Living with T1D: How CGM technology benefits Marianne Dempster

When I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (t1d) in my twenties, I had no idea what life would be like with the condition. Over the years, my t1d journey has included daily finger sticks, multiple daily insulin injections, and wearing a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), which offers a lot more freedom. Like me, Edgepark patient Marianne Dempster has found that wearing a CGM has made a positive impact on her ability to enjoy the things she loves while living with diabetes.

In this video, Marianne shares her own experience of living with t1d and the convenience and benefits of ordering her diabetes supplies through Edgepark.

A T1D diagnosis can be confusing for young children

Marianne was diagnosed with t1d at the age of six. "I remember coming home from the hospital and being afraid the first time my father went to give me an injection. I didn't understand why," recalls Marianne. For children, a diabetes diagnosis can feel disruptive and confusing, especially when they don't understand why they now need insulin injections or other medications.

Marianne recalls what it was like as she got older: "I was a teenager by the time blood glucose meters came around and I started having to prick my finger. It was a little disheartening at first, pricking my finger four to five times a day. I had to make sure I always brought my glucometer and my strips with me. It did disrupt my life 'cause you were always different." As a teen, having to constantly monitor her blood sugar wasn't easy, especially since Marianne felt it made her different from her peers.

CGM technology and monitoring is a game-changer

Marianne learned about continuous glucose monitoring after the birth of her daughter, Allison. She's grateful for her CGM because it allows her to always know what her blood sugar levels are just by looking at the readings on her cellphone or on a dedicated monitor that comes with the CGM. This is especially helpful for Marianne and others like her who can track their blood sugar readings throughout the day and know if they're going high, trending low, or remaining steady. This knowledge goes a long way for those living with t1d because it allows them to treat the condition before there is a problem. Marianne believes the technology has helped her keep her numbers in check, avoid extreme highs and lows, and ultimately improve her condition. Allison says, "It's a relief to know that she has something to help back her up to check her blood sugars for her."

Ordering diabetes supplies is easy with Edgepark

With the constant care t1d requires, Marianne is grateful she's found a company that makes her life with diabetes easier. "Edgepark has been a great partner and resource to re-order all my diabetic supplies. I normally just go online, review what they are going to send me, and push the reorder through. They already have my payment."

Edgepark has been a supportive resource for Marianne. Allison recalls a time when something wasn't working properly. Her mom called Edgepark right away, and they resolved the issue and shipped her supplies overnight. She received them the next day.

Marianne says, "I would highly recommend anybody with diabetes, t1d or t2d, that needs diabetic supplies use Edgepark as their resource. If I have any questions or I need anything else, I can call them. I enjoy working with [Edgepark]."

If you're considering CGM monitoring or are interested in ordering t1d supplies through Edgepark, check out this article.