100 days

Well, I made it! The first 100 days! It sounds somewhat presidential to do a 100-day review, but I'd like to recap what it's been like:

-I made the switch from insulin injection 'therapy' (taking 4-7 shots per day) to using the Medtronic 522 insulin pump. I was scared and skeptical, but within 24 hours I knew it was the right decision!

-I had many appointments with my C.D.E. (Certified Diabetes Educator / R.N.). I was in constant contact with her, reporting on progress and making slight changes to the new routine. This is an important step, because just like computers have the POTENTIAL to assist us greatly in daily life, the pump will only be as effective as your education and commitment level.

-I endured Prednisone and its negative effects on blood sugars! (see an earlier post)

-I switched from the 522 to the 722 (different model, virtually same pump sans the fact the 722 holds 300 units of insulin vs the 180 of the 522). My 522 was glitchy, so I wanted the larger insulin capacity and made the switch. Again, definitely the right move!

-I got the flu. 

I was wondering how it would all work with the pump, but for me, I ended up just not eating anything, thereby not taking any 'bolus' (short  term) insulin. I let the basal (long term) continue, and it worked like a charm.

-Tried the CGM, and it may not be for me. More about this at a later time. 

-Went to the eye Dr. and got a clean bill of health. This was particularly nerve racking, as last time (2 years ago - tsk tsk) I was told they 'saw something' - a hairline something or other related to Diabetes. 

When I finally (begrudgingly) returned (die to an expired contact lens rx, I got the full works. So when the Doc said 'perfect' I about fell out of the chair! I reminded her about my last appointment, and she checked the chart. "Sure enough," she said, "How are your sugars now?" "Perfect" I responded, and she said, "The spots on the eyes are related to blood sugars. They can GO AWAY if your levels are normal." I told her she just made my month, as I didn't know that, and left a happy camper!

-I no longer dread the doctor. This is big for me.

-I FEEL healthier, have more focus, drive, determination, patience, and energy!

So in review, there have been no negatives and an abundance of positives. Sure, it's been an adjustment, but considering what is at stake, it is incomparable to the benefits!!!

I'd love to hear from you, so please drop me a line.

Stay encouraged, and until next time, I will undoubtedly be pumpin....