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Permalink Reply by Benjamin McLaughlin on May 3, 2012 at 9:00am

Honestly, as crazy as it sounds, this was one of the major factors in my decision (obviously with all things being equal.) You will read all kinds of opinions about all pumps. For me and my wife, sleeping with a tubed pump just would have changed the way I live my life too dramatically. D changes so many things in your life, I decided if I can avoid a change I will. So far I haven't had any problems when wearing the omnipod. Even if I have a few problems, if it doesn't mess up my control, I'm sticking with it. Dealing with a few failed pods is worth it to me to be able to go to sleep with my wife like we did before D.

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Permalink Reply by smileandnod on May 3, 2012 at 7:17am

Another OmniPod user here and loving it! I have not had any reliability issues with the pods that some speak of here. I just couldn't bear the thought of the tubing, mentally it would be a constant reminder of my D. Plus the insertion sets scared me.

I chose OmniPod after wearing a demo. I don't find the size of the pod a problem. I also wear a Dexcom cgm and the two in tandem work for me. I started first with the Dexcom and once I was comfortable with that, I went with the OmniPod. The OmniPod feels just like the Dexcom but slightly larger.

The things I like the most about the OmniPod:
Not having to clip anything to my belt or hide tubing. I slip the PDM in my purse and go. When I'm at work, I set the PDM on my desk because it also serves as my meter. This is another added plus because I don't have to carry a separate meter. I also like that the OmniPod has an automatic insertion process - you just push a button on the PDM and it inserts...feels like a little rubber band snap and you're done and good to go. Super easy.

I also like being able to wear the pod under my clothing on my stomach and my upper arms. I forget where I've put it and have to pat myself down to remember. I like the fact that a stranger looking at me would never know that I have D because there's nothing visible attached to me.

Good luck with your demos. Either way, I hope you find the pump that best suits you and helps you with your control. :)

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Permalink Reply by Kate on May 3, 2012 at 10:01am

My experience is similar. I chose the pod for the auto-insertion and could not go without it! I love the pod. It is not a pancreas, so therefore it is not perfect and sometimes it needs attention at inopportune times. But that's life with D.

I don't find the size to be an issue (I'm 5'10" and 160 lbs). I often don't remember where it is on my body. I try not to sleep on it, but often wake up having rolled onto it and have had no issues.

I am pretty good at remembering my meter, cell phone, etc. Therefore, I don't find the PDM to be an issues. However, if someone is constantly losing their phone, this may not be the best option :)

In the end, it's your decision. Both pumps have great technology and lots of loyal users. Go with your gut, it wont steer you wrong!

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Permalink Reply by Kate on May 3, 2012 at 10:02am

oh and I want to add that I don't really care if people see it an ask what it is. Therefore the "hiding it" factor didn't really apply to me. :)

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Permalink Reply by smileandnod on May 3, 2012 at 9:10am

One other thought on going to a pump in general and the comments your friend made (people say stupid things don't they?). I fought going to a pump for 25 years and finally gave in because I needed the ability to vary my basal rates due to aging female hormones. It's the best thing I've ever done for myself and I wish I'd done it along time ago.

I think too as I age it's easier to keep a sense of humor about my D regimen and the things I have to do to take care of myself. When I was young, I worried about the tubing and what my husband and friends would think of me being attached to all that. Now, after almost 28 years of marriage, and wearing a Dexcom and pump, he calls me the bionic woman and his bff (we make fun of todays lingo). If your hubby understands that this will help you in your diabetes care, he'll adjust to it just fine just like you will.

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Permalink Reply by KCCO on May 3, 2012 at 10:00am

I gotta agree with this. My hubby is committed to helping me with my health. If only he would take his own advice sometimes!

I have just switched to the Omnipod as well and don't find it bulky or heavy at all--but I have not used a regular tubed pump. There's no way I would want to now. Yes, the pdm is something else to keep up with, but I keep it with my cell phone at all times and haven't forgotten it yet.
I think it will depend on your body type whether you like the pod or not. I don't wear tight clothes, so when I wear the pod on my stomach, it's really hidden. I love wearing it on my arms too. Even thought I sleep on my side a lot, I've gotten used to it and am subconsciously careful in my sleep.

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Permalink Reply by Tracy on May 3, 2012 at 12:31pm

Have had a medtronic for a long time. The pump malfunctioned once a couple of years ago so I called the toll free number and had a new one the next day.
It takes some getting used to but I can't imagine going back to injections. I tried the CGM they offer but I think that technology needs to develop a bit more.

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