Type 1 in UK trying to get pump

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Permalink Reply by Charlie Anne Rust on July 22, 2009 at 2:26pm

Hi all

I've been a pumper since June last year and agree that it improves your quality of life. I had tried to get one for years but as my HBa1c was always less than 7.4 I was told that my control was effective enough. After 23 years of type 1 though I completely lost my hypo awareness at the same time as trying to get pregnant so hit two of the criteria on the NICE list. I had to prove that I could self manage, blood test, carb count etc, went through the funding process with the PCT and was approved! I would recommend that all read John Walsh's "Pumping Insulin" before going on a pump. It is the pump bible and also shows that it requires commitment and hard work to get it right.

I would thoroughly recommend pumplife to anyone but also feel that the knowledge that I have gained from pumping could have been applied to achieve a better life with MDI's as well. If anyone has any questions about pumps, please give me a shout. I will happily respond.

Vonda - have you asked your doctor to articulate exactly why he does not feel that the pump is an option for your son? What steps does he expect your or your son to take to be considered for a pump? It sounds as if your doctor needs to help you formulate a plan rather than just tell you no. Is he a GP or diabetes specialist? Is he generally this negative?

I'm in Leeds by the way and it took about 3 months for me to get my pump. If you have the opportunity, attempt to get a smart pump like the new accuchek spirit. It will do a lot of the maths for you!! I am very jealous of all smart pump users :).

Good luck and if I can help in any way - give me a shout.

Charlie

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Permalink Reply by Alison Finney on July 27, 2009 at 2:48am

Charlie, I couldn't agree with you more on pretty much all you said, especially the John Walsh book, I'd have struggled without it.

In case its of use, I've just blogged about my experience of getting pump/CGMS funding at http://www.shootuporputup.co.uk/2009/07/27/show-me-the-money/

Alison

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