by Kathy Pierce piercechip@hotmail.com
With the exception of these comments and a short story on
Visit Amber's web site, it is well worthwhile --ed...The impact of the pump has been tremendous for all of us. The one word that sums up the impact on Amber's life (thus affecting our whole family lifestyle) is FREEDOM. Amber is now not tied to the rigid shot and diet schedule that she was on prior to the pump (3 shots a day prior). Since starting on the pump in Dec 98, Amber has grown 5 inches and gained approximately 20 pounds. She is not fat by any means (5'2", 96 lbs), but is now close to the normal range for height and weight. The pump lets Amber live a relatively normal lifestyle. She can sleep in when she wants, eat when she wants and what she wants (as long as she carb counts and boluses). It is much easier to adjust for highs/ lows. Although she now tests 6-10 times a day, it is a trade off she is willing to make for the freedom she has gained. The pump also makes traveling much easier, especially when crossing time zones. What I can't understand is why it took me 2 years and 3 different doctors to finally get her on the pump. Why aren't endo's more open-minded about putting kids on the pump? It still baffles me. Anyway, maybe if more people visit web sites like Insulin Pumpers, the whole world would see the tremendous benefits the pump offers to diabetics in controlling their diabetes.