After the NYC Marathon in November, I decided I really needed a CGM. But, as is often the case with resolutions, I didn’t do anything about it until last week when I decided I was going for it.
Maybe the trigger was a bunch of symptomless lows, including some during my runs, or maybe it’s the fact that I am four weeks away from my next marathon. Whatever the reason, I made the decision – for real – last week, and I knew exactly which CGM I was going to get. Or so I thought.
I had my heart set on a Dexcom, and I called the distributor to make the purchase. I was excited. I hadn’t felt this excited about a piece of technology since I got my iPhone 1. I felt a bit like a kid waiting for his best birthday present ever.
But then I got an unexpected call from my insurance to let me know I’m due for a pump upgrade. (OMG it’s been five years since I started pumping!) I say upgrade because my new pump is going to be Medtronic’s MiniMed 640G.
At my diabetes clinic they suggested I buy the Medtronic CGM. “It works well with the new pump. And you will be able to use the improved low glucose suspend” the nurse said.
“I’m getting the Dexcom.” I said with the confidence of a person who’s made up his mind 100%.
A few days went by and the excitement kept building.
Then I got a call from Dr. Mariela Glandt, Jessica’s best friend and ASL’s medical advisor.
She was excited about my decision to get a Dexcom.
Then I told her I was also getting a new pump. The Medtronic MiniMed 640G.
“Then why are you getting the Dexcom?” she asked. “I have two patients on the new Medtronic pump with the CGM and they love it.”
“It’s true that Dexcom is a little more accurate, but the new and improved low glucose suspend (officially known as SmartGuard) makes it worth it,” she continued.
“Oh,” I said a little disappointed, “So I guess I should get the Medtronic CGM.”
My next call was to my Medtronic rep., Karen. I’ve got an appointment on Tuesday to get the goods.
