Georgi's Wisdom

Why did you choose a smart system? 

I get more information about what my blood sugar is doing during the times that I can't check via meter: e.g., exercise, sleep, etc.

What are the trade-offs of using a smart system? 

There is more to manage. Technology doesn't make diabetes care easier, it just gives you more information to work with to make better decisions about how to treat diabetes. I don't love having an additional item attached to my body.

Diabetes devices can produce a lot of information and numbers. How do you feel about this? What do you do with all the data?

I don't feel like I fully utilize all of the data available to me. No one has ever really gone over with me all of the information that exists. I think a lot of that stuff you have to do on your own and be self-motivated - like the people who create their own closed loop systems.

This is my pump.
How do you respond to people when they notice or comment on your devices?

I try to at least initially make it brief and educational. I definitely right-off-the-bat explain the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, since so few people know the difference and very few people understand what Type 1 diabetes is and how it is treated. It is an invisible disease. I try not to make it sound too tough (because I don't want to be judged as sickly) but also convey that it is a struggle and does involve a lot of work and effort, and that it is not due to lifestyle choices.

How do you make the devices comfortable on your body? 

The more you wear them, the more integrated they become in your life.

What helps you trust your devices?

Experience with them.

What would you tell someone considering this same combo? 

Your health and well being and quality of life is priceless, so if you can afford it, it is worth it.

What challenges do you have and how have you overcome them? 

I always carry an extra infusion set and inserter (for the Medtronic) with me wherever I go. When I travel, I take double the amount of supplies I would normally use. I also take an old pump as back-up, along with syringes and both long and short-acting insulin. Because I lived for a very long with Type 1 without using a CGM, I am not as concerned about when/if the CGM doesn't work.