*Originally posted on 3/1/09*
One year ago, after an A1c of 8.2% and a strong desire to start a family, I decided to take my doctor's advice and purchase a CGMS. Having already been a user of the Minimed Paradigm 722 insulin pump, I figured the best CGMS for me would be the Minimed Real Time system. Since insurance wouldn't cover the CGMS or any sensors, I paid the $1000 or so to get started and the $35 per sensor thereafter.
It took me almost two hours to work up the nerve to insert that first sensor. The needle was HUGE - way bigger than the infusion set needles I was used to. Surprisingly, that first sensor insertion didn't hurt at all.
Since that first sensor, I have been monitoring my BG 24x7. I haven't gone a single day without a sensor. I have had sensors on my abdomen, my arms, and my legs. I've had at least two sensors last over 21 days. The average time I get from one sensor is about 10 days. I have seen my A1c drop down to an amazing 6.0%. I have had many sleepless nights with low and high alarms. I have been saved from hypo unawareness more times than I can count. The lowest number I have seen in the past year is 41 mg/dl; the highest was 310 mg/dl. I've worked long and hard to maintain good control, but the CGMS, in conjunction with my pump, has been the greatest tool I could have asked for (other than a working pancreas).
Finally, I was notified last month that my sensors are now covered by insurance (Aetna). I think it will be a long and healthy relationship for years to come.
It took me almost two hours to work up the nerve to insert that first sensor. The needle was HUGE - way bigger than the infusion set needles I was used to. Surprisingly, that first sensor insertion didn't hurt at all.
Since that first sensor, I have been monitoring my BG 24x7. I haven't gone a single day without a sensor. I have had sensors on my abdomen, my arms, and my legs. I've had at least two sensors last over 21 days. The average time I get from one sensor is about 10 days. I have seen my A1c drop down to an amazing 6.0%. I have had many sleepless nights with low and high alarms. I have been saved from hypo unawareness more times than I can count. The lowest number I have seen in the past year is 41 mg/dl; the highest was 310 mg/dl. I've worked long and hard to maintain good control, but the CGMS, in conjunction with my pump, has been the greatest tool I could have asked for (other than a working pancreas).
Finally, I was notified last month that my sensors are now covered by insurance (Aetna). I think it will be a long and healthy relationship for years to come.
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