I Demonstrate How I Attach My Insulin Pump to Me

I was diagnosed as a Type 1 diabetic when I was 14 years old. What does being a Type 1 diabetic mean? It means that my body no longer produces insulin naturally to break sugar in my blood stream. That's the easiest explanation.

For the most part, I have controlled it pretty well using the needle and vial method. About 4 months ago, I got an insulin pump. Let me tell you, it has changed the control of my Type 1 diabetes for the better.

In the video above, I demonstrate how I attach the insulin pump and blood glucose sensor to my body.

If you are a Type 1 diabetic, talk to your doctor about getting on the pump. I will say that even with insurance, there is a cost to you. But you can discuss all of that with your physician and diabetes counselor.

So what all comes with the insulin pump?

First, the pump itself. The basic concept is an insulin reservoir is inserted in the top of the pump and insulin is pushed in 24 hours a day with adjustments made for meals and snacks based on carbs and blood sugar readings. This is way over simplified but you get the idea.

I still have to check my blood sugar using a glucose meter. The meter will automatically send the blood sugar reading to the pump, I add up the carbs I'm eating and it calculates how much insulin I need for that meal.

I will also be able to wear a sensor that constantly monitors my blood sugar and will make small adjustments on it's own with the base insulin I'm given between meals.

Again, everything I explained is way over simplified but it all works together to give me better control of the disease and an overall better life. If an insulin pump is something you're considering, I hope this helps.