| PUMP USER STORY By: Dorelle Lo Grande I have always been very interested in most new devices that would lead to a better management of my tired Pancreas (Diabetes). So, my 'Pump Day' was Tuesday 6 February 2001 - which I met with great excitement and heaps of nerves! Vicki Trench, from MiniMed, is a wonderful teacher and made my nerves disappear and my excitement grow. However, after one and a half weeks I was in tears because I was not under perfect control - which I thought after controlling my diabetes for over 15 years I should have been a whiz at this pump thingo. I didn't realise my monthly cycle alias PMS could affect my sugar levels and my eating to the extent it does! But I persevered and I can honestly say that it was not until my fifth week of pumping that I thought - I can do it! I began not to notice my pump (now I even forget totally and bump 'something' and think "What's that?) and I have re-learnt what insulin amounts I need for what portions of food I consume - well most of the time. Night time Hypo's are now a thing of the past - and I must admit that I don't really miss the experiences Cate (in her May 2001 Yada Yada article) talks about - not being able to get the lid off the honey jar - plastic squeeze bottles are definitely much better for hypo sufferers. Gone also are the elevated morning sugar levels - I didn't realise that I do have the so called "Dawn Phenomenon". My first Hba1c was taken 2 months after pump day and read, get this - 5.9 "Normal" range - there's that 'Normal' word. My results are still pinned on the fridge for all to see! My previous averages ranged from 10 (holiday mode) to 7.9 (trying hard) so you can see I'm really thrilled with my pump results so far. The down side - yes I have experienced one or two: 1. I have gained 2 kilos - my doc & I have decided that's because of the "Have Insulin can pump and eat everything" approach instead of the "Can't eat that - I'll >have to inject again" approach. I have also injured my foot and have been unable to exercise for 4 weeks now - yes, I know, I'm trying to justify the weight gain. 2. There are still moments when you would like to be totally naked and hands free - so I have decided its OK to be disconnected for a short time and if it turns out to be longer, then I'll have a little insulin on re-connection! (You can't forget about It - It beeps to remind you) 3. I haven't worn that slinky black number yet -but I plan to wear a garter just above my calf - shall let you know how that works. 4. I hope I can still afford the much needed monthly supplies - until they go on the NDSS - because I don't want to think about going back to injections! Not an option in my life now! I have a friend thru the sport I'm involved in who has been on Insulin for 8 more years than myself and is 6 years older than myself. He began Kidney dialysis in February this year. He visits the Hospital every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, for a 4 hour morning session hooked up to the life restoring machine. He is now on the transplant waiting list and I keep Bring on the Pump!! Every Diabetic should have one! If I can do it, anybody can do it! Yes you really can forget that you're wearing a pump! Once you've mastered it - you won't go back! Yes the Pump comes in a pretty blue colour - matches nicely with my uniforms! Yes I am the Six Thousand Dollar Woman! (Well $6250+++ maintenance!). Anything you can do, I can Pump better! Keep on Pumping Warm Regards from Dorelle Lo Grande |