By Matt Dame bdame@absolutecomm.com
Lawren's first endo said "she would not consider the insulin pump for young children because then the parents would be tethered to their child." .... The new endocrinologist felt she was a perfect candidate for the pump.
Our daughter, Lawren, age 6, began using an Animas Pump on January 8, 2001. Her original endocrinologist told us she would not consider the insulin pump for young children because then the parents would be "tethered to their child." HA - like we were not tethered to her on her MDI (4 shots a day) and structured meal schedules! The new endocrinologist felt she was a "perfect candidate" for the pump. We are enjoying the freedom and flexibility this pump has given back to our lives!
The Animas pump is waterproof so Lawren can even continue wearing it during swimming. It has different colored plate covers so that she can change the pump to coordinate with her outfits. (She loves the hot pink one!) She's proud to show it off to her classmates and friends. Her teacher has mentioned how she is always smiling now. When I asked Lawren how she feels about the whole pump experience she answers, "It's lovely."
We live in Canton, Michigan. Lawren attends a public school where the staff is very cooperative in learning all they can about the pump. An Animas Rep came out to the school and trained several staff members (including the principal) the basics of the insulin pump. We were impressed.
The pump has been a very positive factor in our lives. We are definitely NOT "tethered" to our daughter. In fact, it has given Lawren a sense of control and independence when she does her own bolusing and deciding when and how much to eat. We love pumping!
The Dame Family bdame@absolutecomm.com