It’s hard to believe we are a mere two weeks out from Christmas! Where on Earth has this year gone? While I have absolutely no idea what I would like to request for Christmas in my typical indecisive fashion, here are a few of the things that have crossed my radar this year.
Think Like a Pancreas
Think Like a Pancreas is by far the best diabetes book that I’ve ever read. Written by Certified Diabetes Educator and longtime type 1 Gary Scheiner, the book is for anyone with diabetes who uses insulin. Starting with the very basics of what insulin does, the book goes on to provide the reader with a practical approach to getting the most out of insulin therapy. Great for both the person with diabetes and their loved one. Full review here!
It might sound shallow, but boredom of looking at the same device over and over each day is real. More so in the case of a device that’s attached to you 24/7. Pump Peelz are custom stickers designed to brighten your insulin pump, CGM receiver and selected blood glucose meters. I must admit to having never personally used these, but I sure do appreciate the value of a good sticker!
AccuChek Guide Blood Glucose Meter
The AccuChek Guide is hands down the best blood glucose meter I’ve ever used. It’s a bluetooth enabled meter, meaning that blood glucose readings are instantly transferred to the Connect app on your smartphone for instant review. Strips come in spill-proof containers, you have a backlight for testing in the dark, and there’s an eject button to send your used test strip in the direction of the bin. While the accompanying FastClix lancing device isn’t exactly ‘painless,’ it’s far superior to any others. Definitely worth asking your diabetes educator for one next time you’re in clinic. Blog to come in the New Year…
Looking for some sticky stuff to keep your diabetes devices stuck? I can’t speak highly enough of Rockadex adhesive patches, which are designed to keep Dexcom, Medtronic and FreeStyle Libre sensors stuck. Rockadex was started by the mother of a type 1 child here in Perth, with the primary goal of funding her daughter’s CGM costs. Today, her business has distributors all over the world!
Ever get sick of having to overfill your pockets and deliberate over what you need to bring with you every time you leave the house? Having a travel case handy with all of your essentials ready to go makes life so much easier each time I leave the house. These bags by Shop Casualty Girl are proving to be quite a hit among many of my diabetes friends.
Finally, my Nike Air Max Shoes are extremely comfy and look good with just about anything. Well worth the investment if you find yourself trekking around this Festive Season.
Merry Christmas, ya filthy animals. And a Happy New Year.
Rick Phillips
Think like a pancreas is the best.
Ivan
Getting any free gift from someone else is always nice.