I'm addicted to insulin since I was 13. Being 27 now, I have never (knock on wood) had any major or even noticable complications. I realise now, it's been more than half my life by now.
I do not use a pump since using injections 4/day does not come as an obstacle for me and I have a feeling a pump would limit my freedom. I don't know exactly though, since blood values (knock on wood again) remain good, I'm not making it into my everyday worry. Furthermore I hate to bother others with it. Many people in my direct work/leisure environment are not aware of my diabetes and it helps them from being preoccupied.
I hate it when things become problematic in everyday life, because it will be because of things that to everyone (myself included really) seem peanuts, like planning your food, drink and energy patterns during 5 hour rock events on the field!
Will they allow me to bring food/drink in? And if they don't, will I be able to reach food in time, and find my spot back without missing too much of the show? I hate leaving my spot, so it's careful planning indeed.
Edit: This does not mean I've never had any lows, on the contrary, although never too dramatic (i.e. never needed any help with them). These days I live on the edge of the low on purpose, which means I'm nibbling Dextro all the time. (I make adjustments with food rather than insulin). This keeps me safe from an abundance of highs which are far more risky on the long term. My doctor and I treat this self invented approach as a treatment. I realise though I'm a smart guy (sorry) and this is not an approach advisable to people who do not instinctively understand the mechanics of the disease and the interrelations with food, energy and medicine in all situations, or to those who do not completely feel and understand the signals of their bodies. Luckily (knock on wood nr. 3) I still do. (The medical world would bash me for even suggesting this approach, since actually it is far too risky
).
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2006-04-27 13:07 by Limbostone.