Diabetes is hard to understand, especially if you don't suffer from the disease personally. Here are some FAQ's, to make life a little bit easier. Bear in mind this is a simple explanation in plain English, but I will provide more technical links at the bottom of the page for those interested.
Q.WHAT IS A PUMP?
An insulin pump is a tiny machine, about the size of a small pager, which delivers insulin into my body throughout the day.
Q.WHY DO YOU HAVE ONE?
My pancreas does not produce insulin, therefore I am a Type 1 diabetic.
Q.WHERE DID YOU GET ONE?
The hospital provided me with the insulin pump and my supplies get delivered to my address when I need them.
Q.WHEN DID YOU GET ONE?
March 3rd 2011.
Q.WHY DID YOU GET ONE?
I struggled controlling my diabetes with insulin injections, so thought I would give this a try. So far, so good.
Q.HOW MUCH MONEY DID IT COST?
It didn't cost me anything, but it costs the government £3,000 a year to supply me with a pump.
Q.DOES IT HURT?
Nope. I can't feel a thing.
Q.HOW LONG WILL YOU HAVE IT FOR?
Four years, and then my local health services will have to re-apply for government funding.
Q.DO YOU WEAR IT ALL THE TIME?
Yes, 24 hours a day. I take it off for showers.
Q.IS IT WEIRD?
It was at first. Now it is just another lump and bump on my body that I carry around.
Q.HOW DO YOU HIDE IT?
In my bra, tucked in my trousers, loads of places.
