utterly relate. Especially the "Thanks but no thanks" part ;) I didn't find it difficult to learn about the correct bolus amounts, really. It was a bit of trial and error at times (as is every day with diabetes I find lol), but really once I figured it out it's become pretty darn easy. Plus, you can always bolus an amount or via the carb count of the meal, so it's very flexible and easy (I find!). I put my pump site on my thighs, lower back/upper butt, and sometimes arms (I rotate all around those areas). I hope this finds you well and I wish you all the best in your making this decision. :)
Was just looking for videos about an insulin pump, to do research, before finally deciding to get a pump after 23 years of MDI. Came across this video, saying pretty much exactly what is on my mind. I have been so resistant to the idea of a pump because of the thought of having something tethered to me all the time. But lately I have gotten to the point of being in a fight with my BG levels after exercise, and random highs and lows, (and a usless endo whose response is "well, I dont know how to help you if you arent on a pump"), and avoiding eating as much as possible because of the rolling of dice not knowing if I am going to go high, or go low, or have one of those miracle days where it actually stays in range. So thank you for this video.
You are so so welcome, thank you for taking the time to tell me how helpful it was, and what you're going through at the moment. Those days/weeks/months, even years of chaotic blood sugars are so so exhausting, and I'm sorry you're dealing with that. I can't only speak for myself, personally, but I can really relate to what you've written, and a pump has greatly helped me to gain better control. No matter what you do, I'm sending you strength to get through these days and to make the right decision for you! 💙
Hi you've taken the words right out of my mouth! I'm T1 since I was 14 I'm 38 now and it has been a rough road but I'm still alive not very healthy because of being a women with 3 children and hormones play a big role with a diabetic woman. I'm now ready for the pump! My endos have offered over the years but I turned it down because of the look of it on my teenage body was a No and now that I'm older I'm ok with it. Wish me luck and I will let you know how it goes! The future has arrived for so many things for diabetes!! Blessings to ya!
Wishing you so much luck Katarina! I’m excited for you to get on the pump!!! I really believe you’re going to love it Mama!!! 🌷🌟❣️
Literally going thru this TODAY and feeling overwhelmed. I can't figure out just how to move around with this thing and even just remembering it's there.
Grateful I found your video
I HEAR YOU!!! I PROMISE it gets better - and just remember, you can go back if you don't like it - you are in charge! But I told myself I'd give myself 3 months to decide, and since then, I've never looked back. But we're all individual. I'm sending you all the very best and hope you're managing okay - please just know what you're feeling is exactly what I was feeling - so at least in my mind it's totally normal!!
Thank you for your videos. Type one for less the 2 months and I found on you a relating partner..thank you 😊😘
Hi Lambisco! Thank you so much for you kind words. I'm so sorry to hear of your recent diagnosis. This must be an incredibly tricky time for you. Well done to you for searching out help and camaraderie on the internet - there's an amazing community here to help and support you!! Big love and strength to you!
Thanks for a great video. I have to make the decision myself. But unfortunately I do not know if Dexcom sensors are available for diabetics in the UK. And it has to be a Dexcom?
There are many CGM's out there - it only has to be a certain brand if you're trying to connect it with a pump (ie Omnipod connects to Dexcom, Tslim connects to Dexcom) but if you're wanting to use a CGM only and not a pump, you can use any brand. And Dexcom is available in the UK - I know this, both the Dexcom G6 and Dexcom One, so speak to your GP or Endo because they should definitely be able to help you with this!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and initial feelings about using the insulin pump. When I was first diagnosed as a type 2 diabetic (blood sugar was 898). My Dr. gave me a choice of vials or pens, i chose the pens. Had a few minutes of training with the pen. Went to the pharmacy to pick up the prescription and they gave me the wrong tips and I couldn't get them to fit. So I got very emotional (hysterical), and started sobbing I'm going to die because they gave me the wrong things. Then I got a hold of myself and called the pharmacy and they told me to come back in and they would correct the issue. Now I'm being told I will probably need to switch to an insulin pump, so I'm kind of back in the same place you are talking about.
Thank you again for sharing your feelings.
Hi Sewcute! Thank you so much for watching and for what you've written. I completely understand where you're coming from in terms of the overwhelm of emotion! To be given the wrong needles - gosh I can't even imagine! I am a huge believer that this is completely normal and OK! This is our lives we're talking about here! In no other condition (can I think of) do you make several life or death decisions daily. I'm so sorry you're struggling with your levels, but I can assure you switching to an insulin pump is a) not a one way street, and b) has the potential to have a huge positive impact on your BG levels. I wish you strength in making this decision! You can do this!!! And thank YOU for being so open and sharing your feelings as well. :)
Hi Andrea, thanks sooooo much for your video - I live in Scotland, and am about to go on a pump for the first time. I've been diabetic for 41 years, all of which time using manual insulin injections. it's quite scary to think of depending on a machine for something so critical, and not all RUclips videos are as comfortingly realistic and reassuring as yours - thank you! I feel way much better now to see it IS possible, and a really positive change to help you feel so much better physically and mentally.
Hi Susan! Thank you so much for watching and for your kind kind words. What you've written truly means a lot to me. It was very important to me that I highlight all aspects of switching: The good, the bad and the ugly! When I first switched to the pump it was difficult to find content covering the not so lovely aspects of being on a pump and how to combat those, so thus my motivation for making the video. Anyway, what I mean to say is that your words mean a great deal to me - so thank you! I hope your experience with the pump has been positive and encouraging and that you're able to enjoy the upsides of it as well as making it through some of the inevitable growing pains of a new piece of kit!
Thanks Andrea. I've been on the pump for 3 months now and what a change. I'm able to control my blood sugars beautifully overnight - something which was impossible on the previous manual regime. There are still a few times I get it completely wrong - mainly when estimating carbs when I'm out (cakes being particularly difficult!!) however the overall impact has been just great. I no longer feel exhausted each morning. Really pleased I decided to be brave and try it - nothing ventured, nothing gained! and your post encouraged me on this trip, so once again many thanks and I hope you continue to get the benefits from the pump too - I'd recommend it now to everyone, with a careful caveat that you only get what you put in - it needs careful management but is well worth the small amount of effort now required.
Your experience sounds like mine. I’ve been a type one diabetic for 25 years since I was 11. And my doctor never told me that I wouldn’t be taking my night time insulin anymore whhhaaatttt 😭 I deal with sooooooo many lows 24/7 and it scares me just to go to sleep. And only have to use novolog... That’s crazy! I’m so scared to go on my t slim x2. And I haven’t had any training on how to use it or put it on. I’m relying on RUclips videos to teach me. My pump is sitting in a drawer next to my bed. I’m just too scared to try it and have some machine do my job. I don’t like the fact that you have to put in exactly what time you eat every day. But I eat at different times of the day every day! And there’s no pre-bolus :( idk but thanks for encouraging me to get started on my insulin pump 🙂
Hello lovely Katherine! Oh my gosh I'm so sorry you've gone through/are going through all of that. It's so tough when you're depending on doctors and they don't deliver or help you in the way you need to be helped. Truly I get it. ❤️ It's funny I'm reading your message now because I just started on the T Slim x2 and it has made A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE to my lows due to the fact that I use it with the Dexcom G6 and it will automatically adjust basal rates, to avoid lows or highs, but I'm especially enjoying less lows on it. Truly, if you can, I would tell you to go for it if at all possible. I know it's a lot to get your head around - and I hope you can get the support you need from your doctor. Thinking about you and sending you loads of love and strength. Please remember you're a warrior and you've got this!!!
I'm thinking of switching to a pump soon, mostly because of how inconvenient and painful injections are. Would you say a pump makes it better?
I would say so yes! Because basically you only have to inject (change the site) once ever 3 days on average! So far less poking and prodding which I massively appreciate!
Just watched this video. Andrea, thank you for your honesty and insight. This was a big help as I’m getting trained next week for my insulin pump after living for 20 years with diabetes and mdi’s. I know there’s a steep learning curve ahead of me, but like you, there’s hope that it will all be worth it.
You are so welcome, David! I wish you very very very very very excellent luck, patience and joy as you’re making your switch! You’ve got this!! 💙
When my diabetic relatives keep asking me when I’m going on the pump I tell them, _”I have no desire to be assimilated into the Borg Collective thank you very much...”_
We have the pump for my teenage son. He doesn't want to use it. I'm now looking into the Omnipod because it is tubeless.
I have diabetes for over forty years, do whatever diabetes therapy you wish and are comfortable with it is your body ,at time I can't stand my insulin pump,other times I dont miss the 4 times a day insulin injections, so do what you wish
I stopped working for Tandem after less than a year being hounded by their pump in order to please their shareholders, I'm back on Lantus and Humalog injections and feel free again. People feel they have to be grateful for pumps - they replace one set of stresses for another, is all.
I remember watching this video freshly diagnosed. Now, six years later, I understand everything you’re saying.
Oh wow - you’ve been here that long 🥹 Thank you so so so much for sharing this with me, this means the world honestly 💙❤️💙
Lost good control with pens and finger sticks. Finally followed endo’s advice to go with cgm and pump. Got the cgm first. Right away the constant bg data I received helped lower and reduced fluctuations in glucose levels. Then I added the pump (pod). Sorry I didn’t follow the endo’s advice years ago.
Well that's excellent!! Honestly I think we all have to come to these things in our own time. I too have seen a dramatic improvement in my control with the CGM/Pump combo and somewhat wish I had pursued it sooner, however, like I said, we all gotta come to these decisions in our own time and I think that's A OK! I'm happy you've experienced such improvement - good for you!!
She’s also absolutely gorgeous ❤❤❤ ohh I just received my unit… been type 1 since I was 4 and I’m now 42.. I start training soon with a nurse…
i"m a type two diabetic and have utilized the pump for the last eight or so years. I'm going back to the MDIs. with the addition of a freestyle reader and the ease of pens, i just want to separate from the pump for a little while. Don't know if it will be permanently or just a phase. We will see. Just tired of the connection and issues with infusion sites etc. . I am just going to take a break from it for a few months.
Hi Ron! Oh my goodness I totally know what you mean! Good for you for taking things into your own hands and pursuing the choice that is right for you. Maybe it will only be for a little bit, or permanently, who knows, I just love reading this and knowing you are pursuing what’s right for YOU! I so applaud this and wish you the best in this discovery!!!
Started my day at 57 :/ ate a grapefruit and now am 188. Rollercoaster!! Ugh. I want a pump and CGM sooooo bad. Buuut money. This is America. I never know what my blood sugar will do. I go for a walk and my sugar spikes over 300 or it crashes. I am scared to literally be physical in any way. I tend to run high at night because I don't want to be dead in bed. It's so frustrating. I want this tech sooo bad.
I hear you 10000% my diabuddy. I'm so sorry you don't have access to the technology you want and need...seriously. I hate the system in America, how it prices people out of what they need to live a good life. It just makes me intensely sad and angry all at once. And the rollercoaster...just as a bit of comfort to you...I know I have all the tech, but I still have those crazy rollercoaster days - in fact I've been on the rollercoaster for what feels like the last week! I'm so tired and exhausted from it. Please know I'm thinking about you and pray your situation changes. I know my thoughts and prayers aren't anything concrete but I really hope you're able to get what you need - sooner rather than later. With so much love my fellow diabuddy, you are not alone. 💙
Biggest problem is insurance companies paying for supplies on a timely manner. Often I run out and supplier says we're waiting for you insurance.
I hear you - this is just completely unacceptable! We need these things to survive!!! I'm so sorry you have had and perhaps continue to have these battles!!
I just got an omnipod 3 days ago- had a two hour virtual appointment and I cried- I have no idea how to take it off and I’m supposed to change it in about an hour
Oh love!! I'm so sorry you're going through this stress!! I wish I knew about the Omnipod and could walk you through it. One step at a time. Look to see if there are any details on RUclips...blogs talking about it. One step at a time. You will be okay. Deep breath. I'm there with you in spirit and cheering you on. You are not alone, you've got this!! 💙
@@ShesDiabetic Thank you!!! I am so glad I found your video, especially knowing that 7 months in you're sticking with it. It's giving me courage to say that I will commit to at least a month! sending gratitude your way
I've been a type one diabetic since 1985 I am 72 years old. I have been on the pump for decades and I'm now being introduced to continuous glucose monitoring connected to a new pump. I am very fortunate that BC is now covering the cost of pumps and pump supplies. However, it is 100 years since the discovery of insulin and we are still trying to have lives while taking insulin. There is no cure. It is just too profitable to "control" for there to be a cure. The most expensive mobile phone is a fraction of the cost of a pump. Why is this? The research is mostly publicly funded, but not with the priority of other medical challenges. Do HIV and Covid come to mind?
I hear you. This is a frustration that tumbles around in the back of my mind too. I've personally found I just have to live my best life possible and try not to constantly get angry about the probability that someone is profiting from my disease. Although...so much easier said than done. I totally hear you.
Thank you sooooo much for sharing your story. I, too, struggled with the switch to an insulin pump almost a year ago. I didn’t really see anyone talking about the difficult areas of switching over, only the exciting parts. I also hate having something attached to me constantly (I struggle almost daily of where to put it), but still I wouldn’t give it up for everything. My A1C has dropped so much, and I just feel so much better on the pump! Also, I felt like the training before I went to the hospital to put the pump on for the first time was verging on excessive (literally took a week) - so interesting to hear the differences between our countries.
Hi! Oh my goodness - reading your comment has totally made me feel like I'm not alone!! I completely know what you mean in terms of just a lot of 'exciting' content over people switching to the pump, but not really much negative or 'challenges of' type content. And oh - I struggle on a daily basis as well - of where to put it and how to style it into my look so I feel confident with it! But yep - like you I just love it, and at this point I wouldn't trade it for the world, but I would trade it for a smaller, slimmer system - that's for sure! Hopefully tech will continue to evolve and we'll have something smaller that can deliver the insulin and results we need and love without the bulk or even tubing perhaps. I'm so glad to hear you've had such fantastic results and I hope this has continued and continues! Wishing you all the best and thank you thank you thank you for making ME feel less alone with your story! :-)
You are so well spoken! Thank you for this honest review. I’m considering an insulin pump as well and the topics you address are my worries and fears, so thank you for sharing your journey!
You are so so welcome - it truly is my absolute pleasure! Thank you for your kind words and good luck on your journey to discovering more about the pump! 💙
Before considered going onto the insulin pump. Did you ever used Dexcom G5 as this system will give you a warning if it is set 4.5 mmol/L for the low reading and also if you set it at say 14.0mmol/L you will also get a warning for a high reading. I have found this was a very manageable instrument to use. As it is I have had type 1 Diabetes for over 72 years. I would be interest to if you have tried the DexcomG5.
I am currently on (and LOVE!) the Dexcom G6. I never was on the G5 as I went immediately went to the G6, but oh! I LOVE MY DEXCOM SO SO MUCH!!! I'm glad you do too!!! And you've had T1D for over 72 years?! THAT'S INCREDIBLE!!!!!! WELL DONE TO YOU!!!!! 🤩
Where do you wear your pump ? I’ll be receiving my pump in a week or 2 .I have been a diabetic for 37 years . 😒I need to watch more videos about this . Thank you and god bless you
I wear it on my waistband or in my bra for the most part. Good luck getting started - you'll do great!!! I'm excited for you! And thank you for watching!
I inquired with my Diabetes Care Team about going on the Omnipod pump and they said I would need to have the Carbs and Cals app which I now have and it's so helpful for working out my carbs intake, however they said I would need to attend a course from 9.30 until 5pm once a week for 5 weeks and sit a test to ensure i understand how to use it and how to solve problems. I can't help but wonder why you only had a 2 hour training session. I'm baffled.
Just goes to show there are different ways of dealing with patients depending on their location, I guess? I'm SO glad you've been given all this support though - that's as it should be in my opinion!!
I was on a Medtronic pump in 2015 and it broke down and my sugar skyrocketed at work and I had to take the day off. I never went back on because of the concern of letting a machine control my health. I was also on a CGM. The out of pocket cost for me was huge. I take 4-5 shots a day since 1973.
I'm so sorry you went through that Adam! I completely understand that the pump isn't for everyone - and that that's totally 100% a ok! Good control comes in all shapes and sizes and it's most important that you're comfortable with how you treat your diabetes! That's all there is to it! 💙
Can you please suggest if i can go for Metronics pump manual one for my four years old daughter..i am afraid that it might be bulky for her.
She is having lows in night
I think the pump that might be ideal for a 4 year old is the Omnipod, that combined with the Dexcom G6 Algorithm would be great for minimizing lows overnight as well. That would be the pump I'd suggest you look at. It's tubeless too, which is ideal for little ones I've heard.
Thank you for making this video. My uncle had to do injections about every day for his type 1 diabetes. In some ways, diabetes defined the later part of his life. I remember walking with him in stores or on the street, or simply sitting with him at home, and all of a sudden, he would feel like fainting. Perhaps his quality of life would have been better with personalized care and devices like an insulin pump or a continuous glucose monitor.
I used the pump about 2 years ago, cause I felt guilty of using too much plastic, bruises and bleeding and especially forgetting my Lantus. I used it for 4 months but I hated the Guardian sensor and stopped. Yeah and body told me You can just not use that sensor.
I hear you!! This is the absolute most important thing in my opinion…to find what works best for YOU! It does matter what anyone else says it suggests! And of course I’m right there with you on the Guardian sensor, my body just didn’t jive with it!
Thank you for sharing. I am having a similar experience. I have felt all these things as well. I am so anxious getting use to this new way of life. Just knowing I am not alone helps. So thank you!
You are so welcome! Thank YOU for watching and supporting the channel in this way - and for in turn making me feel less alone with your lovely and very relatable comments!!!! ❤️
Thank You, I'll be starting with a pump shortly, I've using injections for the past 48 years. I have many of the concerns you've discussed in the video. Hearing someone voice them out loud means so much.
Can an Insulin pump fail in anyway and give a dosage by accident? Thats probably my biggest concern. And is it skinny people friendly?
Insulin pumps are extremely refined and safe pieces of tech! There are limits to the amount of insulin they can give you at any one time for example to make sure nothing of this sort happens, so I can confirm no, these accidents cannot happen! And yes! I think they’re all people friendly- skinny inclusive!!
Just started my pump yesterday...nervous,your video really helped me ....thank you
Oh being nervous is totally understandable!!! Please be patient with yourself and take it one step at a time- you’ve got this!!! 💙❣️💙
Thank you so much. You've say the correct words. I'm 40 and I am diabetic tipe 1 since 10. I switch for the pump since 2 month now. It's been hard ! I cried because it's like seen my diabetes all day. But my blood sugars are soooo good that is worth it! I'm not waking up at night feeling like dying with low sugars. Excuse my English I'm from Puerto Rico. Again, I'm grateful to have find this video.
Thank you so much for your kind words Denisse! I'm so glad to hear you're having such success with the pump - but I totally understand that feeling on having your diabetes be constantly 'seen'! Thank you for watching and for sharing your experience with the community here!
My 11 year was recently diagnosed with Type 1, she is not ready to entertain a pump, we plan on getting her to take a sensor first. This and being Celiac has been very overwhelming. When she is ready to think about a pump I will show her this video. Thanks
Oh my goodness, I’m so sorry to hear of your daughter’s recent diagnosis. I can only imagine what a stressful time this must be for her and all of you. I would say just take it one step at a time, if she’s ready to do a sensor first, go for that, and take it from there. You could always send her my channel and let her watch it in her own time. Sometimes we just gotta take these things at our own pace. I’m sending you and your daughter so much strength and joy moving forward. ♥️💓♥️
Not only i was afraid about maybe u will be have insert needle everyday - thats why patch stays on. i don't want everybody see it n when im busy- i dont have time stopping for happen or get pain with patchy thing
You replace the 'site' every 3 days, not every day, and the site should never be painful or itchy. If it is, you should replace the site. I hope this makes sense! It may not be for everyone - so worry not if this isn't something that sounds like a good fit for you! We're all different!!
My endo hooked me up with Omnipod. I'd never been on a pump before, never seen an endocrinoligist before. I'd always managed to keep my A1c's in the 8s. Which seems really bad but that's another story. I've had to make certain to check my bg every 3 hours and either eat or take a shot or else be sorry for all these years . What I really wanted was a CGM. Insurance didn't have an approved CGM at the time. I'd watched a few other videos mentioning pump therapy so I gladly agreed to the pump. That was back in Oct. 2015. Since then, I finally got approved for a CGM in Jan. 2017 and now my insurance seems to think my T1D is gone and I don't need this equipment anymore because my last A1c was 6.2. lol ;-)
Hello JAOV! Thank you so much for sharing your story! I'm so sorry to hear that you've been on this roller coaster of no approval, then approval, and now pulled approval - what a nightmare. I've actually heard of this happening quite a bit you know, and I think it's just awful, and not right at all! I really hope you're able to get this sorted out with your insurance company and will be able to maintain the CGM. Also - well done to you for achieving such an excellent A1c - that's is so impressive and to be celebrated!!!
I have been on one in the past and had a VERY bad experience and feel pressured being on it again.i wasn't trained properly it almost killed me so try it again has me uneasy and scared.
Oh my gosh I am SO sorry to hear this!!! This sounds absolutely awful!!! I am so so so sorry you went through that!
I was diagnosed Type 1 roughly 23 years ago, I am 54 now. Started off taking 5 needles a day, then the insulin pen, then the pump. I will be soon going on my 4th pump and for those who have never been on a pump I say, if it is affordable for those of you in the USA or elsewhere, or you have insurance then just do it. It will extend your life, have way less ups and downs and only insert a needle in every 3 days instead of the 15 needles I used to have to take every 3 days. You have to do a little carb counting, but hey you would have done that on needles, right? For my new pump I chose the Tandem X2 slim and the Dexcom G5 sensor (G6 available in the USA) an unbeatable pair.
Hi Randy! Thank you so so much for commenting and for sharing your story! It really makes me so enthused and happy to read of the excellent results you're achieving on the pump. I do think it can indeed extend your life - absolutely and utterly. My Dad is now on the Tandem X2 slim and Dexcom G5 and I think it's a match made in heaven! I'm a huge lover of the Dexcom G6 (which I use with my Medtronic 640g) and truly I can't tell you what a difference both have made to my life. Thank you once again for sharing!!! Wishing you a wonderful, happy and healthy day! :-)
I've had type 1 diabetes since 1988 and just got my insulin pump this past month. Actually, today is the one week mark of when I started wearing it. (I had to go through a dosing transition time because my endo and diabetes educator and I were trying to figure out what I should use as my basal and bolus rates once I started.) Side note, I also had an issue with the infusion set my diabetes nurse helped me put in. Less than 36 hours after putting it on, the set got ripped out. So, lesson learned for me: disconnect the pump when kickboxing.....
Hi!! Welcome to the world of pumping!! I can't believe you had your set ripped out - but then again, kickboxing...I bet if anything will do it - that's pretty darn likely to! Ha! All a lesson learned, nevertheless it was possibly overwhelming for you? I felt so overwhelmed in the beginning with all the infusion set fiascos...hope things are settling down now, and you're getting everything dialled in! :)
Well, the pump can be detached at any time. That's not called attached.
This is true, but if I want insulin and want to live, it better be attached 😅
@@ShesDiabetic Can it be detached for an hour?
@@thelogician1934Yes, at least the Medtronic can. They have a “Suspend” mode which allows it to be temporarily shut off and disconnected for swimming, bathing/showers, etc. it will alert you about every 15 minutes in this mode. Note also that the time in suspend mode is recorded, so when the pump data is uploaded for your endocrinologist or diabetes advisor to review later, they will see this (though they don’t usually question small periods of time).
Type 2, was ask would i be interested in patch n scan n use less needles. I say no no thanks- its not attractive spending time with ur partner. No thanks
I understand your hesitancy. Everyone has to find what works best for them. I just hope you find what works best for you!! 🙏🏻
Did your A1c improve when you changed from daily injections to the pump?
Hi Rick! Great question! Yes it certainly did. I had pretty good control on pens, but my blood sugars were more up and down and unpredictable. With the pump I don't have such vast fluctuations, and my "Time in range" is far improved, as well as my A1C!
Hi I just started on the Medtronic 640G 3 days ago. I’m feeling quite overwhelmed at present with all the numbers ISF carb ratios etc etc and getting used to the actual device itself. After looking at your video I am inspired to do by best to make the most of this opportunity. Like you I was hypoing so much and treating it with sugar snacks to compensate and constantly spiking and dropping due to insulin over usage :( Hoping when I get my rates right it will make my life so much easier. Anyway rambling here but would just like to say fabulous video and very inspirational. Thank you so much.
Oh thank you so much for your kind words, Tony! I really appreciate your watching and commenting like this! Well done to you for getting onto the pump! It's not an easy decision nor is it a smooth ride (like some would have you believe!). All I can say is 1) it DOES get easier! and 2) I'm sure you can do it! I pretty much cover all of this in the video, but just so you know, it's all true and I am STILL on my pump after all this time and all these struggles, so I promise you, it is absolutely worth the struggle! I hope this helps and hope that you've already seen improvements and changes since writing this comment. Sending you strength and positivity and some much needed pump-patience! You can do it!!
I started the Medtronic pump two weeks ago and went back to multiple injections. After 1 week It was dejavu of my last experience with a pump. Immediate high blood sugars, and feeling less in control. 2 hours of training and off to work. I felt very alone and very anxious about what to do if this or that happens and the what ifs… I hated the thing hanging on me. Sleeping, dressing, going to the bathroom, working as an electrician, etc! I realized later that the Omni pod may be a better fit since the way it is put on your body without a line to the cannula. I’m hopeful to maybe get a chance with that type of pump soon.
I hope you are well since this video was 5 years ago! Subscribed! Thanks 🙏🏻
I can so relate to so much of what you've written here! I actually just started the Omnipod 5 and am on a new journey with that pump now. All these systems have their ups and downs to be honest, but I must say I am enjoying the tubeless aspect for sure. Thank you so much for subscribing and welcome to the family!!!
@@ShesDiabetic Thank you so much for your videos, I listen to them on my way home from work now everyday! It makes feel good to hear from someone else like me. I’ve went most of my life with very little support from friends an relatives since none of them really understand some of the things we deal with.
She’s diabetic, and now my friend! 👍
In india it is very difficult to afford it but hope coming days can light something
I'm so so sorry to hear this. I sincerely hope you get access to the system at an affordable rate soon 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Thanks Andrea. My question is would you still switch to a pump if you didn't really go low, never a severe low, had an A1C in the low 5s , and don't mind well over 10 injections a day at all? My diabetes consultant said i should consider it but I'm not sure if it offers me anything.
I would (personally) because of all the automation that is on offer these days, however, you clearly have EXCELLENT control so you should do whatever is best for you! If you wanted to go on a pump - go for it! if you'd rather not, don't let anyone pressure you into that decision or feel like you 'have' to! I'm so so so adamant that we need to do what's right for us in this disease, so truly it's up to you!!
@@ShesDiabetic thanks Andrea!
After 46 years as type 1 :::: I am thinking on the pump but it is not fun. I do great with shots but the lows are problem too.
Loved you honesty...
Thank you so much! Firstly, well done for being a T1D Warrior for 46 years!!! That’s AMAZING!!! Ok...so my Dad went on the pump at age 60 after approximately the same amount of time of being T1D...!!! I know it’s no fun but it can be done! And the fun part for me has been...WAY less lows!! I hope you find what works best for you and I wish you all the best in your quest to figure all this out! :)
I have been a type 1 diabetic since 1965. I received my first pump in 1982. It was a time when home blood glucose testing was relatively new. The pump was about three or four times the size of current pumps. I couldn't button my suit coats when I had it on my belt. I've lived through straight needle infusion sets (very painful), bent needle infusion sets (slightly less painful) and sofsets (not at all painful). The main reason I began pump therapy 37 years ago is that the pump could be programmed to give me a bolus in the middle of the night. That eliminated my high blood sugars on waking in the morning. I worked in TV news, and over the years my pumps have been to earthquakes, forest fires, floods, and war zones. They've traveled with me to -- among other places -- Bosnia, Cuba, Uganda, and Chile. I became legally blind about the time I received my first pump. I've had three mild heart attacks. But I am still around and still active. And I believe the primary reason is the way the pump helped me get control of my blood glucose nearly four decades ago.
Hi Craig!! Thank you so SO much for sharing your fascinating story and experience of being on the pump. Wow - those straight needle infusion sets must have been painful indeed, I can only imagine! I’m so glad to hear that your pump has given you such a quality of life and added years to your life and life to your years it sounds like. How amazing that your pump has travelled with you to so many destinations and been subject to such wild weather experiences! Incredible! It sounds like you’ve lived and continue to live a fascinating life - all whilst living with T1D too. This is inspiring to read. Thank you for sharing! I wish you a wonderful, happy, healthy, day and continued quality of life with the pump and in general!!! 🙌🏻☺️
lol there's a cut every 2 seconds its really choppy although good job
Thank you!
Thank you so much! I was only diagnosed with type 1 about 3 weeks ago and the insulin injections are interrupting my lessons in class (I’m only 13 so yes I go to school) and are making me feel a bit left out at sleepovers when everyone else is eating everything and I have to add everything, give myself insulin and just separate my food from the others. This is making me want to get a pump because it seems so much quicker and I heard all you need to do is put in your carbs but I don’t know anything about them so I’m not sure if it’s right for me. I was looking for some information on different types of pumps and which are best and this helped a lot!
Hi Wiktoria! Thank you so much for your comment and sharing your experience! Please know that everything you are describing is completely normal!! I promise you, it will get easier - so so much easier! You will learn to deal with this disease and count carbs and food tally’s very very quickly and effectively! I love the pump for this reason, because, yes, you’re right, you can totally just plug in the carbs and off you go. I think it’s a wonderful choice for anyone of any age, but particularly younger folks like you! Maybe ask your parents/doctor about the options and see if you can’t get some more info. Please just know, you are not alone, you are doing GREAT, and it will get easier!!!! Big love and strength to you!!! You’re amazing!!! :-)
Hows does it impact ur sleeping? Isnt it incomfortable sleeping with something attached to your body? Impact on confidence when someone is dating or in new relationship.....scary..:(
It does not impact my sleeping at all now. Of course, I must say it took me a week or two to get used to it, but really now, I don't eve think about it! And with regards to a new relationship...I HEAR YOU! This was a HUGE fear of mine. All I can say is that my partner (now my fiancee) was never ever bothered about the pump being attached to me at all. I think when you've got feelings and emotions going...that's not really where people's heads are at - especially if they have genuine love for you. But again, I totally and utterly hear you and understand your concerns! I have a few interviews with my fiancee discussing this topic, in case that would be of interest to you too!
@@ShesDiabetic Thanks for taking out time to reply 🙂🙏
I have recently been diagnosed with gestational diabetes. It has caused me lots of stress and I've been sobbing after each "bad" sugar level (for me usually the first measurement in the morning is the worst, rest of the day I can manage ok)... It's so difficult to go to the doctor and feel judged, although I can't figure out what I'm doing wrong. You T1D guys are such warriors, I admire you so much. I feel ridiculous being overwhelmed just with constant blood measurements and carb counting. Your youtube channel has opened my eyes to see how people can handle such more than this!
Hi Andrea. I know that video is a bit old but I really enjoyed it. I’ve actually listened to it a few times. I’ve been on the pump now for a couple of months. I’ve been getting something that I would describe as “pump bumps”. They seem to appear when I remove the canula and they last for several days. They are sort of tender a bit. I’m just curious if you get these and have you figured out a way to avoid them?
Thank you Denis! I'm sorry to report I've never experienced the 'pump bumps' - those sound annoying and painful! I'm so sorry you're experiencing this! I would say, if I were to experience this, I would check to see if another infusion set would be better for my needs, also you could try changing your infusion set more frequently (most people do every 3 days, but for some people 2 days is better) - just a few thoughts there! I hope this helps you and you're able to find a way to avoid these little guys!!
@@ShesDiabetic I wonder if there’s something I’m doing differently that’s causing these things. I’m going to try to be more strict about changing the infusion sets at 2-3 days and see what happens. Do you keep yours for exactly 3 days?
Your feelings and thoughts before getting a pump are pretty much the same as I experience. But since a few months I‘m thinking about getting a dexcom (a pump still isn’t really a thing for me) but I’m afraid to see my levels changing all the time and I think it’s somehow about getting help to deal with diabetes.
I‘m a person that finds it hard dealing with changes so I think I would get a major throwback to when I was diagnosed
I hear you on not liking change - totally and utterly hear you! I think we a diabetics have to deal with so much change and adjustment day to day that throwing anything else on top of that can just take it way over the top! :( I do have to say though, both the pump and the dexcom have been extremely helpful to me, to give me more of a sense of freedom and flexibility. So that way I'm changing my routine to make it fit me, rather than the other way around. But I hear you - everyone has to do things in their own time and when it's right for them - so you do you and do what makes the most sense! :) I hope regardless you have a most wonderful day and find what works best for you! XOX
She's Diabetic Thank you for your words☺️
I‘m wishing you a great week
was the lows because you were trying to keep the levels soo good?
In large part - yes!
I'm seriously thinking of going on the pump. I'm tired of injecting myself multiple times a day. I need to do some research of the types of pumps, etc. Btw, I didn't know you took off the pump at night! 😲
Hey Cat! I personally am a huge fan of the pump of course so I'd encourage you to do it - but you must look into it on your own because we're all unique of course! I'm not sure what you mean about taking the pump off at night, you have to keep it on 24/7 - apologies if I confused you in any way on this! Good luck in your search!!
@@ShesDiabetic Oh, sorry! I misunderstood when you said that you, "happily put this thing on everyday". For some reason, I thought you weren't wearing the pump at night and had to reattach it or "put it on" in the morning. I re-saw the video and now understand! 👍
Haaa......but the fear really prohibits me to go for pump
I hear you - it's a very personal decision!
I'm a diabetic patient too and my friend anvi ask me question so she can learn what I can eat and that I cannot cheat on my own sugars 🤣🤣🤣🤣 yeah she does care she knows I cannot eat sweets
She asks me "have u taken your dose" In lunch break I'm so luch to have someone like her my another friend navya she is so wonderful when anvi is not around we do pranks and talk about our enemies lol 😂😂😂😂 and we eat sweets when anvi is not around 😌😌😌😌😌😋😋😋🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 so my both best friends 👭 are the most precious thing I've ever archive they"re wonderful ✨😍 thx anvi and nav
Oh I'm so glad you have such a wonderful friend that can provide you support and laughter! This is what life is all about! I'm happy for you my friend!!!
@@ShesDiabetic you tue one who is the wonderful friend
@@Ariaverse31 ❤️❤️❤️💙💙💙
🥰🥰🥰
I wonder can u go swimming long with that thing on? Can u go swimming long hrs?
I believe it's water resistant, not waterproof. Whenever I go swimming I unclip my pump completely and then reconnect when I'm done! Maybe other people can chime in and say what they do! 💙🙏🏻
my son (10 years T1) has been on the closed loop (before being on the regular pump/sensor) by medtronic for about a month now, pump and sensor. it really is awesome. his is regularly within range over 90% a day!
There is so much health in you! Thank you for giving it to others!
Oh thank you! That means a huge amount to me!!
I’m glad you like the insulin pump. Many patients that I know will like it too, but their insurance don’t cover it. The frequent hypoglycemia you experienced on injection is most likely due to the factors that your subcutaneous absorption may vary, and, your insulin sensitivity varies as well secondary to your activity level. It’s less a problem for elderly because most of them live a sedentary life.
Great points all around - thank you for sharing! I never really considered the absorption piece so much - that's such an excellent point!
I've been on several pumps in my 24 years as a T1D, and until about 9 months ago I was last on a pump in 2014. Pretty much have had a Mini-Med pump solely, except for the Disetronic pump I had for a year before switching to a Mini-Med pump. I had a pump for almost 10 years, and due to pretty much the exact same issues you were having with putting the infusion sets on my stomach and they would almost always get kinked. I was, and still am, pretty skinny with not much body fat so I could really only put the infusion sets on the upper part of my butt a few inches below my waistline. But whether it be due to the infusion sets design, or just time itself, I started to get a buildup of scar tissue on the infusion sites. This caused me to start getting abscesses, which required me to go to a surgeon on multiple occasions, have it cut out, and then have to keep changing packing material in what was the 2nd hole in my ass!
After about the 5th abscess, I called it quits for the pump. The abscesses caused me to go into DKA several times, miss a lot of work which I couldn't afford to do, and end up with some pretty costly hospital bills. So for 8 years I went back to using Insulin pens. When the first Freestyle Libre sensor came out, I got it immediately and it was an absolute game changer. I was always pretty lax with checking my blood sugars because after a while, no matter what I did my blood sugars seemed to have a mind of their own and I just got fed-up with it all. But the CGM changed a lot of that as I could just scan it with my phone and have the last 8 hours of glucose levels and it also enabled me to see what my sugars were doing while sleeping for the first time.
I moved in fall of 2021 to a new state so I had to get established with all new doctors and at my first endo appt, they suggested I get on a pump. I told them all the reasons I went off of one in the first place and the only reason I bit the bullet and ended up with my 4th Mini-Med pump was because it finally had a closed loop system (Auto Mode) My A1C before the pump was an 8.2, which for me was awesome as I'd gotten to a point where if it was below a 10, I was happy. After 2 months on the 770g pump, my A1C dropped to a 7.0, and then 6.9 where it is still holding 6 months later as of today when I saw my endo again.
I'll be upgrading to the 780g hopefully in the next week or so and also getting the new Guardian 4 CGM's (I'm just excited to not have to CONSTANTLY enter my blood sugar!) and I hope that it can lower my A1C even more as it will now allow the pump to take even more control and even correct automatically for high blood sugars and even missed bolus's for meals and such (which is awesome because I forget literally at least once every other day) I'm also hoping that since I switched this time around to the Mio infusion sets instead of the Quick Set that I used exclusively on previous pumps, that I will not end up with as much scar tissue as before since I'm still limited on where I can put my sites (I also just got a Pain pump surgically implanted 2 months ago and it sits right under the skin on my right side between my bottom rib and waistline and surprisingly large so no infusion sets there ever again)