Sorry if you covered this above but as far as sensors not lasting their entire lifespan - was that a problem with the adhesive or did they just stop working? If it’s the adhesive I’ve found Simpatches are very helpful - I get them off Amazon and they make them for various devices. If they just stopped - older versions of Dexcom said to avoid certain medications because they could affect the sensor - I wonder if that may be the case with your Medtronics?
Having said that - please forgive but the sensor insertion problems you describe sound like issues with training, and if you’re going to use that as one reason to justify returning the pump they will want to eliminate “user error.” When I’ve had insertion issues I’ve contacted my trainer or watched YouTube videos - they were very helpful.
Of course it may be that pump and CGM simply don’t work for you. If you have trouble returning the devices on your own I wonder if your insurance’s Member Services might be able to help you: replacements are provided under warranty by the manufacturer (Medtronic) and I don’t think insurance knows how many defective or incompatible devices they have been paying for. They are paying a certain amount of money to supply you with a device that is not working as it should, and sometimes the power of a big company like an insurer goes further than that of us individuals.
No, adhesive sticks really well - I use an “over patch” actually recommended by the Medtronic trainer.
I have watched the Medtronic training videos, I have watched a gazillion YouTube videos - I honestly don’t think it’s me. I had an entire box of sensors that had to be replaced. All 5 of them had the tiny adhesive patch that holds the 1st part on stuck inside the inserter!! I’ve had at least 10 that the plastic stayed on the bigger adhesive patch - inside the inserter - no way to get it off. I have saved every one of them!
The other failures were the sensor not lasting like it should. The only medication I take is for my thyroid. I do get Keytruda every 3 weeks but you’d think if either of those were the problem it would happen every time.
I have spoken with my insurance- they are dumbfounded about the number of failures I’ve had. If I can get Medtronic to take this pump back (and not continue to charge the monthly “rental”) they will pay for the Libre 3 and it’s reader, plus needed supplies.
My oncologist is still trying to get me in to an endocrinologist- because of my immunotherapy causing the diabetes he feels it’s important. I see my primary next month - I’m going to beg her (again) to get me in to an endo.
Not all is “doom and gloom”-my cancer treatment is working and for that I am so very grateful! Life is good!!
I’ve tried the overpatches you can get with the device - the ones I’ve used we clear(ish) plastic and flimsy. The darned things peeled easily and picked up dirty around the edges - they looked nasty after a few days. Simpatches are much more durable, and I put the patch on over a shield (sold separately) so the patch doesn’t touch the device tape but sticks to my skin - so if the patch does start to peel it won’t pull the device off. Here are pics of the patch and shield for my Dexcom - they make them for other devices including the Libres if you need then.
I can send you one if you like to try one out - mine is designed for Omnipod but you’ll get an idea how durable it is.
Are you going to switch to the Libre and “go manual” on your pump until you return it?. You would adjust on your own for highs and lows. I hope hope hope your primary can get you an appointment with someone, and I also wish Joslin was an option for you. I wonder if they might do a telehealth visit given the circumstances. When I think of people who live in very remote locations I imagine there is a way even though in person would be ideal. You’re not in Siberia but again I wonder if under the circumstances they might be willing to do something remotely.
I love your positive attitude and spirit - it’s inspiring. Keep on keeping on, as they used to say!
I don’t use the adhesive patches that come with the sensors - well, I have to use the ones attached to it!! LOL. I use GrifGrips for over patches. They stick REALLY well!
I’ve never had a sensor loosen or begin to come off. My issue is them not lasting “up to seven days” or getting ripped and/or stuck in the inserter.
Thank you for your kind words - I really believe a positive attitude is the best!(
Happy, happy, happy!! Going back to Libre 3!
Pump isn’t returnable after 30 days but if I return my supplies my insurance will not be charged for it.
I feel like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders!
Thank you so much for your support!!(
Great news! I’m so happy for you. Are returning to shots? If so, don’t forget to get a scrip for basal insulin - your doctor will specify how much to take - as well as insulin for boluses. So happy for you!
Today will be day four off the pump and now using Libre 3 cgm and reader.
Happy, happy, happy!! Able to control my glucose levels so much better!
Went “out and about” yesterday and it was so great to only take a tiny bag with diabetic supplies. I donated sensors, reservoirs and infusion sets to my diabetes person- sadly they have patients without insurance who can’t afford them. I filled a 33 gallon trash bag!!
Thank you all for the support throughout this journey!!
Hi @boothompson . You popped into my thoughts today. We haven’t seen you in a while so I wanted to check in and see how things are going. Don’t you have an appointment coming up soon (I hope)?
Hi!
I’ve been trying to relax and not think about my diabetes! Actually, I’m so happy without the pump!! Wearing the Freestyle Libre 3 and self injecting. My numbers are so much better!!
My appointment with the endo was canceled because she left the practice! They are now down to one docor - from six!! And the person I’ve been seeing is leaving her hospital. So…guess I’m on my own! Will still see my primary for required refills.
On another note - I had a PET scan yesterday and saw my oncologist. My Stage 4 metastic lung cancer was in my brain, shoulder, neck and chest 17 months ago. Yesterday? GONE! My oncologist says it’s amazing- I say Praise God!
All in all things are going well for me. Thank you so much for your concern! I hope all 8s well with you!!
Praise God for miracles - thank you for sharing your healing! Yes, some people do just fine or even better on injections and I’m glad you found the protocol that works for you. Wow - down to one doctor from 6 - that’s amazing. Keep us posted.
Sorry I haven’t been around. Been busy prepping for winter, canning stuff like crazy and many doctors appointments for me and my husband!
I just can’t express enough how grateful I am for the info about Blue Circle Health!! I’ve met with the endo twice - she actually listens to me!! Trying different “tweaks” to get my numbers a little more stable. I’m really pleased that my highs are few and far between- working on the overnight lows. I went down to 43 a few nights ago. Endo has adjusted my carbo to insulin ratio to vary for mealtimes and evening snack. So far so good!!
The diabetes educator is great too !!
So again, thank you!!!
So glad you’re happier with MDI, but I was just curious about your June 5th post, You said when you were at the endo office that your A1c was 6.3. This was with the 780. I would be glad to have that number.
Have you seen a difference in A1C since returning to MDI?
Actually, I’m so happy without the pump!! Wearing the Freestyle Libre 3 and self injecting. My numbers are so much better!!