Healthline RSS Feed

On Amazon Echo and Talking Diabetes Tech

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 14 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT

The Internet seemed to be blowing up earlier this week on Amazon Prime Day, when big deals (and some not-so-huge) were offered at the online shopping hub. One of the biggest deals was the tabletop gadget known as Amazon Echo, which has voice-recog...

Flashes of Diabetes Inspiration from Friends For Life 2017

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 13 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT

One of the most magical times in diabetes happens every year in July, with the annual Friends For Life conference put on by the non-profit Children With Diabetes organization.Don't let the name fool you -- it's not just for kids. Adults with diabe...

Catching Diabetes Early, Down Under

DiabetesMine Team — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT

One of our diabetes friends from Melbourne, Australia, is Renza Scibilia, a type 1 since 1998 whom we've had the honor of knowing in the Diabetes Online Community for years now. You may recognize Renza as the prolific writer of the blog Diabetog...

Could Gene Editing Be Used to Cure Diabetes?

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 11 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT

On a recent flight, I came across a Time magazine story about gene editing and a potential future in which humans could cut out the bad parts of our DNA in order to avoid health conditions like diabetes or complications. While this is a futuris...

Parents Push for Better Emergency Insulin Access After Son's Death

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 10 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT

More than three years have passed since Dan and Judy Houdeshell lost their son, but even now the northern Ohio parents don't fully know what led to his death. What they do know is that 36-year-old Kevin Houdeshell ran out of insulin over the New ...

Ask D'Mine: Diabetes + Extreme Weight Loss - Who You Gonna Call?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 08 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1 and diabetes author Wil Dubois in New Mexico. This week, Wil responds to a question from a concerned D-wife about her husband's recently weight los...

How Peer Support Changes Life with Diabetes

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 07 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Today, we're pleased to welcome a fellow diabetes blogger from Australia to share his thoughts here at the 'Mine.We love our #OzDOC friends on the other side of the globe, and type 1 peep Frank Sita stands out, blogging over at Type 1 Writes. We t...

Roche Buys mySugr in Diabetes Data Partnership

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT

The diabetes data world is evolving rapidly, and the latest news is that legacy glucose meter company Roche Diabetes Care has acquired the young Austria-based startup mySugr, with plans to use their tech as the core of a still-in-development digit...

Facebook Hosts Diabetes DIYers at First-Ever 'Communities Summit'

DiabetesMine Team — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT

When social media giant Facebook brought hundreds of people together in Chicago last month for their first-ever event exploring how FB groups are making a difference worldwide, our Diabetes Community was in the house!Yep, three administrators of t...

For July 4th: Teens with Diabetes Crave Freedom

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Independence Day to all in the diabetes community and beyond! For this freedom-focused holiday, we thought it would be apropos to revisit one of our most popular guest posts of all time, on how teens with diabetes seek FREEDOM above all.Auth...

Freedom Broker Book Features Badass Female Heroine with Type 1 (Plus Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Covert operations, political intrigue and international kidnapping, sex, sarcasm, and compelling characters. That's the stuff of any good fictional thriller... But toss in the first female heroine who happens to be living with type 1 diabetes, and...

Ask D'Mine: Too Much Insulin?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine - with your host veteran type 1 and diabetes author Wil Dubois. This week, Wil's addressing a trio of questions about too much insulin and related fundamental fears of many people whose...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere in June 2017

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 30 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Summer, All! Here we are at the end of June already -- always a big month in the Diabetes World owing to the American Diabetes Association's huge annual conference that produces lots of product and research news. And of course there's the c...

Small But Mighty: Good Glucos Gives Back with Affordable Test Strips

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

"One test strip for me, one for the greater good..." That's the give-back model of a very new small business that's selling a glucose meter and affordable, high-quality test strips while also providing a diabetes supply package with strips for a...

Behind the 'Value-Based' Buzzwords on Insulin Pump Insurance Deals

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Everyone's talking about "value-based" pricing in healthcare these days.In our own Diabetes Community, the volume's increased on this issue as the two largest insulin pump companies have entered into agreements with insurance giant Aetna for so-ca...

Tandem Diabetes Care: Staying Alive and Focused

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

In case you're wondering what's up with troubled insulin pump company Tandem Diabetes Care and how it handled itself at the largest diabetes conference of the year, here's an update.With recent financial woes, no one knows what the touchscreen pu...

Can Mega-Corporations Save Our Healthcare System?

Dan Fleshler — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Of course there's lots happening on the healthcare reform front, with the Senate currently considering the Better Care Reconciliation Act (aka Obamacare repeal). The big diabetes orgs have urged our D-Community to contact senators about this poten...

Sunday Funnies: January – June 2017

DiabetesMine | Comics from Community — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

See newer comics » Sunday Funnies: It's Raining...?! Published June 25, 2017 Anyone with diabetes knows the woes of test strips going astray... Thanks to our regular contributor Jerry King, an accomplished cartoonist who creates more than 200 ...

Ask D'Mine: Did the Flu Shot Cause My Daughter's Diabetes?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 24 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Got questions about life with diabetes? So do we! That's why we offer our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1 peep Wil Dubois, a diabetes author with many years' experience as an educator in a New Mexico clinic.Th...

World Traveler, Marathon Athlete, Proud Diabetes Momma

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Today, we're excited to welcome another fellow diabetes blogger here to the 'Mine. You may recognize Kelley Kent from her blog Below Seven, where she's been writing for about five years now about her life with T1D and of course striving for an A1...

Transparency, Cost and Access Topics at #2017ADA

Mike Hoskins and Amy Tenderich — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

One of the biggest issues in the diabetes world right now is of course Access and Affordability. So how did this come up at the annual American Diabetes Association's Scientific Sessions in early June, you may wonder? Well, with some mixed messag...

Hello, Research! New Science from the ADA SciSessions 2017

Mike Hoskins and Amy Tenderich — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

As you all know, we were in San Diego attending the ADA's 77th annual Scientific Sessions last week, and already reported on new technology we observed. At the heart of this gathering is of course the science -– loads of new studies completed arou...

#DData17 San Diego: How Industry is Embracing Patient Innovation

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

On Friday, June 9, just before the big ADA conference kicked off in San Diego, we hosted our 8th biannual DiabetesMine D-Data ExChange. The aim of this forum is to convene key players in the Diabetes Technology World for a chance to update, inter...

Chatting About the New Pregnancy Guide for T1D Women (Plus Book Giveaway!)

DiabetesMine Team — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Fortunately, the medical community has shifted in recent years to become more accepting of the fact that type 1 diabetes doesn't have to stop women from having healthy, happy babies. Many women have shared their inspirational stories of becoming T...

Ask D'Mine: Diabetes Is More Than Skin Deep

Wil Dubois — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Got questions about life with diabetes? So do we! That's why we offer our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by longtime type 1 Wil Dubois, who is not only a diabetes author but also worked for many years as a diabetes community e...

Diabetes Tech at ADA's 77th Scientific Sessions (Now Social Media Shareable!)

Amy Tenderich and Mike Hoskins — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

We're just returning home from the biggest diabetes conference of the year, and as always, our feet and minds are winding down from overdrive. The huge annual ADA conference never ceases to be overwhelming -- held in a major conference center span...

Learning and Trying... A Great Endo / Diabetes Advocate in the UK

DiabetesMine Team — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Partha Kar caught our attention on social media as a diabetes activist over in the UK, getting people talking and organizing conferences. Turns out he's actually an endocrinologist, who has taken up the torch of the #gbdoc (Great Britain Diabetes ...

Nevada Becomes First-in-Nation to Shed Sunlight on Insulin Pricing

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

In what may be the start of a national trend, Nevada is pushing to become the first state to pass sweeping legislation requiring real transparency from key players involved in the convoluted insulin pricing scheme. Both sides of the Nevada state ...

MEET THE WINNERS: The 2017 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Contest!

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

This past week, our team has been in San Diego hosting the Summer 2017 DiabetesMine D-Data ExChange event, and then we headed straight into the big annual ADA Scientific Sessions happening there, of course. An exciting week all around...And not le...

Ask D'Mine: How to "Lower Your Diabetes" (Do the Limbo!)

Wil Dubois — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Got questions about life with diabetes? So do we! That's why we offer our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by our friend Wil Dubois, who's not only a longtime type 1 himself but also a respected diabetes author and former clinic...

NEWSFLASH: Diabetes Hands Foundation to Close, Beyond Type 1 Takes Over Core Programs

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

The Diabetes Hands Foundation is no more, but some of its core programs will stay alive under the umbrella of a young, powerhouse diabetes advocacy organization. In a startling development to many that's certain to shake up the Diabetes Online ...

Banting's Ghost: A Grassroots Insulin Access Project

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

If insulin co-discoverer Dr. Frederick Banting were still alive, he'd likely be weeping over how unaffordable and inaccessible his life-saving diabetes medication has become in recent years.Seriously, almost a century later, Banting must be turnin...

A Sneak Peek at the ADA's 77th Scientific Sessions

DiabetesMine Team — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

We're just days away from the biggest annual event in the diabetes world, the American Diabetes Association's Scientific Sessions, showcasing the latest in research, technology and treatment methods.Our DiabetesMine team will be flying to San Dieg...

New iGlucose Meter Sidesteps Smartphone App Trend

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 06 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

There's a new smart glucose meter coming soon by the name of iGlucose, but don't let the name fool you: it will not connect to your iPhone or any other smartphone via mobile app.Whoa! In today's app-happy world, that's either a bold move or one si...

"Type 1 Diabetes Caregiver Confidence" - Book Review with Giveaway!

DiabetesMine Team — Mon, 05 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Today, our periodic correspondent Joanne Milo (who blogs at The Savvy Diabetic) is back with a review of a cool new book that aims to prepare new T1D caregivers for the monumental task(s) at hand... I met Samantha Markovitz at an annual JDRF ch...

Ask D'Mine: Hello Again, On Mice and Men with Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 03 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Hey, everyone! Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, published each Saturday. After a short break, we're pleased to be back with some insights from host Wil Dubois in New Mexico, who's not only a longtime type 1 himself b...

DiAthlete Global Tour 2017: Running Across the World!

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 02 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Ever think about running across the world? Maybe not straight through, of course, but hitting on pretty much every continent from the West Coast all the way around to the Southern Pacific Ocean...Well, one of our own in the Diabetes Community is d...

Stuck Waiting for Medicare CGM Access

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 01 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Longtime type 1 Dan Patrick in Ohio is one of many people with diabetes currently in limbo, waiting for finalization of Medicare coverage of the Dexcom G5 continuous glucose monitor -- facing the uncertainly of not being able to access needed supp...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: May 2017

DiabetesMine Team — Wed, 31 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

We're now at the end of the fifth month of 2017, which is simply amazing. How quickly this year is going by! Of course, the summer months bring a bevy of diabetes conference activity and we're excited about that, but it's already been a busy Ma...

Trial-Testing the New Accu-Chek Guide Meter: No-Spill Strips, Great Port Light

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 30 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

When you get a new glucose meter and can't wait to try shaking out test strips and checking whether the blood droplet is visible in the dark, that might very well be a sign you're about to embark on a different type of diabetes product review. E...

Happy Memorial Day 2017

DiabetesMine Team — Mon, 29 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Hey, Friends! We're taking it easy for this extended Memorial Day holiday weekend, and hope you are too.Mike's visiting Indianapolis for the Indy 500 race weekend (congrats to both T1D drivers, Charlie Kimball and Conor Daly for their "racing with...

Trekking America's National Parks with Type 1 Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 26 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Traveling can be such an incredible experience, but too often people with diabetes don't realize they are able to take on some of the most spectacular adventures that exist in this world.Longtime type 1 Jeremy Larsen hopes to change that. He's an ...

Prioritizing Mental Health with Diabetes -- At Last!

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 25 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

For the first time in history (as far as we can tell), a major national diabetes organization has put the spotlight on the psychosocial aspects of living with this condition, helping to raise the profile of mental health+diabetes in the United Sta...

NEWSFLASH: Tidepool Announces Big Data Donation Project for Diabetes!

DiabetesMine Team — Wed, 24 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Imagine that all your blood glucose results and other data tracked by your insulin pump, continuous glucose monitor and other gadgets could serve the greater good and help accelerate research -- at no cost to you -- and you'd even get a chance to ...

Targeting Employer Health Plans on Insulin Access

Dan Fleshler — Tue, 23 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Today we continue our ongoing coverage of the Insulin Affordability and Access Crisis in the U.S. with a fascinating interview by our correspondent Dan Fleshler in New York, who's been following the role of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) and wha...

Adam Brown: Diabetes Bright Spots and Landmines (with Book Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 22 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

When does a book go beyond being just "a good read"? When it changes how you think and allows you to learn more about yourself, for one thing. That's how I feel about the new title Bright Spots & Landmines written by fellow type 1 D-peep Adam ...

Visiting the Banting House, Birthplace of Insulin in Canada

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 19 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

On a recent vacation to Canada, I was able to visit the "birthplace of insulin," the house where insulin co-discoverer Dr. Frederick Banting lived and worked at the time when he came up with the idea that would lead to this life-saving miracle dru...

One Day Left to Enter! The 2017 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Contest

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 18 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Hey All, you have just one day left to apply to the 2017 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Contest for a chance to win a full scholarship to attend our annual DiabetesMine Innovation Summit, happening on Friday, Nov. 17, at Stanford University School ...

Livongo Hits the Open Market, Launches Multi-Org Diabetes Donation Program

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 17 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

For the first time since it launched three years ago, the Livongo glucose meter paired with a coaching service is now available for PWDs (people with diabetes) to purchase directly without having to go through their doctors, clinics or employers.O...

D-Blog Week: On Costs, Fears, and Negativity

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 16 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

There's a lot at stake for the Diabetes Community these days, and the costs are high for all of us.So it's fitting that today, the second day of Diabetes Blog Week 2017, the focus is on financial burden and other obstacles:"Let's discuss how cost ...

Hello Diabetes Blog Week 2017 (Plus Prepping for the Unexpected)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 15 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to another round of Diabetes Blog Week!It's the 8th consecutive year of this initiative, bringing together our vocal D-community to rally around the same topic each day for a week running.You may remember that this effort was spearheaded b...

For Mother's Day: Enduring Lessons on T1D Parenting

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 12 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Mother's Day is this coming Sunday, and we're wishing a happy one to all the D-Moms everywhere! (And all the other moms too, of course.)We thought this was a lovely time to revisit an informational T1D MOMs post by none other than the founder of t...

Saying Goodbye to Pioneering Diabetes Advocate David Mendosa

Mike Hoskins and Amy Tenderich — Thu, 11 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

We referred to him as a "father of the Diabetes Online Community," and anyone who'd ever known or connected with him felt the passion to help that burned beneath his kind and gentle spirit. It's no exaggeration to say that David Mendosa was one of...

Investor Updates: The Latest in Diabetes Tech (Spring 2017)

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 10 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

To help keep you all up on what's new and hot in diabetes technology, we continue to follow the industry's quarterly "earnings calls" -- webcast sessions designed to update investors on product pipelines and business projections. Heading into mid-...

Tech-Friendly Clothing Choices for Women with Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 09 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

For women especially, wearing a bunch of diabetes devices can be quite a struggle. Personally, I use the OmniPod patch pump that does away with dangling tubes, but in these days of #WeAreNotWaiting and do-it-yourself closed loop system innovations...

All Aboard “The Insulin Express”! (New Book Review with Giveaway)

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 08 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

From CNN Jerusalem correspondent Oren Liebermann comes a new type of diabetes book – part travelogue, part chronic disease memoir – that traces his story of low-budget trekking around the world, with a life-changing diagnosis of type 1 diabetes al...

Logan Merwin: The T1 Boy Behind the 'Fueled By Insulin' Race Truck

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 05 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Since he was just a toddler, 10-year-old Logan Merwin in Connecticut has had a love for cars that's evolved from playing with Hot Wheels toy cars to big dreams of monster truck racing when he grows up. Given that he's been living with type 1 since...

Find Local Clinical Trials

The Healthline Editorial Team — Fri, 05 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Get connected to new treatments and the latest clinical trials. Clinical trials are used to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new treatments for a wide range of conditions. All new medications and treatment devices must be thoroughly tested...

Life Insurance and Diabetes: Moving Past Denial

DiabetesMine Team — Thu, 04 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Today we hear again from Rachel Kerstetter, a longtime T1D who's a PR pro in Ohio and works with us here at the 'Mine on our Twitter feed (look for initials 'RK'). Rachel has spent some time researching the tricky topic of life insurance options w...

Calling PBMs (Pharmacy Benefit Managers) to the Carpet

Dan Fleshler — Wed, 03 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Today our correspondent Dan Fleshler, a longtime T1D writer and media strategist, continues our series of articles on Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs).Under hashtag #PBMsExposed, we're calling these healthcare power brokers to the carpet on thei...

MannKind Sponsors New Diabetes Reality TV Show, 'Reversed'

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 02 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

In what appears to be the first-of-its-kind, a new reality TV show focused specifically on diabetes will be airing this summer on the Discovery Life Channel.Created by celebrity chef Charles Mattocks, a type 2 himself since 2009 who happens to be ...

ANNOUNCING: The 2017 DiabetesMine Patient Scholarship Awards - Innovate Locally!

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 01 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Hi All, Interested in participating in the 2017 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit at Stanford School of Medicine this Fall on full scholarship*? We are in search of: passionate patients willing to lend their experiences and insights to our influen...

Ask D'Mine: On Hiatus

DiabetesMine Team — Sat, 29 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Our long-running weekly diabetes advice column Ask D'Mine is taking a hiatus for the first time since it began in 2011. We apologize again for the tone of last week's column. We understand that the insulin affordability crisis is a highly em...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: April 2017

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 28 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Once again, the month of April felt both sweet and savory -- with a whole lot going on around the Diabetes Online Community (DOC).Here's our monthly roundup of fave posts that caught our eye, in no particular order.Please chime in and flag your fa...

The Scoop on Novo's New Faster-Acting FIASP Insulin

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

There's a new ultra fast-acting insulin on the market internationally, and hopefully before long it will become available to us here in the U.S. too. You may have heard mention of FIASP, or Faster-Acting Insulin Aspart, that recently hit the mark...

Lilly Diabetes Hosts Insulin Pricing and Access Workshop

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 26 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

In the front lobby of Lilly's corporate headquarters in Indianapolis stands a towering 12-foot tall statue of a mother holding her child in her arms, sick and starving to death due to lack of insulin. It's an artistic rendering of a real-life ...

Talking with ADA's Interim Leader Martha Clark (Who Lives with Type 1 Diabetes)

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

In case you missed it, the American Diabetes Association is going through a leadership transition. The big diabetes org brought on a new chief scientific and mission officer early this year and just last month, Kevin Hagan stepped down as CEO afte...

5 Hot New Diabetes Products

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

In our never-ending quest to keep you up to date on all things diabetes, here are five items we came across recently that you might want to know about: The Myabetic Cherise diabetes handbag – an absolutely lovely purse reminiscent of Kate Spad...

Ask D'Mine: Dying for Insulin (Retracted)

DiabetesMine Team — Sat, 22 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

We're sorry.At this URL was an Ask D'Mine post about a woman struggling to pay out-of-pocket to get needed insulin to carry her over while she was waiting for her insurance to kick in. While we feel this is an important issue to address, we ...

Hawaii T1D Weightlifter Jameson Dahl: Commitment Is Key

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

If you ever wondered if you could be an award-winning weightlifter with type 1 diabetes, just look to Hawaii, where D-peep Jameson (Jamie) Dahl is showing us how it's done. The thirty-something on Oahu (one of the most northwest of Hawaii's ei...

That 'Open Letter to Steve Jobs' 10 Years Later - Milestones in Patient Innovation!

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Ten years ago this month I penned an 'Open Letter to Steve Jobs,' calling on the gurus of consumer technology to help transform medical devices into something more Apple-esque. After all, it was 2007, and our glucose meters, insulin pumps and othe...

Thawing Out a Frozen Shoulder, with Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Scott Johnson's left shoulder was bothering him. Really bothering him."I couldn't remember a specific incident, but was sure it was just a stubborn basketball injury," said Johnson, a Minnesota-based type 1 for more than three decades who blogs at...

D-Mom Puts Life with Diabetes Into 'Poetry Chapbook' (with Giveaway!)

DiabetesMine Team — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

There's seemingly no end to the creative ways people can express their experiences with diabetes... A highly literary D-Mom in Iowa has created the first-ever diabetes poetry chapbook -- a traditional pamphlet-style collection of her prose that "e...

Ask D'Mine: Easter Candy Edition

Wil Dubois — Sat, 15 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine - with your host veteran type 1 and diabetes author Wil Dubois. This weekend is Easter, so it just stands to reason that Wil's fielding a question about how to choose the "least offensi...

Biking Across America with Type 1 Diabetes

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 14 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Thanks to our periodic correspondent Joanne Milo (who blogs at The Savvy Diabetic) we're happy to feature a special interview today with fellow type 1 and advocate Cassidy Robinson, a young adult from Orange County, CA, who's part of a 22-person t...

George Huntley: Songwriter, Half-Marathoner, Box-Making Expert, Diabetes Advocate

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Meet George Huntley, a longtime type 1 who you can pretty much think of as a "professional volunteer" in diabetes advocacy. OK, we made that title up, but it's apropos given what this Indianapolis D-peep has been lending his free time and passion ...

Diabetes Orgs Labor to Tackle Healthcare Reform

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 12 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

The future of healthcare reform remains ever unclear.At one moment, emotions are running high as it seems all manner of protections, access and affordability are on the line. Then suddenly, Congressional efforts are stalled and all but dead, after...

Celebrating Pets (In and Around the Diabetes Community)

DiabetesMine Team — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Who loves furry, feathered, trotting, crawling, tail-wagging creatures?? We sure do!That's why we're excited that today is National Pet Day. Marking its 11th year, this U.S.-based tribute day is a time to share appreciation for all the beloved ani...

Meet the Rebranded 'MedAngel' Insulin Temp Tracker (with Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

There's no shortage of crowdfunding campaigns for new diabetes gadgets and products, and not all of them succeed, of course. But if the idea is solid, there may be life after Indiegogo death for some -- such as MedAngel, version 2.0 of a clever in...

Ask D'Mine: Mystery Spasms Caused by Insulin?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 08 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Got questions about life with diabetes? So do we! That's why we offer our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1 and diabetes author in New Mexico Wil Dubois.This week, Wil takes on a question about mystery spasms th...

Pops! Diabetes: New All-Inclusive, Smartphone Snap-On Meter

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 07 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

It's tough to find someone these days who doesn't carry their smartphone pretty much everywhere they go. That's certainly proven in recent stats showing roughly three-quarters of Americans own smartphones, and everywhere we go we see people starin...

Dad and Daughter Dealing with Diabetes... Plus Making Technology Choices

DiabetesMine Team — Thu, 06 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

You may remember Randall Barker in Texas, whom we introduced last summer as one of our 2016 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Contest winners. He's an active advocate who raises his voice for our Diabetes Community in a variety of ways, from engaging wi...

Beating the Diabetes Management Blues

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 05 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Spring has sprung once again, and with the new season I'm working to make my diabetes management more of a priority and bring it out of its winter hibernation, so to speak. Burnout's been an issue these past few months, affecting my mood -- inev...

"Golden Rules" for Living with Type 1 Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

One of the best resources for learning about diabetes and connecting with other PWDs (people with diabetes) locally can be summed up in five letters: TCOYD.That would be Taking Control of Your Diabetes, the national educational conference series f...

Insulin Availability for Those Who Need It Most (Remembering Shane Patrick Boyle)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

This is a story we wish didn't need to be told. By now, no one should be surprised by the high cost of insulin and how broken the drug-pricing system is in this country. We continue our coverage on this complicated #InsulinPrices issue -- from ca...

Ask D'Mine: A New Plan for Diabetes Healthcare Reform

Wil Dubois — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Today we interrupt our regularly scheduled diabetes advice column Ask D'Mine to bring you the following news report from veteran type 1, diabetes author and "guy in the know" Wil Dubois... Dateline April 1, 2017 -- The Southern White House, Pa...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: March 2017

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 31 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

March has come and gone already, whaaaat?! Another busy month in the online diabetes world. Once again, we bring you a roundup of our favorite post picks for the month, in no particular order. Got any more faves you'd like to add, for this month o...

New Diabetes Video Review: One Drop Glucose Meter and App

DiabetesMine Team — Thu, 30 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Remember our crowdsourced, patient-created video product review hub, the DiabetesMine Test Kitchen? Today we're happy to announce publishing of a new look at the slick, stylish One Drop glucose meter and powerful diabetes management companion app....

One Drop Glucose Meter & App - Review

DiabetesMine Team — Thu, 30 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Joanne Milo, who blogs at The Savvy Diabetic, reviews the sleek new One Drop glucose meter and app, which also offers a virtual coaching service. REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN - PROs:VERY retro, James Bond-style case and packaging Tracks blood sugar and ...

The Diabetes Community Speaks Out About PBMs

DiabetesMine Team — Wed, 29 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

We've been exploring the complicated, opaque process of how Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) negotiate drug pricing in the U.S. and the effects on people with diabetes. On one hand, PBMs claim they lower costs while serving their clients throu...

ADA Works with NFL Players, etc., to Promote Diabetes Alert Day 2017

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 28 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Today, it's once again Diabetes Alert Day. No, we're not talking about being alerted to big advocacy issues like insulin affordability or healthcare access, but rather the annual type 2-focused public awareness day held every fourth Tuesday in Ma...

Getting Your Adventure On with Diabetes (Book Review and Giveaway)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 27 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

If you're in search of a motivational diabetes resource that lets you 'Choose Your Own Adventure,' then look no further than the newest paperback by type 1 athlete Erin Spineto!It's called "Adventure On" and encourages readers to embrace their inn...

Ask D'Mine: What Metformin Is Good For (and Not)

Wil Dubois — Sat, 25 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Need help navigating life with diabetes? You can always Ask D'Mine! Welcome again to our weekly Q&A column, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical expert Wil Dubois. This week, Wil offers some (non-doctor) thoughts on mixing a...

On Navigating a Cruise with Diabetes

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 24 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Thinking of taking a cruise ship vacation but worried about managing your diabetes while on board?Today, we're happy to hand the mic over to our team member Rachel Kerstetter, who you may remember is a fellow T1 PWD in Ohio who blogs at Probably R...

What Twins Can Tell Us About the Causes of Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Thu, 23 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Stacey Divone sees double every time she looks in the mirror. She's the slightly older of a pair of identical twins born on Christmas Eve 1976, and when she was just 5 years old, Stacey -- just like her father -- was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes...

Seven Months and Counting…

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 22 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

My A1C had crept up to 7.2, quite a jump from where it had been. My endo looked at me with real empathy and asked, "What's going on?" As much I'd promised myself not to go there, my eyes welled up with tears. It's been seven months now since my...

Gestational Diabetes: What to Know

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 21 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

We get a LOT of queries on pregnancy and diabetes -- not least gestational diabetes, the kind that pops up during pregnancy in women who have not had diabetes prior. To help answer the many questions that come our way, we've put together the follo...

New Apps Calculate Your Insulin Doses

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 20 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Trying to calculate your insulin doses for injections, without the help of an insulin pump "wizard"? There's an app for that! (of course) First came basic insulin dose calculators like RapidCalc. But providing more personalized recommendations in...

Ask D'Mine: Why Blood Sugar Repairs Cost More Than Prevention

Wil Dubois — Sat, 18 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1 expert and diabetes author Wil Dubois. This week, Wil takes on a longtimer's question about the mysteries of high blood sugars -- why they happen a...

On St. Paddy's Day, Exploring Diabetes in Ireland

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 17 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Happy St. Paddy's Day, Diabetes Community!While this is mostly an Americanized holiday, we wanted to offer you a glimpse into the real world of diabetes in Ireland -- with a personal testimonial from the country that so many of us are paying hom...

Talking Diabetes Tech: The Future Is Now

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 16 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

"Hey Alexa / Siri, What's My Blood Sugar?"Amazingly, that's not a question going unanswered by our technology anymore.Thanks to Apple's Siri, Amazon Echo + Alexa, and Google Home, voice recognition technology that was once tough to find and reser...

Pregnancy and Diabetes: A Doctor and Patient’s Best Tips

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 15 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Concerned about starting a family with diabetes? Diabetes and pregnancy can be a difficult pairing -- although contrary to old school thinking, it is more than possible to have a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby if you're living with type 1 or t...

The Great Pizza and Diabetes Experiment

Wil Dubois — Tue, 14 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

I hate pizza. Sure, it has that great smell. Yeah, it has an amazing look, as steam rises up over a landscape of melted cheeses dotted with toasted veggies and crisp meats. Oh, and the taste is wonderful, a molten fusion of flavors that rocks th...

Investor Eavesdropping: Diabetes Tech Updates in Early 2017

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 13 Mar 2017 07:00:00 GMT

As we've often noted, one of the best ways to find out what's new and hot in diabetes technology is to follow the industry's "earnings calls" -- those quarterly webcasts designed to update investors on predicted product pipelines and business fl...

Ask D'Mine: A Below-the-Belt Grooming Question

Wil Dubois — Sat, 11 Mar 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Got questions about life with diabetes? So do we! That's why we offer our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by Wil Dubois, a veteran type 1 in New Mexico who is a diabetes author with many years of clinical experience under his b...

Implanted Islets: From the POV of a Longtime Type 1

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 10 Mar 2017 08:00:00 GMT

We shared the news early this year about the exciting work happening at City of Hope, after the Wanek Family in Wisconsin donated millions to diabetes cure research at the California facility. Today, we're excited to hear a first-hand POV from a l...

Test Driving Ascensia's New Contour Next ONE Meter

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 09 Mar 2017 08:00:00 GMT

It's often the little details that translate to the biggest benefits when it comes to taking care of your diabetes. That was top of mind for me after trying out the new Ascensia Contour Next ONE meter, the latest in the line of Contour meters fro...

Dr. Seuss Does Diabetes, Again

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 08 Mar 2017 08:00:00 GMT

We nearly missed it, but last week (March 2) was the birthday of legendary funny-man Dr. Seuss. Every five to seven years or so, we like to revisit the popular poem below that I wrote in his honor -- one of the original posts here at DiabetesMine,...

Meet the New Chief Science Guy at the American Diabetes Association

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 08:00:00 GMT

With the respected Dr. Robert Ratner stepping down at the end of last year, there's now a new mind in town leading the American Diabetes Association's national science and research efforts.That new leader would be Dr. William T. Cefalu from Louisi...

DiabNext Brings Artificial Intelligence to Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 06 Mar 2017 08:00:00 GMT

What if we could have an ultra-cool Artificial Intelligence platform like the one Marvel comics invented for Iron Man that would combat our diabetes the way it did villains?! Well, you guessed it: a med-tech company in the real world is bringing t...

Ask D'Mine: Diamonds and Diabetes -- Are Both Forever?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 04 Mar 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome back to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1 and diabetes author Wil Dubois.This week, Wil tackles the whole crazy world of diabetes types -- you know, T1 and T2 and gestational and that ever-so-co...

A D-Mom's Tips for Parents of Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Kids

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 03 Mar 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Today, we welcome Sylvia White from Memphis, TN, who is not only a D-Mom, but also a certified diabetes educator (CDE) and insulin pump trainer (first for Medtronic and now for Tandem Diabetes), plus a registered dietician and licensed counselor. ...

Another Iceberg Ahead? The 411 on Diabetic Autonomic Neuropathy

Wil Dubois — Thu, 02 Mar 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Just like the mythical creatures Cyclops could supposedly see the hour of their deaths, anyone with diabetes can look at grim mortality statistics and know what the Grim Reaper will likely be driving when he shows up at the door. On average, i...

Opening Up the Black Box on PBMs (Pharmacy Benefit Managers)

Dan Fleshler — Wed, 01 Mar 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Today we continue our coverage of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) here at the 'Mine, using hashtag #PBMsExposed. Special thanks to our correspondent Dan Fleshler in New York for his work digging into this important topic. A Laymen's Primer on...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere in February 2017

DiabetesMine Team — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Hey, D-Friends!February may be a shorter month, but that doesn't mean our Diabetes Online Community is short of amazing content! With love in the air as usual this Valentine's month, we wanted to follow that theme by showing our love for fellow...

Siren Socks: Revolutionizing Diabetes Foot Care with the Internet of Things (with Giveaway!)

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 27 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Got neuropathy in your feet? We hope not, but if you do -- or suspect that you might -- you will absolutely want to know about a new company called Siren Care. It was founded by young Chinese-American entrepreneur Ran Ma, who after completing a Bi...

Ask D'Mine: Maintaining Diabetes Control in the Hospital

Wil Dubois — Sat, 25 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil helps answer a question about diabetes management during a hospital stay for a hip replace...

Diabetes Community Oscar Awards for 2017!

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 24 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

February is of course awards season thanks to the Grammys and Oscars, and in keeping with tradition we're excited to once again offer our own take on the "best-of" in various categories among the Diabetes Community. What's unique about our Dia...

Insulin Price-Fixing Lawsuits and How Diabetes Advocates Are Involved

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

You may have heard that the battle over insulin access and affordability has made its way into court, challenging status quo drug-pricing methods and actually accusing the three Big Insulin makers of illegal price-gouging that endangers people wit...

Implantable Insulin Pumps are Near Extinction, But Still Alive...

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 22 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Once viewed as the future of diabetes technology, implantable insulin pumps have mostly vanished over the past decade and one might say the technology is nearly extinct.Yet even now in 2017, implantable pumps are still clinging to life.There are c...

The Bitterness over 'Brittle Diabetes'

Wil Dubois — Tue, 21 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

With the 10th annual Rare Disease Day just around the corner on Feb. 28, it's a perfect time to revisit the issue of "brittle diabetes" and how recognition of it as a rare disease (or lack thereof) has sparked a new wave of controversy recently. ...

Reflecting on Presidents' Day 2017, Diabetes-Style

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 20 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Presidents' Day, America.It's time once again to mark the annual holiday established in 1885 that's meant to honor all who've held that office, past and present. And 2017 is certainly an interesting one, no? The first month of our 45th Pres...

Ask D'Mine: Trumping the Blood Sugar?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 18 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine - with your host veteran type 1, and diabetes author Wil Dubois. On this President's Day weekend, Wil is helping a reader trump his fears about the state of healthcare coverage in the U...

DiabetesSisters Recruiting Voices to Help Improve Research

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 17 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

While we're on a roll updating you all about the activities of various advocacy orgs, here's another one we're excited about: the national women's diabetes group DiabetesSisters is launching a new project to open a direct line of communication bet...

'Badass' Beyond Type 1 Creates Diabetes Access Fund

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 16 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

We've been writing a lot here about the crazy-complicated barriers to getting the tools and supplies we all need to manage our diabetes. You know, sifting through nebulous healthcare documents, spending endless hours on the phone, chasing down los...

Introducing Mandy Jones, New Director of Advocacy at the Diabetes Hands Foundation

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 15 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

When Mandy Jones was diagnosed with T1D five years ago in her final year of college, she felt like she was thrown into the deep end -- forced to paddle frantically to learn how to handle not only the basics of D-management, but the complicated, ev...

Partner Follies: Valentine's Day Reflections on Love and the 'Diabetes Machine'

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our periodic Partner Follies series here at the 'Mine, in which we feature guest posts by spouses, romantic partners and loved ones about their POVs on diabetes. And as today's Valentine's Day, we thought it was a perfect time to ...

A Moose and Giraffe Go Poetic on Diabetes (Twofer Kids' Book Giveaway)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Yerachmiel Altman is a longtime type 1 living just southwest of Boston, who was diagnosed at a young age more than 55 years ago. He's been an early adopter of new diabetes technologies over the years -- employing MDI back before that was common, a...

Ask D'Mine: Micromanaging the Microbrews (AKA: Drinking Craft Beer with Diabetes)

Wil Dubois — Sat, 11 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil explores what's brewing (!) in the world of alcohol and diabetes, particularly when it comes to craft...

Seeing Beauty Through Artwork, Even with Diabetic Eye Disease

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 10 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

"Complications" of diabetes are always a scary prospect for those of us living with the disease. So we're always impressed to find PWDs who have managed to not only cope successfully with complications, but to use their experience to support and i...

Afrezza Updates: Upcoming TV Ads and Possibly 'The Uber of Diabetes'?

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

We're closely following the latest developments with Afrezza, the inhaled insulin that's now been on the market for a little over two years, and has been struggling to gain traction since Sanofi dropped its marketing deal with manufacturers MannKi...

Furniture Company Family Donates Millions to Cure Diabetes (in Six Years?!)

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Have you heard the news about the family in the furniture business that's investing millions of dollars into type 1 diabetes cure research?The Wanek Family in Wisconsin -- the name behind the national Ashley Furniture store chain -- led an effort ...

Partnering with Healthcare Pros on #DiabetesAccessMatters Campaign

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

We've all been griping for who knows how long about insurance companies messing with our coverage, limiting access to needed medications and supplies and prioritizing profit over patient health. Their complex procedures force us to spend maddenin...

Diabetes Podcast Week! Supporting 'Spare a Rose, Save a Child' Initiative

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Everywhere we turn these days, it seems there is the issue of Insulin Affordability and Access -- not just the sky-high prices here in the US, but across the globe in developing countries. We have it good, and we're very aware of that. But so many...

Ask D'Mine: Chasing Zebras in Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Got questions about life with diabetes? So do we! That's why we offer our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by our snarky diabetes expert Wil Dubois, a veteran type 1 and diabetes author.This week, Wil is taking on a query about ...

Life with Type 2, Running a Diabetes Blog and Training Alert Dogs

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Today, we welcome Kathleen Weaver, a type 2 in the Dallas, TX, area who happens to be one of the longest-running bloggers in our ever-growing Diabetes Online Community (DOC). Yep, she was one of the very first, blogging since February 2003! Nowada...

First-Ever Guidelines on Safe Exercising with Type 1 Diabetes!

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

As a person with type 1 diabetes who exercises regularly, I can tell you it's pretty much of a guessing game. I have some strategies that I use to keep my glucose in range for my spin class, aerobics, kick box, hiking and other workouts, but they ...

Exploring the New 2017 Diabetes Standards of Care

Wil Dubois — Wed, 01 Feb 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Our correspondent Wil Dubois takes a close look at the newest Standards of Care guidelines, released each year by the American Diabetes Association, on how medical professionals should be treating PWDs (people with diabetes) in the coming year. Y...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: Hi There, 2017!

DiabetesMine Team — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome to our monthly roundup of outstanding blog posts from across the Diabetes Online Community (DOC).Since it is now 2017, we thought we'd share our first month faves as seen during January -- in no particular order.As always, we'd love to he...

Remembering Mary Tyler Moore and her Passionate Diabetes Advocacy

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 30 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Goodbye, Mary Tyler Moore.Our Diabetes Community is mourning the loss of a legendary type 1 champion who changed the world of advocacy, awareness, and research-funding for T1D. Mary Tyler Moore died on Wednesday, Jan. 25, at age 80 of pneumonia, ...

Ask D'Mine: Chinese New Year and Kanji Carbs

Wil Dubois — Sat, 28 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Chinese New Year, one and all! To mark the holiday, our diabetes advice guru Wil Dubois takes on a question about Chinese food.{Got your own questions? Email us at AskDMine@diabetesmine.com} Hank, type 1 from Kansas, writes: I love Chine...

Blood Glucose Levels: How ‘Glucose Management’ Works

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 27 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

If you're new to diabetes, or trying to get your head around it for a loved one, you're surely hearing the term "blood glucose management" a lot. What does that mean? Well, it's the heart of controlling diabetes, so to speak.We proudly present you...

An End or New Beginning for Animas, LifeScan, OneTouch?

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 26 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Things are changing fast in the diabetes device industry, and now it looks like maybe just a matter of time before another insulin pump company bites the dust -- or is gobbled up by a larger parent organization. Johnson & Johnson is doing an ...

Is One Drop the One Diabetes Tool You Need? (Product Review)

Wil Dubois — Wed, 25 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This is our third in a series of reviews of diabetes tech tools that also offer a coaching service connecting patients with certified diabetes educators (CDEs). We previewed a trio of these new products last Fall -- and recently published detailed...

Who Are Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) and How Do They Influence Drug Pricing?

DiabetesMine Team — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

As part of our continuing coverage on the Insulin Affordability Crisis, in the Fall we "followed the money trail" to Pharmacy Benefit Managers, and we're now looking at them more closely. Special thanks to our correspondent Dan Fleshler for his he...

A Few Minutes with an 'Insulin Temperature Man' (Plus TempraMed Insulin Pen Cap Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 23 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This may be a time of colder weather when insulin overheating isn't top of mind, but it never hurts to be prepared, right?Yep, keeping your insulin at ideal room room temps (between 59 and 86 degrees) isn't always easy -- especially in hotter clim...

Ask D'Mine: Back to Basics on Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 21 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois. We've had some "back to basics" questions piling up at the bottom of the mailbag, and while some may seem...

Homegrown Closed Loop Technology: Mom Connects to RileyLink

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 20 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

We've watched with interest as the do-it-yourself diabetes tech community has grown exponentially -- from the first wave of data-sharing tools to the DIY closed loop systems that have emerged in the past year or so. The evolution's been phenomenal...

Diabetes Advocacy Orgs: 2016 Milestones + 2017 Goals (Part 2)

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome to Part 2 of our annual overview of national diabetes advocacy orgs. That is, at the end of each year here at the 'Mine, we call on the country's top diabetes advocacy organizations to report on what they believe they've accomplished over ...

Diabetes Advocacy Orgs: 2016 Milestones & 2017 Goals! (Part 1 of 2)

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2017!As there seems to be consensus that 2016 sucked in many ways, we're especially glad to greet a new year. It's a tradition here at the 'Mine to essentially call the country's top diabetes advocacy organizations to the mat at t...

NEWSFLASH: Roche Stops Selling Accu-Chek Insulin Pumps in U.S.

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

If you were hoping to buy a new Accu-Chek brand insulin pump from Roche Diabetes Care anytime soon, you're unfortunately out of luck. There's now one less player in the pump market, as the diabetes device company that makes the popular Accu-Chek b...

NEWSFLASH: Medicare Can Cover Some CGMs Now!

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 16 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Huuuuge news in the Diabetes Community!!!In a surprise move late last week, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a policy decision allowing for certain continuous glucose monitors (CGM) to be covered under Medicare! This im...

Ask D'Mine: To Pull the Plug, or Not... That is the Question

Wil Dubois — Sat, 14 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week is a downer, for sure, so make sure you have your tissue box handy... Wil responds to a scared sister's qu...

Nightscout Foundation: Looking Back on 2016 and Ahead at 2017

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 13 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Now that we've rung in the New Year, we're eager to hear what the major diabetes nonprofits consider their biggest accomplishments over the past year, and what they're aiming for in the next. We're kicking that off with the grassroots nonprofit th...

Livongo Coaching Product Review

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

One of the most interactive glucose monitors I've ever used is the Livongo meter, with its touchscreen color display and subscription-based model for ordering new strips. Introduced in 2014, this meter is paired with a coaching service that we pre...

New Diabetes Data and Smartwatch Tech at CES 2017

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Hey Diabetes Peeps, did you know that the term "complications" isn't always negative?Yep, it's a little known fact that in horology (the art of measuring time), a complication refers to any feature in a timepiece that goes beyond just simply displ...

Holiday Blahs: On Being Sick with Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Some of you may know from following us on social media that I've been under the weather over the holidays. Yuck!For the past month, I've had a cold and persistent cough that have been messing with my diabetes management.With it being the start of ...

A New Approach to Diabetes Subtypes (And Legitimizing Prediabetes)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Diabetes isn't a blood sugar disease, but rather a beta cell dysfunction disease.That's what a new collaborative report from top diabetes scientists and medical officers says. By couching it that way, we may no longer talk about just "having diabe...

Ask D'Mine: Depression, Anxiety, and Panic Attacks

Wil Dubois — Sat, 07 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, Friends! Welcome to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil offers some thoughts to a scared type 1 peep in Tennessee about high A1Cs who feel...

Dr. Dana Hardin of Eli Lilly: A Grandmother's Diabetes Influence

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 06 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Dr. Dana Hardin is a pediatric endocrinologist and medical director at Eli Lilly and Company in Indianapolis, IN, where she's been practicing for more than 20 years. She's also been a pioneer in research on the capabilities of medical alert dogs. ...

DKA Awareness Campaigns Kick Into High Gear

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Raising awareness about dangerous DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis) seems to be all the rage these days.We've seen several new campaigns recently focused on preventing a missed diagnosis or undiagnosed diabetes altogether, coupled with DKA (a state of s...

Emily Kaufman: Child Singing Star Tramples Type 1 Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 03 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Emily Taylor Kaufman is a little powerhouse. Just 12 years old and in the 7th grade, she's already graced the musical stage, won a singing contest run by Phil Collins, and been signed on by a national talent agency. She's appeared in 15 musical pr...

Diabetes Tech 'Spectations for 2017

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMT

It's a New Year's tradition here at the 'Mine to look ahead at the new technology and tools we expect to see coming down the pike in the year ahead.Even before the calendar rolled over, we knew 2017 would be a big year -- with the market launch t...

Ask D'Mine: New Horizons for the New Year

Wil Dubois — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Here we are again with our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical specialist Wil Dubois.Happy New Year's Eve tonight to all!Today, Wil's sharing details about a new chapter in his perso...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: December 2016 Edition

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

The time has come to say goodbye to 2016, as we get ready to ring in a new year.But before we do, it's worth taking a look back at this final month of '16 to reflect on all the outstanding diabetes blog posts that have shined brighter than any ...

Escaping Technology: A Halt in Insulin Pumping for Me

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Here we are, at the end of 2016.And with that, I've made a decision: No more insulin pumping for me.For most of this past year, I've been disconnected from my pump, which is unusual for me since I have pumped since the middle of 2001, taking onl...

California Mom Champions Access to Better Diabetes Healthcare Coverage

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

When Brenda Hunter's daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes a little over two years ago, the California mom had no idea what she'd face on the insurance front -- nor that the challenges she experienced in that first year would lead her to fou...

Happy Holiday Wishes 2016

DiabetesMine Team — Mon, 26 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

HAPPY HOLIDAYS to all today!! We're chilling a bit in the wake of both Christmas and the start of Hanukkah this past weekend (which runs through Dec. 31 this year). This season, our parent company Healthline Media created this quite lovely holi...

Sunday Funnies: July - December 2016

DiabetesMine | Comics from Community — Sun, 25 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

« See newer comics Sunday Funnies: Amazing Holiday Gifts! Happy Holidays to All today! Here's a gadget we could all use... Thanks for this illustration go to legendary cartoonist Jerry King, who we're proud to feature at the 'Mine regularly. ...

Ask D'Mine: Do Reindeer Get Diabetes?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 24 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Hey, All -- Got questions about life with diabetes? Then you've come to the right place! That would be our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical specialist Wil Dubois.Happy Christmas ...

The Year in Diabetes: Looking Back on 2016

Amy Tenderich and Mike Hoskins — Thu, 22 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

With the New Year just days away, we're keeping up our tradition of reviewing what made this past year, 2016, one to remember in the Diabetes World and here at the 'Mine.We've had some big moments this year, and if we had to boil it down to one p...

Navigating the Affordable Care Act with Diabetes (Part 2)

Wil Dubois — Wed, 21 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

As you may have read earlier this week, for me the clock is ticking. I need to choose my family's new health insurance. Today. I suppose I'm lucky, as in my state of New Mexico, I actually have 23 plans-from four different insurance companies-to...

Diabetic Foodie: Why I'm Grateful for My Type 2 Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 20 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

As we head into the holidays, we can't help having food on the mind.That's why it's a perfect time to share a perspective from Shelby Kinnaird, a 50-something in Richmond, VA, who's been living with type 2 diabetes for nearly 20 years. She blogs o...

Navigating the Sunset (?) of the Affordable Care Act (Part 1)

Wil Dubois — Mon, 19 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

This morning, I woke up with a nasty hangover. And no health insurance for the first time since my diagnosis. As you might expect, the two are related. How did this happen? Well, the hangover came from drinking too much. The lack of insu...

Ask D'Mine: In Case of Diabetes Emergency, Break Glass

Wil Dubois — Sat, 17 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

We're back once again with Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil's talking what to do in case of insulin shock, and some things you may not know about gluca...

Saying Goodbye to D-Dad and Advocate Alan Thicke

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 16 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

We lost an icon this week in Alan Thicke. He's the Canadian actor best known for playing iconic TV dad Dr. Jason Seaver on the '80s sitcom "Growing Pains." And hearing of his death seems like a punch to the gut for an entire generation (myself in...

'Generic' Biosimilar Insulin Becoming Reality!

Mike Hoskins and Amy Tenderich — Thu, 15 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

As our community struggles with the skyrocketing prices of insulin, new hope dawns. After screaming for years that "WE WANT GENERIC INSULIN!," we are now finally entering the long-awaited era of biosimilars (even if they aren't technically called...

Meet Dr. Chase: The Man Behind the Pink Panther Diabetes Books (and Much More!)

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 14 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

You may not have heard his name before, but everyone in the Diabetes Community really should know about the Colorado-based endocrinologist Dr. H. Peter Chase.Even if you don't immediately recognize his name, you might be familiar with the Pink Pan...

Tackling Diabetes: A Post-Election Policy Discussion

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 13 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Now that we're post-election and prepping for a massive political landscape shift, many in the Diabetes Community are wondering what will happen on the healthcare and medical innovation fronts. That was the topic of a recent meeting in Washington,...

Digging Into Diabetes Stigma

Dan Fleshler — Mon, 12 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Today, our correspondent Dan Fleshler (a New York-based longtime type 1, writer and media strategist) is digging into new research on diabetes stigma.Specifically, a new survey unveils the experiences of people with both types of diabetes. Dan s...

Ask D'Mine: Diabetes Happens, Indeed

Wil Dubois — Sat, 10 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, where you get all sorts of tips about navigating life with diabetes from host Wil Dubois, a professional D-clinical educator and diabetes author who's longtime type 1 himself.Today, Wil's work...

Fitbit Scraps Pebble Watch, Partners with Medtronic on T2 Diabetes App

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

It seems like just yesterday that I ventured into the diabetes do-it-yourself arena by buying a pair of Pebble watches, allowing my wife and I to connect to CGM in the Cloud to see my diabetes data with just a quick glance at our wrists.That was...

Insulog: Another New 'Smart' Insulin Pen Cap

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Smart insulin pen tech is all the rage these days.In recent years, we've seen a number of companies developing gadgets to make insulin pens smarter so they can track dosing, share that data and more. Those include Timesulin, the NovoPen Echo smart...

Using 'Word Problems' to Tackle Diabetes Access Barriers

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

At our DiabetesMine Innovation Summit in late October, we were happy to include a talk on rewards and incentives in diabetes care by the awesome Dr. Jennifer Shine Dyer, a tech-savvy pediatric endo and innovator in Ohio. She's been widely known in...

Hey, Coach! Trial-Testing the mySugr Diabetes Coaching App

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

We all need a little boost in our diabetes management now and then -- which is why just a straight-up logging or data sharing app often isn't enough. We need some hand-holding and motivation to go with these tech tools.Having been in D-burnout mo...

Small But Mighty: A Diabetes-Friendly Cocktail Mixer (with Product Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Today we're happy to introduce a small business that solves a crucial problem for many people with diabetes... You know, trying to find mixed drink options that won't raise our blood sugars the way regular cocktails typically do.Enter Be Mixed, a ...

Ask D'Mine: Wasting Insulin

Wil Dubois — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine - with your host veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil's addressing the sometimes unavoidable issue of wasting precious insulin, something that pains ...

Santa Writing Diabetes Letters for Sixth Year

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 02 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Today, as we greet the Holiday Season, we're happy to welcome D-Dad and advocate Tom Karlya to tell us all about the annual Santa letter-writing campaign in the name of diabetes. Yep, you heard right. The Florida-based Diabetes Research Institute ...

On Pharma and Employers in the Insulin Affordability Crisis

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 01 Dec 2016 08:00:00 GMT

We reported earlier this week about a landmark roundtable gathering of diabetes advocates and industry leaders in Washington D.C. to address the complex problem of insulin affordability and access here in the U.S. Coordinated by the National Diab...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: November 2016 Edition

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Here we are post-Thanksgiving, moving into the Holiday Season once more -- and wrapping up yet another November, as National Diabetes Awareness Month (NDAM).This year's NDAM has been as prolific as ever, with some interesting wins and hot topics b...

National Meeting Addresses Insulin Affordability and Access (!)

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 29 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Momentum seems to be building big time around the outrage over skyrocketing insulin prices, which are making this life-sustaining drug virtually unavailable to those who need it.In just the past several weeks, we've seen:Mainstream media coverag...

Science 37: Bringing Clinical Trials to Patients via Mobile Technology

DiabetesMine Team — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Today, we're excited to hand the 'Mine mic over to Amanda Sheldon, who for close to a decade was marketing and communications lead at Medtronic Diabetes and worked closely with our D-Community during that time. In October, Amanda joined the LA-ba...

Ask D'Mine: An Insulin Roller Coaster

Wil Dubois — Sat, 26 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil offers some thought on rapidly changing blood sugars when insulin's on board, and how that ...

Afrezza + Tresiba Insulin Options (For a Guy Who Misses Doses and Miscalculates Carbs)

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 25 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

For the past six months, I've been disconnected from my insulin pump and back on multiple daily injections (MDI). Happily, I have found two insulins that are working pretty darn well together and giving me more flexibility to manage my... D-slack...

Happy Turkey Day, Diabetes Community!

DiabetesMine Team — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Being Thanksgiving, we hope you're also taking it easy and enjoying some time off with friends and family today.Of course, our diabetes never takes a holiday, so here are a few specific "Thanksgiving and Diabetes" resources that might come in hand...

OmniPod Updates: Next-Gen Product, Safety Concerns and an Exploding Pod?

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

What an interesting time it's been recently for the tubeless insulin pump OmniPod and its parent company Insulet. From new product updates released at its first-ever Investor Day on Nov. 16, to claims about safety concerns circulating in social m...

Sernova Making Progress on Cell Pouch Diabetes Cure

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 22 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Progress continues on the so-called "biological cure," aka medical devices that can eventually be implanted under the skin to generate insulin as needed, eliminating the need for all the cumbersome blood sugar checks, carb-counting and insulin dos...

The 2016 DiabetesMine Summit - Exploring Quality of Life Innovations

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 21 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Can you focus an entire diabetes innovation event on Quality of Life? Yes, you can! In fact, it's the stuff that builds the foundation for the ever-elusive "improved health outcomes" we're all after. This was the premise behind the sixth annual...

Ask D'Mine: Turkey Day Etiquette with Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 19 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Hey All -- if you've got questions about life with diabetes, then you've come to the right place. That would be our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois.Pass the ...

AZ Diabetes Linkup: On Uniting Community Without Reinventing the Wheel

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 18 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

In case you weren't aware, AstraZeneca has joined the ranks of Pharma companies hosting forums for patient leaders, bringing in about a dozen advocates from the Diabetes Online Community (DOC) recently for their second annual "Diabetes Linkup" ev...

Type 2 Voices: How Diabetes Reunited an Uncle and Nephew

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 17 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Steve McDermott, a 50-something husband and avid runner from Minnesota, was to his surprise diagnosed with type 2 diabetes five years ago in November 2011. He stands as an example that being active is sometimes not enough to fight off diabetes. ...

WINNERS of the 2016 DiabetesMine Usability Innovation Awards

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 16 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Today we're pleased to announce the winners of the 2016 DiabetesMineTM Usability Innovation Awards – unveiled at the sixth annual DiabetesMine Innovation Summit on Oct. 28 at UC San Francisco's Mission Bay biotech campus (full event report coming ...

A Dozen Type 1 Diabetes Influencers to Know

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 15 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

On the heels of World Diabetes Day 2016, we'd like to recognize a dozen people who've made a big impact in U.S. diabetes care in recent years.If you're getting involved in the type 1 diabetes world at all, you'll undoubtedly run into the names of ...

NEWSFLASH: Google Creates Doodle for World Diabetes Day!

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Hey, have you Googled anything yet today, on World Diabetes Day 2016? If not, hop on over to Google's home page right now and check it out. We'll wait... Yup, after more than eight years of advocacy from our D-Community, Google is featuring a diab...

Ask D'Mine: Too Many Carbs?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 12 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Hey, All -- Got questions about life with diabetes? Then you've come to the right place here at our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical specialist Wil Dubois.This week, Wil tackles ...

The Seven-Day 'Fakebetes' Diabetes Experience

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 11 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

It's not every day you get a chance to help a young aspiring health professional understand what it's actually like to live with diabetes. But I got that opportunity recently with the Fakebetes Challenge, a seven-day "collaborative simulation...

Helping Doctors Utilize Nightscout -- from Romania

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

We love hearing about how the #WeAreNotWaiting movement is exploding, bringing in ever more families and adults living with diabetes creating their own tools for sharing data that make life with this disease a bit easier to manage. Today, we're e...

Diabetes in the Nation's Capital, During Election Season 2016

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 09 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

The votes have been cast and counted, and now we know who the winners and losers are in this crazy 2016 election season.But just last week, as those in the nation's capital were gearing up for the big event on Nov. 8, I was visiting Washington D...

Diabetes Technology Investor Updates: Fall 2016

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 08 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

As we've noted before, one of the best ways to find out what's new and hot in diabetes technology is to follow the quarterly "earnings calls" that D-companies hold to update investors on product pipelines and near-term business projections. They'...

The Fall 2016 Diabetes D-Data ExChange - Story of Biblical Proportions

Wil Dubois and the DiabetesMine Team — Mon, 07 Nov 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Remember that bible story of the whole walls-came-tumbling-down thing at a little place called Jericho? Well, I'm hardly a biblical scholar, but I recall that the walls didn't fall the first time the Israelite army blew their trumpets: It was the ...

Ask D'Mine: Daylight Savings and Diabetes?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 05 Nov 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil ponders time itself... especially considering we have once again hit that twice-a-year c...

Boyfriend of Longtime Type 1 Becomes Afrezza Champion

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 04 Nov 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our periodic Partner Follies series here at the 'Mine, in which we feature guest posts by spouses, partners and loved ones of PWDs (people with diabetes), sharing their POVs on having diabetes in their lives.Please welcome Steve Jo...

Diabetes Challenges Music Videos (!) from the 2016 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 03 Nov 2016 07:00:00 GMT

If you've been following our Facebook page for the past few days, you may have noticed we've shared a trio of brief videos created for our recent DiabetesMine Innovation Summit in San Francisco.These newest Patient Voices snippets build on our "Un...

Questioning the Effectiveness of Diabetes Awareness Month

Dan Fleshler — Wed, 02 Nov 2016 07:00:00 GMT

With the start of November, we welcome another National Diabetes Awareness Month (NDAM). But don't you ever wonder how effective all of this "awareness month" activity really is? We sure do, so we asked our own Dan Fleshler to look into it. (Dan...

What's Happening for Diabetes Awareness Month and World Diabetes Day 2016

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 01 Nov 2016 07:00:00 GMT

November is upon us -- the time of year when "all eyes are on diabetes" for National Diabetes Awareness Month and World Diabetes Day on Nov. 14. That day was chosen in honor of Dr. Frederick Banting, the co-discoverer of insulin back in 1921, w...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: October 2016 Boo Edition

DiabetesMine Team — Mon, 31 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We're just about to hit November, the big National Diabetes Awareness Month! But before we do, let's all take a moment to appreciate what this past month of October has brought us from the Diabetes Online Community (DOC). Despite today's Hallowee...

Ask D'Mine: Scary Plea on... Diabetes and Not Trying

Wil Dubois — Sat, 29 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Boo, Diabetes Community! Once again we're greeting Halloween along with all of our pancreatically-challenged friends.You got it, Folks -- with Oct. 31 just around the corner, this week we bring you the annual FEAR Edition of our diabetes advice...

2016 DiabetesMine Challenges MATRIX Report: Patients Rate Tools & Services

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 28 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

You may remember that last Fall, we introduced something called the DiabetesMine Challenges Matrix®, a new way of mapping the diabetes care landscape with a focus on the needs of people with diabetes (PWDs) and their caregivers. In essence, it'...

The Fall 2016 D-Data ExChange and DiabetesMine Innovation Summit!

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We've been talking about it for months, and now it's finally here! Today our team is at UC San Francisco's state-of-the-art biotech campus, where we're hosting the Fall 2016 DiabetesMine D-Data ExChange (Thursday, Oct. 27) and 2016 DiabetesMine...

Thirty Years at Novo Nordisk

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 26 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

It's always good to keep in touch with the leadership at big diabetes companies, to understand their POV.That's why we were happy to be introduced to Camille Lee in April at the Novo-sponsored DOC forum in Phoenix, that brought a couple dozen diab...

CheckB4U Drive Hitting Gas Pedal on Teen Diabetes Driving School

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 25 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

It all began with a racecar driver in Minnesota. About a decade ago, a marketing businessman met a D-Dad in the Twin Cities area with a T1D son. That father was Bill Hansen and his son, Todd Hansen, was a professional stock car driver in the AR...

Your Diabetes Voter's Guide for Election 2016

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 24 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Thankfully, this maddening election season is almost over.We're all pretty sick and tired of the rhetoric, heading into the big presidential contest on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016.Still, those of us in the pancreatically-challenged community are inevita...

Ask D'Mine: Smokin' Cigars with Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 22 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Hey there, Diabetes Friends! Welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine. I'm your friendly host, Wil Dubois -- a longtime type 1 diagnosed as an adult who happens to write about diabetes and work as a clinical diabetes specialist in New...

A Potential $1 Million for Diabetes Causes ⎯ Love You, Revlon!

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 21 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Have you heard about the program cosmetics company Revlon has launched that could provide a whopping $1 million or more to some awesome charity groups in our Diabetes Community? Yep, it's true! Now in its second year, the Revlon LOVE IS ON 2...

Throwback Thursday: Shotgun Injections and a Palm Pilot-Style Glucose Meter!

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Since our team is busy preparing for our DiabetesMine D-Data ExChange and 2016 Innovation Summit at the end of next week, we thought this would be a nice moment for a little "Throwback Thursday" reminding us of just how far diabetes technology has...

FDA Finalizes New Guidelines for Better Glucose Meter Accuracy

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 19 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

At long last, the FDA has finally signed off on new rules that call for more accurate glucose meters and test strips!On Oct. 11, the regulatory agency issued two sets of guidance, laying out new standards for meters used in clinical settings and a...

Following the Money Trail on Insulin Prices

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 18 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Of course we've been closely following the hot topic of high insulin prices, hoping to find some answers about how to best address this quagmire. We've reported here about The Human Cost of High Insulin Prices and heard the Insulin Makers' Respons...

'Sweet Blessings' Book Review (Giveaway, And a Little Diabetes Alert Dog, Too!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 17 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Walking through the exhibit hall at a diabetes conference earlier this year, I came across a little white puffball of a dog who immediately captured my attention. I learned that this multi-poo (cross between a maltese and toy poodle) is a 12-year-...

Ask D'Mine: Stubborn Husbands with Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 15 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Hey, All -- if you've got questions about life with diabetes, then you've come to the right place! That would be our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical specialist Wil Dubois.This we...

Talking Diabetes with Country Music Star Eric Paslay

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 14 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We've said it before and it's worth repeating: There must be something in the water that brings together people with diabetes and country music talent!Our Diabetes Community has a roster of talented singers and songwriters in many different forms ...

Roche Gets Creative with New Accu-Chek Guide Meter and Strips

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Every once in a while, a new glucose meter is introduced that really "steps outside the box" and offers something unique.That seems to be the case with the newest meter from Roche Diabetes Care, Accu-Chek Guide, offering some great practical featu...

Diabetes Educators Org Embraces Technology: Meet Crystal Broj

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 12 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Yesterday we announced that both the ADA (American Diabetes Association) and the AADE (American Association of Diabetes Educators) are finally making diabetes technology a top priority -- both having recently hired new heads of Technology and ...

ADA and AADE Dive into Diabetes Technology: Meet Jane Chiang

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 11 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

It may seem a bit overdue on their parts, but we're happy to announce that both the ADA (American Diabetes Association) and the AADE (American Association of Diabetes Educators) are finally making diabetes technology a top priority. Both have rece...

NEWSFLASH: Tandem Diabetes Announces Next-Gen Tech and Upgrade Program

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

News update for October 2016 about the new Tandem t:slim x2 insulin pump, that that can be remotely updated from home.

Ask D'Mine: What the Liver Can Do, and International Insulin

Wil Dubois — Sat, 08 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil takes a look at the wonders of the liver, and how despite its many talents, it cannot mag...

Through the Diabetes Looking Glass...

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Today, Certified Diabetes Educator Elisabeth Almekinder joins us from coastal North Carolina, where she's been helping PWDs (people with diabetes) for a couple decades now, but her historic perspective on diabetes goes back much farther...As a chi...

Insulin Pump Hacking Risk in Animas OneTouch Ping? (Don't Worry)

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

News is swirling over fresh revelations that the Animas OneTouch Ping insulin pump is at risk for hacking, with the manufacturer issuing a reassuring letter to patients that includes tips about reducing the cybersecurity risk.On Tuesday Oct. 4, Jn...

T1D Exchange Making Waves in Diabetes Innovation

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 05 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

If you're living with type 1 diabetes and you're not familiar with the T1D Exchange -- well, you should be! This well-funded and forward-thinking organization is taking the bull by the horns, so to speak, in advancing T1D care and research.Born ou...

Patient Voices Winner Sarah Mart: A Diabetes Sister in Advocacy!

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 04 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Today we present the final interview of the season with our 2016 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship winners, who'll be representing the patient community at our annual Innovation Summit later this month.Last not least of the 10 winners, we'r...

Media Matters: Election Season and the Health Rumor Mill

Dan Fleshler — Mon, 03 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Please welcome back New York-based longtime type 1, writer, media strategist and periodic 'Mine correspondent Dan Fleshler, with another take on hot topics in the news...The health of national leaders has made headlines in this election season, ...

Ask D'Mine: A Penis Diabetes Diagnosis?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 01 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Hey All -- if you've got questions about life with diabetes, then you've come to the right place! That would be our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical specialist Wil Dubois.Today, W...

NEWSFLASH: FDA Approves Medtronic 670G As First-Ever Hybrid Closed Loop!

Mike Hoskins and Amy Tenderich — Thu, 29 Sep 2016 19:00:00 GMT

Wow, what a huge moment for the Diabetes Community!On Wednesday, the FDA approved Medtronic's Minimed 670G, the first-ever "hybrid closed loop system" that can automatically monitor glucose and adjust basal insulin doses in people 14 years of ag...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: September 2016 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 29 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

After a busy summer in the Diabetes Community (as always), we find ourselves transitioning into Fall with just as much activity online! Indeed, the diabetes blogosphere is bristling full of great posts as diverse and colorful as the season's ch...

Way Back When... Insulin Was Cheap (And Then It Wasn't)

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 28 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

In light of all the outrage over high insulin costs these days, we thought it would be interesting (to say the least!) to take a "Wayback Wednesday" walk through the history of this topic in the US...In the Beginning Remember those guys who actual...

Patient Voices Winner Sophia Walker: A 'Diabetes Tech Evangelist' in England

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 27 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to another visit with our 2016 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship winners, who'll be representing the patient community at our annual Innovation Summit in San Francisco next month.Today we're introducing Sophia Walker, a longtime ty...

Google Diving Into Diabetes with New Sanofi Joint Venture Onduo

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 26 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We knew Google was interested in diabetes -- with their glucose-sensing contact lens project and CGM development agreement with Dexcom announced last year. But now they've jumped in with both feet, so to speak, launching a whole new company! Excit...

Ask D'Mine: Eyebrow-Raising Insulin Use?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 24 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Got questions about life with diabetes? So do we! That's why we offer our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil answers a question about taking large...

Diabetes UnConference Hits the Atlantic City Boardwalk

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 23 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Even a few weeks after the Diabetes UnConference in Atlantic City, I'm still having a tough time getting my head around how my heart feels about the experience.There was quite the tidal wave of emotions there, and many of us were blinking back wha...

Insulin Makers Respond to Outrage Over Skyrocketing Prices

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

In our continuing coverage of the #DiabetesAccessMatters advocacy campaign combating high insulin costs and insurance woes... Outrage over inflated EpiPen costs continues to escalate as Congress is now investigating price-gouging of medication, an...

All-In-One Dario Meter Is iPhone 7 Ready

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 21 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Hey, you must have heard that a new iPhone is out!Yep, Apple's iPhone 7 made big headlines this month -- particularly with the controversial hardware change eliminating the headphone jack in favor of a "Lightning" charging port and Bluetooth audio...

Patient Voices Winner Jonathan Davis Talks Diabetes Tech, Costs and Access Advocacy

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Next up in our series of interviews with the 2016 Patient Voices Winners (who'll be joining us on scholarship for this year's DiabetesMine Innovation Summit in San Francisco next month) is longtime advocate Jonathan Davis from Chicago.He's been l...

Glooko & Diasend Merge to Create Largest Diabetes Data Platform

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Big changes in the diabetes data-sharing world! Last week, news broke that California-based Glooko and Sweden-based Diasend would be merging into a new unified company, creating the largest and most dominant force in diabetes data-sharing platf...

Ask D'Mine: Glucose Meter Diversity, and the Future of Fingersticks

Wil Dubois — Sat, 17 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil responds to a couple device-specific questions -- about the universally-frustrating concern...

Bracelet Buddy: Great Little Medical ID Hack

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Cue my obsession with (medical ID) jewelry... But the one thing I can't abide is the way I always struggle to get medical ID bracelets clipped on my own wrist.When I did a review of sports medical ID alert bands recently, I mentioned having to pra...

A New Age of Mobile Diabetes Education and Coaching

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Say hello to the mobile app universe of diabetes coaching, where all you have to do is look to your smartphone to get the kind of diabetes advice and counseling that once was limited to expensive and time-consuming in-clinic visits.Hello, 2016.Dia...

Lyfebulb: A Rocky Path to Encouraging Diabetes Patient Entrepreneurs

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 14 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Have you heard of Lyfebulb? It's a unique New York-based organization devoted to encouraging entrepreneurship in diabetes -- just up our alley! They've just announced an Innovation Awards program in collaboration with Novo Nordisk "to spotlight ou...

Patient Voices Winner Polina Bryson: D-Mom and Gluten Free Advocate Extraordinaire

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 13 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to another visit with our 2016 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship winners, who'll be representing the patient community at our annual Innovation Summit in San Francisco this October.Today we're talking with Polina Bryson, a healthcar...

DiabetesMine's End of Summer '16 Swag Giveaway

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 12 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We are quickly approaching the end of Summer '16, but that doesn't mean we have to say goodbye to the warmer weather or outdoor fun just yet -- so here's a chance to win some End of Summer Swag, of the T-shirt variety!Today, we're excited to offer...

Ask D'Mine: Halting Your Meds and Training Your Own Alert Dog?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 10 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical diabetes specialist Wil Dubois.This week, Wil offers some thoughts on two questions from opposite ends of the diabetes univers...

Patient Voices Winner Josef Dov Sokolsky on Type 2 Diabetes and Bipolar Disorder

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 09 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Next up in our series of interviews with the 2016 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship winners is Josef Dov Sokolsky from Florida, who was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in his late '30s back in 1999.Josef has a unique POV, as he lives with bot...

The Human Cost of Unaffordable Insulin and Diabetes Supplies

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 08 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

On a recent sunny afternoon in Southeast Michigan, I witnessed ugly proof of the extreme circumstances many in our Diabetes Community are being forced into thanks to the escalating cost of diabetes medications and supplies. It all happened in...

Media Matters: Can Pokémon Go Make a Dent in Diabetes?

Dan Fleshler — Wed, 07 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Please welcome back Dan Fleshler, New York-based longtime type 1, writer, media strategist and periodic correspondent here at the 'Mine, with another take on hot topics in the diabetes news. The whole Pokémon Go craze has captivated the country ...

FDA Workshop: 'A Lovefest of Unanimous Agreement' in Moving Beyond A1C

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 06 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

As fellow type 1 advocate Anna McCollister-Slipp sat in a public workshop held by the U.S. FDA at the end of August, her heart swelled with emotion and tears came to her eyes.Finally, FDA decision-makers were looking beyond just A1C lab results w...

Working Like a Dog (to Sniff Out Blood Sugars!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 05 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Labor Day, Everyone!Or as us dog owners love to say, "Happy Labrador Day!" :)We're taking it easy over this three-day weekend, especially since I'll be heading out to the Diabetes UnConference in Atlantic City next weekend. But of course, ti...

Ask D'Mine: On Donating Blood or Organs with Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 03 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Who's Up for a New 'Fit With Diabetes Challenge'?

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 02 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

If you're living with diabetes and interested in taking on a new challenge to help you get fit and energized, then say hello to a brand new initiative called the Fit with Diabetes Challenge!This is a unique six-week educational program starting Se...

Patient Voices Winner Cassie Moffitt on School Nursing and Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 01 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Today we're happy to introduce another of our 2016 Patient Voices Scholarship Winners, who'll be joining us for this year's DiabetesMine Innovation Summit in San Francisco at the end of October. Say hello to Cassie Moffitt in Austin, TX, a longt...

How AADE 2016 Got Its Groove On (with Product News!)

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

A bit belated, but still worth the read, we promise! Here's our coverage of the 2016 AADE (American Association of Diabetes Educators) annual meeting that took place in San Diego Aug. 12-15: Maybe it was the non-stop sunshine… maybe it was the ro...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: August 2016 Edition

DiabetesMine Team — Tue, 30 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

As we wind down the summer of 2016, our diabetes blogging radar has been lighting up with all the outstanding posts from around the Diabetes Online Community (DOC).Note that this was a very emotional month, with births, deaths, and a heavy helping...

Miss America 2017 Could Be a T1D!

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 29 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

In some ways, it's like deja vu. For the third time in history, a young woman with type 1 diabetes is competing for the Miss America crown, and in the coming weeks will be seen wearing her pump and CGM on the national pageant stage.As unthinkable ...

Ask D'Mine: Diabetes Hospital Horror Stories

Wil Dubois — Sat, 27 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil offers some thoughts to a scared D-peep who's in the hospital for unrelated health issues,...

Going Paleo with Diabetes?

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

The article we published about "going Paleo with diabetes" in 2013 has been one of our most-searched posts for the past three years. And guess what? It needed some updating... which we've now completed with pride.The result is a comprehensive arti...

Insulin Infusion Tech Gets a Shot in the Arm

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 24 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

You might call it the dawn of a new era in infusion set technology. Starting in September, people with diabetes in the U.S. will have access to insulin pump connection apparatus different from anything we've seen before -- designed to curb the num...

Patient Voices Winner Kayla Brown Climbs High on Diabetes Advocacy, Innovation and Memes

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 23 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the 4th in our series of interviews with the 2016 Patient Voices Scholarship Winners -- 10 advocates selected to join us on scholarship for this year's DiabetesMine Innovation Summit in San Francisco in a couple of months.Please greet t...

On the Paleo Diet and Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 23 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

The Paleo Diet, otherwise known as the "Caveman Diet," is hugely popular at the moment. And lots of folks want to know how it plays with diabetes... The DiabetesMine Team has taken a deep dive here into what this eating plan entails, and what nu...

New T1D Booklets Perfect for Back to School (with Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Just in time for the back to school season comes a new book series catering specifically to kids with type 1 diabetes in certain age groups -- along with their caregivers and the newly diagnosed In early July, JDRF and Novo Nordisk announced a ...

Ask D'Mine: Call Your Doctor, Not the Internet (For This)

Wil Dubois — Sat, 20 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Manipulating My A1C and Looking Beyond That Number

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 19 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

As my endo read through the medical chart at a recent appointment, I sat there anxiously waiting for him to tell me my latest A1C. He scanned the notes and rattled off bits of information about prescriptions, before getting to the meat and potat...

Medtrum, the Tubeless Artificial Pancreas You've Never Heard Of

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Closed loop technology is no longer a pipe dream, with the first of these next-generation systems set to hit market within a year or two.Here at the 'Mine, we've written about the well-known Artificial Pancreas systems and the lesser-known ones li...

New Smart Insulin Pens Making it to Market

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 17 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

In this time of excitement around the acceleration of diabetes technology, it's not all about the Artificial Pancreas. Even the insulin pen injection devices that many of us use are getting smarter, with built-in Bluetooth allowing users to track ...

Patient Voices Winner Mariana Gomez Spreads Diabetes Awareness from Mexico

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 16 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

The next of our 2016 Patient Voices Contest Winners we'd like to introduce is a woman who's not only been living with type 1 diabetes for more than three decades, but is also an esteemed diabetes educator making a difference in the lives of many P...

Florida D-Mom: Teen Son with Type 1 Has Olympic Triathlon Hopes

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 15 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

With the Olympic Summer Games going on in Rio, many have athletic achievements and aspirations on the mind. In our own Diabetes Community, it's great to hear news of T1 Olympic swimmer Matheus Santana from Brazil competing, among other PWDs (peopl...

Ask D'Mine: On Guard Over Gardasil (and the Possible Diabetes Connection)

Wil Dubois — Sat, 13 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, DiabetesMine Friends!Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column Ask D'Mine, hosted by the esteemed Wil Dubois who's not only living with type 1 diabetes himself but also an established diabetes author and community educato...

NEWSFLASH: Medtronic Launches New Minimed 630G System

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 12 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

A new Medtronic insulin pump is now available in the United States, introducing a new design and color-screen as part of a complete makeover to these diabetes devices that have fundamentally looked the same for 30 years!Say hello to the Minimed 63...

Investor Updates: Diabetes Technology Tidbits Mid-2016

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 11 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

One of the best ways to find out what's new and hot in diabetes technology is to follow the industry's "earnings calls." These quarterly webcast sessions are designed to update investors on product pipelines and how business is expected to go ...

Global Diabetes: Talking with the Only Endo in Bermuda

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 10 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We continue roaming the planet to bring you accounts of diabetes care in various countries for our Global Diabetes series. Today, we're happy to share the story of Dr. Annabel Fountain, who happens to be the one and only endocrinologist in Bermuda...

Patient Voices Winner Molly Schreiber Advocates Beyond Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 09 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Next up in our series of interviews with the winners of our 2016 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship Contest is a Baltimore woman who's been at this type 1 game for more than a quarter-century and comes from family line of T1Ds stretching back...

Lawsuit: U.S. Army Programs Discriminate Against Kids With Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 08 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

The American Diabetes Association has joined a California family in suing the U.S. Army, challenging a nationwide policy they say discriminates against type 1 kids by preventing them from participating in summer camps, daycare programs, and before...

Ask D'Mine: Forgot My Insulin... and I'm on Vacation!

Wil Dubois — Sat, 06 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Need help navigating life with diabetes? You can always Ask D'Mine! Welcome again to our weekly Q&A column, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil has some advice on what to do if you're heading off...

More Advocacy Happening on #DiabetesAccessMatters

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 05 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

In the three months since health insurance giant United Health Care made the controversial decision to offer only Medtronic insulin pumps to its customers and limit coverage on other brands, our Diabetes Community has been hard at work figuring ou...

Diabetes Advocate Gets INSPIRED for Women

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Finding inspiring stories with diabetes is, well... always inspiring.Today, we're excited to introduce a woman actually producing a video series called INSPIRED, aimed at motivating women to do anything and everything (while embracing a love for v...

Patient Voices Winner Randall Barker Advocates for Himself and Daughter with Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 03 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Congrats again to the 10 winners of our 2016 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship Contest, announced earlier this summer! Over the next several weeks, we'll be featuring an interview with each, delving into their stories and POVs on the impact...

Do You Consider Diabetes a Disability? Inquiring Minds Want to Know

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

I don't like to think of myself as being "disabled" just because I happen to be living with type 1 diabetes. But legally I am, per definitions within the American Disabilities Act (ADA). So, I force myself to accept that label for purposes of pr...

The Guy Bringing a New Type 1 Diabetes Focus to ADA (!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 07:00:00 GMT

When it comes to people who've earned the designation of Amazing Advocate in our ongoing series here at the 'Mine, Paul Madden is a natural fit. Without a doubt, he's one of the most influential diabetes advocates of our time, who's become an insp...

Ask D'Mine: Fear and Denial of Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 30 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: July 2016 Edition

DiabetesMine Team — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Here we are at the end of another July, and the heat's been on this past month! Not only in the outside temps across much of the States, but also here in the Diabetes Online Community (DOC).Yep, there have been some hot topics afoot -- from big...

FDA Panel: Dexcom CGM as Good as Fingersticks for Treating Diabetes

Dan Fleshler — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Last week on July 21, an FDA panel held a day-long meeting to consider whether the latest Dexcom continuous glucose monitor generation is safe and effective enough to be used for insulin dosing and related diabetes treatment decisions -- without t...

A Bad Bite and Real-Person Sick -- with Diabetes on Board

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 26 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

A key takeaway from the recent diabetes advocacy MasterLab was how we need to look out for No. 1. That sounds bad, but it really just means that we must first care of ourselves in order to be in a position to help the rest of the community.As fat...

Country Singer RaeLynn Talks Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

There must be something in the air when it comes to country singers and songwriters with diabetes...That is, we seem to have a plethora of them in our pancreatically-challenged community, including young country star RaeLynn, who's been living wit...

Ask D'Mine: The Diabetes Standards of Care... and My Heresy

Wil Dubois — Sat, 23 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Hot Tips for Roadtripping / Camping with Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Please say howdy once again to Dana Howe, a recent graduate student in Health Communication from Tufts University who's had type 1 since age 8. She also comes from a family of type 1s (her dad and mom's dad are T1D too), and she happens to be an...

NEWSFLASH: Bigfoot to Kick Off Closed Loop Clinical Trial!

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 21 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Big news in the world of closed loop research is being announced today.OK, make that "Bigfoot" news... as in Bigfoot Biomedical, the closed loop (aka artificial pancreas system) startup based in Milpitas, CA, led by the D-Dad trio of former JDRF l...

The Unspeakably Wonderful Girl Who Grew Up (Thanks to Insulin)

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 20 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

History remembers Elizabeth Hughes as one of the first people ever to be treated with insulin back in the 1920s -- a landmark time when the discovery of this magic liquid suddenly meant that a diagnosis was no longer a guaranteed death sentence.Bu...

Start Your Engine1... New Mobile App for Exercise Planning with T1D

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 19 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

The tricky balance of diabetes-food-nutrition-exercise effects is "the last frontier that hasn't yet been conquered," according to longtime type 1 triathlete and advocate Cliff Scherb. His solution? Create an app for that! Say hello to the newly...

Dosing Insulin Off CGM Data

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 18 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Despite what the powers-that-be mandate, I often use my Dexcom continuous glucose monitor results to make insulin dosing decisions... without doing a fingerstick to confirm the results.((Enter gasps here))According to FDA regulators and physicians...

Ask D'Mine: Insulin By Any Other Name...

Wil Dubois — Sat, 16 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome back to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil reflects on varying names for insulin in different countries, even if they're pretty ...

Insulin for Syrians with Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 15 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Access to insulin is a hot topic for many in the United States, but our struggles here pale in comparison to what those with diabetes in developing countries face every single day.A few years ago, we introduced the #Insulin4All initiative created ...

MasterLab 2016: A Different Approach to Diabetes Advocacy

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 14 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

One fellow type 1 in Georgia plans to create a non-profit group that will host comedy shows to raise money for diabetes supplies for those who can't otherwise afford them. Another T1D advocate from Illinois wants to set up web hubs at free health ...

A First-Timer's View of the Friends For Life Diabetes Fest

Wil Dubois — Wed, 13 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

This year marks the 17th anniversary of Friends For Life, the annual diabetes fest hosted at the Orlando Disney World Resort by the non-profit Children with Diabetes, with the 2016 event wrapping up last week. While the conference started off serv...

Diabetes and Ice Cream: Yes, We Can!

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 12 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

The other day, after a casual dinner at home, my wife and I went out for ice cream.We'd opted to leave the air-conditioned safety of our home on this 90+ degree day, to head for an ice cream parlor that's just a short stroll from our house.As we ...

The Rocket Science Behind Diabetes GrifGrips Stickers (with Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 11 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

When Griffin Jordan was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes a few years ago, his parents Patrick and Stephanie wanted nothing more than to make sure their 9-year-old son could keep up his active lifestyle.That eventually prompted them to leave rocket s...

Ask D'Mine: How Insulin on Board (IOB) is Like an IOU

Wil Dubois — Sat, 09 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

If we had a dollar for every time "What the heck??" was uttered in managing diabetes, we'd probably have enough funds to find the cure ourselves! Luckily, we thrive on the never-ending mysteries of diabetes here at our weekly advice column, Ask ...

Endo Appointment Anxiety

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 08 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Going to the doctor's office can often be a nail-biting experience for those of us with diabetes.Visiting our endocrinologists and diabetes specialists often brings an anxiety that's tough to describe, but today our fellow blogger and team member ...

Joslin's Technology Leader Starting New Innovation Chapter

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 07 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

For nearly three decades, Dr. Howard Wolpert has been the man behind technology and innovation at Boston's legendary Joslin Diabetes Center. For those who may not be as hip to his name, Dr. Wolpert built the insulin pump and technology program ...

Trial-Testing Medtronic's 670G Hybrid Closed Loop System

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We've heard the big news that Medtronic has filed with the U.S. FDA its much-anticipated hybrid closed loop system, which is expected to be the first "pre-artificial pancreas" system to hit market sometime in 2017. At the ADA's 76th Scientific Ses...

Media Matters: The Feud Over Heart Risk Lowering Diabetes Drugs

Dan Fleshler — Tue, 05 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

It may not surprise you to hear that pharma companies are grappling over whose diabetes drug lowers cardiovascular risk most.We're happy to turn the mic over to Dan Fleshler today for the latest in our Media Matters series, in which he looks at t...

Happy Fourth of July, Diabetes-Style

DiabetesMine Team — Mon, 04 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Independence Day, Diabetes Community!We're taking it easy this July 4th, as Amy is vacationing with her family on their annual summer visit to Europe, while Mike is resting up at home with family and friends before traveling to Orlando this ...

Ask D'Mine: Call for a Revolution in Healthcare Access and Choice

Wil Dubois — Sat, 02 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week we have a special edition, given the Fourth of July holiday is upon us and many are reflecting on independence, free...

Hulk Smashing Diabetes... Breaking Down My 8 Types of Anger

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 01 Jul 2016 07:00:00 GMT

There used to be times when I'd get very angry about diabetes.So angry in fact, that I'd want to reach inside my body and rip out my useless pancreas in order to Hulk Smash it into a wall.Being diagnosed as a young kid, my rebellious teenage yea...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: June 2016 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 30 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

It's a busy summer season as always between the major diabetes conferences, Father's Day, summer D-camps, and much more.So naturally, we have a bunch of great posts to highlight from the past month!Here, in no particular order, are some of our rec...

Remembering Diabetes Advocate Kitty Castellini

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 29 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

To those who knew her best, Kitty Castellini was a lover of bologna, a practical joker and passionate Disney fan -- not to mention a devoted mom and wife who had a quick wit and fiesty personality, along with (believe it or not) expertise in explo...

What's Happening in Response to #DiabetesAccessMatters

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Getting the diabetes technology and medications that work best for each of us is becoming more difficult. Our access and choices are slowly being stripped away.And sadly, we're convinced there's little that can be done to halt that trend.Nearly tw...

Diabetes Cure Talk: Research Updates from ADA 2016

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 27 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We're still catching our breath following the American Diabetes Association's huge 76th Scientific Sessions conference in New Orleans, where diabetes tech and treatments and other science took center stage. So what about cure research, you may as...

Sunday Funnies: January - June 2016

DiabetesMine | Comics from Community — Sun, 26 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

« See newer comics Sunday Funnies: If Hollywood Went Diabetes... Published June 27, 2016 The mid-year movie season could look quite different, you know... We'd totally hit Fandango for those titles, wouldn't you?!Thanks to the talented Brad Slai...

Ask D'Mine: Let's Talk About Sex and Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 25 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil is taking his column to the bedroom, talking about how diabetes can interfere when you're ...

Diabetes as an Art Form: Glucose Data Sculptures Inspire

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Justus Harris, type 1 diabetes since age 14, is a graduate and portfolio evaluator for the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, internationally exhibiting artist and technologist passionate about 3D printed sculpture and data visualization f...

Diabetes Technology Breakthroughs at the June 2016 D-Data ExChange

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 23 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Something big happened at the June 2016 DiabetesMine D-Data ExChange forum in New Orleans. Some said it simply felt like making D-history, while others described it as an "inflection point" that will be remembered for years to come… Essentially...

Makeup Artist Uses Bodypaint for Diabetes Self-Expression

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 22 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Ever wondered what a ketone looks like? Or what it might resemble if it were a human being?Just ask Alexys Fleming, a type 1 in Chicago who was diagnosed at age 13 about a decade ago.She has an idea, because this 20-something has actually painted ...

From Worst to Best (Glucose Meter) Case Scenario

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Not long ago, I wrote a whole treatise on the importance of medical device carry case design – how the functionality and aesthetics of the way we schlep these tools through life makes all the difference. At the time, I was already in talks with...

Afrezza Update: Giving Inhaled Insulin a Second Try, As MannKind Re-Launches

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

I'm not afraid to say that I like to inhale.My Afrezza inhaled insulin, that is.I've gotten past my initial reservations about this novel type of powdered insulin and have been giving it another try over the past month, after taking a much-needed ...

Ask D'Mine: Fathers Rock (Or Try To!)

Wil Dubois — Sat, 18 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy impending Father's Day. Which is tomorrow.In honor of this yearly day celebrating dads, we have a special edition of our weekly diabetes advice column Ask D'Mine. Here I am, your host Wil Dubois -- someone who's been living with type 1 di...

Diabetes Partner Follies: A Quirky Approach to Marriage and Motherhood with Type 1

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 17 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our periodic Partner Follies series here at the 'Mine, in which we feature guest posts by spouses and loved ones of PWDs sharing their own POVs on diabetes.Today, we're excited to welcome Nicki Nichols, who's married to a longtime ...

2016 ADA Scientific Sessions: Diabetes Product and Biz News

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 16 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

As per usual, the 2016 American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions conference was... overwhelming. Set in super-humid New Orleans this year and peppered by thunderstorms that soaked hotel-hopping conference-goers, this annual gathering of ov...

A Walk Through Diabetes History (On Display at ADA 2016)

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 15 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

So much is new and exciting from the American Diabetes Association's 76th Scientific Sessions in New Orleans...But of course this just ONE SINGLE YEAR of science, technology, healthcare trends and policy, emerging after decades of history. Diabete...

ADA Scientific Sessions 2016: The Science!

Amy Tenderich and Mike Hoskins — Tue, 14 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Whew -- we're just returning from the gi-normous annual ADA Scientific Sessions, that took place in New Orleans this year. And like you all, we're watching all the mainstream media coverage with great interest. Obviously, folks who don't live with...

Little Lisette, The Diabetic Deep Sea Diver (Kids Book Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 13 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We all know that diabetes is challenging and sometimes scary, so we love how many kids' books take positive spins to make it a more palatable and even fun topic.That's why we're excited to see a new children's book from fellow D-peep Carrie Hether...

Ask D'Mine: Tick Tock, Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 11 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil is watching the clock... on a couple of questions related to the topic of time, that is. H...

ADA 2016 Conference Kickoff and the DiabetesMine D-Data ExChange!

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 10 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Today marks the start of the American Diabetes Associations' 76th annual Scientific Sessions, taking place this year in New Orleans -- and also our Summer 2016 DiabetesMine D-Data ExChange, happening now!As you all surely know, ADA's giant annual ...

Diabetes Exercise Expert Honored, Launching Academy

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 09 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Whenever we think diabetes and exercise, Sheri Colberg-Ochs immediately comes to mind. A longtime diabetes educator, researcher and author, this woman knows what she's talking about given her own five decades with type 1 maintaining a highly activ...

Talking Sense to Real Men (with Diabetes) During Men's Health Month

Wil Dubois — Wed, 08 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Well, happy frickin' Men's Health Month.Yep, it's June. This month-long awareness-a-thon, sponsored by a Congressional health educational program, is designed to raise awareness about men's health issues, and encourage men to focus more on their...

Beyond Diabetes Devices - Weaving Coaching Into D-Tools

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 07 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Thankfully, companies aren't just making straight-up gadgets anymore for helping us manage our diabetes. They're increasingly realizing that adding health coaches, clinical advisors and educator insights as part of the package make all the differe...

Washington State First Responder Creating Glucose Necklace

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 06 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Kris Maynard remembers that pivotal moment when a low blood sugar stopped him in his tracks and had his loved ones frantic.The 39-year-old type 1 from Spokane, WA, was diagnosed roughly 16 years ago, when he was a young man serving in the military...

Ask D'Mine: The Right to Refuse, and Choosing Medications

Wil Dubois — Sat, 04 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

WINNERS ANNOUNCED: The 2016 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Contest

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the results of our 2016 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Contest!We'd like to thank EVERYONE who entered the contest and supported this effort -- not least this year's guest judge, blogger and outspoken advocate Christel Aprigliano.Our team ...

Still Fighting for Diabetes School Safety

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 02 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

The school year's coming to a close for most in the U.S., but that doesn't mean the battles for safety in school settings are over.We've seen recent headlines about diabetes parents' heated conflicts with public and private schools across the coun...

The Story of Inhaled Insulin (So Far)

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 07:00:00 GMT

"Wait, you can inhale insulin? Isn't that something you have to inject?"Good question! And the answer is that until very recently, shots were the only way to administer insulin. But an inhalable version of this life-sustaining drug has been in the...

Driving in the Fast Lane with Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 31 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

For the first time in several years, I wasn't able to make it to the Indianapolis 500 race this past weekend -- which is a real bummer since it was the historic 100th anniversary of this iconic race.There was good reason, as I was attending my you...

A Comparative Look at Medical Sports ID Bands (with Big Giveaway!)

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 30 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

You're heading out for a workout... and of course, diabetes is going with you. Aside from the essential planning around glucose levels and insulin on board, probably the most important thing to remember is to have some form of visible medical ID o...

Ask D'Mine: Give Me Insulin Or Give Me Death

Wil Dubois — Sat, 28 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil offers some thoughts on diabetes management when insulin isn't on board... at least, when ...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: May 2016 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 27 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Here we are at the end of the fifth month of 2016, which is simply amazing - how quickly this year is going by! Of course, the summer months bring a bevy of diabetes conference activity and we're excited about that, but it's already been a busy...

Bio-Inspired Artificial Pancreas, with Jedi Master Yoda on Board

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 26 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

If Yoda from Star Wars can use a closed loop system to manage diabetes, then anyone can become a "Jedi-like master" of their D-health, right? Believe it or not, that's the pitch for a new Artificial Pancreas system being developed in England. Of ...

The Other Big D (as in Vitamin D)

Wil Dubois — Wed, 25 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Today, our D'Mine columnist and correspondent Wil Dubois takes a real close look at an essential component of our health that most of us never think about. "But I spend a lot of time outdoors," I told my endo. She fixed me with a steely gaze. "A...

First-Ever "Bolus & Barbells" Diabetes Bodybuilding Event

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 24 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Today we're delighted to introduce Rodney Miller, a longtime type 1 in Texas who's starting a first-of-its-kind diabetes program focused on weightlifting and bodybuilding.The 32-year-old was diagnosed almost three decades ago, and after years of n...

Media Matters: Low-Carb Wars and the Ketogenic Diet

Dan Fleshler — Mon, 23 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Our periodic correspondent Dan Fleshler is a New York-based writer, media strategist and longtime type 1. Like the rest of us, he struggles with finding the right balance of foods to eat. In his latest take on hot topics in diabetes news, today he...

Ask D'Mine: Whose Insulin Pump Is It Anyway?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 21 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Diabetes Tips and Tricks: #DBlogWeek 2016

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 20 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Today our community is "rounding out" Diabetes Blog Week 2016 by sharing our best diabetes tips and tricks.That's right, #DBlogWeek creator Karen Graffeo is calling for us to share tips from how we might organize our diabetes supplies and gear on...

Diabetes Blog Week 2016 (Day 4): From the Mouths of My Endocrinologists

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 19 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

The fun of Diabetes Blog Week 2016 continues, with today's topic being The Healthcare Experience.As a community, we're asked to share what we might improve when it comes to dealing with our healthcare team or health insurance companies, perhaps in...

Diabetes Blog Week (Day 3): Speaking with Caution

DiabetesMine Team — Wed, 18 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to Diabetes Blog Week 2016, Day 3. Today, the community is asked to rally around the oft-controversial topic of how we talk about diabetes, as in: "Many advocate for the importance of using non-stigmatizing, inclusive and non-judgmental l...

Diabetes Blog Week (Day 2): According to Our Loved Ones...

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 17 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

As we know all too well, the mental side of diabetes can be even more of a drag than the daily blood sugar checks, medications and meal planning aspects. Not to mention the effect it has on those living alongside us. For Day 2 of Diabetes Blog Wee...

Diabetes Blog Week 2016: Key Advocacy Messages

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 16 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to another round of Diabetes Blog Week!This is the 7th year in a row that our very vocal D-community is coming together to rally around the same topic each day for a full week.If you remember, this effort was spearheaded by fellow type 1 ...

Ask D'Mine: Night Terrors Thanks to Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 14 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

How to Rock the Gym While Keeping Your Diabetes in Control

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 13 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

I recently met Christel Oerum in Los Angeles, and was -- in a word -- blown away at the fitness accomplishments of this longtime type 1 and former Medtronic employee in her late '30s.A Danish national, Christel is now an LA-based personal trainer,...

Diabetes Device Recalls (Part 4): How to Improve the System

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 12 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

This is the fourth and final part of our current series on Diabetes Device Recalls. Check out Part 1 on Trends and Policy, Part 2 on Patient Impact, and Part 3 on the Role of Lawyers. Tracking the trends of diabetes device recalls is no easy t...

All-in-One Automatic POGO Meter Finally Approved by FDA

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 11 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We honestly didn't think this day would ever arrive. But it's finally happened: the FDA has approved the all-inclusive, automatic POGO glucose meter by California-based Intuity Medical that's been in regulatory "purgatory" for a full six years....

Artificial Pancreas: What You Should Know

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 10 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

If you pay attention to diabetes news at all, you're surely hearing the term 'Artificial Pancreas' (or 'closed loop system' or 'bionic pancreas') a lot these days. And if you live with diabetes yourself, well-meaning family and friends may even b...

SoftCGM: New Smartphone App to Continuously Monitor and Predict Glucose

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 09 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

A new venture tech startup is looking to change continuous glucose monitoring as we know it, doing away with the sensor altogether and instead focusing on smartphone algorithms to display constant blood sugar data and make glucose trend prediction...

Ask D'Mine: Mother's Day Diabetes Blues

Wil Dubois — Sat, 07 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Got questions about navigating life with diabetes? Just Ask D'Mine! Our weekly advice column, that is - hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil preps for Mother's Day on Sunday by answering two mom-relat...

Belated Appreciation for my Mom with Diabetes on Mother's Day

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 06 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

As we head toward Mother's Day this weekend, my mom has been on my mind -- especially in the context of how we've both been living with type 1 diabetes for most of our lives.She was 5 years old when diagnosed back in 1958, and ironically, I was ...

UnitedHealthcare Restricts Insulin Pump Choice: The Diabetes Community Responds!

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 05 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

As insurance companies are increasingly maneuvering to restrict patient choices on all types of diabetes devices and medications, the latest move by UnitedHealthcare to make Medtronic its exclusive in-network supplier of insulin pumps has outraged...

Diabetes Device Recalls: The Role of Lawyers (Part 3 of 4)

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 04 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

This is Part 3 of our current series on Diabetes Device Recalls. You can read Part 1 on Recall Trends and Policy here, and Part 2 on the Patient Impact of Recalls here. In the world of medical device recalls and safety concerns, we sometimes forge...

Simple, Bold Videos Outline "Diabetes - What to Know"

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 03 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We've been complaining for years that diabetes education is too hard to access, too complicated, and too time-consuming. What people really need are quick, clear answers to specific real-world questions about this disease, in small doses, at times...

Tidepool Goes Big After White House Visit

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 02 May 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Once you shake the hand of the President of the United States and get to talk with him about your passion -- in this case technology-driven diabetes care -- it doesn't seem like much in life could trump that. But for D-Dad Howard Look, CEO of th...

Ask D'Mine: Diabetes Meds and the Bathroom Scale

Wil Dubois — Sat, 30 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Hey, All -- got questions about life with diabetes? Then you've come to the right place! That would be our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil is weighing... ...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: April 2016 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 29 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

They say that April showers bring May flowers... Of course, this month has once again also brought us some great blog posts from the Diabetes Online Community (DOC)!Here are some of our faves, in no particular order: Diabetes Community Blog Pos...

A Closer Look at Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Thu, 28 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

When I first heard about carpal tunnel syndrome, I thought it was some sort of road rage from driving through the ten-mile Carpal Tunnel under the Alps in Switzerland. But as it turns out, that's the Gotthard Tunnel. So where's the Carpal Tunnel?...

Diabetes Device Recalls: A Tale of Patient Impact (Part 2 of 4)

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 27 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

There's very little information available on what happens to patients out in the real world when a diabetes device gets recalled. Today, in Part 2 of our current series on FDA Recalls, we share one such story, and the fallout. {Please check out Pa...

An In-Depth Look at Diabetes Device Recalls (Part 1 of 4)

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 26 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

This is the first in a four-part series on Diabetes Product Recalls -- covering policy and trends, how the FDA manages regulation, and perspectives from industry, legal and regulatory experts, and the patient community.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Diabetes: The 411

Wil Dubois — Tue, 26 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Complications of diabetes are not something anyone likes to think about, but here at the 'Mine, we believe knowledge is power. That's why we started our "411 info series" on a variety of complications a couple of years ago.Believe it or not, carpa...

ANNOUNCING: The 2016 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Contest - Get Your Mentor On!

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 25 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Hi All, Interested in participating in the 2016 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit this Fall in California on full scholarship*? We are in search of: passionate patients willing to lend their experiences and insights -- and even do a bit of on-stag...

Ask D'Mine: Give It To Me Straight, How Long Do I Have To Live?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 23 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Got questions about life with diabetes? So do we! That's why we offer our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil takes on a serious topic that needs some strai...

On Earth Day, Dress Up in Recycled Diabetes Supplies

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 22 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Today is Earth Day, Friends, and we're excited to share a story about reusing diabetes supplies in a hip fashion sense, while also raising awareness! This one is straight out of Ireland, where the sister of a young type 1 came up with the idea ...

Exclusive Preview: InSpark’s New Vigilant App Predicts Hypoglycemia

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 21 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Hey PWDs - do you want reliable warnings when a low blood sugar is on its way, or when you're going through a period of higher risk of hypoglycemia? Of course you do! And a brand new app, based on Artificial Pancreas algorithm technology develope...

About Amy Tenderich

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 21 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Amy is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of DiabetesMine, a leading online information destination for people with diabetes and one of the top health blogs around the country and the world. As of January 2015, DiabetesMine became part of San Franc...

40 Years with Diabetes, 4 Friends and 400 Miles on a Bike

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 20 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

How do you best mark 40 years of living with type 1 diabetes? For Grant Curry, a former professional musician and now professional bike fitter, the answer was setting out on a monster cycling adventure with three friends along the Blue Ridge Mount...

How to Talk to Your Friends About Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 19 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

What's the best method for a child or teen to share their diabetes with friends, family, teachers, and the world at large? There is no one right way, of course!But our intermittent correspondent, Dana Howe, a Health Communication grad student at ...

New Wellness Programs / Apps Take Aim at Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 18 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

I've never been a fan of strangers trying to tell me what they think is best for my health without knowing anything about me (although that's been happening most of my life, since being diagnosed with type 1 as a kindergartner!). That's probably ...

Sunday Funnies

Sun, 17 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Sunday Funnies

Ask D'Mine: Does Diabetes Make Me Fart?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 16 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical diabetes educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil holds his nose while reflecting on... gas. Yep, those pungent bubbles that weave t...

FingerPricks Are Funny! (with Cartoon Book Giveaway)

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 15 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

This is funny stuff, Folks. Nothing beats the opportunity to laugh about the foibles of diabetes -- especially when there's a dark, edgy side to the humor, so fitting for this confounding illness!Therefore we highly recommend the latest book of il...

Media Matters: Can Anything Be Done About High Insulin Prices?

Dan Fleshler — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Please welcome back Dan Fleshler, New York-based longtime type 1, writer, media strategist and periodic correspondent here at the 'Mine, with another take on hot topics in the diabetes news. If your life depends on insulin like ours do, you won't ...

Endo's New Ninja App Will Gamify Diabetes Management

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We've seen some dull diabetes apps over the years, to be sure. They make an effort, but most don't manage to keep us patients engaged, so we simply stop fussing with them. Maybe the pop culture phraseology should be tweaked to say, "There's an app...

What Happened in Vegas (Diabetes Travel Woes)

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 12 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

So the week after Easter was Spring Break, and Murphy's Law (of Diabetes) was in full swing. Here's how it went down:While I'm rushing around the house on the morning of departure, my OmniPod pump starts beeping -- uh-oh, battery alert. No problem...

Meet Beta Bionics: New Business Structure for iLet Bionic Pancreas

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 11 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Say hello to Beta Bionics, the new parent company that plans to commercialize the exciting iLet Bionic Pancreas system that administers both insulin and glucagon and was famously developed by researcher and diabetes dad Dr. Ed Damiano at Boston Un...

Ask D'Mine: Revisiting Uncle Wil on Booze and Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 09 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday and thanks for visiting our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, with your host veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil's revisiting one of his favorite topics, booze. But make no mistake, this...

Mom and Daughter Pair Harness Diabetes with Laughter and Grit

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 08 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Today we are happy to turn over the 'Mine to a mom and daughter diabetes pair.Please welcome Betsy and Sarah Ray, who have been living with T1D for 68 years combined. You may recognize Betsy's name as one of our Patient Voices delegates chosen to ...

World Health Day 2016 = All About Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

You may not know it, but today is World Health Day, coordinated annually on April 7 by the World Health Organization (WHO) with focus on a particular health topic that needs global attention.And guess what? This year's World Health Day theme is Be...

Novo Nordisk Embraces the Diabetes Online Community

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

An important conversation began in Arizona this past week, between 'Big Insulin' and the Diabetes Online Community (DOC), as representatives came together to talk about ways we can all collaborate to better help people with diabetes.That is, pha...

James Earl Jones Talks Type 2 Diabetes, Plugs Invokana

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

He is the voice of Darth Vader, and the guy who delivered one of the best-known modern monologues in "If You Build It, They Will Come" from the movie Field of Dreams. Many may recognize his deep, authoritative tone from his countless award-winning...

More Evidence That Medicare Competitive Bidding Causes Harm!

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Evidence keeps mounting that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) competitive bidding program for diabetes supplies is doing more harm than good -- preventing people with diabetes from getting the test strips and supplies they need...

Ask D'Mine: Be No Fool on Diabetes Snake Oil

Wil Dubois — Sat, 02 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Breaking News! Cure Options Abound for Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 01 Apr 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Breaking news today!... sort of. Last year at this time we realized that if you listen to the Internet, there really are many diabetes cure options to choose from. Seriously, what are you all complaining about?Today we revisit our Top 10 faves (ob...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: March 2016 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 31 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

With the first quarter of 2016 now coming to a close, we're happy to bring you more outstanding posts from around the Diabetes Online Community.Quite a bit of Luck of the Irish was circulating around St. Paddy's Day, and once again there was no s...

Researcher On Personal Mission to Find Type 1 Diabetes Cause

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 30 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

When Thomas Delong was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 12, his life's mission began to take shape, even though he didn't know it yet.Flash forward 30 years, and he's now making headlines as the University of Colorado researcher on a personal...

Scott Johnson: The Great Ketchup and Blood Sugar Experiment

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 29 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We thought it would just be kind of wrong to wrap up March -- National Nutrition Month -- without reflecting upon a beloved condiment that many of us can't live without: KETCHUP. If you Google "ketchup" in the context of blood sugars, you'll see a...

Implantable CGM Gets More Realistic, If Not More Appealing

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 28 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

The promise of implantable diabetes devices is of course less fuss, more automated glucose control. But like so many big "breakthrough" promises in diabetes, this one has stalled and stumbled, and still appears to be rather far from becoming a rea...

Ask D'Mine: On Choosing Your Easter Candy Wisely

Wil Dubois — Sat, 26 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Diabetes isn't very forgiving, especially when it comes to holiday eating. But here at the 'Mine, we do our best to support you! Welcome to another edition of our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and cl...

Diabetes Partner Follies: A Boyfriend's Tale of Dating a Journalist with Type 1

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 25 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our periodic Partner Follies series here at the 'Mine, in which we feature guest posts by spouses, romantic partners and loved ones about their POVs on diabetes.Today, we're proud to share a post written by Justin Skory in New Engl...

Reviewing the New All-Inclusive Dario Glucose Meter

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 24 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

We were excited to hear the news recently that the all-in-one Dario meter is finally available here in the United States. This system from Israel-based LabStyle Innovations has been in the works for years, launched internationally in 2013 and u...

My Time with iLet Bionic Pancreas – First Human Trials!

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 23 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

One of our good D-advocate friends is Christina Roth, founder and director of the College Diabetes Network (CDN), headquartered in Boston. Christina lives there with her adorable dog Arya, and when not working can usually be found doing yoga or on...

Diabetes Alert Day 2016: Calling All Busy Moms, Bacon-Lovers, and Advocates!

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 22 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Today is Diabetes Alert Day.Yep, every year on the fourth Tuesday in March, the American Diabetes Association stages a "one-day wake-up call" aimed at raising awareness about the risks of type 2, and discovering cases of prediabetes. For as many y...

FreeToGo: Adding Style to Diabetes Gear (with Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Got style? Of course you do, so you'll be just as happy as we are to meet Shannon Darner, a fellow type 1 in Florida, who also has a son with T1D and has turned her passion to diabetes fashion, in a word. Shannon was diagnosed almost three decades...

Ask D'Mine: A Killing Dose of Insulin

Wil Dubois — Sat, 19 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Hey, All: if you've got questions about life with diabetes, then you've come to the right place! That would be our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical specialist Wil Dubois.Today, W...

Agave: Natural, Healthy, and Diabetes-Friendly?

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 18 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Interestingly, one of our most-searched posts over the last six years was a piece on "Agave Syrup as a Diabetes-Friendly Sugar Substitute?" Yep, agave syrup / nectar was quite the trend around 2010-11, when it was cropping up all over health f...

Agave Syrup and Diabetes: New Things to Know

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 18 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Agave enjoyed a huge boom around 2010, when everyone seemed to be shouting from the rooftops about what a great natural sweetener it was, especially ideal for people with diabetes. NOT.We looked into it, both then and more recently, and what we...

On Taking a Break from My Insulin Pump

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 17 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

My insulin pump rests on the kitchen table, five feet from where I'm sitting. It vibrates impatiently, alerting me that we aren't currently connected.I stare at it in frustration, wanting to scream, "Yes! I know I'm not getting insulin from you ...

St. Paddy's Day and Drinking with Diabetes Revisited

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 16 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

It's that big week in March again when many revisit their Love of Ireland (whether it's actual family heritage or not), and also a perfect time to revisit some key advice on drinking with diabetes. Of course alcohol -- closely associated with cele...

Deep Dive: Are e-Records Good for People with Diabetes?

Wil Dubois — Tue, 15 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

Our periodic Deep Dive series continues today with a look at Electronic Health Records (EHR), one of the hottest debated topics in healthcare these days and purported to be the future of care. What are practical effects on people living with diabe...

Dr. Phil Promotes AstraZeneca - The Diabetes Community Responds

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 07:00:00 GMT

TV personality Dr. Phil McGraw made headlines recently as one of our own, living with type 2 diabetes -- actually for a quarter-century now.What made headlines, of course, was his new role as a spokesman for pharma company AstraZeneca. Dr. Phil is...

Ask D'Mine: Mastering the Art of Hypoglycemia

Wil Dubois — Sat, 12 Mar 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, DiabetesMine Friends!Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column Ask D'Mine, hosted by the esteemed Wil Dubois, who's not only living with type 1 diabetes himself but is also a well-established diabetes author and educator ...

My Brush with Hidden Sorbitol, the Stomach Destroyer!

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 11 Mar 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Joanne Laufer Milo, a native New Yorker, has been living on the West Coast for some time now, enjoying the sunshine and all variety of diabetes advocacy activities -- she writes, blogs, creates videos, organizes local JDRF events and other support...

Letter to My Insurance Company: I'd Rather Not Die Today

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 10 Mar 2016 08:00:00 GMT

If I have any say in it, I'd rather not die today. Here I sit, shivering and scared. Worried about what's ahead as to my diabetes and the treatments I'm able to afford. My vision is slightly fuzzy and I'm sure that if I tried to stand up right ...

New OneTouch Verio Flex Falls Short with More Color But Less Light

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 09 Mar 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Of course, we get excited about new technology and love being able to test drive the latest gadgets. And with my 32 years of type 1 experience, I do appreciate how far we've come. From time to time, I enjoy looking back on the past D-tech to give ...

Lancet Update: FDA Proposes Changes in Regulation of Fingerpokers

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 08 Mar 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Almost three years ago, we reported that the FDA was considering changes to how it regulates the fingerpoking lancets that are essential to living with diabetes.Traditionally, there was little regulatory oversight of these little needles, so they'...

Americon Idol, Round 2: Adam Lasher Talks Diabetes Behind-the-Scenes

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 07 Mar 2016 08:00:00 GMT

We were excited to see fellow type 1 Adam Lasher back on the national television stage early this year, getting a second crack at American Idol as one of the Top 24 contestants during this final farewell season.In early 2015, we published Adam's f...

Ask D'Mine: Keeping the Oven Warm for Baby

Wil Dubois — Sat, 05 Mar 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Weird Diabetes News: Stuff That Makes Our Heads Shake

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 04 Mar 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Living with diabetes can be... weird.Yep, we have to stab ourselves daily to stay alive. Some of us lick our bloody fingertips after poking them. Dangerous low blood sugars can sometimes lead to drunken-ish behavior, loss of memory and even halluc...

'Smart' Glucose-Responsive Insulin Making Progress

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 03 Mar 2016 08:00:00 GMT

The race to develop a smart insulin that actually reacts to changing blood sugars has heated up once again, with two big players now contributing millions towards creating this glucose-responsive insulin that could relieve us PWDs of all the calcu...

Another Day, Another Story of a Diabetes Cure (Hello, ViaCyte)

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 02 Mar 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Please join us today in welcoming back our interim correspondent Dan Fleshler, a longtime type 1, writer and media strategist in New York City -- for another edition of what we're calling D'Mine on D-News. This time, Dan's looking behind (and beyo...

Are Diabetes Tools Hitting the Mark on Impact & Access? Help Us Score...

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 01 Mar 2016 08:00:00 GMT

How well are the diabetes tools and services now available in the U.S. really serving our community? That is, how ACCESSIBLE are they to all, and how much do they really IMPACT our lives in a positive way? We'd like to hear from you! We recently ...

Diabetes Technology Updates: OmniPod, Tandem, Dexcom

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 29 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Ask D'Mine: Caregiver Confusion on Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 27 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical specialist Wil Dubois. This week, Wil answers a question from a "Type Awesome" -- a persona acting as a caregiver to her mom wh...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere in February 2016

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 26 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

This is a very special February since it's a Leap Year, and somehow that extra day seems to have generated even more love than usual from the Diabetes Online Community (DOC) -- despite some serious snow recently dumped on our D-friends scattered a...

DEXCOM CGM ALERT: Receiver Alarms Not Always Working (Plus Biz Updates)

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 25 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Dexcom issued a notice to their diabetes customers letting them know that the audible alerts on CGM receivers may not always work the way they're supposed to.The news broke during a Tuesday earnings call with investors, when the Califor...

Wayback Wednesday: All About Diabetes and Heart Health

Wed, 24 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

It just so happens that February is National Heart Month (go figure), so we're taking today to revisit our 411 info series on diabetes complications, covering that nasty thing that can happen to your heart with diabetes: cardiovascular disease. Th...

Diabetes + National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (and New Laws)

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

This week is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, an initiative to call attention to the widespread and highly detrimental dysfunctional relationship that many Americans have with food. In our Diabetes Community, it's a time to unite to focus...

The High Cost of Insulin (Plus a Plea to Lilly, Novo, and Sanofi)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

The high cost of insulin has long been a sore spot among the Diabetes Community. And the dust was stirred up again when Eli Lilly executives made comments about their increasing profits from insulin during a recent earnings call (covered in this M...

Ask D'Mine: Potty Talk on Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 20 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome back to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil offers some straight talk on... er, bathroom issues with diabetes. But it's not quite ...

PocketBra: Empowering Women with Diabetes One Bra at a Time

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 19 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

What are we doing talking about women's underwear on a diabetes blog? For women who wear insulin pumps or continuous glucose monitors, the link is probably pretty clear. Many have spent years tucking their pumps or CGMs into sports bras to go for ...

Talking CGM Use and Why It Matters (Listen Up, Healthcare Pros!)

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 18 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

No question that today in 2016, continuous glucose monitors are pretty darn important to many of us living with diabetes.Personally, my CGM has saved my life several times over the past few years by alerting me to dangerous glucose lows when my mi...

How a Slate App Aims to Drive Diabetes Education

Wil Dubois — Wed, 17 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Today, our correspondent Wil Dubois -- a longtime type 1 himself who works as a clinical diabetes educator -- takes a detailed look at the mobile app known as HealthSlate, which has been promoted heavily at big healthcare professional conferences ...

Help Us Rate Diabetes Tools & Services! Building the DiabetesMine Challenges Matrix

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 16 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

We at DiabetesMine are always looking for new ways to identify and communicate the things that help people with diabetes to live best with this disease. This year, we came up with new way of mapping the whole diabetes care landscape in terms of p...

Exploring FDA's New Guidance on Medical Device Interoperability

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 15 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

We were excited recently to see the U.S. FDA introduce some draft rules on Medical Device Interoperability -- their long-awaited input on how diabetes device makers should design the products we use!This is something our Diabetes Community has bee...

Ask D'Mine: On Loving a Diabetes Thing

Wil Dubois — Sat, 13 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Valentine's Day Weekend! And welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil puts on his "cupid" hat and shares some love about... well, love. A differen...

How to Love a Diabetic

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Please welcome back Dana Howe, a longtime type 1 and current graduate student working towards a Master's degree in Health Communication from Tufts University. Dana wrote here recently about choosing to use injections, rather than an insulin pump,...

Lost Diabetes Tech: Products That Never Came to Be

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 11 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

In the labyrinths of diabetes device history, there are endless examples of great ideas for gadgets that never got off the ground. But what about that D-tech that actually got FDA approval or was all-but-guaranteed to, yet never made it into the h...

Fourth Annual 'Spare a Rose' Saves Lives of Kids with Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 10 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Not long ago, I found myself once again complaining about the exorbitant cost of insulin, and how my high-deductible insurance puts a strain on my wallet for every month's supply. But then, I always have to give myself a head-knock, to remember t...

New FingerPrick App Tells You Where to Poke

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 09 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Looking at my fingers, what stands out are all those little black dots from the thousands of fingersticks I've done throughout my life.OK, maybe the marks I see today don't date all the way back to my diagnosis with diabetes 32 years ago... but th...

D'Mine on D-News: When a Kardashian Gets Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Clearly, we at DiabetesMine follow all the media headlines on diabetes passionately. And we often have strong opinions and Patient Community perspectives to share... So now we're making that a thing, with a new series we're calling D'Mine on D-New...

Ask D'Mine: On Insulin Effects, and Fixing Mistakes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 06 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Got questions about life with diabetes? So do we! That's why we offer our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois.This week, it's all about insulin, as Wil takes on four quest...

Decorated OmniPods: Diabetes 3-Day Art

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 05 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Check out this Diabetes Art Report from our D-peep friend and social media assistant Rachel Kerstetter - complete with photo gallery!Wearable Diabetes ArtMedical devices are not traditionally known for being sleek, chic or anything that resembles ...

All About Diabetes and Cannabis

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 04 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

What do we really know about diabetes and marijuana? A fair amount, it turns out, although much of it is anecdotal rather than solid scientific evidence. According to an info site called The Stoner's Cookbook: "Due to the complexity of the conditi...

New Joslin Diabetes CEO Taking a Measured Approach

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 03 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Dr. Peter Amenta took over as head of the legendary Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston on Oct. 5, 2015. Who is this guy, who so unexpectedly replaced former CEO John Brooks III?Dr. Amenta most recently served as professor of pathology and laborator...

Teen Actress Brec Bassinger Talks Showbiz and Type 1 Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 02 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

A Texas teenager who's being dubbed one of the next big stars on Nickelodeon TV is also stepping into a role as a diabetes advocate, based on her eight years of living with type 1.In just the past few years, 16-year-old Brec Bassinger (@BrecBassi...

Closed-Loop Diabetes Tech Update: iLET, Bigfoot, TypeZero & More!

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 01 Feb 2016 08:00:00 GMT

The idea of a "closed-loop" system for diabetes management that would automate insulin delivery once looked like a pipedream. But today, it's a major focus of active development, with experts racing to achieve this "holy grail" faster than we've e...

Ask D'Mine: Addicted to Avoiding Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 30 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome back to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil offers some insight to a woman struggling with the "pre-diabetes" challenge of not hea...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: Hello, 2016 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 29 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome to our monthly roundup of outstanding blog posts from across the Diabetes Online Community (DOC).Since it is now 2016, we thought we'd share our "Sweet 16" faves as seen over the past month -- in no particular order.As always, we'd love t...

Legobetes: Lego Fun with Diabetes (for Grown-Ups!)

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 28 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

{Update March 2016: This feed has been renamed to @Brickabetes, after running into some copyright issues after all.}Oh, how the fun never stops when it comes to expressing our diabetes selves on the Internet... Take for example Legobetes, a new on...

Listen Up! Here Comes Diabetes Podcast Week

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Listen up, D-Peeps! We mean it. Starting Monday, Feb. 1, get ready to tune in to a wave of podcasts hitting the airwaves (or your iDevices) for the first-ever Diabetes Podcast Week (hashtag #DPodcastWeek), featuring 12 talented diabetes podcast...

Choosing Injections + CGM: A Personal Diabetes Path

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 26 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Meet Dana Howe, a current graduate student working towards a Master's in Health Communication from Tufts University (graduating in May). She's had type 1 since age 8, and comes from a family of type 1s -- her dad and mom's dad, who are 63 and 83...

Designing a New "Bundle" for Diabetes Testing Supplies

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 25 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Of course, there's a ton of gear to schlep around when you're living with diabetes, from blood sugar meters to insulin delivery gadgets, emergency glucose and much more. A number of folks have been trying to minimize this burden by creating all-in...

Ask D'Mine: Self-Preservation from Family Illness?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 23 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Got questions about life with diabetes? So do we! That's why we offer our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and diabetes clincial specialist Wil Dubois.This week, Wil answers a question from ove...

Eat Now, Correct Later - Is it Possible to Eat Mindfully with Diabetes?

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 22 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Susan Weiner is one of the country's most prominent dietitians and certified diabetes educators. In fact, she was honored as AADE Educator of the Year in 2015. As it happens, Susan serves as a Medical Advisor at our parent company Healthline, wher...

DiabetesMine Innovation Summit - Brainstorms Video!

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 21 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

At our annual DiabetesMine Innovation Summit this past November, we held a lively interactive session led by Bill Polonsky of the Behavioral Diabetes Institute. To encourage as much mixing as possible between our patient delegates, industry folk ...

Bottling New Sauvignon Blanc for Type 1 Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 20 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Wine and diabetes advocacy -- go together like PB and jelly, right? Well, maybe it's a new-ish pairing, but one that we're 100% behind.Say hello to Delaney Blue, a new Sauvignon Blanc wine launched in November 2015 during National Diabetes Awarene...

Deep Dive: Diabetes and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Wil Dubois — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome to our brand new series, DiabetesMine Deep Dive!In this monthly feature, we'll dig deep into a particular topic of interest related to living with diabetes -- with the aim of filling in knowledge gaps and demystifying some of the complexit...

What's Next in Diabetes: 5 Updates from JP Morgan Healthcare 2016

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 18 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

At the beginning of each year, the influential and somewhat frenzied JP Morgan Healthcare Conference hits San Francisco.Unlike the other big January event, the huge Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas with acres of expo space showcasing t...

Ask D'Mine: Coming Out of the (Diabetes) Closet

Wil Dubois — Sat, 16 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Got questions about life with diabetes? So do we! That's why we offer our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical diabetes specialist Wil Dubois from New Mexico.This week, Wil offers som...

An Eye on Diabetic Vision Health (with Infographic)

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 15 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

In November, the nation was encouraged to focus on our pancreas-challenged lives for National Diabetes Awareness Month, but one of the themes that got comparatively little coverage was the fact that it was also Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month...

Throwback Thursday: The "Bang for your Buck" Principle in Diabetes Management

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 14 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

You have to love Dr. William Polonsky. He's the author of the seminal book Diabetes Burnout and founder of the amazing Behavioral Diabetes Institute in San Diego, CA. He's also one of the most empathetic people you'd ever hope to meet -- who is ...

Your Guide to a New Era in Diabetes Design

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 13 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

In the world of medical and health design, things are changing! The #MakeHealth movement and other "empowerment" initiatives are encouraging true empathy in creating devices that were once just... hospital-ish. This is music to our ears as huge pr...

Future Diabetes Gadgets, as Seen at CES 2016

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 12 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Every January, two important conferences bring together the electronics and healthcare sectors, giving us a glimpse of what's truly on the cutting edge in diabetes. The JP Morgan Healthcare conference for investors and industry execs kicked off in...

Diabetes Advocacy Orgs: Their Successes in 2015 and Plans for 2016

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 11 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Once more with feeling: HAPPY NEW YEAR 2016! We have a lot of traditions here at the 'Mine, but one of our favorites is querying the country's top diabetes advocacy organizations at the end of each year to share what they've accomplished, and wha...

Ask D'Mine: Insulin Allergies and Insurance Battles

Wil Dubois — Sat, 09 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome back to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil dives in to an issue that have many up in arms with the start of a New Year: insura...

Diabetes Partner Follies: The Force Is with Couple After 30 Years of Marriage and Advocacy

Diabetes Partner Follies — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Wow, it's amazing to realize we've been featuring our occasional Diabetes Partner Follies series here at the 'Mine for nearly a whole decade now!Just for fun, take a look back at our very first introductory 2006 guest post featuring my own beloved...

American Girl Dolls Now Sport Diabetes Gear!

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Makers of the popular American Girl dolls made big headlines in late December when they announced that among the doll's accessory kits would be a new diabetes supply kit -- helping little girls with diabetes feel more mainstream. This is a huge wi...

Treating Diabetes with Cannabis?

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

I am still grinning. Can you see me? Over 10 years back in 2005, we published a brief post here at the 'Mine about how cannabis (yep: pot, grass, weed, ganja...) can be used to treat diabetes. Really, completely legit! And people have been flockin...

Afrezza Adrift + Diabetes Tech-Spectations for 2016

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 06 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

It's a New Year's tradition here at the 'Mine to look ahead at the new treatments and technology we expect to see coming down the pike in the year ahead. 2016 seems to be starting out with a bang with yesterday's announcement that Sanofi is droppi...

TSA Airport Security Changes Won't Affect Diabetes Community...?

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 05 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

With the flurry of holiday and year-end travel, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently made changes to its policy on who can opt out of full body scans, which seem to have implications for the Diabetes Community.So of course we ...

Getting the Most Out of CGM (with Diabetes Book Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 04 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

While conducting a test drive of a new continuous glucose monitor (CGM) recently, the reality sank in: I'm not using this diabetes device as effectively as I should be.Yes, I am keeping tabs on my blood sugars with my Dexcom G4. I'm catching Lows ...

Ask D'Mine: Begrudging a New Year in Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 02 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine - the first edition of the New Year, so Happy 2016 to all!It's our Sweet Sixteen of the 21st Century, if you will, and what better way to welcome it than with some reflections and pre...

An Animated Happy New Year, Diabetes-Style!

DiabetesMine Team — Fri, 01 Jan 2016 08:00:00 GMT

Happy New Year to all our Readers, Friends and Supporters!We spent some time last week reflecting on the Diabetes Year In Review 2015, so hope you all had a chance to peruse that lineup.Today we'd like to wish you all a great start in 2016, kickin...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: Goodbye to 2015 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 31 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

The time has come to say goodbye to 2015, as we get ready to ring in a new year.But before we do that, it's worth taking a look back at this final month of '15 to reflect on all the outstanding diabetes blog posts that have shined brighter than an...

Top 10 Diabetes Holiday Traditions that Never Really Caught On

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 30 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

One of the big show-biz headlines of 2015 was the retiring of David Letterman – the quirky comedian who ran the popular offbeat "Late Night" show for 33 years. In his honor, today we offer you this... Top 10 List of Diabetes Holida...

Diabetes Hands Foundation Names New Leader with Business Prowess

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 29 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

What happens when a beloved patient-led non-profit advocacy group hires a businessman to run the show? That remains to be seen...A new era is beginning for the Diabetes Hands Foundation, as the governing board has named a new CEO to take the diabe...

Nude Calendar: Skin and Passion in the Diabetes Game (with Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 28 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

More PWDs (people with diabetes) are stripping down to proudly support a cause close to their hearts.Yes, welcome to another round of the Nude Diabetes Advocacy Project, which kicked off last year with the first-ever Full Monty nude calendar appro...

Sunday Funnies: July – December 2015

DiabetesMine | Comics from Community — Sun, 27 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

« See newer comics Sunday Funnies: In the Event of Snow Published December 27, 2015 Dreams of a white Christmas were dashed for many of us across the U.S. experiencing unseasonably warm weather this year. But we can dream... For now, looks like...

Ask D'Mine: The Anarchist’s Medicine Cabinet on Inducing a Hypo

Wil Dubois — Sat, 26 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Diabetes During the Holidays - in 6 Words or Less?!

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 24 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

The Holidays are upon us, and the 'Mine Team is taking it easy this week. We hope you are too! But before you opt out of the online sphere for the egg nog entirely...Here's a little quick and easy Holiday Diabetes Community Fun: can you tell us......

The Diabetes Year in Review - 2015

Amy Tenderich and Mike Hoskins — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

With the New Year just around the corner, we're keeping up our tradition of reviewing all the things that have made 2015 a year to remember in the Diabetes World and here at the 'Mine.We've had some big moments this past year, but if we had to boi...

Closing the Glucose Gaps in Hospital Diabetes Care

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 21 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Seems logical that you'd have some of the best medical care and attention to your diabetes if you're in a hospital surrounded by on-call experts, right?! WRONG. That's often not the case. The poor state of diabetes management in hospitals has bee...

Ask D'Mine: From the Diabetes Holiday Mailbag

Wil Dubois — Sat, 19 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.In honor of the impending holiday, Wil puts on his Santa hat to deliver some diabetes advice to those who wrote in w...

"Relevant and Refreshing": The DiabetesMine Innovation Summit

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 18 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Peg Abernathy is a diabetes media and corporate consultant, and contributing diabetes blogger to the Huffington Post. She has a background as a writer and producer for radio, and she actually began her career as a studio session singer who racked ...

The Beer and Blood Sugar Effect

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Yes, I have type 1 diabetes and I can drink beer.In fact, I'm a craft beer lover who's pretty passionate about trying new brews and supporting my local beer makers (who invent awesomeness in a mug). The fact that I'm pancreatically-challenged cha...

A Trial Run of the Medtronic Minimed Connect Diabetes Data Viewing System

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

I recently had the chance to try out the latest in diabetes tech from Medtronic, conducting a 14-day test drive of the new Minimed Connect data display platform.This new system shows both insulin pump and CGM data on a user's smartphone and als...

Real-World Afrezza: Focus Group Feedback and Giving Inhaled Insulin a Second Try

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to another post in our periodic "Afrezza in the Real World" series, chronicling the real-life experiences of people with diabetes using the new Afrezza inhaled insulin.You may remember that our own AmyT here at the 'Mine has been usin...

D'Mine Holiday Sweepstakes: Bringing the Warm & Cuddly (Enter to Win!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

This week only! We hope to spread some holiday cheer by handing out a few great prizes for kids and adults in our 2015 Holiday Giveaway!Yep, it's December and the temps have definitely cooled off outside (brrr, from this guy in the Midwest). But t...

Ask D'Mine: Women and Children Are No Longer First

Wil Dubois — Sat, 12 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly Saturday advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.We've heard our share of horror stories about our messed-up health insurance system, but this one may take the cake,...

The Ridiculous Importance of Medical Device Carrying Cases

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 11 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

I don't know about you, but I have yet to find the ideal carrying case for my diabetes gear – especially for my glucose meter that is the most basic of D-devices always at my side. I often wonder: why isn't case design a bigger deal for medical ...

Biohackers Creating Open-Source Insulin

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 10 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

When Anthony Di Franco was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in his early 20s, he never dreamed that a decade later he'd be teamed up with a group of biohackers working to homebrew their own insulin.That's what he is doing now in Berkeley, California...

Life on a Homemade (Almost) Artificial Pancreas

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 09 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

As many of you know, we held our Fall 2015 DiabetesMine D-Data Exchange event on Nov. 19. One huge highlight of this gathering of diabetes technologists was an amazing talk by Chris Hannemann, a U.C. Berkeley alumni and mechanical engineer who in ...

2015 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit: The Usability Revolution!

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 08 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

It's been another exciting year in the Diabetes World, with some major strides being made in product design and functionality. Think form and function approaches like One Drop and Livongo Health; Nightscout and Dexcom beating a path toward true da...

EPIC-id Medical Alert Bracelet (Review with Giveaway!)

Wil Dubois — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

My wrists are the wrong size. It seems that no matter what watch I pick out, one hole in the band leaves the watch sliding up and down my wrist, and the next hole serves as a tourniquet. So when I saw that the new EPIC-id medical alert bracelet ...

Ask D'Mine: Hanukkah Challenges in DiabetesLand

Wil Dubois — Sat, 05 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, Friends! Welcome back to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil puts on a temporary yamaka to offer a bit of insight on celebrating Hanukk...

When Your Diabetes Gets Quirky

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 04 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Diabetes has been boggling my mind lately, with a flurry of quirky circumstances all related to the device connection sites on my body.In other words, my body's been especially fussy these days, throwing off my insulin's effectiveness, the quali...

Holiday Wisdom from the Diabetes Community

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 03 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Here's a Throwback Thursday item you won't want to miss: As we head into the 2015 Holiday Season, we wanted to revisit the amazing tips we gathered from you all -- the Diabetes Community -- for surviving the holidays with diabetes a few years back...

My Faulty Pancreas Says: Get a Flu Shot!

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 02 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

I've never been much of a fan of flu shots -- even though I know they're important with diabetes when the colder winter months set in.As a kid, getting an annual shot was standard protocol. But when I reached my adult years, that practice mostly f...

EASE Type 1 Diabetes: D-Moms Advocate to Avoid Misdiagnosis

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 01 Dec 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Misdiagnosis is a big issue with type 1 diabetes, as it's often overlooked or taken for some other minor ailment before the ugly consequences of that mistake take hold. That's why it's good to see a new grassroots non-profit formed to raise awaren...

DiabetesMine D-Data Exchange Fall 2015: Rubbing Elbows with the Alpha Users

Wil Dubois, with Amy Tenderich & Mike Hoskins — Mon, 30 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

I just bought my first smartphone about a month ago, and trying to work it, I've never felt dumber in my life.That's why I found it so fascinating to attend what some call the "epicenter" of the diabetes tech world, the DiabetesMine D-Data Exchang...

Ask D'Mine: How Speedy Is Your Insulin Pump?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 28 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere in November 2015

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 27 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

November is coming to a close, and it's time take a step back and appreciate all that's been shared during this Diabetes Awareness Month.We have a lot to be thankful for, with so many pancreatically-challenged peeps writing from the heart. As al...

Life with Diabetes - Unbreakable! (Awesome Video)

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 26 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Thanksgiving, D-Peeps! Do not miss this incredible video slideshow compiled for our 2015 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit at Stanford School of Medicine. This piece will make any PWD (person with diabetes) feel THANKFUL, we promise. Huge...

Debunking a Diabetes Definition: What's in a Cure?

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 25 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

"The Cure."This post would be so much easier if it were about the alternative rock band by the same name -- you know, the British guys with hits like "Just Like Heaven" and "It's Friday, I'm In Love" popular worldwide since the late 70s. But tha...

ANNOUNCING: The DiabetesMine Usability Innovation Awards Winners!

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 24 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

You may remember that back in September, we asked the Patient Community to help us launch a national program to honor the very best "fixes" out there for making life with diabetes easier: the DiabetesMineTM Usability Innovation Awards.We asked for...

Sweetening the Deal: Handing Out Rewards for Diabetes Care?

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 23 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Growing up, I never got presents or money or rewards of any kind for doing multiple blood tests a day or getting my A1c down. That just wasn't done in my household. But I know of many D-parents who do dole out rewards, and it's an intriguing philo...

Ask D'Mine: Thanksgiving Carb Counting Survival Guide

Wil Dubois — Sat, 21 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Patient Voices at the 2015 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit! (Video)

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Today our team is at Stanford University School of Medicine hosting the 5th annual DiabetesMine Innovation Summit (waves from Palo Alto!) This influential annual Summit convenes an incredible group of informed patient advocates, pharma marketing...

National Diabetes Educators Org Embraces Technology

Thu, 19 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Today is an exciting day, because our team is at Stanford University, hosting our 5th DiabetesMine D-Data ExChange event, that brings together movers and shakers in diabetes technology. About 100 innovators are gathering there -- including all maj...

TCOYD + Smart Patients = New Online Diabetes Network

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

In our community, the TCOYD (Taking Control of Your Diabetes) series of national diabetes education conferences is known and loved by thousands. But until now -- believe it or not -- they haven't had a web-based home to really unite their fans and...

Singing Classical Music, and Coming Out of the Shadows of Diabetes Secrecy

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Many of us talk openly about our diabetes and share a whole bunch online. But not everyone is comfortable with that, or at least they haven't always worn diabetes on their sleeve.We're very happy today to share the story of fellow PWD Kelly Griffi...

The Marketing Pitches of Diabetes Awareness Month

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

We are now halfway through this big Diabetes Awareness month of November, and just this past weekend we marked World Diabetes Day.Not surprisingly, anyone who writes for the patient community about diabetes is being bombarded with marketing and ad...

Ask D'Mine: Toujeo Trio of Questions

Wil Dubois — Sat, 14 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.First, we have to recognize that today is World Diabetes Day! (a date chosen because it marks the anniver...

IDF Leader on the Impact of World Diabetes Day and the Blue Circle (with Racecars!)

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 13 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Tomorrow is World Diabetes Day 2015, so it's a perfect time to reflect on all that this global day of awareness and advocacy has accomplished through the years. Sure, this International Diabetes Federation (IDF) day has been around since 1991, but...

World Diabetes Day and #Insulin4All - Striving to Embrace PWDs in Crisis

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

With this Saturday being World Diabetes Day, many in the D-Community are all lit up (in blue!) with excitement about advocacy and awareness.One prominent campaign comes from the UK-based non-profit group T1International, which started out as a bl...

A Veteran's Day Look at Diabetes in the Military

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 11 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Today is Veteran's Day, a time when we pay tribute to those who've served in the United States military over the years.Personally, I'm proud to know that my mom's dad served in World War II and was actually a part of the Battle of the Bulge in 194...

Getting Excited About the iLET (formerly Bionic Pancreas)

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

One day soon, we'll be at the point where technology will be "as good as a cure" for many of us -- because a truly closed-loop automated diabetes management system is getting so close we can taste it.Seriously, one project that gets our hearts pum...

Why I Won't Be Changing to Dexcom G5 Anytime Soon

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

For the past couple months, I've been wondering whether I want to upgrade my Dexcom continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to the latest generation, G5, which eliminates the need for the separate iPod-style receiver. The G5 has built-in Bluetooth that...

Ask D'Mine: Diabetes Diet Dilemmas Are Only Natural

Wil Dubois — Sat, 07 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Got diabetes? Need advice? Of course you do! And you came to the right place: Ask D'Mine, our weekly Q&A hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois.Today, Wil takes a look at diabetes and all those difficul...

Revisiting Burnout During Diabetes Awareness Month

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Today is just Day Six of Diabetes Awareness Month, and I'm already feeling somewhat burnt out and am anxiously awaiting the month's end. Amazingly, this is pretty spot-on with how I felt at this exact same time last year.I have to apologize in adv...

Two New Video Reviews: GlucoLift & Skratch Labs Hypoglycemia Treatments

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Betsy Ray is a Colorado-based 50-year veteran of type 1 who refers to herself as a "diabetes activist." This year, she's also one of our Patient Voices Winners who will join us for the DiabetesMine Innovation Summit happening in just a few weeks a...

Hacking Healthcare Emoji to Illustrate Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 04 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

In today's world of smartphone-everything, we all know and love Emoji, right? That's those little "emoticons" or colorful little icons that represent emotions, food, holidays, or just about anything on mobile phones and social media these days.And...

GlucoLift glucose tablets - Review

DiabetesMine — Wed, 04 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Patient advocate Betsy Ray reviews GlucoLift glucose tablets. She finds "them better than most but not what I would like in an optimal product."REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs:comes in a large bottle making it more economical than buying in small tube...

Skratch Labs Hydration Sports Drink - Review

DiabetesMine — Wed, 04 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Diabetes activist and longtime type 1 PWD Betsy Ray reviews Skratch Labs Hydration Sports Drink, her preferred go-to treatment for hypoglycemia (severe low blood sugar). {CORRECTION 11/12/15: Contrary to what is said in this video, Skratch Labs H...

In Search of: The Most Useful and Impactful Diabetes Tools

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Our annual DiabetesMine Innovation Summit is just a few short weeks away, this year with the theme "The Usability Revolution." That is, we'll be highlighting a variety of innovations -- high- and low-tech -- that help improve life with diabetes...

'Linking Up' Beyond Diabetes for Better Healthcare

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 08:00:00 GMT

As we begin Diabetes Awareness Month, many eyes turn to how we can 'up the level' of conversation about diabetes among the general public.To me, this month seems like a perfect opportunity to do that in part by looking beyond diabetes toward con...

November: World Diabetes Day and Diabetes Awareness Month!

DiabetesMine — Sun, 01 Nov 2015 07:00:00 GMT

With November being National Diabetes Awareness Month in the U.S., you can imagine there's a slew of awareness campaigns and fundraising events that go on throughout the month.This effort has taken on more international importance in recent years,...

Ask D'Mine: A Diabetes Test Strip Scare on Halloween

Wil Dubois — Sat, 31 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Boo, Diabetes Community! Welcome back for a special Halloween edition of our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. On this All Hallows' Eve, Wil reaches into the pumpkin sack to find...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere (DOC-toberfest 2015 Edition)

DiabetesMine — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Just before we hit November, the big National Diabetes Awareness Month, it's worth taking a moment to look back on what this past month has brought us from the Diabetes Online Community (DOC). Despite today's jack-o-lantern theme, the posts we've ...

What's Happening for World Diabetes Day and Diabetes Awareness Month 2015

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 29 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

November is upon us -- that time of year when "all eyes are on diabetes," with it being national Diabetes Awareness Month and World Diabetes Day on Nov. 14. That day was chosen in honor of Dr. Frederick Banting, the co-discoverer of insulin back i...

Insulin Pump Infusion Sets Get Better, with BD Flowsmart

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

When you start on an insulin pump, everyone talks about precision calculation of your insulin doses -- as if that alone would magically make your blood glucose levels just right. NOT. There are so many uncontrollable factors and annoying side effe...

Dskate Diabetes Hockey Program Inspired by a Type 1 Dad

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Of all the sports that seem tough to manage with type 1 diabetes, ice hockey goes directly to the top of the list. It's physically draining, super-fast, and involves extreme temperatures. I never played hockey myself growing up, but being from the...

On Diabetes Devices and Cybersecurity

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 26 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Chances are that your insulin pump or other diabetes device won't be threatening your life via evil hacking any time soon, despite what Hollywood, the media, and conspiracy theorists may try to say otherwise.But the potential is there for some low...

Ask D'Mine: Light Years Away with Low Blood Sugar

Wil Dubois — Sat, 24 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil offers some thoughts on what seems like out-of-body moments we sometimes experience when...

Reflecting on a Decade in the Diabetes Online Community

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 23 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

This month is a big milestone in my world with diabetes, as it's the 10-year anniversary of when I first found the Diabetes Online Community (DOC), and my discovery of the mantra, "I am not alone."At the time, I was in my mid 20s, newly-married,...

The Brains Behind Coordinating Diabetes Research at Jaeb Center

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

When a new product or medication finally makes it to market and into the hands of PWDs (people with diabetes), we often forget about the monumental effort it took to it get there. The necessary research and development, clinical study coordinatio...

Insulin Wars: New Ultra Long-Lasting Basal Insulin Tresiba OKd by FDA

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Let's face it, we all appreciate the insulin that keeps us alive, but wish it worked more effectively and was easier to dose. Novo Nordisk's latest innovation, new ultra long-lasting Tresiba basal insulin, is potentially huge news for people with ...

Livongo's New Chief Medical Officer Lives with Type 1 Diabetes Too!

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We're always fascinated to hear how diabetes has influenced lives and careers, and put fellow PWDs (people with diabetes) on a professional path that helps them make a difference for all of us.Dr. Jennifer Schneider is one of those D-peeps. Diagno...

Meet the King of 3D Blood Glucose Sculptures

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Justus Harris has taken an unusual path with his type 1 diabetes. He's become a Visual Artist & Technologist who creates amazing 3D sculptures of blood glucose data, as well as other Health Data Sculptures and visualizations. As weird as this ...

Ask D'Mine: Coping Skills for Diabetes Burnout After Retirement

Wil Dubois — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil takes a look at how tough diabetes can be as we get older, especially in light of big life...

When My Smartphone Became a Life-Saving Medical Device

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

A few days ago, I woke up to the wailing of my Dexcom continuous glucose monitor on my nightstand. I keep it set to vibrate, but if that vibration alert is ignored for several minutes, audio alerts automatically kick in to force me to pay attent...

What Your Health Insurance Company Won't Tell You

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Dealing with insurance coverage is of course one of the biggest headaches of living with a chronic condition like diabetes.I've been dealing with my own insurance woes lately, since my new health savings account policy kicked in, requiring a high ...

PLAID: A New Open-Access Diabetes Journal Weaves in Patient Voices

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 14 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

There's a new diabetes journal on the block, but this one is much different from all the others out there.While it is focused on research, the new PLAID Journal brings a fresh perspective not found in any traditional diabetes medical journals: rea...

Oscar Health: Fantasy League Health Insurance?

Wil Dubois — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Google is going big in health tech partnerships these days -- including agreements with Dexcom, Sanofi, and Novo Nordisk, which hold exciting potential for those of us with diabetes. Then in September, we saw the headlines about Google sinking mil...

An Ode to Diabetes Discovery on Columbus Day

DiabetesMine — Mon, 12 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Today we're marking another annual holiday commemorating famed Italian explorer Christopher Columbus, who back in the day (523 years ago!) voyaged across the Atlantic Ocean to explore the globe and ultimately stumbled across and helped establish a...

Ask D'Mine: Thoughts on Diabetes, Divorce and Magic Butts

Wil Dubois — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome back! We're happy to have you stopping by our weekly diabetes column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.If you've got questions about life with diabetes, this is the place to be. Last week, S...

If We Could Bill Our Doctors for "Diabetes Patient Services"

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 09 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

My doctor's office sent a bill in the mail recently, recapping the costs from the first visit with my new endocrinologist here in Michigan.Instead of a nice little co-pay amount, a whopping $271 total screamed from the statement and delivered wha...

Two New Diabetes Apps: Easycarb and InRange

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

"There's an app for that..."When it comes to diabetes, the correct response to the above cliché is, "No kidding." There's no shortage of apps these days claiming to make life easier for PWDs (people with diabetes).Add two more to that ever-growing...

Lessons from Taking Control of Your Diabetes (TCOYD) San Diego 2015

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 07 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Polina Bryson is a healthcare professional and D-mom in California, whose school-age daughter lives with type 1 diabetes and celiac disease. She's become passionate on both fronts about keeping up with the latest research and technologies for T1D,...

Attention Congress: Let's Talk Diabetes, Please!

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 06 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Consider this post a Call to Action, to help us urge Congress to hold a hearing focused on diabetes. Believe it or not, it's been more than 5 years since the last Congressional hearing on diabetes. But despite that lack of political action, our D...

Elle & Coach: A Diabetes Alert Dog Family Story (Book Review + Giveaway)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 05 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

With the weather cooling down, it's the perfect time to curl up with good book as you keep you warm indoors -- especially if that book involves puppy love, which so many of us find heart-warming.Now there's a diabetes book that fits the bill perfe...

Ask D'Mine: Insulin as a Cure for Stress?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 03 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil is talking stress and all the crazy effects it can have on those of with lazy pancreases....

New Live Video Interview Series on Type 2 Diabetes Dispels Misconceptions

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 02 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We've talked for a long time about the need for a stronger type 2 presence in the Diabetes Community, and though we've seen some great advocates and people with diabetes (PWDs) sharing their stories, there is still a need for more.TuDiabetes now h...

Getting Your CGM Sensors in the Pharmacy?

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 01 Oct 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Before long, people using the Dexcom continuous glucose monitor (CGM) may be able to walk into a local pharmacy and buy a box of sensors for a small co-pay or at least a lower cost than we're used to.At least a half-dozen insurance plans -- includ...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere in September 2015

DiabetesMine Staff — Wed, 30 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

The Fall is upon us, so it's time to welcome crisp cool mornings, and autumn festivities and pumpkin-spiced everything -- which seems to be all the rage.As always, there's been no shortage of outstanding diabetes blog posts falling from the prover...

Kaleido: Adding Color to Insulin Pumps with an Odd Hybrid Device

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 29 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Traditionally, diabetes devices have been kind of drab and boring, right? We've certainly harped on that enough over the years… Even now, with a bunch of cases, covers and special skins to add some pizzazz, D-tools are generally not by design the...

AkibaH and the GluCase: Building a Glucose Meter and Supplies into Your Smartphone Case

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Meet yet another new player in the all-in-one diabetes solution game: AkibaH, a San Jose, CA-based startup that aims to offer a glucose meter, test strips and lancets all built into your smartphone case, so you have everything at your fingertips y...

Ask D'Mine: On the Medifast Diet, and Life Insurance Woes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 26 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil responds to two quite opposite questions -- one on those packaged diets that purport to he...

How to Manage Your Blood Glucose on the Hiking Trail

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 25 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Got a hiking trek planned? Or ever dream of doing something similar, but worried about your diabetes management while out on the trail? Today, we've got some great tips for you -- directly from a type 1 making a grueling 550-mile trek across Spain...

Interoperability Expert Says: New Accu-Chek Connect Is Big Step Forward!

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 24 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

When we recently published our product review of Roche Diabetes' new Accu-Chek Connect meter, we criticized how this Bluetooth-enabled device seems to be interoperable in name only -- because it doesn't connect with other diabetes devices, even th...

'Diabetes Miseducation' Group Targets Federal Legislation, State Licensure

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Proposed legislation currently winding its way through the Congressional chambers calls for better diabetes education and aims to boost the number of educators who get reimbursed for serving people with diabetes on Medicare.The American Associa...

Finding CLARITY in Diabetes Data Analysis (Thanks, Dexcom!)

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Viewing my diabetes data is a topic I've focused quite a bit on over the past year, since I've been using the Dexcom G4 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) connected to the cloud with some great do-it-yourself data-viewing technology.Our diabetes d...

Introducing the DiabetesMine Usability Innovation Awards: NOMINATE NOW!

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 21 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Every year, our Fall DiabetesMine Innovation Summit hones in on a topic or theme that's hot as far as patient concerns and the landscape of evolving tools and care. This year, our theme is "The Usability Revolution" -- as in, things don'...

Ask D'Mine: Diabetes and That Ghost in the Mirror

Wil Dubois — Sat, 19 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

PWDS: You. Are. Here.Welcome to another edition of our "curiously strong" diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.Last week, Wil offered some insight to a woman with type 1 who's batt...

Best and Worst Diabetes Commercials Of All Time (In Our Humble Opinion)

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

You've seen them on TV or viewed them online. You couldn't help that they caught your eye or made your ears perk up, in spite of yourself. We're talking about those ever-more-prevalent diabetes commercials, most brimming with smiling faces and bu...

Native Americans with Diabetes: No Enemy of Mine?

Wil Dubois — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Our correspondent and weekly Q&A columnist Wil Dubois is a community diabetes educator in rural New Mexico. He works with Native populations, and spent a good deal of time over the last few years teaching with the national ECHO program (Educa...

My First Visits with a New but Familiar Endocrinologist

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Moving to a new state has brought a whole bunch of craziness into my world, and among the necessary evils have been figuring out where I'm going to get my diabetes prescriptions filled and finding new doctors to be part of my D-management team.I...

Philips Launches Diabetes App + Data Interoperability Solution

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Today, Philips becomes the next big consumer tech giant to get in the diabetes game in a big way with the announcement that they're creating a sophisticated logging app for diabetes, backed by a cloud-based system for diabetes data sharing. They c...

Reviewing the Accu-Chek Connect Meter from Roche Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 14 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

There's another new high-tech glucose meter on block, managing to do what no other like it has done before: sending your diabetes data to a mobile app where you can not only view and share blood sugar results, but also get an insulin dosing calcul...

Ask D'Mine: Evil Low Blood Sugar Twins

Wil Dubois — Sat, 12 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

It's no big secret to those of us in the diabetes world that low blood sugars can be scary, and can bring out the worst in us. Today at our weekly diabetes advice column Ask D'Mine, veteran type 1 and diabetes educator Wil Dubois does what he ca...

Telcare Wireless Blood Glucose Meter system - Review

Amy Tenderich — Sat, 12 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Certified Diabetes Educator and 40-year veteran of living type 1 herself Jane Dickinson reviews the Telcare wireless blood glucose monitoring system, paired with an app, that beams your results directly to the cloud. Jane is more enthusiastic th...

Still Waiting for That Ice Cream - A View of Diabetes from Germany

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 11 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We always love to hear from Diabetes Community friends abroad, and today we're thrilled to share a guest post from Jochen "Joe" Gaiser over in Germany.I had the chance to meet Joe when we both journeyed to Las Vegas this March for the first-ever D...

NEWSFLASH: FDA Approves the Tandem t:slim G4 Combo Device!

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 10 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

It's official: Tandem Diabetes Care now has approval from the FDA for its t:slim G4 combo system, which is integrated with the Dexcom G4 continuous glucose monitor.On Wednesday morning, the California pump company announced that the FDA had approv...

What It's Really Like Using New Basal Insulin Toujeo

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 09 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

News came early in the year about Sanofi's new basal insulin called Toujeo, which is a higher concentration than the long-established Lantus. You may remember hearing rumors about this insulin years ago while it was still in development, when...

Do Doctors with Diabetes Have Their Own Endos?

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 08 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We go to their offices for checkups, and depend on them for our lab tests and prescription refills. Yes, endocrinologists are the center of our healthcare team for many of us living with diabetes.But what about those PWDs (people with diabetes) wh...

Diabetes Discrimination At Work

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 07 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Many of us have a long weekend now thanks to Labor Day, when we recognize the American workforce.We'd like to recognize the many great people working hard for us in the Diabetes Community -- from advocates to endos and educators, researchers and s...

Ask D'Mine: Downward Mobility with Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 05 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil talks money -- a big topic for those of us with diabetes, because our meds and tech and t...

The Yoga Barn: A Diabetes and Health Retreat in Bulgaria

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 04 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

It's always great to hear about cool new diabetes programs across the globe, and since September is National Yoga Month (seriously, it is!), we thought it was a perfect time to tell you all about a new yoga diabetes retreat overseas -- especiall...

Diabetes in Prison: No Insulin, No Care?

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 03 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

It's an unfortunate enough experience to land behind bars, but if you have diabetes, you shouldn't have to worry that your life is at risk due to lack of life-sustaining insulin and care.Unfortunately, that's happening way too often. The American ...

Google + Sanofi + Joslin Diabetes Center Aim for "Radical" New Diabetes Technology

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 02 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Google apparently has diabetes on the mind, as it's currently announcing a string of partnerships with the diabetes device and medication industry.This week, Google Life Sciences under the new Alphabet parent company has entered into a partnership...

Dealing with Diabetes Social Media Burnout: Juggling the Personal and Professional

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 01 Sep 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Over the years, there've been lots of online sharing initiatives for our Diabetes Community, like D-Blog Week and the #IWishPeopleKnewThatDiabetes campaign. But ironically, today is marked Diabetes Social Media Burnout Day, in which we're all enco...

Appreciating Partners and Spouses in the Diabetes Community

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 31 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

It's hard to put a price on the support we all get from wonderful partners and spouses who stand by our sides during the diabetes journey each day.Yep, diabetes can complicate relationships, as we all know -- and the more recognition of that and t...

Ask D'Mine: Kama Sutra and Diabetes Pregnancy

Wil Dubois — Sat, 29 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere in August 2015

DiabetesMine Staff — Fri, 28 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

As we wind down the summer and it's been hot outside, our diabetes blogging radar has been lighting up with all the outstanding posts from around the Diabetes Online Community (DOC)!Luckily there's been no shortage of cool stuff to read online. In...

An Exclusive (Diabetes) Chat with Foreigner Rock Legend Mick Jones

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 27 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Being a huge classic rock fan, one of my all-time favorite groups is the legendary Foreigner, that's brought us incredible tunes like Cold As Ice, Hot Blooded, Urgent, and I Want To Know What Love Is (to name a few).Uh huh, I'm a big classic rock ...

NEWSFLASH: Next-Generation Dexcom G5 Mobile Gets FDA Approval!

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 25 Aug 2015 12:00:00 GMT

In amazingly fast timing, the FDA has approved the next-generation Dexcom G5 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) system that will communicate directly with a mobile device, eliminating the need for a separate receiver! The California CGM company ann...

Imperium: Betting on Insulin Makers with a New "Peel and Stick" Patch Pump

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 25 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

The notion of "peel and stick" just got a new meaning in the Diabetes World with the advent of Imperium, a unique new prefilled patch insulin pump being developed by Pennsylvania medical device company Unilife Corp, which makes injectable medicati...

Pondering the Sugar Surfing Concept: Diabetes Book Review (Plus Giveaway)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We may joke about "surfing the waves" of glucose when it comes to life with diabetes, but any talk of sugar surfing these days may be a reference to a new diabetes book that is definitely the real deal. It's written by none other than Dr. Stephen ...

Ask D'Mine: Insulin Alternatives for Type 2 Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday! Welcome back to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil dives into a question about the best "non-insulin" options for those in the type 2 wor...

Back to School with Diabetes Data-Sharing

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

That time of year has arrived once again, when the kiddos to college students are all heading back to the classroom. Throw diabetes into the educational mix, and that can be a formula for trouble if you're not careful.We know of a whole bunch of o...

Musical Endocrinology: Diabetes Doctor Employs Passion for Country Tunes

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Have you heard the new diabetes song called Needle Free? Just released in July, it's all about how our technology and treatment has come to a point where we're seemingly just inches from being "needle free"... and it's only a matter of time bef...

Glooko Brings Mobile Diabetes Data-Sharing to Pumps and CGM Devices

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 19 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We've had a close eye on Glooko, the small California company creating a mobile health platform for diabetes data, ever since it first came on the scene in 2011.Glooko has made great headway in these past four years; it's solution is now compatibl...

Patient Voices Winner: from Halle Berry to Diabetes Empowerment

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 18 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Today for the final interview with our 10 Patient Voices Winners (who'll be joining us for the 2015 Innovation Summit at Stanford in November) we're delighted to host longtime friend and fellow advocate Kelly Kunik.You may recognize Kelly as the v...

Diabetes Educators 2015 Conference Takes on Type 1, Social Media

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Today we continue our coverage of the big American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) annual meeting that brought nearly 3,000 educators and a several thousand more D-experts together in New Orleans last week. Our own Wil Dubois reported ...

Ask D'Mine: Men's Health and Possibly TMI on Diabetes and Sex

Wil Dubois — Sat, 15 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Wisconsin Family of Diabetes Advocates: Boxes of Joy and Call for an American Girl Doll

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 14 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We always love unique approaches to diabetes advocacy. This one comes from a northern Wisconsin family that didn't waste any time embracing advocacy right after their tween daughter Anja was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in October 2013. On top o...

Wilford Brimley, and the Best & Worst of the 2015 Diabetes Educators Conference

Wil Dubois — Thu, 13 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

The big annual get-together of the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) took place in "the Big Easy" a.k.a. New Orleans, this past week -- the organization's 42nd conference that brought together roughly 2,900 educators and a total of...

NEWSFLASH: Dexcom Partners with Google on Next-Gen Diabetes Tech!

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 09:00:00 GMT

The ink is still wet from a new deal just announced between CGM-maker Dexcom and data analytics giant Google, in which they'll collaborate to develop next-generation diabetes technology. Yep, on Tuesday morning, Dexcom and Google Life Sciences wen...

Patient Voices Winner: Diabetes Apps Not Up to Par

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

This is the 9th in our series of interviews with the 10 advocates chosen as 2015 Patient Voices Winners, who will be joining us for this year's DiabetesMine Innovation Summit at Stanford in a few months.Today, we're happy to share the story of fel...

Samsung Dives Into Diabetes and Mobile Health

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Big news hit earlier this summer when Medtronic announced teaming up with consumer electronics giant Samsung, to create some future data-sharing possibilities for people with diabetes.For starters, imagine the current generation Samsung Gear S sma...

Ask D'Mine: Small Meals for Small Diabetes Peeps

Wil Dubois — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Complications of Diabetes – Real-World Information from DiabetesMine

Amy Tenderich — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Complications of diabetes are basically the scary things that can happen to your body over time when your blood sugar is not well-controlled. High blood sugar over long periods (months and years) causes damage to your nerves, feet, eyes, kidneys, ...

Victory Over Diabetes with Tae Kwon Do

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 07 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We're always excited to share stories of fellow peeps from the Diabetes Community, especially those we've had the pleasure of meeting in person on occassion.One of those is Mike Barry in Chicago, IL, whom I saw this Spring at the Diabetes UnConfer...

Diabetes Technology Update: Mid-2015 and Beyond

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 06 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We're now well into the second half of the year, and with many diabetes companies holding their quarterly earnings calls to update investors, many of us are wondering: What's next in diabetes technology, before this year ends?Short answer: Quite a...

Patient Voices Winner and Diabetes Educator Jane Dickinson Talks Innovation

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Next in our lineup of 2015 Patient Voices Winners is a woman who's not only been living with type 1 diabetes for a total of four decades, but is also an esteemed diabetes educator making a difference in the lives of many PWDs (people with diabet...

NEWSFLASH: Animas Signs on with Tidepool for Open Diabetes Data Sharing

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 04 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Users of Animas insulin pumps, rejoice! Today Animas becomes the 6th major diabetes device manufacturer to sign on to allow its customers access to Tidepool's new open source software platform for diabetes data. This means Johnson & Johnson D...

On Car Alarms and Diabetes Device Alerts

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 03 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

The beeping wouldn't stop.No matter what I did, the noise was penetrating my skull, screaming that some piece of technology was in "warning mode" and trying to alert me to take some action. Simply because it was programmed to do so.You might thi...

Ask D'Mine: Struggling with Diabetes (As Many of Us Do)

Wil Dubois — Sat, 01 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Diabetes isn't easy, so many of us living with this condition often need to reach out to other pancreatically-challenged folk for tips and moral support. That's why we offer Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column that offers honest straight talk a...

Certified Diabetes Educators (CDEs): What You Should Know

Amy Tenderich — Sat, 01 Aug 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We get a lot of questions about Certified Diabetes Educators (CDEs) – what they can offer patients, how to find one, and even how to become a diabetes educator yourself if interested.We've queried some top diabetes education experts in the country...

Our Top Diabetes Blog Picks from July 2015

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Here we are at the end of another July, and the heat's been on this past month! Not only in the outside temps across much of the States, but also here in the Diabetes Online Community (DOC)...Yes, there have been many "hot" topics afoot -- from...

Patient Voices Winner Channels Dance Experience and Poetry into Diabetes Advocacy

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We continue to feature the 10 excellent Diabetes Community members chosen as winners of our 2015 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Contest -- who of course will all be attending our Innovation Summit at Stanford University on scholarship this November.T...

Six Things to Know Before Starting Afrezza

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Some of you may have heard that I've been having issues with Afrezza, the new inhalable insulin from MannKind/Sanofi that's such a hot commodity among investors. I'm disappointed that it doesn't seem to be working as well for me now as it did at...

Companion's New Smart Insulin Pen Will Mimic a Pump

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

What if an insulin pen could help you calculate needed doses, and then track all of your doses and times, plus IOB (insulin on board), and even send you alerts and reminders about missed doses and more? Well, it would be a pen unlike any other, in...

On Dr. Fran Kaufman's New Fiction Novel "Rhythms" (with Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We know Dr. Francine Kaufman as a renowned endo and global force, helping to change the fate of those with diabetes in developing parts of the world where access to medicine and care is at its lowest. She is a professor at the University of Southe...

Ask D'Mine: Revisiting the Missed Insulin Shot Question

Wil Dubois — Sat, 25 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Need help navigating life with diabetes? Ask D'Mine! That would be our weekly advice column, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and clinical diabetes educator Wil DuboisThis week, Wil takes another look at a common question often posed by ...

Moving Day Challenges with Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 24 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Moving Day is here!Yep, my wife Suzi, our dog Riley and I are making the move back to Michigan today, leaving Indiana after living here for 11 years. Today is actually the big day, so I'm off the grid carting boxes and furniture into the giant UHa...

Amazing Diabetes Advocate Erin Spineto Launches "Adventure Academy"

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 23 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Imagine opening up your email first thing in the morning and instead of the usual memo from the boss or spammy pitches pushing some ridiculous product, you see a note from the Sea-Peptide Adventure Academy, designed to help you live better with di...

Have You Heard? Diabetes Podcasts Making a Comeback!

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 22 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

The days of diabetes podcasting seem to have been reborn, with a surge in these audio shows hitting our Diabetes Online Community (DOC) recently.Patient-led podcasts aren't anything new, of course, nor is talking diabetes on the air a novel concep...

Patient Voices Winner Brian Cohen on Monogenic Diabetes, the Low-Carb Diet, and More

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Please say hello to Mr. Brian Cohen, a fellow PWD (person with diabetes) who lives in the Washington D.C. area and has become a well-known name in the Diabetes Community over the past several years for his efforts as a patient advocate. Today, we'...

Diabetes Carry Case Reviews from DiabetesMine

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 20 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

One universal truth about living with diabetes is that you'll need to carry around a lot of gear – a glucose meter with lancing device and test strips, medications, low-blood sugar treatments and more, with backups for everything when you travel. ...

Best Diabetes Books - Reviews by DiabetesMine

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 20 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

There are loads of diabetes books out there – albeit many of them are cookbooks, which are easy to choose by your pallet and patience in the kitchen.But if you're trying to get a realistic understanding of this disease, what you need in order to k...

Lessons in Diabetes Advocacy: MasterLab 2015 Calls for 'Musketeers'

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 20 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Dozens of diabetes advocates descended on Disney World recently for the second-ever MasterLab event, hosted by the Diabetes Hands Foundation (DHF), just prior to the start of the annual Friends for Life Conference in Orlando, FL. About 130 people...

Ask D'Mine: Losing and Gaining Weight and Thryroid Questions

Wil Dubois — Sat, 18 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Patient Voices Winner Julie Crawford Creating New Collaborative Type 1 Diabetes App for Caregivers

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 17 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Continuing our series of interviews with the patient voices contest winners who will be attending the 2015 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit in November, we're excited to feature a D-Mom from Ohio who's actually pretty new to the diabetes world.Julie...

On Patient-Reported Outcomes: Can Loving Your Doctor Kill You?

Wil Dubois — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

The hot topic with the patient community online, and at recent health conferences of every stripe, is the growing importance of the patient perspective in medicine. From trying to get doctors to listen to their patients better, to joint decision-m...

The iLet Bionic Pancreas & Other News from Diabetes Friends for Life 2015

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 15 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

I just returned from the yearly Friends for Life conference in Orlando, FL, where thousands of people from the Diabetes Community gather each July to connect, learn and have fun.We all had a blast shooting out updates via the hashtag #CWDFFL15 on ...

Blood Glucose Meter Reviews from DiabetesMine

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 15 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

A home blood glucose meter is an essential tool for managing diabetes. Especially for anyone taking insulin as part of your diabetes treatment, daily blood glucose (BG) checking is pretty much essential – because only your meter can tell you whe...

Insulin Pump Reviews from DiabetesMine

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 15 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

For anyone taking long-acting and short-acting (pre-meal) insulin, an insulin pump offers freedom from all of the hassle of injections. If you decide to eat a little more, or do some unexpected exercise, you can just push a button to administ...

Keeping Hollywood Honest, on Diabetes and Other ‘Social Impact’ Topics

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 14 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Ever wonder if there really is an effective channel to assure that TV and movies portray things like diabetes and even domestic violence in a realistic, meaningful way? Say hello to the Global Media Center for Social Impact at UCLA, brainchild of ...

Miss America Hopeful Sierra Sandison Pens New Sugar Linings Book (with Giveaway)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 13 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We all know the phrase, "Every cloud has a silver lining," right?Well now, we have a diabetes book that plays on that phrase and puts it into perspective for those of us who are pancreatically challenged and might not always be looking on the brig...

Ask D'Mine: Wicked Cures for Nerve Pain

Wil Dubois — Sat, 11 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Diabetes isn't very loving, of course, but we do our best here at the 'Mine to support you! Welcome to another edition of our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and diabetes educator Wil Dubois.In today's c...

If Diabetes Were a TV Game Show...

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 10 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We're keeping it light today since it's a Friday, and many from our community are attending the annual CWD Friends For Life conference at DisneyWorld in Orlando, FL -- our own Mike Hoskins included.We'll have a report on the FFL experience and the...

Patient Voices Winner Joanne Milo Is a 'Diabetes Tech Junkie'

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

As we work our way through the list of Patient Voices Scholarship winners who'll be joining us for the 2015 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit this November, today we're happy to introduce longtime type 1 Joanne Milo in California. Residing in Orange ...

New Video Review of the Apple Watch with Dexcom Share App!

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Checked out the new Apple Watch yet? One of the most exciting aspects for people with diabetes is the Dexcom G4 Share2 app you can use on the watch to view and share your glucose data results. Longtime type 1, blogger and author Joanne Milo -- one...

Unleash Your Inner Diabetes Dominator

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 08 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

She's known as the Diabetes Dominator, but the real name and face behind that moniker is fellow type 1 Daniele Hargenrader.Diagnosed as a girl more than two decades ago, Daniele not only has a strong voice in the Diabetes Online Community through ...

Apple Watch with Dexcom G4 Share 2 App - Review

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 07 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Longtime type 1, blogger and author Joanne Milo is back with another review -- this time of the Apple Watch with the Dexcom G4 Share2 app for viewing and sharing of glucose data results.REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN:PROs:can view streaming CGM data right...

The Business of Getting Fit with Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 07 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Getting active and staying fit is one of the huge ongoing challenges of living with diabetes. Of course, non-D folks struggle with it too, but having a "manual pancreas" complicates things. Not surprisingly, the industry and mHealth world have ca...

The Diabetes Community Responds to CrossFit's Myth-Fueling Tweet Mess

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 06 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

For the past several days, we've been watching with interest how our Diabetes Community responds to the latest "diabetes misconception kerfuffle" kicked off by fitness company CrossFit.You've probably heard some rumblings about this, unless you we...

Sunday Funnies: January – July 2015

DiabetesMine | Comics from Community — Sun, 05 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

« See newer comics Summertime Diabetes Vampires...? Published July 5, 2015 With the warmer weather upon us, many of us PWDs (people with diabetes) are making new friends... Thanks to the ever-artistic Gareth Morgan from England, who's a biome...

Ask D'Mine: Reflecting on Diabetes Freedom and Independence

Wil Dubois — Sat, 04 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Today, we offer a special edition of our weekly Ask D'Mine Q&A in honor of the Fourth of July, which typically doesn't fall on a Saturday -- the last time that happened was in 2009! Our expert host Wil Dubois, a longtime type 1 himself, takes...

"My Seven Decades with Type 1 Diabetes"

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 03 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

What an honor it is today to share the story of a man in New York who's now in his seventh decade of living with type 1 diabetes.I had the privilege of meeting Richard Vaughn two years ago, when we both traveled to the annual Friends For Life conf...

Patient Voices Winner Betsy Ray is 'Diabetes Activist' for Herself and Daughter

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Next up in our series of interviews with winners of our 2015 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship Contest, announced a few weeks ago, is a Colorado woman who's been at this type 1 game for the past half-century.Her name is Betsy Ray, and she wa...

Got Neuropathy? Quell Offers “World’s First Pain Relief Wearable”

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Amongst the current flurry of wearable sensors and mHealth apps that appear to be so many elaborate toys, a new system called Quell stands out. It seems to have real potential to change lives… for many people with diabetes and beyond. Quell is a ...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere - June 2015 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 30 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

It's a busy summer season as always between the major diabetes conferences, Father's Day, summer D-camps, and much more. So naturally, we have a bunch of great posts to highlight from the past month!Here, in no particular order, are some of our re...

Call to Action: Getting Congress to Examine Diabetes Supplies Bidding Program

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We knew the federal government's Medicare program was hurting people with diabetes by restricting access to necessary supplies, ever since the controversial competitive-bidding process kicked off in 2011. And we've been seeing anecdotal evidence o...

Ask D'Mine: Liver Spots Aren't What You Think

Wil Dubois — Sat, 27 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine -- you know, the place to find straight-up honest and candid answers about whatever the diabetes topic may be, thanks to your host Wil Dubois (himself a longtime type 1 who works as a c...

Going Bionic: Test Drive of an Artificial Pancreas System

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 26 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

In our continuing coverage of all things closed loop, today we're excited to share the experiences of a long-time type 1 in the Boston area who's recently had the chance to try out the much-discussed Bionic Pancreas system -- our friend and fello...

Patient Voices Winner Anthony Byers Stands Up for Type 2 Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Today we're excited to continue our series of interviews with our 2015 Patient Voices Contest winners, who will be attending our annual DiabetesMine Innovation Summit at Stanford University in the Fall.Meet Anthony Byers, a security executive in O...

Teen Mom Star Mackenzie McKee Releases New Diabetes Awareness Rap

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 24 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

If you're not a big TMZ follower or celeb gossip fan, or someone who's tuned into MTV reality shows, the name Mackenzie Douthit McKee may not be one you immediately recognize.Mackenzie is the 20-year-old former cheerleader from rural Oklahoma who ...

Nick Jonas Talks His First Decade with Diabetes, and Partnering with Dexcom

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 23 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Nick Jonas is no longer the teenage boy band star with a squeaky clean image. Enter the new Nick, now in his early 20s with a grittier edge, and a lot is changing for him and his fans.In the past year or so, Nick's branched out on his own as an ar...

Not Much to Love In Diabetes Wine Drinker's Guide (Giveaway, Not Wine, Included)

Wil Dubois — Mon, 22 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

It's 9:20 on a Monday morning, and I just popped the cork on a bottle of Malbec and poured myself a glass. (Obviously, my wife is still asleep.) I'm sitting down to review Theodore Berland's new The Diabetic Wine Lover's Guide, and I could hardly...

Ask D'Mine: Those Difficult Bathroom Questions

Wil Dubois — Sat, 20 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

PWDs: You. Are. Here.Welcome to another edition of our "curiously strong" diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil tackles some, err... rough questions about ...

A D-Mom and Doctor Turned Artificial Pancreas Entrepreneur

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 19 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Meet Jennifer Schneider, an orthopedic surgeon and mother to a now-preteen daughter with type 1 diabetes. Despite her mellow, down-to-earth manner, she's also a high-powered Silicon Valley entrepreneur, one of the pioneers working to get a functio...

Valerie June: Mixing Moonshine Roots Music & LADA Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 18 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We have a whole slew of singers and songwriters in our Diabetes Community, writing and performing all types of music genres.You name the musical style and there's pretty much someone playing that tune -- from big-name talent like Bret Michaels wit...

Partner Follies: D-Wife Shares Good and Bad of Diabetes Data-Sharing

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 17 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

It's been seven months since I started using CGM in the Cloud, and had my Dexcom G4 connected to the Nightscout setup. You may remember that back in November, I wrote about the experience of being a Nightscout newbie.Much has changed since then, w...

Patient Voices Winner Corrine Logan Creates "PumpStash"

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 16 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Congrats again to the winners of our 2015 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship Contest, announced a few weeks ago. Over the next couple of months, we'll be featuring an interview with each, gradually leading up to our signature 2015 DiabetesMin...

Industry, Patient Hackers, Entrepreneurs Talk Diabetes Data Revolution at the D-Data ExChange

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 15 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

On Friday, June 5, we hosted our fourth-ever DiabetesMine D-Data ExChange event -– this time in Boston, in conjunction with the first day of the ADA Scientific Sessions happening there. This event has rapidly grown up from that first gathering ...

Ask D'Mine: A Second Look at Piloting with Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

With the summer diabetes conference season upon us, our team is jet-setting around the country and world -- from Boston to Orlando to New Orleans, and even our esteemed leader AmyT's annual travels to Germany.Our Q&A columnist Wil Dubois is a ...

10 Diabetes Life Hacks You Might Love

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Our 2015 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Contest focused on diabetes life hacks -- simple tricks to make life with this perplexing illness easier or better in some practical way. We were thrilled by, and appreciative of, the ingenuity of the many idea...

The Science Side of ADA 2015

Amy Tenderich (with Mike Hoskins) — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

As you all know, we were in Boston attending the 75th annual ADA Scientific Sessions last week. At the heart of this whole gathering is of course the science -– the loads of new studies completed around the country and the world over the past year...

Tech Spotting at the ADA Scientific Sessions 2015

Amy Tenderich (with Mike Hoskins) — Wed, 10 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

More than 15,000 scientists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals descended upon Boston for the annual ADA Scientific Sessions this year, the 75th anniversary of this gi-normous conference addressing new research in diabetes care and tre...

My Life as a Diabetes Educator and Person with Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 09 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Aimée José is a CDE (certified diabetes educator) and PWD (person with diabetes) herself, living and working in Palo Alto, CA. I was thrilled to learn about her work researching the most effective use of CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitoring) not lon...

Introducing the Diabetes Patient Advocacy Coalition

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 08 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

A new patient-led organization has sprung up to help the grassroots diabetes community lobby effectively, with the goal of making advocacy on federal and state policy issues easy for the average PWD (person with diabetes).It's called the Diabetes ...

Ask D'Mine: Methabetic Dangers

Wil Dubois — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Need help navigating life with diabetes? You can always Ask D'Mine! Welcome again to our weekly Q&A column, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil responds to a serious question about a po...

Why I Fired My Endocrinologist, and What I Want in a New One

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

A couple of weeks ago, I laid off my endo because he wasn't willing to work with me on trying out the new inhaled insulin Afrezza.How it all played out was unexpected and not how I would typically handle something like this, as it was a spur of t...

TypeZero Tech: More High Hopes for Closed Loop Commercialization

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Another new startup has its sights on creating the first commercial closed loop system, taking years of research on one of the country's leading Artificial Pancreas projects and using that as their own prototype to eventually sell to people with d...

Bigfoot Biomedical Buys Asante Snap Tech for Future Closed Loop

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 03 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Big news in the diabetes device world as it relates to future closed loop tech!Word came on May 28 that the small but mighty startup Bigfoot Biomedical has bought up the key assets of Asante Solutions, the California company that made the click-to...

ADA Forecast Editor Kelly Rawlings on Life and Work with Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 02 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We love nothing more than connecting with passionate people who not only share the challenges of our chronic condition, but have focused their talents and careers on helping this community.One of those is D-peep Kelly Rawlings, a longtime type 1 d...

"Eat Out, Eat Well": New Diabetes Guide to Healthy Restaurant Choices (with Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 01 Jun 2015 07:00:00 GMT

In my continuing quest to eat healthier, I was happy to hear about Eat Out, Eat Well, a new book published in February by the American Diabetes Association from well-known diabetes educator Hope Warshaw, who is also president-elect for the Americ...

Ask D'Mine: Send Lawyers, Guns, and Money

Wil Dubois — Sat, 30 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Got questions about navigating life with diabetes? Ask D'Mine! Our weekly advice column, that is - hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and specialist Wil Dubois. This week, Wil is tackling two tough questions related to workplace discrimin...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere in May 2015

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 29 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We're now at the end of the fifth month of 2015, which is simply amazing - how quickly this year is going by! Of course, the summer months bring a bevy of diabetes conference activity and we're excited about that, but it's already been a busy May....

Afrezza (Inhaled Insulin) Makes Another Friend

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 28 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We know, we know, analysts have been split on whether new inhaled insulin Afrezza will be a success. All we can tell you is that all the users we've heard from so far have been quite enthused; our Afrezza in the Real World series continues today, ...

Teens with Diabetes Design Their Own Solutions

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 27 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Clearly, we're huge fans of patient-centered design and innovation. That's why we love what Dr. Joyce Lee, a pediatric endo and researcher at the University of Michigan, is up to in challenging the status quo with progressive design-thinking in he...

ANNOUNCING: Winners of the 2015 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship Contest!

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 26 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Hello All,A HUGE THANK YOU to the 50 people who entered our 2015 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Contest this year, and shared their wonderful ideas for diabetes life hacks. We learned a lot, while evaluating all of the input and essays! Our esteemed ...

Five Questions on Diabetes in the Military with Dr. Jordan Pinsker

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 25 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY, D-Peeps! Err, Is that the proper salutation for this day, honoring all Americans who died while in the military service?... Of course, it's also about honoring those still living and serving. It's the perfect day to check in ...

Ask D'Mine: How to Bolus for Bulimia

Wil Dubois — Sat, 23 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

This edition of our weekly diabetes advice column Ask D'Mine is pretty heavy duty. Our columnist Wil Dubois (himself a longtime type 1 who works as a community diabetes educator) is faced with a real medical emergency in the form of an eating dis...

New Diabetes Foundation Aims to Empower Students, Young Adults, and More!

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 22 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

The annual Students With Diabetes conference begins today (May 22), bringing nearly 200 young adults to Tampa, Florida, where they can share all about their D-lives at that age. Now in its fifth year, this is a big moment for the peer and pr...

What's Cooking with Diabetes Celeb Chef Sam Talbot (and New Beyond Type 1 Group)

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 21 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Whenever you're able to connect with a celebrity chef you haven't chatted with in a few years, naturally the first question that comes to mind is, "What's cooking lately?" For celeb chef Sam Talbot, a fellow type 1 since age 12, there's a lot on ...

Demise of an Insulin Pump Company (RIP, Asante Snap)

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 20 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

The Diabetes Community got a quick and unwanted snap of harsh reality last Friday when Asante Solutions, makers of the innovative Snap insulin pump, suddenly announced they were closing up shop. With no advanced warning, we learned that the newes...

Abbott's New Precision Neo Meter Lacks Features, Aims to 'Skip the Copay'

Wil Dubois — Tue, 19 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

If a glucose meter could make cappuccino, I'd be all over that. That's what I expected with Abbott Diabetes Care's newest meter, the FreeStyle Precision Neo, launched here in the States earlier this Spring. But sadly, the meter doesn't deliver ...

"Thriving with Diabetes" — New Book Preview, with Giveaway

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 18 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

When fellow advocate and co-founder of the DiabetesDaily community site David Edelman asked me to look at a new book he was coauthoring with a well-known endocrinologist, I wasn't sure what to expect. Another overview of treatment options? More di...

Ask D'Mine: The Best Diabetes Sentence Ever?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 16 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, DiabetesMine Friends!With this being the sixth day of Diabetes Blog Week 2015, we're excited to bring you a special edition of our weekly diabetes advice column, hosted by veteran type 1 and clinical educator Wil Dubois. This wee...

NEWSFLASH: Goodbye, Asante Solutions and Snap Insulin Pump

Mike Hoskins — Sat, 16 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Insulin pump manufacturer Asante Solutions is closing its corporate doors in Sunnyvale, CA, and the Asante Snap will soon be a diabetes device of the past. The news broke late Friday, when Asante's Director of Customer Care and Reimbursement Gil B...

A Girl's Guide to Prom with Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 15 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

It's (still) Prom Season, with all the hoopla that brings for high schoolers and their friends and families. The hair, the makeup, the dress, the tux, the picture-party, the after-party... whew! I just went through this myself with my two oldest d...

New Endocrinology Foundation to Take on Fundraising and Advocacy

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 14 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Chances are as this week winds down, your endocrinologist is out of the office today and tomorrow. He or she may very well be at the big annual clinical endo conference happening in Tennessee this Wednesday through Sunday, bringing in thousands of...

Diabetes Blog Week 2015: Cleaning Out Those Unused Mobile Apps

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 13 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Here are we are on the third day of Diabetes Blog Week 2015 -- a community initiative to share sentiments on various aspects of life with diabetes. Today's topic: Cleaning Stuff Out, as in: What's in your diabetic closet that needs to be cleaned ...

Diabetes Blog Week 2015 Day Two: What We Don't Share

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 12 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the second day of Diabetes Blog Week, and if you missed the launch of this community blogging event, you can check it out here.Today's topic is all about "Keeping Stuff In." Or as #DBlogWeek creator and fellow type 1 Karen Graffeo says:...

Diabetes Blog Week 2015 - It Starts with Knowing 'I Can'

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 11 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to D-Blog Week 2015, everyone!This annual effort, now in its sixth year, is a great "coming together" of the diabetes blogging community around selected topics that affect our collective lives. The effort is spearheaded by Karen Graffeo ...

Ask D'Mine: When Neuropathy Can Kill

Wil Dubois — Sat, 09 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

The prospect of diabetes complications can be scary indeed. In this week's edition of our weekly diabetes advice column Ask D'Mine, our columnist Wil Dubois (himself a longtime type 1 who also works as a diabetes educator) offers some thoughts on...

Prom Swapping, Thanks to Diabetes Conference Connections

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 08 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Prom Season is here! Which is a big moment in life, all on its own. But with diabetes added into the mix, the experience can become challenging for teens and families worried about insulin pumps in prom dresses, or blood sugar swings that might im...

Tandem Diabetes: Project Odyssey Could Change How We Upgrade to Latest Tech

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 07 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Tandem Diabetes Care wants to change how we think about upgrading to the latest and greatest diabetes technology, using a model more like that of smartphones and mobile apps, where customers just download new software when ready, and only trade in...

Two More Views of Afrezza Inhaled Insulin in the Real World

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 06 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Today, more in our series on Afrezza in the Real World...Some analysts are giving not-so-positive outlooks on Afrezza based on early financial reports that the new inhaled insulin raised just a measly $1.1 million in its first weeks on the mark...

'Reegan's Rule' Legislation Aims to Prevent Tragedies of Undiagnosed Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 05 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We hear the heartbreaking stories way too often of kids and adults who aren't aware of the symptoms of type 1 diabetes, and it ends up being too late when the realization finally hits. That's what happened in 2013 in North Carolina, when a 14-mont...

New Roche Meter & App to Bring Mobile Insulin Recommendations, Despite Recall

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 04 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

In the coming months, we'll see the Roche Accu-Chek Connect system hit the market here in the States -- giving us the first mobile app approved by the FDA that actually offers insulin dosing recommendations, via a built-in bolus calculator.Yes, th...

Ask D'Mine: Dynamic Diabetes and Confusing Infusing

Wil Dubois — Sat, 02 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Diabetes Adventurer Travels Through 18 Countries, Makes Inspirational BG Video

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 01 May 2015 07:00:00 GMT

You may remember our featured interview from a couple years ago with Jeremy Larsen, a fellow longtime type 1 who lives in Japan and created a blood sugar photo project called 70-130. He's originally from Georgia, but has lived in the city of Osaka...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: April 2015 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 30 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Wow, it's amazing that another month has gone by already. It's certainly been a busy one here at the 'Mine, and there's been a lot going on around the Diabetes Online Community (DOC) as well.Check out our picks of blog posts we think shouldn't ...

UK Researcher Putting the 'Human' into Diabetes Tech Design

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 29 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

It's no secret that we're big fans of diabetes technology, from new meters to insulin pumps and real-time data devices and apps. But so often, this D-tech is missing a key piece: the human side, that takes into account how we might feel about that...

How Afrezza is Changing the Life of a Type 1 Diabetic Pilot

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 28 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Last week we made mention of a new series, Afrezza in the Real World, that will share the views of various folks now taking this new inhalable insulin from MannKind and Sanofi.(Speaking of Afrezza news: the FDA just approved 12-unit cartridges of ...

New Healthline Diabetes Empowerment Campaign - Submit Your Pix to Support JDRF!

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 27 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We're proud to announce that our new mothership here at Healthline.com is launching a diabetes EmpowerT1D‬ campaign that mixes sharing inspiring photos and messages with substantial fundraising for JDRF. The idea is that PWDs (people with diabetes...

Ask D'Mine: New Basal Insulin Toujeo, New Dosing Math

Wil Dubois — Sat, 25 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine - with your host veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil looks at the newest basal insulin to hit the market: Sanofi's Toujeo (aka the Son of Lantus). ...

Last Day to Enter Our 2015 Patient Voices Contest - All About Those Hacks!

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 24 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Today is it, Folks! You have until 5pm Pacific to enter the 2015 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Contest. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to win a full scholarship to attend our annual DiabetesMine Innovation Summit, happening on Friday, Nov. ...

The 21st Century Cures Act and Its (Potential) Diabetes Impact

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 23 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Whenever the topic of healthcare and Congress comes up, you have to cringe a little and wonder what kind of rhetoric-filled squabble is about to ensue.Happily, that may not be the case with a new piece of comprehensive legislation called the 21st ...

Amazing Afrezza – Non-Invasive Insulin That Works!

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 22 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

I can't wait to get my next A1C test done (who says that?! but it's true). I am now two-plus months into my use of new inhaled insulin Afrezza, and frankly I'm blown away by how well it performs (ooh, pun!) I've been hesitant to be too much of...

Sometimes I Forget… (About Diabetes)

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 21 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Today is my birthday* -- always a good time to reflect on life and our place in it. I've been aware lately that as I approach my 12-years-with-diabetes mark, it slips my mind sometimes (sort of). SOMETIMES I FORGET... That I'm not 'normal' li...

Diabetes Research Connection: New Crowdfunding Hub to Choose and Follow Your Donations

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Each time I donate to diabetes research in recent years, I get this sinking feeling that I'm throwing money into a bottomless pit, and may never know exactly what my donation is going toward or whether it's making any difference. I just have to go...

Ask D'Mine: The MODY Diabetes and FOMO Blues

Wil Dubois — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Diabetes itself -- and now the technology to treat it -- comes in many forms. Today at our diabetes advice column Ask D'Mine, veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois is riffing on MODY and the FOMO (Fear of Missing Out...

Diabetes Hits the Baseball Field (Interview with Team Bogo Creator)

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

This time of year is always exciting for me, as it's the start of baseball season once again!I'm a huge baseball fan, having played competitively as a kid and enjoyed it on radio and TV most of my life. So it's always fun when the season rolls aro...

Update on Diabetes Foot Care: "Great Debate" and a New App

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We are now less than two months away from America's biggest diabetes conference, the ADA annual meeting taking place in Boston this year, where diabetes and feet will play a starring role. That is, new treatment updates will be on the agenda, even...

Under the Shell of the Egg Crack Challenge for Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Last summer, the world seemed to go bananas over the Ice Bucket Challenge to raise money for ALS.I participated, in large part due to a family member who's living with that illness. Not everyone was keen on taking part in that online effort though...

NEWSFLASH: Medtronic Taps into IBM Super Computer (and Expands Diabetes Reach)

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Remember Watson, that super-smart artificial intelligence system that competed on Jeopardy about four years ago and beat out two human contestants?Well, now that same super computer system will be applied to the world of diabetes management. No ki...

Build A Sugar Streak and Earn Rewards (with a Little Help from Apple Watch)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 13 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

The Internet is buzzing with talk about the new Apple Watch that you can now pre-order and will hit the market later this month. And a big part of that buzz is about new mobile health apps, including some aimed at diabetes. CGM (continuous glucose...

Ask D'Mine: Pumping Up Menopause

Wil Dubois — Sat, 11 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

There are plenty of factors affecting the "diabetes rollercoaster" -- and hormones are certainly not the least thereof. Today at our diabetes advice column Ask D'Mine, veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois is taking ...

Why You'll Want to Enter the 2015 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Contest!

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

You have exactly two weeks left to apply to the 2015 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Contest (we close for submissions on April 24). Don't miss this incredible opportunity to interact directly with -- and voice our patient concerns to -- various decis...

Who Says Big Pharma Isn't Investing in Finding a Diabetes Cure?

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Just the other day, we had a good April 1 laugh about all the hyped-up diabetes "cure" headlines. But today, we're looking more seriously at how Big Pharma is putting its money where its mouth is, as in fighting diabetes for real by investing in c...

New 'Insulin Angel' Aims to Look After Your Diabetes Meds

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Ever have an issue forgetting your insulin at home, at school or in the office? Or do you worry that freezing or sweltering weather might kill your insulin?Well, if a new diabetes device and app called Insulin Angel gets off the ground, then you m...

Dexcom G4 Receiver with Share Tech for iPhone - A New Video Review!

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Our good friend and fellow longtime type 1 and author Joanne Milo is back at the video product review game! This savvy lady, who appropriately writes a blog titled The Savvy Diabetic, has just submitted another great piece to our community review ...

Typecast: A D-Dad's Book of Diabetes Inspiration for Young Son (Plus Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

If there's an axiom that comes to mind after reading the book Typecast: Amazing People Overcoming the Chronic Disease of Type 1 Diabetes, it would be that everyone has a story. This new book was penned by D-Dad Andrew Deutscher, whose young son G...

Ask D'Mine: Beating the Diabetes Easter Candy Blues

Wil Dubois — Sat, 04 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Asante Recharges Insulin Pump Marketing

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

I like to think I've seen my fair share of marketing materials for diabetes products. In my now 31 years of living with type 1, a good number of diabetes tools have come across my radar. And since I began reporting here at the 'Mine, I've becom...

In Search Of: The Highest Diabetes A1C in History

Wil Dubois — Thu, 02 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

My most recent A1C was nothing to be proud of, but I consoled myself with the thought that it was hardly the worst in history. That got me wondering: What was the all-time worst A1C? Who holds this dubious record, and how high is it possible to g...

Dexcom G4 Receiver with Share - Review

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 02 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Longtime type 1 and blogger Joanne Milo reviews the Dexcom G4 continuous glucose monitor receiver with new Share technology, for remote viewing of glucose data results.REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN:PROs: Can see and share your data on up to 5 iPhones or i...

Top 10 Cures for Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 01 Apr 2015 07:00:00 GMT

If you listen to the Internet, diabetes has been cured! In fact, there are many cure options to choose from. Our Top 10 faves include: 1. Mice Cures Our furry little friends seem to be getting cured every week. In this most recent example, they w...

Around the Diabetes #DOC Blogosphere - March 2015 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 31 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

It's amazing to realize that we're already through a full quarter of 2015 -- the year is really flying by! Of course, we're happy every month to find outstanding posts from around the Diabetes Online Community (DOC). As the sports world is going a...

Test Driving New Inhaled Insulin Afrezza

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 30 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

I have been using Afrezza, the new inhaled insulin developed by MannKind and marketed by Sanofi, for the last three and a half weeks. So far it's… mysterious and exciting. Mysterious because the dosing seems ridiculously imprecise compared to ...

Ask D'Mine: Weathering Mail Order Diabetes Supply Services

Wil Dubois — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

When 'Real Person Sick' Is Hijacked by Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

I sat in my doctor's office, feeling like a school child sitting in the principal's office, being scolded for not doing my homework.This was my general family doctor, not my endo, and this was the first time seeing this new doc after our friendly...

New Living BioBank Matches Diabetes Patients with Researchers

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

When I first started taking more of an interest in diabetes research and clinical trials a few years ago, I found myself poring over national and local databases listing the studies that involved diabetes. The process was anything but user-friendl...

Some Good News About Lipohypertrophy + Continuous Glucose Monitoring (!)

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Lipohypertrophy is one of those big words for bad side effects of diabetes that no one ever warns you about. Basically, it's a condition common in those of us who repeatedly inject ourselves – an accumulation of fat and scar tissue under the ski...

On Diabetes Alert Day, an Interview with New ADA Chief Kevin Hagan

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Diabetes Alert Day 2015!Each year on the fourth Tuesday of March, we find the American Diabetes Association holding its one-day "wake-up call," encouraging millions of Americans to take their Diabetes Risk Test -- a simple but powerful seven...

ANNOUNCING: The DiabetesMine 2015 Patient Voices Contest – Share Your Diabetes Life Hacks!

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 23 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Hi All, Interested in attending the 2015 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit coming up at Stanford University in November on full scholarship*? We're running our contest a little earlier this year, so we have more time to work with our winners in ad...

Ask D'Mine: On Crack and BG Crashes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 21 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Got questions about navigating life with diabetes? Well, this is your chance to Ask D'Mine! Our weekly advice column, that is - hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.Today, Wil's talking meth and hypoglycemia response ...

What Happens at the Diabetes UnConference... Doesn't Have to Totally Stay in Vegas

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 20 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

It's not often that I struggle to find words to capture a moment, but that's exactly what I've been struggling with since attending the first-ever Diabetes UnConference this past weekend. Held at the Flamingo Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas from M...

OneDrop: A Newly Diagnosed Digital Guru’s Big Diabetes Vision

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 19 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Jeff Dachis is a really smart guy. He's the co-founder and former CEO of Razorfish, the world's leading global digital marketing solutions company, and a "serial entrepreneur" who advises investors on a number of companies that wield technology to...

A Pragmatist's View of Nutrition Month with Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Wed, 18 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Today I'm here to spill the beans on National Nutrition Month, sponsored by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, who are trying to butter us up to better eating by inviting us to "bite into a healthy lifestyle." OK, so the Academy writes chee...

Nightscout System - Review

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 18 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Joanne Milo, who blogs at The Savvy Diabetic, reviews the Nightscout do-it-yourself CGM in the Cloud system, which allows users to view and share continuous glucose monitoring data on a variety of devices.REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs:Instant and c...

About Time - New Video Review of Nightscout!

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 18 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Things have been a little quiet in our video review hub, the DiabetesMine Test Kitchen, lately. But today we're excited to announce publishing of a long-awaited review of the Nightscout / CGM in the Cloud solution. This is the first "do-it-yoursel...

Jeremy's Tips for Safe Drinking with Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

I was delighted to attend the TCOYD conference in Santa Clara on March 7, and give a talk about online resources. But even better for me was the chance to attend some of the excellent Type 1 Track sessions, including Dr. Jeremy Pettus' talk on Alc...

“Replace-BG” Study Gathers Evidence for Insulin Dosing Off CGM Data (!)

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

If you ask us, it's about darn time someone organized a study demonstrating that it's safe to make insulin dosing decisions based on continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data, without the need to do a backup fingerstick test each time. The ability...

Ask D'Mine: Take a Deep Breath

Wil Dubois — Sat, 14 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Aiming for Smooth Travel with Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 13 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Traveling with diabetes somehow always seems to raise the hairs on the back of my neck -- despite the fact that I've rarely had any serious mishaps. Still, the idea always makes me nervously expect that something will go wrong (Murphy's Law, righ...

From Our Diabetes Notebook: Rounding Up the Latest Conferences

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 12 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We always keep an eye on the diabetes conference circuit of course, and although we can't possibly cover all the local events ranging from expos and meet-ups to research-specific forums, we do have some notes to share from four of these recent eve...

Dr. Denise Faustman Ready for Next Phase of Diabetes Vaccine Research

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 11 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Wow, it seems like eons since we last chatted with the influential Dr. Denise Faustman about her controversial research in creating a vaccine to cure diabetes.For those not familiar with Dr. Faustman's work at Massachusetts General Hospital, she h...

Diabetes Anniversaries on this #Dblogcheck Day 2015

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 10 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

Today, we're marking #dblogcheck day in the Diabetes Online Community (DOC), a time when D-peeps come together to support others who are part of this online universe. The brainchild of our friend Christopher Snider who runs the Just Talking podcas...

With This Ring, I Close The Loop (and #OpenAPS)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 09 Mar 2015 07:00:00 GMT

We're thrilled to see so much innovation cropping up in the "real world" of diabetes these days, with many do-it-yourself creations moving the needle forward. That's a big part of what DiabetesMine is all about, and the impetus behind the grassroo...

Ask D'Mine: A Lump in the Road and Skin Hacks

Wil Dubois — Sat, 07 Mar 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil takes on two questions on skin issues -- one about bumps, and the other about rashes and o...

Making Diabetes Work with Your Fashion/Style

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Today we're excited to bring you a guest post from our newest team member, Rachel Kerstetter, a twenty-something type 1 in Ohio who recently joined the 'Mine on a part-time basis helping out on the social media front (look for her initials on our ...

Talking Next-Gen Diabetes Tools with Dexcom Leaders

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 05 Mar 2015 08:00:00 GMT

New developments are moving fast right now at Dexcom, the California continuous glucose monitor (CGM) company dominating the market, and that's good news for all of us in the diabetes community.During an earnings call last week, Dexcom leaders rev...

Meet the Bigfoot Family and Their Homemade Closed Loop System

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Yes, Bigfoot does exist in the diabetes community and as you may have heard, he lives with his family in New York.Our friends at diaTribe recently published a comprehensive interview with the mysterious man who'd long been rumored to have secretly...

Is Your Doctor Corrupt?

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 03 Mar 2015 08:00:00 GMT

You may or may not know that doctors in this country are getting pampered and paid off by the pharmaceutical industry at large, at an alarming rate. The perks run the gamut from visits by sexy sales reps offering free lunch to hosted gourmet dinne...

Locemia, and its New Approach to Rescue Glucagon Up Your Nose

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 02 Mar 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Remember that clinical trial that Mike was part of last April, that involved Puffing Glucagon Up Your Nose? Well, the Canada-based makers of that exciting no-needle emergency rescue glucagon have come out of stealth mode, with a brand-new website...

Ask D'Mine: Too Much... ?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 28 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: Sharing the Love in Feb. 2015

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 27 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

February may be a shorter month, but that doesn't mean our Diabetes Online Community (DOC) was short of amazing content. There was a lot of love in the air as usual this Valentine's month, and unfortunately a lot of snow for our friends in much ...

A Walk in My Daughter's T1D and Gluten-Free Shoes

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

As if living with type 1 diabetes for more than a decade now weren't enough... I also live with gluten intolerance. And it's no picnic, let me tell you. I'm certainly not alone in this, and today we're thrilled to hear from a D-Mom named Polina Br...

More Brains Exploring the Possibility of 'Smart' Insulin

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 25 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Both scientific journals and mainstream media have lit up in recent weeks with big news of glucose-responsive insulin being developed by a team of researchers collaborating between the University of Utah and MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technol...

ATTD 2015 Report: "The Premier Conference for Diabetes Technology"

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 24 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

The 2015 Advanced Treatments & Technologies for Diabetes (ATTD) conference took place in Paris last week, and while we weren't able to cross the pond ourselves, we had some keen eyes and ears trained on the action. I'm happy to report that Re...

“Trackers: How Technology is Helping Us Monitor & Improve Our Health” (Book Review with Giveaway)

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

When it comes to all the craze about self-tracking apps and gadgets, I like to say: it's all fun and games until your life depends on it. Meaning: those of us with diabetes who are forced to continuously monitor our bodily functions are probably t...

Ask D'Mine: 50 Shades of Human

Wil DuBois — Sat, 21 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome to another Saturday and our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil follows takes follows up on a question that came in for Valentine's Day last week, ab...

Help Wanted: Waiting for the Low Blood Sugar Rebound

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 20 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Diabetes certainly likes to throw us curve balls sometimes, doesn't it? Just when we think we've nailed a way to handle some particular situation, or recognize what's going on, the rules seem to change and we have to start second-guessing ourselve...

The Diabetes Community Oscar Awards!

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 19 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

February is of course award season thanks to the Grammys and Oscars, so we figured, why not offer our own take on the "best of" in various categories among the Diabetes Community?What's unique about our D-Oscars here is that they not only praise w...

Changing Guard at the Diabetes Hands Foundation

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Big changes are underway at the Diabetes Hands Foundation, with the recent news that beloved community leader Manny Hernandez is stepping down from the helm of the organization he founded with his wife Andreina seven years ago. Whoa!Longtime D-adv...

Have a Little Heart on Your Diabetes Mind

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 17 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

With February being American Heart Health Month (on top of all the love in the air), we've had this vital organ on the mind of late -- especially since it's so important to think about for those of us with diabetes.Personally, I've been getting m...

An Inside View of the Presidential Push Toward Precision Medicine

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 16 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Today of course is Presidents' Day -- a perfect time to talk about the new initiative that current President Barack Obama recently unveiled to boost research that leads to better treatments (maybe even cures!) for conditions like cancer and diabet...

Ask D'Mine: Talking Sexy Pumpers and Bionic Love for Valentine's Day

Wil Dubois — Sat, 14 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Diabetes isn't very loving, but here at the 'Mine, we do our best to support you! Welcome to another edition of our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois. In today's Valentin...

Just For You, My Diabetes Valentine

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 13 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Valentine's Day (Tomorrow), Dear Readers! Just for you (all), we've compiled a list of some of the Best of the Web when it comes to diabetes & love. And we're also revisiting a special Valentine's Video Treat that some of our D-friends...

FDA Hears Diabetes Community Voice on Device Data Rules

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 12 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

The FDA has just finalized rules about what's going to be regulated when it comes to medical data sharing tools and mobile apps, and those "in-the-know" in the diabetes world are pretty darn excited about it. They're using phrases like: "Landmark...

The Dire Need for Better Insulin Access Across the World

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 11 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

We are now 94 years after the discovery of insulin, and the hugely popular TV drama series Downton Abbey is giving us a window into the past by weaving that very discovery into its storyline. For those who don't watch the show, or may have missed...

Progress Report: The Changing Nature of Next-Gen Diabetes Devices

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 10 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

There's always a fair amount of buzz and excitement whenever a "next-generation" diabetes device is announced, or talked about for the first time. They often get big play in the mainstream press despite still being a long ways from available on th...

AADE: Medicare Isn't Providing Diabetes Supplies Like It Should

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 09 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Seems like there's always some new roadblock cropping up to thwart us from getting the diabetes supplies we need… The latest hurdle comes from the beleaguered Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). According to a new survey just rel...

Ask D'Mine: Differences, in Language and Biology

Wil DuBois — Sat, 07 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Got questions about navigating life with diabetes? Well, here's your chance to Ask D'Mine! Our weekly advice column, that is - hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil answers a question from a concerned d...

The Great Coffee Experiment (and Blood Sugar Effect)

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 06 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

You might say that I take my coffee pretty seriously. Don't even think about asking me to do anything productive before I've had at least one cup in the morning, and you'd be quite mistaken to think that's the only one I'll be enjoying as the da...

The Messages We Send About Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 05 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

The New York Times recently ran a multi-media news piece about a Texas family's challenges with type 1 diabetes. The 12-minute video and accompanying article on Jan. 26 was titled "Midnight Three & Six" in recognition of the times per night ...

Sanofi’s Diabetes Advocacy Summit: Coordination Needed

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Sanofi's Partners in Patient Health diabetes advocacy summit held last week in Washington, DC, offered some good learnings, but in terms of taking action, was more of a question-fest than a place to get any answers, IMHO. That is, we spent a lot...

Welcome Afrezza – Inhaled Insulin Gets Real!

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 03 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Take a deep breath, Friends: the world's first (seemingly) commercially viable inhalable insulin product is here. Today, Sanofi has officially launched MannKind's long-awaited Afrezza, and we hear the product is already appearing in some pharmacie...

Third #SpareARose Campaign Begins in Diabetes Community

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 08:00:00 GMT

With today being Groundhog Day, you might think hearing one phrase repeated over and over in the Diabetes Community is a sign you're living in a real-life version of that Bill Murray movie.But don't worry, you're not -- this diabetes advocacy mess...

Ask D'Mine: Dealing with Total Diabetes Burnout

Wil Dubois — Sat, 31 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil responds to a scared mom's concerns about her teen daughter's mutliple health conditions o...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: First Month of 2015 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 30 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome to our monthly roundup of outstanding blog posts from across the Diabetes Online Community (DOC).While much of the country is going through another cold snap and some of our friends on the East Coast are manuevering massive snow, we're hap...

American Idol Contestant Adam Lasher: His First Interview on Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

The Diabetes Community found itself in familiar territory recently when we saw one of our own auditioning and making headlines on reality show American Idol.On Jan. 22, fellow type 1 Adam Lasher appeared before the three-celeb panel to play guitar...

NEWSFLASH: Dexcom's CGM Data-Sharing Gets More Mobile (with Product Details)

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 28 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

If you want your Dexcom G4 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to talk to your smartphone and be able to share real-time data from anywhere, then this recent news from the FDA is something you'll definitely be interested in.At the end of last week, t...

My Mail Order Prescription Nightmare

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 27 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

I am no longer surprised by the delays and lack of common sense from those who send me diabetes supplies. Really, it's become an expectation that chaos and frustration are par for the course every time I try to fill a prescription by mail order.M...

"A Woman's Guide to Diabetes" Review - with Giveaway!

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

If you are of the female persuasion, and happen to have diabetes, you will not want to miss this book! "A Woman's Guide to Diabetes: A Path to Wellness" by Dr. Nat Strand and Brandy Barnes may possibly be my favorite-ever guidebook published by th...

Ask D`Mine: On Blinking Insulin Pumps and Bolus Guesses

Wil Dubois — Sat, 24 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, DiabetesMine Friends!With this being our first weekend here at our new Healthline home, we wanted to make sure you knew about our frank and fun diabetes advice column called Ask D'Mine. It's hosted weekly by the esteemed Wil Dubo...

#FliptheClinic Seeks Ideas to Disrupt Healthcare

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 21 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Yes, I know - another catchy "let's disrupt healthcare" hashtag/campaign. Is there any meat behind it? And as we go about our lives with diabetes, why should we care?That was my reaction too, when I first started hearing about the new #FliptheClin...

Welcome to DiabetesMine at Healthline.com!

Wed, 21 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Hello Dear Readers - New and Old, We are delighted to welcome you to the refreshed and updated DiabetesMine blog here at Healthline. For those of you who don't know us, we are a patient-led publication and advocacy team that's been around for 10...

If Insulin Pumps Could Talk… (It’s in the Works)

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 20 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Every day, I look at my insulin pump screen and push the buttons to give myself the medication that keeps me alive. I'm lucky, because I can see what I'm doing. But many can't. And with diabetes, I am afraid that someday, I might become one of th...

Best of the Diabetes Community

Tue, 20 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

D-Community Links ADA Message BoardsBeyond Type 1 CommunityDiabetes Advocates Diabetes Community Advocacy Foundation Diabetes Web Search Diabetic ConnectDiabetes ForumFit4D Glu JDRF Type One NationT1D ExchangeThe Diabetes Online Communi...

Diabetes Pipelines & Opps: From the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 19 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

At the start of every year, the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference hits San Francisco. With lots of men in suits running this way and that, it looks more like an East Coast event than what you'd expect in the California Bay Area. And really, it's a b...

Ask D’Mine: Marking 200 Great Pieces of Diabetes Advice

Wil Dubois — Sat, 17 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

What a special day this is for us, as today marks the 200th edition of our weekly Ask D'Mine diabetes advice column, penned here by the esteemed Wil Dubois, a fellow type 1 himself, author and clinical educator. We're delighted to hit this milest...

10 Years of DiabetesMine (!)… and the Next Chapter About to Begin

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 16 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

This is a bittersweet time for me personally, as DiabetesMine prepares to move to a new online home after a full 10 years. As noted last week, we are joining the Healthline.com family and readers will very soon be redirected to our new spot at www...

Printing Low-Cost Glucose Test Strips on Paper

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 15 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Imagine just being able to fire up an inkjet printer and print out perfectly usable glucose test strips. Ah, the money that could be saved, among other things! It may seem off-the-wall strange, but a startup company that began almost three years ...

Prioritizing Thryoid Issues… with Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 14 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

With January being Thyroid Awareness Month, I thought this would be a perfect time to share some tidbits on how this has been a huge issue for me personally.I've touched on my struggles before in living with long-standing hypothyroidism, which bas...

NEWSFLASH: FDA Clears Expanded Cartridge t:flex Insulin Pump

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 13 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

If you're someone who needs more insulin on a daily basis than can be accommodated by a typical insulin pump, then there's a new diabetes device that could be an option for you!Say hello to the Tandem Diabetes t:flex insulin pump, just approved by...

A Quick Look Back At Our Beginning... (Before the Next Chapter Starts)

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 12 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Today is a bittersweet moment for me personally, because I am in a sense saying goodbye to this online home I've had for 10 years.As noted last week, we're going to be found in a new spot starting tomorrow. You'll be redirected to a new site onlin...

Two More Diabetes Advocacy Orgs Share Plans for 2015

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 12 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Hopefully you saw our big annual roundup of what the top national diabetes advocacy organizations believe they accomplished in the past year (2014) and what they plan to focus on for 2015.Breaking news: we've just heard from two more influential n...

Ask D’Mine: The ‘Right’ Path to Control, (Thankfully) Nothing Lasts Forever

Wil Dubois — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine - with your host veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil takes on a couple of question about low-carb, high-fat diets and some not-so-pleasant complicati...

Running on Batteries in Her First Decade of Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 09 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

We're always happy to find new friends in the Diabetes Online Community (DOC) who are sharing their stories about life with D with all of us.Today, we're excited to introduce Daley Kinsey, a 20-something in California who's hitting her 10th diaver...

Getting My Vibe On with Animas, After Years of Anticipation

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 08 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

For two weeks during the holidays, I test-drove the new Animas Vibe combo device (Animas insulin pump plus Dexcom continuous glucose monitor) approved by FDA just over a month ago.We appreciate this opportunity for a trial-run of this exciting new...

What Diabetes Advocacy Orgs Accomplished Last Year & Goals for 2015

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

It's become an annual tradition here at the 'Mine to tap the top diabetes advocacy organizations at the end of each year to share what they feel they've accomplished, and what kinds of goals and strategies they have planned for the new year ahead....

DiabetesMine Moving to New Home at Healthline.com

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

COUNTDOWN: ONE WEEK TO GO...That's right, Dear Friends, Followers and Readers: in exactly one week from today, DiabetesMine will appear at its new online home, www.healthline.com/diabetesmine (not yet live). As we announced in mid-December, new f...

Five Packs for 2015: Our First Diabetes Giveaway of the New Year!

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome to 2015!We thought this first work day would be a great time for our first diabetes giveaway of the new year.I know, I know... we just got through the big holiday gift-giving season. The wrapping paper is probably all put away, and you're ...

Ask D'Mine: Refurbished Insulin Pumps - How Safe Are They?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 03 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Diabetes Tech 'Spectations for 2015

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 02 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

The arrival of a New Year always brings thoughts about all the diabetes tech 'spectations we'd like to see realized in the coming year.Of course we've been listening to the earnings calls, talking with company execs and industry insiders about wha...

Happy New Year from DiabetesMine!

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 01 Jan 2015 08:00:00 GMT

Thank you all for making 2014 great.Our crew is taking today off to enjoy one single diabetes-free day before the New Year gets rolling... well, at least a day without being obligated to write or tweet about it ;)We wish you all a wonderful "slide...

The Best of Sunday Funnies from 2012-2014

DiabetesMine | Comics from Community — Wed, 31 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

« See newer comics Sunday Funnies: D-Pancreas Lullabies? Published October 12, 2014 Hey Baby... can you guess what your mom-to-be's pancreas is thinking? Never dull for a mom-to-be with diabetes -- as we just touched on in yesterday's Ask D...

Unintended Consequences of Tighter Glucose Meter Accuracy...?

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 31 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Naturally, we all want the best possible accuracy from our glucose monitors. But everything comes with trade-offs -- which has been a point of discussion in the diabetes patient community since at least 2010, when the Roche Diabetes Social Media S...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: Final Roundup of 2014!

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 30 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

What a monumental month December has been for all of us -- marking the year's end, celebrating the holidays, and looking ahead to all that's on the horizon. We recently took a big look back at the diabetes news of 2014 ourselves. And now, before w...

TV Hacks Another Diabetes Device, This Time with Deadly Consequences

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 29 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

I sat down one evening recently to relax and watch a favorite political sci-fi thriller on TV, as I do each week in part to unplug from the diabetes world for a bit. You know, as much as you can when you're connected to diabetes devices all the ti...

Sunday Funnies: Out with the Old...?

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 28 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

The new year is almost here, and with it, an urge to clean house... D-Supply party favors... nice idea!Thanks to the talented Jerry King, a regular cartoonist here at the 'Mine, who's a worldwide drawing talent creating more than 200 cartoons ea...

Ask D'Mine: Resolve to Focus Less on Diabetes

Wil Dubois — Sat, 27 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, the final edition of 2014. While we're reflecting on the past year, we'd like to express huge love and appreciation for our column host Wil Dubois, a longtime type 1 himself who's also a profe...

Post-Holiday Good Vibes re: Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 26 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Hope the holiday hangover is a smooth one so far, especially with New Year's still on the way!With Hanukkah and Christmas 2014 now behind us, we're gearing up for the year's end -- and with that, want to share some of the "Good Vibes" you all sent...

Merry Christmas -- from Us & the Lancet Caps

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 25 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

A very Merry Christmas 2014 to all of our Readers, Followers, and Friends!As noted recently, we're about to celebrate 10 years of DiabetesMine... given that the site began in "stealth mode" in late December 2004 and went live in February 2005. Wow...

The Year in Diabetes: Looking Back on 2014

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 23 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

The New Year is just around the corner, so as per tradition, we're reviewing all the things that have made 2014 a year to remember in the Diabetes World and here at the 'Mine. Yup, we've had some big moments this past year -- with the FDA dominat...

The New and Old Guard: A Year of Changing Diabetes CEOs

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 22 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

One of the dominating news themes in our Diabetes Community for 2014 has been a shift in leadership at some of the leading D-device companies and non-profit orgs, with some prominent transitions from the old guard to new faces at the helm.A wave o...

New Video Review of the Asante MySnap Pump

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 22 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Obviously, we've been shouting from the rooftops for years about how diabetes tools should be more aesthetic and customizable. Well, Northern California-based Asante Solutions definitely got the message with their new MySnap insulin pump that lets...

Ask D'Mine: A Diabetes Question from Santa Himself

Wil Dubois — Sat, 20 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois.The Holidays are here! And we can't believe who's writing in for advice for the second year in a row (!)......

Happy Holidays from Our Diabetes Giveaway Givers and Winners

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

As we head into the last minute gift-buying rush for the Holidays, it's a great time to feature our 2014 "Good Vibes" Holiday Giveaway winners -- along with a glimpse at the companies offering great diabetes prizes: Jerry the Bear and ChillMED, ma...

MySnap Insulin Pump - Review

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Longtime type 1 and advocate Melissa Lee reviews the latest customizable MySnap insulin pump from Asante Solutions.{Disclosure: Melissa received a free upgrade and controller unit for review from the company}REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN:PROs: New high-re...

Showing Skin for T1D: The Nude Diabetes Advocacy Calendar!

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

It's almost time to start flipping the calendar to a new year, and a new diabetes awareness campaign is going full monty on this!Yep, a group of fellow type 1s in California have created a nude calendar, with each of the 12 months of 2015 featurin...

Using 'Diabetic' vs. 'Person with Diabetes' - Does It Matter?

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Words are such intriguing little creatures.One word can hold all kinds of meaning and connotation for one person that it doesn't for someone else, and I've always been fascinated by the interpretative nature of language. That's a big reason why ...

Hanukkah with Diabetes in Israel

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 16 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

A very Happy Hanukkah to those who celebrate, beginning at sundown this evening! Yup, the Festival of Lights this year begins at sunset tonight, Dec. 16, and runs through sunset Dec. 23.Quick history lesson: Hanukkah always begins on the eve of th...

ANNOUNCING: DiabetesMine to Join Forces with Healthline

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 15 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Dear Readers,Get ready for a fresh design overhaul coming soon to DiabetesMine.com as we officially become part of the Healthline family, beginning in January 2015. The announcement of this acquisition went out over the news wire today!We're very ...

Sunday Funnies: Did Someone Say Cookies?

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 14 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Sometimes with diabetes, we forget that not everything is about blood sugar... Thanks to our newest illustrator Gareth Morgan from England, who's actually debuting his artistic talent with the 'Mine today!About GarethHe's a fellow type 1 diagn...

Ask D'Mine: Anemic A1Cs, and Swollen Limbs

Wil Dubois — Sat, 13 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Got questions about navigating life with diabetes? Well, this is your chance to Ask D'Mine! Our weekly advice column, that is - hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil takes on two questions about how othe...

Small But Mighty: New Diabetes SEVEN Cases Boast Interchangeable Designs

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 12 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

No one in our diabetes community has to be told that we have a lot of issues with schlepping supplies around. And it's always nice to have ways to personalize our carry options and make them "ours," right?Well, that was notion that hit a fellow ty...

Insights Into the 2014 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit (Video)!

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Hi All,At the recommendation of our event Advisory Board member Manny Hernandez (thanks Manny!) we created the following video at this year's DiabetesMine Innovation Summit at Stanford University.(Special thanks to Lacey Ehrlich of USC Annenberg f...

"Lies, Truths, and Redemption: My D-Data Journey"

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

We always love hearing from folks with diabetes who also work in the pharma/device industry, to get a glimpse into what spurred them to build a career in the field.Recently, we were thrilled to welcome longtime type 1 Jim Berkebile to our Diabetes...

Our Test Run of the New Customizable MySnap Insulin Pump

Wil Dubois — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Right before Thanksgiving, Asante Solutions started shipping the first few MySnap insulin pumps to users who ponied up the $99 for the upgrade over the summer. We were able to get our mitts on one of the first for a test drive, and I've been weari...

We Are One Diabetes: A New Home for Professional T1D Peeps

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 09 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

If you happen to be living with type 1 and also working professionally in the diabetes field, there's a new online community just for you!It is called We Are One Diabetes, a new "online collaborative center" for diabetes professionals who are livi...

DiabetesMine 'Good Vibes' Holiday Giveaway 2014

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 08 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

This week only! We hope to spread some holiday cheer by handing out a few great prizes for kids and adults in our 2014 DiabetesMine 'Good Vibes' Holiday Giveaway!We're focusing on relationships this year, and creating good vibes among loved ones, ...

Sunday Funnies: Holiday Decorating, D-Style

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 07 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

If we're going to be home with our diabetes for the holidays, might as well make the most the most of it, right? A great way to "go green" for the holidays, using those leftover D-supplies ;)Thanks to our regular contributor Jerry King, an accom...

Ask D'Mine: New CGM Algorithm and Playing Insurance Hardball

Wil Dubois — Sat, 06 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Who doesn't sometimes need a little help navigating life with diabetes? That's why we offer Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column, hosted by veteran type 1 , diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil's tackling two questions relating t...

Shunning a Life of "Regularity" -- Trekking the World, Despite Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 05 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Traveling the world has never been a goal for me, but I'm ever-impressed by those brave enough to embark on great adventures despite the challenges of type 1 diabetes.That's why I've been captivated by one Australian type 1 named Matt Shanahan, wh...

Brainstorming Change at the 2014 DiabetesMine Summit

Wil Dubois — Thu, 04 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

If it takes a village to raise a child, what does it take to start a revolution? How about a bunch of really smart, driven, and dedicated people drawn from every corner of the realm? Because that's what we had at this year's DiabetesMine Innovatio...

#WeAreNotWaiting at the Fall 2014 D-Data ExChange: The Stars Are Aligning

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 03 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

On Nov. 20, we hosted the third-ever DiabetesMine D-Data ExChange forum near the campus of Stanford University in Palo Alo, CA.This was my first time attending, and I was awed by the brains and knowledge in the room. I knew going in that it was go...

Dexcom SHARE - Review

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 02 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

D-Dad Scott Benner reviews the new Dexcom SHARE from the perspective of a parent. It's all about the sleep, he says!{Disclosure: he received a free review unit from the company}REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: works just as advertised simple to use app...

New Patient Video Review of Dexcom SHARE

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 02 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

You've hopefully heard about the newly FDA-approved Dexcom SHARE system -- a docking station for the popular G4 continuous glucose monitor that allows the data to be beamed directly to up to 5 smartphones anywhere in the world. But have you heard ...

NewsFlash: Animas Vibe (Finally) Gets Green Light from FDA

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 01 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

It's finally here!A whopping 19 months after being sent in for regulatory review, JnJ's new integrated Animas Vibe insulin pump + continuous glucose monitor has gotten the green light from the FDA to be sold in the United States! (See also: it fin...

When Regulators are Interoperable with Us, the Patients

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 01 Dec 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Years ago, I used to think of the FDA as a big, monolithic mystery agency that regulated my diabetes devices from some dark back room in the nation's capitol, weighing in on the importance and safety of said devices like the Gods from Olympus.More...

Sunday Funnies: All in the Name of Black Friday...?

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 30 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Yes, the holiday shopping season has begun... Shoppers and blood sugar watchers beware!As always, props to cartoonist Jon Carter, who's been lending us his drawing talents here at the 'Mine for some time now. You can check out the more of his ...

Ask D'Mine: Blood Sugar Party Games?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 29 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Got questions about navigating life with diabetes? Ask D'Mine! Our weekly advice column, that is - hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil gets a very creative question about sharing blood sugar checks in p...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: November 2014 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 28 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

November is coming to a close, and it's time take a step back and appreciate all that's been shared during this National Diabetes Awareness Month.So many posts from the diabetes blogging community, so many advocacy efforts -- it's tough to select ...

Happy Thanksgiving, Diabetes Community!

DiabetesMine Staff — Thu, 27 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Today is a day to give thanks, and like most folks, we're taking the day off to be with family, watch some football and of course enjoy some good holiday cookings... And this may be just what all of PWDs need! Thanks to our friend Brad Slaight, a...

Diabetes Innovation Progress: Walls Tumbling Down

Wil Dubois — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Last Friday we held the 2014 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit, the fourth of these events we've done at the Stanford University School of Medicine -- which exceeded expectations, if we do say so ourselves ;) This year's Summit was standing-room-onl...

Defining Three "Early Stages" of Type 1 Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

"What stage of type 1 diabetes do you have?"That question could become a common one soon, if some leading diabetes experts succeed in establishing an official three-tiered delineation of the early stages of T1D in order to pursue research and trea...

In Pursuit of Insulin Independence: Meet Dr. Claresa Levetan

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Take two pills and call me... a compliant pancreas?Wait, what?!Yep, that's the idea behind research a Philadelphia endocrinologist is spearheading with her biopharmaceutical startup Perle Bioscience, established about a year ago to continue the lo...

Sunday Funnies: Waiting on... the Cure

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Yup, we've all heard the hype for the hope that a cure is "coming soon"... and this is how it feels sometimes: Hopefully, we'll see more and more significant progress in our lifetimes. Meanwhile, you gotta keep laughin'...Thanks to the talen...

Ask D'Mine: Thanks, Diabetes (Just in Time for Turkey Day)

Wil Dubois — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

2014 DiabetesMine Patient Voices - Speaking Out at the Innovation Summit!

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

It's an exciting day for us here at the 'Mine! Today we are hosting the fourth annual DiabetesMine Innovation Summit at Stanford School of Medicine in Palo Alto.This is a unique coming together of all the "stakeholders" in the diabetes world, incl...

Throwback Thursday: Reflecting On Diabetes Tech of the Past

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

In keeping with the Throwback Thursday social media meme, today's a perfect time to reflect on the past in terms of the various diabetes technologies I've used (or been subject to) over my 30 years with type 1 diabetes.This has been on my mind a l...

Life with Diabetes in... Cambodia

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Around the world we go, with our Global Diabetes Series, showcasing individuals grappling with this disease all over the planet. Today, we're proud to bring you a report from Cambodia -- one of ten countries in Southeast Asia, slightly smaller tha...

New Video Review of the iHealth Wireless Glucose Meter

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

We recently got a reader note about our new DiabetesMine Test Kitchen video product review hub that said: "It's a great idea to have a channel to provide real-life feedback on these products to the vendors making them, and the healthcare professio...

Better Accuracy with New Dexcom G4 Algorithm (and the Path Ahead)

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

I'm paying super-close attention to my Dexcom CGM (continuous glucose monitor) these days, and not just because I'm a Nightscout Newbie. Nope, ten days ago I also upgraded my Dexcom to the new "advanced algorithm" that supposedly makes the unit m...

iHealth Blood Glucose Meter - Review

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Fellow type 1 and nutrition expert Cyrus Khambatta reviews the iHealth Wireless Smart Glucose Monitoring System. REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN - PROs: meter is small and compact low price ($29) inexpensive strips (100 test strips for $25) test strips easi...

Imagining Better Outcomes for T1D with #MakeHealth

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

On Nov. 10-11, the T1DExchange held a workshop in collaboration with the C3NProject, a Cincinnati, OH-based social innovation group that designs, tests, pilots and implements innovative ideas in partnership with real health systems. The idea was t...

Sunday Funnies: Hold On, While I Do a Big Blue Test...

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 16 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

If you're hesitant about doing a Big Blue Test anytime soon, just remember the great built-in excuse it gives you to toss around... Great excuse, indeed!Thanks as always to fellow type 1 PWD and social media guru Mike Lawson, who's head of u...

Ask D'Mine: Funky Fat from Insulin

Wil Dubois — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine - with your host veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois. This week, Wil takes on a question about how insulin pump infusion sets can sometimes cause particularly fatty ...

Diabetes Nation? New Campaign Aims to Make Diabetes Its Own Country!

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Welcome to another (hopefully blue-colored) World Diabetes Day!First added to the calendar back in 1991, this annual observation was of course placed on this particular day thanks to its historical D-significance as the birthday of the co-creator ...

#Insulin4All - Putting the World Back into World Diabetes Day

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

If you missed our first World Diabetes Day 2014 post early today, be sure to check out that story about creating a Diabetes Nation (for real!). Now, we're happy to share a second story for this special Blue Friday Nov. 14 -- one of a charitable al...

Low Blood Sugar Treatments for the Dentally Impaired

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

It's no secret that I don't have the best teeth. My dentist has told me some of that is due to diabetes. And the rest: just plain ole disdain of tooth brushes and dental floss since I was a kid. My bad.Of course, this means that treating low blood...

First Impressions of a Nightscout Newbie

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 12 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

When it comes to diabetes data, I am on Cloud Nine these days thanks to finally being connected to the whole do-it-yourself CGM in the Cloud/Nightscout system that allows me to easily display and share my BG numbers and make better decisions base...

Glucose Meter Accuracy Payer's Meeting (Sort of)

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 11 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

On Nov. 5 in a hotel just outside Washington, DC, about 75 people gathered to discuss the future of the Diabetes Technology Society's (DTS) proposed post-market quality surveillance program for glucose meters.You may remember that DTS Director Dr....

D-Mom and Wife Creates Book from Her Blog for World Diabetes Day

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 10 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Just in time for World Diabetes Day at week's end, a D-Mom and wife of a longtime type 1 in England is releasing an update to her e-book written a year ago in the name of diabetes awareness and advocacy.Meet Debbie Young, a career author with a lo...

Sunday Funnies: A Diabetes Crystal Ball

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 09 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

But ooooh, sometimes those dangerous desserts are, well... bolus-worthy.Thanks to the talented Brad Slaight, a professional actor and comedian in California who's also a fellow type 1 PWD and famous in the D-Community under his alter ego: Met...

Ask D'Mine: A Cry For Help (or Two or Three)... Part 2

Wil Dubois — Sat, 08 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Last week in our diabetes advice column Ask D'Mine, we tackled a couple of complex questions from pre-diabetic multiple amputee Cassi, who was having trouble getting blood samples for testing, confused about the results, and terrified about the fu...

Amazing Advocate Marina Tsaplina Brings Puppetry & Crafts to 'Betes Care

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 07 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Getting all crafty when it comes to diabetes is something our D-Community has gotten quite good at through the years. With all the med supplies we go through, we have plenty of materials at our fingertips (pun!)Now there's a relatively new organiz...

The Day Our Diabetes Community Crashed the FDA

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 06 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

Months or even years from now, I wonder if the pancreatically-challenged community will be asking: "Where were you, the day the Diabetes Community crashed the FDA's webcast system?"Yes, that appears to have happened this past Monday. So many peopl...

Running Strong with Diabetes On Board

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 05 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

I am not a runner.Back when I was younger, I did play baseball and soccer, both of which pretty much forced my hand (or my feet) to do some fast moving. But as soon as I was old enough and able to make it happen, I traded in those sports shoes for...

Costco Does Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 04 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

When recently offered the chance to talk with a Costco executive about how the discount warehouse is handling diabetes, we just couldn't say no. After all, Costco is the second largest retailer in the country and the third largest in the world, wi...

Avoiding Advocacy Burnout in this National Diabetes Month

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 08:00:00 GMT

A friend of mine in the Diabetes Community recently mentioned being burnt out on advocacy.So many great diabetes causes and efforts, but just so many Asks at the moment... with this being the start of November, national Diabetes Awareness Month.Th...

Sunday Funnies: Changing the Clocks and... Diabetes Lighting?

Mike Hoskins — Sun, 02 Nov 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Yes, Daylight Savings Time has ended as of very early this morning, and that of course means shorter, darker days. Oh, and those diabetes devices... Hmm, a good reminder to change those settings, and maybe even our lancets, right?!Thanks to th...

Ask D'Mine: A Cry For Help (or Two or Three)... Part 1

Wil Dubois — Sat, 01 Nov 2014 07:00:00 GMT

It's no big secret that there's plenty to feel down about when it comes to living with diabetes, unfortunately. But airing and sharing your concerns can be empowering, rather than facing them all alone. So today at our weekly diabetes advice colum...

Boo! Around the Diabetes Blogosphere - Halloween 2014 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Just before we hit November, the big National Diabetes Awareness Month, it's worth taking a moment to look back on what this past month has brought us from the Diabetes Online Community (DOC). There's been a whole lot of action in October, and des...

California's Prop 45 - Confusing Consumers On Healthcare Coverage

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 30 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

I wonder if ever in U.S. history, healthcare was as much as a political football as it is today?Case in point: Next week (on Nov. 4) Californians will vote on Proposition 45, a ballot initiative that essentially changes who has the power to make f...

Chewable Glucose Blockers: Legit Science or Snake Oil?

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 29 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

When I hear someone say "complex carbs," the first images that come to mind are pizza and pasta -- and the inevitable post-meal glucose spike and lingering high blood sugars that follow.But a biomedical pharma company in New Hampshire is working o...

All About Those Diabetes Tattoos...

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 28 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

A pair of Michigan insulin pump reps aren't ashamed to show the world they have type 1 diabetes, so much so that they have literally embedded ink on their arms to prove it.Diabetes tattoos are worn with pride by many of us in the D-Community, incl...

Persona Non Grata with Diabetes: the Book (With Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 27 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

One of the newest patient-written diabetes books on the scene brings a dimension we haven't seen before -- which can be summed up as voicing frustration about life with diabetes in literary journal form.The author is fellow type 1 Paul Cathcart in...

Sunday Funnies: Diabetes Is Pretty Halloween

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 26 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

When it comes to Halloween, we PWDs (people with diabetes) may fall into the category of "costume not necessarily required," no? Yup, we've had our share of "walking zombie low blood sugars."Thanks again to Jon Carter, who's got some serious car...

Ask D'Mine: No Sugar-Coating Diabetes Candy Fear

Wil Dubois — Sat, 25 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Halloween Week once again, Diabetes Community!You got it, Folks -- with Oct. 31 just around the corner, this week we bring you the latest FEAR edition of our diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, that pops up this time of year. As always, it's...

Meet Irina: Special Tale of an Unwanted Dog with Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Hey, you think it's tough living with diabetes yourself? Try managing your own D and also having a cute little pet with diabetes whose blood sugar you have to manage as well.We ran a report on the topic of pets with diabetes back in early 2013, bu...

Progress Report: Diabetes Research Involving That C-Word

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Diabetes research always seems to be making the news...I know what you're thinking: "Quick, hide the mice!" and "Don't say the C-word!"And yes... you're on high alert for adjectives like "imminent," "breakthrough" and "soon."Yep, we feel you.Yet b...

New Video Review of the Medtronic 530G Pump/CGM System

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

A wonderful diabetes educator we know who also lives with type 1 herself likes to say that "it isn't until diabetes products are in the hands of patients -- and used and abused properly in the real world -- that we really know how they perform." W...

New #WalkWithD Campaign: Fighting Diabetes Stigma with Shared Stories

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

You may have heard about a new campaign in the Diabetes Online Community called WalkWithD.This is NOT one of the many initiatives popping up to commemorate National Diabetes Awareness Month in November or supporting the big upcoming World Diabetes...

Medtronic Minimed 530G Insulin Pump with CGM - Review

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Longtime type 1 Travis Fuger reviews the Medtronic Minimed 530G system, including an advanced insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor (CGM).REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN - PROs: the CCM sensor interacts with the insulin pump directly instead of anothe...

Mad Scientists (?) and Their Diabetes Breakthroughs

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 20 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Imagine popping a pill covered in tiny steel needles -- that you cannot in any way feel -- to quickly and effectively lower your blood glucose. Or swallowing a glucose-lowering capsule that's only activated when you shine a blue LED light on your ...

NewsFlash: Dexcom SHARE Gets FDA Clearance!

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 20 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We've gotten word that the FDA has approved the exciting Dexcom SHARE system, the first mobile device approval of its kind that allows data from a continuous glucose monitor to be beamed via Bluetooth wireless technology to as many as five smartph...

Sunday Funnies: Family Support?

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 19 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Our families may mean well, but sometimes their idea of support is not the same as ours... Thanks to the talented Jerry King, a regular cartoonist here at the 'Mine who's a worldwide drawing talent creating more than 200 cartoons each month fo...

Ask D'Mine: The Real Diabetes War Games

Wil Dubois — Sat, 18 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.We're quickly approaching Veteran's Day 2014 on Nov. 11, and today Wil is tackling that topic a bit early (...

FDA to Talk with the Diabetes Community - Please Help!

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 17 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

From our friends at diaTribe: On November 3, the FDA will host an unprecedented discussion between the diabetes community and senior agency leadership (on both drugs and devices). The event will be live webcast from 1-4 pm Eastern. We want this to...

Living with Diabetes (and Losing It) in the Republic of Cyprus

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 17 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We continue to travel the world to bring you accounts of living with diabetes in far-off places! In this installment of our Global Diabetes Series, we hear from a young man in Cyprus, which is a country (yes, it is!) that's actually the third larg...

A Little Girl and Her Insulin Pump (With a Test Kitchen Review)

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

I met the McIver family in September. They are extraordinary -- and also typical D-parents -- in their incredible energy, love, and support for their daughter with type 1 diabetes. They're going to be part of the 2014 Patient Voices video being pr...

Medtronic MiniMed Paradigm Insulin Pump - Review

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

11- year-old Amelia McIver reviews the Medtronic MiniMed Paradigm insulin pump, which she uses without the Medtronic CGM. The pump has given her a lot of freedom!REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: choice of colors handy light makes it easy to bolus in th...

To Bee or (Mostly) Not to Bee? Insulin/Glucose Tracker Device Review

Wil Dubois — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

I know everyone wants their diabetes devices to talk to the cloud, but I don't think that smoke signals are the best way to go about it. And I'm pretty sure that using smoke signals would be faster than using the new Bee "Diabetes Smart Tracker" f...

Prepping for Another Big Diabetes Month + World Diabetes Day 2014

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Today we find ourselves exactly one month out from the annual international World Diabetes Day observance on Nov. 14, and just a few short weeks away from yet another national Diabetes Awareness Month.It can be a bittersweet time for those of us w...

New Monthly Diabetes Mystery Box (Don't Call it Financial Assistance)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

A mystery box arrived on my doorstep, delivered by the trusty brown truck.It wasn't a total surprise since I'd ordered it online. Especially since I could see the sender was Roche Diabetes Care, shipping me my first diabetes box that's part of a n...

Ask D'Mine: Insulin for Two

Wil Dubois — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're always thrilled to get happy news from those in our Diabetes Community, and when there's a question that comes with it... well, it's a perfect combination for our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine! As always, the column is hosted by longtime ...

Transitioning from College to 'Regular' Life with Diabetes in NYC

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

I have college on the mind these days, as my oldest daughter is filling out applications (yikes!)So I'm very happy to introduce Michelle Rosolie, who was diagnosed with type 1 in January 2007 and now, on the heels of graduating from college, is go...

Glucose Monitoring Matters - An Advocacy Report

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Last month, we reported on the Diabetes Technology Society's progress on a post-market surveillance program to keep tabs on the accuracy of glucose meters already on the market. Since then, the country's largest formal groups of diabetes doctors, ...

Introducing ePatient Community Delegates: Merle Gleeson & Karen Graffeo

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

With our annual Innovation Summit coming up in mid-November, it's been fun over the past several weeks sharing the stories of the PWDs selected as winners of our 2014 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship Contest. Today, we're happy to introduce...

Diabetes Partner Follies: A Dual Perspective as Husband and D-Dad

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

It's been a while, but we're back with our ongoing series by and for loved ones of people with diabetes (PWDs), the so-called Diabetic Partner Follies. Today, we're happy to introduce a very special Type Awesome (those who are loved ones or care ...

Mental Health Makes Headway (No Pun Intended)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

This week marks another Mental Illness Awareness Week, which runs from Oct. 5 to 11, 2014.The effort is pretty self-explanatory: it's all about activities and initiatives to educate the public about mental health issues. And here in our Diabetes C...

Ask D'Mine: How Low-Carb is Low Enough?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Got diabetes questions? You came to the right place! Ask D'Mine is our weekly advice column, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil gets a direct ask on how he feels about a controversial but well-known v...

NewsFlash: Glooko Launches Bluetooth Tool for 30+ Glucose Meters

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

While we're talking about new Bluetooth-enabled diabetes tools... Yesterday Glooko, makers of the popular cable that allows users to easily download meter readings from a multitude of FDA-cleared glucose meters into their mobile device, launched s...

Medtronic's Next-Gen "Guardian Mobile" CGM: An Evolving App

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 02 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Medtronic appears to be jumping on the D-Data in the Cloud bandwagon, having previewed its next-gen device -- a stand-alone CGM (continuous glucose monitor) that would communicate directly by Bluetooth with your smartphone -- at the always-flashy ...

Accu-Chek Aviva Expert: Meter with the Mind of a Pump

Wil Dubois — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 07:00:00 GMT

When new diabetes products are launched, we're always happy to offer some personal perspective into what it's really like to use them in the real world. Today, our correspondent Wil Dubois offers some insight on the new Roche Accu-Chek Aviva Exper...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere - September 2014 Edition

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 30 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

After a busy summer in the Diabetes Community, we find ourselves transitioning into Fall with just as much activity online! Indeed, the diabetes blogosphere is bristling full of great posts that are just as diverse and beautiful as the changing co...

"The Sisterhood of Diabetes" Wows with Women Athletes (And a Giveaway!)

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 29 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Thirty-eight female athletes who've done amazing things despite their diabetes are profiled in this new volume by Judith Jones-Ambrosini: The Sisterhood of Diabetes: Facing Challenges & Living Dreams. How in the world she found all 38 of these...

Sunday Funnies: Diabetes Recycling?

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 28 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

With everything "going green" these days, you'd think D-stuff would be included... Considering how much we all spend on insulin, we can at least hope for a vial deposit law, right?!As always, props to cartoonist Jon Carter, who's been lending us...

Ask D'Mine: The Diabetes Numbers Game, Thanks to Food

Wil Dubois — Sat, 27 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're always happy to help navigate life with diabetes, thus our weekly advice column known as Ask D'Mine. It's hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois, who brings in-the-trenches experience from both the patient and educ...

Accessing My Doctor's Diabetes Notes? (DSMA September 2014)

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 26 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Who remembers that classic Seinfeld episode in which Elaine is sitting in her doctor's office waiting, and she peeks into the medical file left nearby and sees the word "Difficult" written in the notes about her? Of course, that created a whole ch...

What's Happening with the New 'Post-Market' Glucose Meter Quality Program

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

As we've reported, the California-based Diabetes Technology Society is working closely with FDA to roll out a new program to ensure the quality and accuracy of glucose meters already on the market -- 'cause who knows how reliable those older model...

Patient Voices Winner Christel Aprigliano: Our D-Community's (Un)Advocate

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 24 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Next up in our series of interviews with the winners of our 2014 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship Contest is returning advocate Christel Aprigliano, who was with us for the 2013 event. You may know of Christel's outstanding work establishi...

Snapshots from EASD 2014: Europe's Big Diabetes Conference in Austria

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 23 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

The biggest annual diabetes conference in Europe took place last week -- the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) -- bringing thousands from the D-field this year to Austria, for what many of us in the States refer to as "Europe's...

The Hypo That Changed My Mind About CGM in the Cloud

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 22 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Even with all my excitement about diabetes data-sharing and the very cool CGM in the Cloud hacking project, I've not been convinced this is the time for me personally to embrace that technology.In other words: in these times of #WeAreNotWaiting, ...

Sunday Funnies: Great Moments in Diabetes Supply History?

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 21 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We've sure seen a lot of improvements in diabetes supplies through the years... anyone remember these? Now that's certainly a "man-sized" strip -- thanks to Brad Slaight, a professional actor and comedian who lends us his cartooning talents from...

Ask D'Mine: Blood Matters

Wil Dubois — Sat, 20 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Got diabetes questions? You came to the right place! Ask D'Mine is our weekly advice column, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil tackles a pair of questions about blood -- when there's too little or too...

In Hopes of Predicting the Diabetes Exercise Effect

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 19 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

I step outside to take a quick walk around the block at lunchtime and see my blood sugar is hovering at 98 mg/dL -- just high enough so it might not drop too low, but just low enough so danger lurks. My Dexcom CGM trend arrow is level, and it's s...

Returning Patient Voices Winner Melissa Lee Sings the D-Advocacy Song

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 18 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

It's been fun over the past several weeks introducing the PWDs chosen as winners of our 2014 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship Contest, who will be attending our Innovation Summit at Stanford University in November. Along with many new frie...

dLife Diabetes Companion App Reviewed in Our Test Kitchen!

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 18 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

There's no shortage of smartphone apps available for logging your diabetes data -- at least 1,100 in the iTunes store, according to industry observers. It's tough to know if any of them bring any real value to our lives.That's why we invite real P...

New Livongo Plugs Glucose Testing into Real-Time Care, Research

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 17 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Like something straight out of HBO's series Silicon Valley, former Allscripts CEO Glen Tullman made a splash on the TechCrunch Disrupt stage last week introducing the latest and greatest in cloud-based glucose testing tech: Livongo, with its new I...

Congrats to America's Choice, Miss Idaho with Diabetes!

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 16 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Fellow type 1 Sierra Sandison unfortunately wasn't crowned the second-ever Miss America with diabetes as we'd all hoped, but the 20-year-old from Idaho is without a doubt a winner in every other way to our Diabetes Community.In case you hadn't hea...

dLife Diabetes Companion App - Review

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 16 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Type 1 college student Greg Weintraub reviews the dLife Diabetes Companion App, which is both a logging app and education resource.REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: multiple ways of viewing blood glucose entries a lot of information about food (recipes...

NewsFlash: JDRF Backs & Funds Tidepool's Open Diabetes Data Platform!

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 16 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Big news on the #WeAreNotWaiting and open-source diabetes data front today!This morning, JDRF officially announced a partnership with the innovative non-profit Tidepool that's building a "device agnostic cloud platform" to allow diabetes data from...

Oneida Medical Jewelry to Love (with Giveaway!)

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 15 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

If you're like me, hypoglycemia makes you paranoid. Not just in the moment it happens, but for weeks and months after a significant low I just feel scared -- that it might hit me again at some unexpected moment out in public and no one around me w...

Ask D'Mine: Diabetes Magic on the Wrist... Dreams Coming True

Wil Dubois — Sat, 13 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Hey there, Diabetes Community!Welcome back to another round of our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil hears a heart-breaking story about a very scary hypo and how it's...

Living with Diabetes in Belize

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 12 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our virtual trip around the world with diabetes -- our Global Series that invites PWDs (people with D) everywhere to share what their lives are like compared to ours in the U.S. Say hello today to Jess, a young lady who shares her ...

Saying 'Ha!' and Going 'G' to Spread Hypoglycemia Awareness

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 11 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Hypoglycemia isn't a laughing matter for those of us with diabetes, but a new awareness campaign is trying to put the "Ha!" into low blood sugar recognition and treatment.Ha!, as in the new org named Hypoglycemia Awareness.The five-month-old nonpr...

Patient Voices Winner Greg Nickleski: from Engineering to Aspiring Endo

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 10 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We continue to feature the excellent group of fellow PWDs chosen as winners of the 2014 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship Contest -- who will all be attending our Innovation Summit at Stanford University on scholarship this November.Today, w...

New Video Review of FitBit (with Diabetes)

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 10 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Looking for some insight into real people's experiences with diabetes & health tools? Check out the DiabetesMine Test Kitchen, where people with diabetes review all manner of products.Today, we've added a new video review from Greg Weintraub,...

MedX Stanford 2014: The Empathy Edition

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

The annual MedX conference at Stanford University is unlike any other healthcare conference. Firstly, because it is simply fabulous -- organizer Larry Chu pulls out all the stops on creating a nightclub-like atmosphere complete with stage and ligh...

FitBit One Activity Tracker - Review

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Type 1 college student Greg Weintraub reviews the FitBit One activity tracker, which he uses alongside his insulin pump.REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: easy to carry easy to use real-time view of activity levels is motivating to do moreCONs: carrying...

Too Sweet: New Book Looks at Not-So-Serious Side of Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 08 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Keeping a sense of humor and laughing about diabetes has been one of the biggest saving graces I've learned to embrace during the past decade of living with diabetes.Sure, there's a whole lot of serious, not-so-funny stuff that comes with the Big ...

Ask D'Mine: Who's In Control During the School Day?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 06 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil tackles a question from a very worried D-Mom whose daughter just went back to school, and it...

New FreeStyle Libre 'Hybrid' Glucose Monitor Approved in Europe

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 05 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

A new type of "hybrid" glucose monitoring system has been approved in Europe, that combines the best advantages of fingerstick testing and existing CGM (continuous glucose monitoring) with a splash of non-invasive tech -- and hopefully we'll have ...

Just Not That Into You, Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 04 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We haven't written much about our personal foibles with diabetes of late. That's because Mike and I decided we're both pretty fizzled at the moment... which lies somewhere between mild lethargy and full-blown diabetes burnout.But the idea -- with ...

Patient Voices Winner Travels World & Stays Positive, Despite Complications

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 03 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

As we work our way through the list of Patient Voices contest winners who'll be joining us for the DiabetesMine Innovation Summit in a few months, today we're happy to introduce longtime type 1 Kim Hislop in New Hampshire.Residing in Newington wit...

Chatting with the AADE's New Guard

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 02 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Every year the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) elects new leaders, which is normally not big news for us. However, this year's new AADE leadership should be turning heads among the patient community -- because two of the ladies a...

Happy Labor Day (Redux) 2014: An Ode to the Diabetes Work Force!

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 01 Sep 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're relaxing this weekend in honor of another annual Labor Day holiday, enjoying some good ol' American outdoor grilling before we hit all the hectic of Fall.In Indiana, Mike's enjoying the three-day weekend just taking it easy. This past Saturd...

Sunday Funnies: Text Me Your Blood Sugars...

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

All that diabetes technology, and ... Thanks again to the creative Jerry King, a regular cartoonist here at the 'Mine who's a worldwide drawing talent creating more than 200 cartoons each month for websites, magazines, newspapers, greeting car...

Ask D'Mine: Healthy TV Dinners + Exercise (with a Side of Diabetes)?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 30 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere - August 2014 Edition

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We are winding down the summer months and making way for Fall... and there have been so many great posts this past month.Here's our monthly snapshot of a selection that we found particularly noteworthy (in no particular order): Yes, the online uni...

Amazing Advocates: What Happened to Camp Ivy?

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 28 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

A beloved diabetes camp for kids in Georgia has been around for 37 years, founded by a woman who was diagnosed with type 1 as a girl almost seven decades ago.They call it Camp Ivy, named in honor of founder Ivy Lockett, who started the camp in the...

Clever Ways to Get Diabetes Supplies & Devices to Those in Need

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 27 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Every time I look at the price tags of my diabetes supplies and D-devices, I cringe a little.Because it all costs a lot.And knowing that many people want and need these items -- like insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors, that I've found ...

Patient Voices Winner Jeff Mather on Fitness, Photos and D-Tech Hacking

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 26 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're happy to be back today with the next in our series of chats with our 2014 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship winners, who'll be representing the patient community at our 2014 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit at Stanford University in Nove...

Pancreum Progress Report: Wearable Closed-Loop System Now a Prototype

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Remember that little circular, three-wedge closed-loop device known as Pancreum? You know, the Artificial Pancreas system in which you pop in wedges for insulin pumping, CGM (continuous glucose monitoring), and glucagon pumping, all around a littl...

Ask D'Mine: eCig Update and Dexcom Apologies

Wil Dubois — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Got questions about navigating life with diabetes? Ask D'Mine! Our weekly advice column, that is - hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil takes another swing at the previously-discussed topics of e-cigaret...

Motorcycling Cross-Country for Diabetes Among American Indians

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

A Minnesota man who's been a lifelong (but controversial) advocate for Native American Indians has declared a "War on Diabetes" in the name of his native people, and to raise awareness about type 2 diabetes he's leading an 18,000-mile motorcycle r...

Back to School and Photo Advocacy with Diabetes

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 21 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We find ourselves in another season of Back to School, Folks... always a special challenge for those grappling with diabetes.This year, families might want to know about developments in the American Diabetes Association's Safe At School program an...

Patient Voices Winner Heather Gabel Wears Many Advocacy Hats

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're happy to feature one more of our 2014 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship Contest winners today -- another empowered advocate who'll be attending our Innovation Summit in November.Meet fellow type 1 Heather Gabel, who's been featured her...

What I Learned About the Affordable Care Act at AADE 2014

Wil Dubois — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

At the recent American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) meeting, the Affordable Care Act and the changes it's bringing to our country's healthcare landscape were of course top of mind. Our correspondent Wil Dubois was on the scene, having ...

Diabetes Votes Needed: #ShowMeYourPump For Miss America!

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 18 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

By now, you've probably heard about the young PWD (person with diabetes) from Idaho who's competing to become the next Miss America.Yep, the 20-year-old's name is Sierra Sandison, and she's been living with type 1 since she was 18. And yes, she wo...

Sunday Funnies: Blood Sugar Radar

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Test, Don't Guess... unless you have this kind of special ability: Thanks again to cartoonist Terry Keelan, a fellow type 1 living in Southern California, for this latest addition to his growing collection of diabetes superhero illustrations.

Ask D'Mine: Do T1 Gals Build Better Babies?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Need help navigating life with diabetes? Or just have questions you don't know whom to ask? Welcome to Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil takes on a somewhat quir...

Dexcom G4 Review -- from a Parent's Perspective

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Looking for a place to learn about diabetes products from the perspective of people who use them? Check out our new DiabetesMine Test Kitchen, a central hub for video product reviews by and for people with diabetes.We've just recently added a grea...

Patient Voices Winner Julie Schulman is Bio, Cyber and Design-Savvy

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to another visit with our 2014 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship winners, who'll be representing the patient community at our 2014 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit at Stanford University in November.Today we're talking with Julie Schul...

BD Abandons Development of Next-Gen Optical Fiber CGM

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We hear all the hype when new diabetes research is announced: Hey, we're so excited and think it could be the greatest next big thing...That's the hope, at least. But what happens if and when that research doesn't bear any fruit? When the money in...

Fear and Patient Engagement at AADE 2014

Wil Dubois — Wed, 13 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

You probably know by now that our correspondent Wil Dubois attended the big annual American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) meeting last week in Orlando, FL -- from his initial reports on diabetes device integration news and yesterday's...

Product News from the (Shrinking) 2014 AADE Expo

Wil Dubois — Tue, 12 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

As you may know, our correspondent Wil Dubois was on the ground in Orlando, FL, covering the big annual American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) meeting for us last week. Check out his first Newsflash on Asante and Insulet stuff from las...

New JDRF Leader Looks to the Future (Part 2)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 11 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Good Monday, Diabetes Community!Today we bring you the second half of our interview with Derek Rapp, who was recently named JDRF's new CEO to replace the beloved Jeffrey Brewer. He too is a D-Dad and has a 20-year-old son who was diagnosed with ty...

Sunday Funnies: Honey, Please Take Out the ... Diabetes?

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 10 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Yes, those of us living with a lazy pancreas certainly create a lot of waste... Wanna bet those who work at hazardous material dumps just love us?!Thanks to the talented Jerry King, a regular cartoonist here at the 'Mine who's a worldwide drawin...

Ask D'Mine: Beach Bum Pumping and CGM Toting

Wil Dubois — Sat, 09 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Need help navigating life with diabetes? Don't hesitate to Ask D'Mine! Welcome again to our weekly advice column, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil responds to some device-specific questions about how...

Patient Voices Contest Winner Advocates for People with 'the Suga'

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 08 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Congrats again to the winners of our 2014 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship Contest, announced earlier this summer! Over the next weeks, we'll be featuring an interview with each of them -- all leading up to the 2014 DiabetesMine Innovation ...

NewsFlash from AADE: Diabetes Data Breaking Free!

Wil Dubois — Fri, 08 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Our correspondent Wil Dubois is on the scene at the big annual American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) meeting in Orlando, FL, this week covering the action live. We'll be bringing you several full reports from Wil on both conference se...

Talking Diabetes Shop with JDRF's New (Interim?) CEO Derek Rapp

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We were all surprised to hear the recent news that JDRF had decided to swap out its top executive, trading out Jeffrey Brewer as president and CEO for another D-Dad and industry leader, Derek Rapp. The news came down a couple of weeks ago, and at ...

Novo Retiring Venerable FlexPen for New Touch

Wil Dubois — Wed, 06 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

After a decade-long run, Novo Nordisk's FlexPen is being retired. Yes, one of the most popular insulin pens for people with diabetes is on the way out after more than 1 billion have been sold through the years.And here comes Novo's new next-gen Fl...

Call to Action on CGM Access for Medicare

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 05 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Access to continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) shouldn't be a battle in 2014, but for those people with diabetes covered by Medicare, that's sadly the case. Now there's a movement afoot to do something about that.A new Diabetes Online Community init...

Dexcom G4 CGM - Review (by a Parent)

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 04 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

D-Mom Jennifer Schneider reviews the Dexcom G4 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) -- from the perspective of the mother of a young teenager with diabetes.REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: great accuracy extremely reliable easy to useCONs: alarms can be a...

Tandem Diabetes Pump/CGM Combo News - Plus An Inside Look!

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 04 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

It's official: Tandem Diabetes Care has made its filing with the U.S. FDA for an integrated insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor -- a new device that combines their sexy t:slim touchscreen pump with a Dexcom G4 Platinum CGM.News of the FDA ...

Sunday Funnies: The Dating Game with Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Sun, 03 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Hey, sometimes things go surprisingly right... Thanks again to Jon Carter, who's got some serious cartooning talent and we're always pleased to welcome here to the 'Mine, on top of his 20+ years drawing for numerous newspapers, print and onlin...

Ask D'Mine: A Medicine Cabinet Full of Ideas

Wil Dubois — Sat, 02 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Got diabetes questions? You came to the right place! Ask D'Mine is our weekly advice column, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil responds to a trio of questions all focused on the "ups and downs" of dia...

Insulin Bumps in the Summer Sun

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 01 Aug 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Early this week, we brought you the story of a D-Momma who wrote a book about her son's type 1 diagnosis as an infant, and how she sees the diabetes world now, 20 years on. (Note: today's the last day to enter that book giveaway!).We're excited to...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: Hot Summer 2014 Edition

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 31 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

The summer months are quickly rolling by and we're done with another July. And boy -- has this been a busy one in the Diabetes Online Community (DOC)!Hot summer topics range from new doings at the big CWD Friends For Life conference in Florida, to...

Type 1's Love for Data + Design = Databetes

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 30 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Of course we're ALL ABOUT the diabetes device hacking and data-sharing efforts going on throughout our D-Community these days -- the collective push for open platforms to allow more meaningful access and use of our devices and data known as the #W...

On Regulation and Cyber-Security of Our Diabetes Devices

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 29 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Medical devices and the data they generate are in the spotlight of late, and this is essentially great news for those of us whose lives are entwined with these systems!On June 20, FDA released a new draft guidance document outlining their current...

D-Momma's "Sweet Dreams" Book is Relatable Yet Controversial (Win a Copy!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 28 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We don't often hear stories of infants being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes -- as opposed to kids, teens and adults. That's why I was so interested in a new book focused on this topic, called Sweet Dreams: A Momma's Story of Infant Type 1 Diabetes...

Sunday Funnies: Spicing It Up?

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 27 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

No, we didn't ask to consult the chef... You never know what might be on the menu when it comes to food and diabetes... :)Thanks to our regular illustrator Jon Carter, a freelance cartoonist for more than 20 years who's drawn for numerous newsp...

Ask D'Mine: Bad in Bed?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 26 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Sadly, diabetes can affect everything... including what goes on in your bedroom.This week, for our Saturday advice column Ask D'Mine, your host Wil Dubois (veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator) takes on this sticky topic. Prepare for an R-...

A Third World Mission, with Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 25 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We share numerous stories here at the 'Mine about diabetes across the globe, and how many in our community are doing what they can to help those in need worldwide. Today, we're excited to share a first-hand account of a fellow type 1 and friend he...

NewsFlash: Both ADA and JDRF Getting New CEOs

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 24 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

The tides are a changin' at two of the top diabetes orgs, with both the JDRF and the American Diabetes Association getting new leaders this month for the first time in years.Whoa, both at the same time... is there something in the water?! And shou...

New Tallygear Review in the Test Kitchen!

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 23 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

It's been about three months since we launched the DiabetesMine Test Kitchen, a central hub for people with diabetes to share their experiences with products created to improve life with this illness. Today, we've added another great new review fr...

Mom on a Mission Creates New Glucose Powder

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 23 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

North Carolina D-Mom Pamela Heyward likes to describe herself as a "mom on a mission."That mission: To create a fast-acting glucose product that raises blood sugar quickly but isn't a glucose tablet and doesn't require all the guesswork that goes ...

Have Professional CGMs Passed Their Prime?

Wil Dubois — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

It was only a Powerpoint slide, but it was the scariest thing I ever saw in my life. The slide showed a blood sugar trend line from a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), not very different from the ones I've seen myself time and time again from my o...

Tallygear Carrying Case - Review

CaitP null — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Blogger and advocate Melissa Lee reviews the Tallygear Dexcom G4 carrying case -- one of her favorite D-products!REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: many different ways to wear the product (versatile) allows for personalization with many prints and patter...

NewsFlash: Band-Aid Sized Encapsulation Device Goes to FDA!

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're making big strides towards a band-aid sized device implanted under the skin of people with diabetes that would release insulin as needed, potentially eliminating the need to check blood sugars, count carbs and dose for insulin through inject...

Sunday Funnies: The Antidote to Diabetes Myths

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 20 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We hear all kinds of diabetes myths and misconceptions... What if we had a special superpower to deal with them? Take that, Dumb D-Comments!Thanks to the talented Terry Keelan, a type 1 living in Southern California who we're proud to feature h...

Ask D'Mine: The Worst Intro to Blood Sugar Testing, Ever

Wil Dubois — Sat, 19 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Diabetes can be tough, of course. And who doesn't need a little help navigating it all now and again? That's exactly why we offer Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wi...

Following in the Footsteps of Mice in Diabetes Research

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 18 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

There are many different ways of dealing with the daunting feeling of being diagnosed with a consuming chronic illness like diabetes.For Mary Rooney, a fellow type 1 diagnosed as an adult in March 2011, getting involved in the research side was on...

On Baseball and Wine: D-Dad's in the Game for Diabetes Research

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 17 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Pitching legend Ron Darling was one of those pro baseball players I loved to follow while growing up in the 80s and 90s. We both played ball and were both pitchers (though I threw with my left arm, being a southpaw, while Ron is a righty), so I en...

Help Define a New Diabetes Anti-Stigma Initiative! (from Co-Founder of the BDI)

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 16 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're huge supporters of the Behavorial Diabetes Institute (BDI) and the efforts of this great San Diego-based non-profit to embrace the emotional and psychosocial side of diabetes. That's why the recent news about the BDI's financial struggles ha...

Teens Backpacking 221 Miles to 'Summit Diabetes'

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 15 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

As the saying goes: Being a teenager is tough enough, without diabetes tossed into the mix.So we're always so encouraged to see teens with diabetes (TWDs?) pushing boundaries and embracing the mantra of "You Can Do This," proving that diabetes doe...

CONGRATS to Our 2014 DiabetesMine Patient Voices Scholarship Winners!

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 14 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Today we're proud to announce the winners of our 2014 Patient Voices Contest - an annual scholarship program in which we seek a group of activated patients to participate in our DiabetesMine Innovation Summit held each fall at Stanford University ...

Sunday Funnies: Stocking Up

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 13 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Yeah, we go through a lot of supplies in our roles as human pancreases... Always good to stock up, right?Thanks again to the creative Jerry King, a regular cartoonist here at the 'Mine who's a worldwide drawing talent creating more than 200 cart...

Ask D'Mine: A Worried Wife Concerned About 'Non-Compliant' Husband

Wil Dubois — Sat, 12 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Every so often, we get questions here at our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine!, that flat out break our hearts. Today, your host Wil Dubois, veteran type 1 and diabetes educator and author, responds to one of those: a new wife who is scared about ...

A Word from Down Under: The Story Our A1C Tells

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 11 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

One of our diabetes friends from Melbourne, Australia, is Renza Scibilia, a type 1 since 1998 who we've had the honor of knowing in the Diabetes Online Community for years now. Though we've been interacting online for a while, it wasn't until the ...

From Insulin Pumps to Glucose Gels - New Reviews in the Test Kitchen!

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 11 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Have you ever heard about a diabetes product and wondered what kind of experience other PWDs (people with diabetes) have had with it? Now it's easy to find out! Just browse through our new DiabetesMine Test Kitchen - a collection of video product ...

Insights from the First-Ever Diabetes Advocacy MasterLab

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 10 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're thrilled to see what a success the recent diabetes advocacy MasterLab was during the annual Children with Diabetes Friends For Life conference in Florida.This was the first-ever event of its kind, a sort of special day-long class to teach pe...

Level Foods Glucose Gels - Review

CaitP null — Thu, 10 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

As a PWD living with type 1 diabetes for 16 years, Kimberly Hislop reviews one of her favorite hypo treatments: Level Foods Glucose Gels.REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: each pouch contains exactly 15 grams of carb tastes great, not thick or pasty lik...

Jerry the Diabetes Bear Visits the White House ... and Starts Crowdfunding!

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 09 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Our little robotic teddy friend affectionately known as Jerry the Bear (with diabetes) made the trek to the White House recently, and snagged a seat in a room where the president was speaking!Yep, it was all part of the first-ever White House Make...

OmniPod Insulin Pump - Review

CaitP null — Wed, 09 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Greg Nickleski isn't the biggest fan of needles and pricks -- so he discusses why he uses the new, slimmer OmniPod insulin pump.REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: tubeless and wireless -- no need for long plastic tubing patch-style attachment allows disc...

The Supreme Court Hobby Lobby Case... and Diabetes?

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 08 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

The country's abuzz about a recent ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) involving the retail chain Hobby Lobby, that dealt with employer-provided health insurance and whether they're obligated to cover certain controversial bi...

A Fresh Take on Dealing with Diabetes Burnout (with Book Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 07 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

A good friend has a new diabetes book out that really speaks to us.It's all about those times in our diabetes lives when we feel the pressure of our broken pancreas weighing on us... when we reach the end of our ropes so to speak and just feel lik...

Sunday Funnies: Did Someone Say 'Bionic Pancreas'...?

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 06 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

You may have seen the news lately about the bionic pancreas, along with Mike's recent post on why he's so excited about this developing new tech. But hey, there's probably still some confusion out there... Not quite what we had in mind, right?...

Ask D'Mine: Occult Weight Boosters

Wil Dubois — Sat, 05 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Got questions about life with diabetes? So do we! That's why we offer our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1 and diabetes author Wil Dubois, who also works as an educator in a diabetes clinic in his home state of N...

Happy Fourth of July, Diabetes World!

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 04 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We are marking another Independence Day here in the good 'ol United States of America, and of course we have to celebrate our united Diabetes Online Community, too... Nice to have Lady Liberty on our side! (and that's a nice insulin pump there,...

Turning 21 with Diabetes (and Enjoying a Cocktail!)

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 03 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Today we extend a belated happy birthday to our own Cait Patterson, who celebrated her long-awaited 21st birthday late last week!Of course, that milestone birthday is marked by the advent of legally drinking alcohol -- which for those of us with ...

New Video Review of Fast-Acting Glucose (with Lancet the Pug!)

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 02 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're excited to bring you yet another new video today in our DiabetesMine Test Kitchen!As we continue to add to our crowdsourced collection of diabetes product video reviews, created by and for people with diabetes, today's edition happens to coi...

TruePlus Glucose Products - Review

CaitP null — Wed, 02 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Twenty-something PWD and advocate Heather Gabel reviews TruePlus glucose tabs, gels and shots by Nipro Diagnostics -- with a cameo from Lancet the pug!REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN-PROs: brings blood sugar up quickly relatively cheap glucose tabs easy to f...

Why I Am So Geeked About a Bionic Pancreas

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 01 Jul 2014 07:00:00 GMT

My phone rang and I saw that it was a good friend from another state, calling in the middle of a work day.The time was odd, so I immediately thought: This must be some really good or really bad news of some sort.Turns out, it was more of a 'diabe...

NewsFlash: Inhaled Insulin Afrezza Gets FDA Approval

Mike Hoskins — Sun, 29 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Huge news, D-Friends: the new rapid-acting inhalable insulin known as Afrezza has just obtained FDA approval!The third time's the charm for this new formulation of inhalable insulin, the second-ever to make it through the U.S. regulatory process a...

Ask D'Mine: Peering Into Pumps, and Carbs

Wil Dubois — Sat, 28 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, and welcome back to our weekly advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil tackles some basic questions about insulin pumps and what we might want to think about when ...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: June 2014 Edition

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 27 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Summer has arrived, meaning the year's already half over (wow!). And along with all the diabetes conference activity underway this summer, we've once again had the pleasure of reading some great blog posts from across the Diabetes Online Community...

New Reviews in Our 'Test Kitchen' for Diabetes Products!

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 27 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Ever wonder what experiences other people with diabetes had with a particular D-product? Now it's easy to find out! Just browse through our new DiabetesMine Test Kitchen - a collection of video product reviews by and for patients.We have two new r...

Mediband and Mediband Plus - Review

CaitP null — Fri, 27 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

PWD Julie Schulman reviews Mediband medical IDs with Mediband Plus -- a medical ID that does more than just display your emergency contact info!REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: bands are very durable text on bands is extremely customizable and they hav...

New Grid to Help Find the "Sweet Spot" of Glucose Meter Accuracy

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 26 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We all want accurate glucose meters that we can trust to tell us correctly what our blood sugars are at any given moment.But even after meters are cleared by the FDA and put on the market for sale, we're seeing those devices aren't as accurate as ...

Depression, or Just 'Diabetes Distress'? Not So Easy to Define...

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 25 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Many of us with diabetes feel pretty darn down in the dumps on a regular basis. We talk a lot about the link between this illness and clinical depression, and how the latter should be recognized as a real complication of diabetes.But not so fast: ...

aDorn Designs Diabetes Supplies Case - Review

CaitP null — Tue, 24 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Cait Patterson reviews aDorn Designs diabetes carrying case from their Elite Collection - a stylish clutch to carry D-supplies!REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: not an obvious diabetes supplies case attractive design offers a variety of ways to store s...

Of Healthy Waters and Hydrators

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 24 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

The hottest months of the year are here, and finding some thirst-quenching drink options can be tough for those of us who need to count carbs and respect the blood sugar effect of anything we swallow.Seriously, I just went through this in Indy whe...

CGM in the Cloud, Joslin's HypoMap and More at the DiabetesMine D-Data ExChange!

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 23 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

On the Friday just prior to the ADA Scientific Sessions in San Francisco last week, we hosted our second-ever DiabetesMine D-Data ExChange event at a very cool "urban" meeting venue just blocks from the big convention center. Photos from that even...

Sunday Funnies: Taking Your Diabetes Summer Temperature

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 22 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

This weekend's the official start of summer! While it's heating up outside, have you thought about your "diabetes temperature"...? Thanks to the talented Brad Slaight, a professional actor and comedian who's also a fellow type 1 PWD and famous...

Ask D'Mine: How Expired Can the Milk Be?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 21 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil takes on a dual set of questions asking about expiration dates on those handy little strips we use to t...

Last Day to Enter! 2014 Patient Voices Contest

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 20 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Interested in a unique chance to be a diabetes patient advocate mixing it up with Pharma, FDA, Device Experts, Clinicians and other decision-makers? Today is the final day to enter our 2014 Patient Voices Contest -- to win a full scholarship to t...

A Window Into Real-Life Diabetes? ADA Conference Brings More Patient Insight

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 19 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Could it be that the biggest U.S. diabetes meeting of the year -- focused on physicians and researchers sharing the latest medical science -- has finally opened a window into the real-life struggles of us PWDs (people with diabetes)?At a number of...

Just Posted: FRIO Insulin Cooling Case Video Review

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 19 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Hey Diabetes Community,Another new product review has just been added to our DiabetesMine Test Kitchen - the video review hub by and for patients, where we can share views of a variety of D-products.Longtime type 1 PWD Dan Patrick, who joined us a...

FRIO Insulin Cooling Case - Review

CaitP null — Thu, 19 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Longtime PWD Dan Patrick reviews the FRIO Insulin Cooling Case -- a necessity for diabetes travel!REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: no need for ice packs, refrigeration, electricity, or a power supply the cases are reusable and only require cold water ...

Why My CGM Makes Me (Slightly) Happier

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 18 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We talk a lot about diabetes technology here in the abstract -- but there's no substitute for the real-world testimonials of the people living with this stuff attached to their bodies 24/7.Today our friend and fellow type 1 diabetes writer Dan Fle...

Drug, Tech and Device News + Patient Voices from ADA 2014

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 17 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

What an exciting few days here in California at the year's biggest diabetes conference!Somehow it was just as exhausting as ever attending the ADA's 74th Scientific Sessions in my own backyard of San Francisco -- although despite the roughly 16,00...

Obamacare, As Seen from the Diabetes Trenches

Wil Dubois — Mon, 16 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Today our weekly Ask D'Mine columnist and community educator Wil Dubois takes a look at health insurance reform from the perspective of a patient at his rural diabetes clinic. Wow. Longtime type 1 Jacob Padilla could be a case study on how healt...

Sunday Funnies: Happy (Fingerstick) Father's Day!

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 15 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

While we're celebrating dads today, those of us in the Diabetes Community can also take a moment to tip our hats to... the Fathers of Glucometry! As always, huge thanks to the creative Jerry King, a regular cartoonist here at the 'Mine who's a wo...

Ask D'Mine: In the Name of the Father...

Wil Dubois — Sat, 14 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

ADA Conference Kicks Off Today, Plus the DiabetesMine D-Data ExChange!

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 13 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Today marks the start of the year's biggest diabetes conference on U.S. soil, the American Diabetes Association's 74th Scientific Sessions here in San Francisco. As always, our team from the 'Mine will be on hand observing what's new and exciting ...

Amazing Advocate Jim Schuler D-Link'ing His NY Community

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 12 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

When you're diagnosed with type 1 as a kid in Western New York, the first step is pretty much the same as anywhere else that you may get that not-so-welcome news: You see an endocrinologist.But when you see an endo at the Women's and Children's Ho...

Type 2 Software Engineer Develops 'Nagbot' for Diabetes Reminders

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 11 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

A little nagging can go a long way when it comes to keeping on top of all that diabetes life requires of us.I know that firsthand, as I've done my fair share of slacking through these past 30 years of living with type 1. Thankfully, I've also had ...

Big Endo Groups Plan Meeting on D-Device Accuracy & Access

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 10 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

There's been a lot of talk in the diabetes patient community lately about the accuracy of existing glucometers and issues of access to these and other, more advanced diabetes devices like insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). Now, ...

New Apple HealthKit Supposedly Targets Diabetes; Details Unclear

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Hey Kids, last week Apple announced a new "HealthKit" for capturing health and fitness data, and one of their targets is supposedly diabetes care, which is very exciting -- because who doesn't want Apple to get involved in this stuff?!The only cav...

Sunday Funnies: That Diabetes Wild Ride

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 08 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

As we move into summer, many are heading to amusement parks. But those of us with diabetes take our own ride every day... Thanks to illustrator Jon Carter, a freelance cartoonist for more than 20 years who's drawn for numerous newspapers, print...

Ask D'Mine: DKA Detective

Wil Dubois — Sat, 07 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Got diabetes questions? You came to the right place! Ask D'Mine is our weekly advice column, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil has his eye on high blood sugars and what "diabetes ketoacidosis" (see DK...

2014 DIABETES PATIENT VOICES CONTEST: Get Your Product Review On!

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Hi All,Interested in attending the 2014 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit at Stanford University on full scholarship*? You have exactly 2 more weeks to enter our 2014 Patient Voices Contest!It's a pretty exciting opportunity, but don't take our word ...

Myabetic Banting Wallet - Review

CaitP null — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Christel Aprigliano reviews the Myabetic Banting Wallet -- a fashionable way to carry your D-supplies!REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: stylish look and design removable Velcro pouch for used test stripsCONs: elastic loops are too tight to hold larger m...

Diabetes + Healthy Eating Advocacy, Starring... the Blueberry!

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Remember how the Blue Circle was designed to bring the global diabetes community together under one universal symbol to raise awareness and boost advocacy?Well, now the same D-Mom who was central to creating that Blue Circle a decade ago is workin...

NewsFlash: New Medtronic Device Combines CGM Sensor & Insulin Infusion Site

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Medtronic is leading the charge on new diabetes devices again, with a first-of-its-kind combo device launched in Europe that brings a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensor and insulin infusion set together into a single device with combined i...

CGM Business Battle: Medtronic Offers Dexcom Trade-In, Promotional Pitch

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

This may be the ultimate proof that the diabetes device business is becoming consumer-focused: companies are now aggressively "out-marketing" each other with tempting tactics to get patients to switch to their brand.This past week, the Diabetes On...

Former Miss America Pens "Reality Check" for Young Adults with Diabetes (with Giveaway!)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're always impressed by people who just won't let diabetes stand in their way.One of the best examples of that is Nicole Johnson, a fellow type 1 who achieved the dream of becoming Miss America in 1999, and also became a journalist, despite bein...

Sunday Funnies: Test Strip Superpowers!

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Did someone say they're out of glucose test strips?! Not to worry... Now there's a diabetes superpower that would save us some hassle and money.... Hah!Thanks again to cartoonist Terry Keelan, a fellow type 1 living in Southern California, for t...

Ask D'Mine: Taking on the 800-Pound Gorilla

Wil Dubois — Sat, 31 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Need help navigating life with diabetes? You can always Ask D'Mine! Welcome again to our weekly Q&A column, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil's discussing the always (and ever-more) frustrating is...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere - May 2014 Edition

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 30 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're now at the end of the fifth month of 2014, which is simply amazing - how quickly this year is going by! The summer months bring a bevvy of diabetes conference activity and we're excited about that, but it's already been busy around here in M...

A Super Diabetes Alert Dog for Father-Son Pair of Type 1s

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 29 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're always happy to hear stories about diabetes alert dogs helping families, along with the growing body of research being built up behind these anecdotal tales of doggy awesomeness.Well try this one on for size: a newly adopted D-Alert Dog in I...

A New Push for Dancing It Up with Diabetes

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 28 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Put on your dancing shoes, Diabetes Community!There's a new national education and wellness campaign aimed at getting you to move your booty.The big message behind it is that just a little dancing can go a long way toward improving your health wit...

A Lesson for Public Spending Scrooges on Kids' Diabetes Health

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 27 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Raising teenagers can be tough enough without diabetes in the mix -- I should know, having three teen girls of my own who keep my worry-mom hat on... but when you bring together chronic illness + socioeconomic challenges + the mess of our U.S. hea...

Three Meters and a Pump - New Diabetes Video Product Reviews!

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 26 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY TO ALL!While you're hopefully out barbequing and throwing the Frisbee (and not working), we're at our stations with four more great Diabetes Community product reviews -- just published in the new DiabetesMine Test Kitchen, where...

Sunday Funnies: Diabetes Hoarders?

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 25 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Yup, we PWDs deal with all the obsessions other people face, and sometimes a lot more... Thanks again to Jon Carter, our newest illustrator who's been a freelance cartoonist for more than 20 years and has drawn for numerous newspapers, print and...

One Touch UltraMini Glucose Meter - Review

CaitP null — Sun, 25 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Type 2 patient and advocate Corinna Cornejo reviews the One Touch UltraMini blood glucose meter, and describes why she uses it as a secondary meter.REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: accurate and reliable portable uses easily available test strips big di...

Tandem t:slim Insulin Pump - Review

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 25 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

The Tandem t:slim pump is reviewed by type 1 D-blogger and insurance agent Sarah Kaye -- and gives it high marks, despite a slow site change process.REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: touch screen makes it easier to use personal profiles rather than mult...

Verio IQ Blood Glucose Meter - Review

CaitP null — Sun, 25 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Former Patient Voices Contest winner and D-blogger Melissa Lee reviews the OneTouch Verio IQ blood glucose meter -- and gives it a perfect 5 rating!REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: device is slender enough to slip into a pocket sample size is the small...

One Touch Ultra 2 Glucose Meter - Review

CaitP null — Sun, 25 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Type 2 patient and advocate Corinna Cornejo reviews the One Touch Ultra 2 -- which she finds to be a "straightforward, reliable blood glucose meter."REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: reliable and accurate big, bright display with a backlight easy to use...

Ask D'Mine: Funky Side Effects of Diabetes Meds?

Wil Dubois — Sat, 24 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Who doesn't sometimes need a little help navigating life with diabetes? That's why we offer Ask D'Mine, our weekly advice column, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois.This week Wil's sharing his thoughts on s...

Patient-Led Conferences Taking the Diabetes Community by Storm

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 23 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Remember the days when the only diabetes conferences were those big, stiff events put on by national organizations aimed at medical professionals?Sure, those big industry and policy events have always been important and are arguably about patients...

Progress on Glucose Meter Accuracy Surveillance + Access to Insulin Pumps

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 22 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Big News this week in the world of diabetes devices, Folks!Two leading endocrinologist organizations have, for the first time in four years, updated their position on who should be able to get access to insulin pumps, while the Diabetes Technology...

Glucovation: A CGM Sensor for Non-Diabetics?

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 21 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Those of us with type 1 diabetes appreciate the amazing insight that continuous glucose monitors offer on our blood sugar trends -- which can literally be a life-saver for those of us with broken pancreases.But here's a question: what if general (...

33 Countries Commit to Addressing Psychosocial Side of Diabetes Care (!)

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 20 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

It seems there's always a diabetes conference of some sort being held somewhere in the world -- and of course not all of them are very earthshaking. But the 5th International DAWN Summit held in the Netherlands in early April may be an exception. ...

ANNOUNCING: The DiabetesMine 2014 Patient Voices Scholarships Contest!

Amy Tenderich — Mon, 19 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Hi All, Interested in attending the 2014 DiabetesMine Innovation Summit at Stanford University on full scholarship*? You have one month to apply! Today we're proud to announce our 2014 Patient Voices Contest - an annual scholarship program in ...

Sunday Funnies: D-Blog Saturation?

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 18 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

As we close out the fifth year running of Diabetes Blog Week, many of us in the Diabetes Online Community may be feeling a little like this: (Thanks to Jerry King, an accomplished worldwide cartoonist and regular contributor here at the 'Mine.)Of...

Ask D'Mine: Diabetes Advice via Photo Novella

Wil Dubois — Sat, 17 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Happy Saturday, everyone! Welcome back to another edition of our weekly advice column Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.Of course, our online D-community's still having fun with Diabetes Blog Week, so Wi...

D-Blog Week: Diabetes Life Hacks

Mike Hoskins — Fri, 16 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the fifth day of Diabetes Blog Week 2014.Today's topic = Diabetes Life HacksShare the (non-medical) tips and tricks that help you in the day-to-day management of diabetes -- everything from clothing modifications, serving size/carb coun...

D-Blog Week Day Four: Diabetes Mantras and More

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 15 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're now three-quarters of the way through Diabetes Blog Week 2014, and today we're asked to take a positive spin on yesterday's topic of what brings us down:Today let's share what gets us through a hard day. Or more specifically, a hard diabete...

Diabetes Conference Gems: Smart Insulin & An All-Star Lineup

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 15 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

This past weekend was my third time attending the JDRF Today and Tomorrow Conference up in Southeast Michigan.That may sound like a remote diabetes conference area to some, but I was raised in that Metro Detroit region before moving to Indiana a ...

D-Blog Week: Managing Mental Health (with Insulin on Board)

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 14 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

It's Day Three of Diabetes Blog Week, and today the topic is all about respecting mental health. We're asked to write about What Brings Me Down, i.e. what specifically can make dealing with diabetes an emotional issue for you and/or your loved one...

Asante Snap Insulin Pump - Review

CaitP null — Wed, 14 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

D-blogger and advocate Melissa Lee reviews the Asante Snap Pump and tells why it's one of her favorite D-devices!REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN -PROs: exceptionally lightweight and low-profile extremely fast auto-priming and infusion set/cartridge changes u...

New Diabetes Video Product Review - Snap Insulin Pump

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 14 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're proud to say we've just added a new review of the new and exciting Asante Snap Pump to our DiabetesMine Test Kitchen - where products designed to improved life with diabetes are evaluated by people who ought to know.Now with a new feature! W...

D-Blog Week: The CGM New Girl Spills All...

Wil Dubois — Tue, 13 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Blood drops are red, diabetes circles are blue...OK, we aren't the best poets in the Diabetes Community. And since it's Poetry Tuesday on this second day of Diabetes Blog Week 2014, we've decided to cash in a Wildcard chip instead, and take on the...

Diabetes Blog Week 2014: Changing the World, One Advocate at a Time

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 12 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Welcome to another round of Diabetes Blog Week, the fifth year in a row that our blog-happy community has come together to rally around the same topic each day for a full week.If you remember, this whole effort was spearheaded by fellow type 1 Kar...

Ask D'Mine: Moms Versus Dads, and Missed Shots

Wil Dubois — Sat, 10 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Got questions about navigating life with diabetes? Ask D'Mine! Our weekly advice column, that is - hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and educator Wil Dubois.This week, Wil preps for Mother's Day on Sunday with a question about D-parents an...

On Mother's Day: Lessons from a Certified T1D MOM

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 09 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

The saying goes that "a mother's work is never done." As a mother of three myself: So. Totally. Agree.But then there are the moms whose jobs transcend ordinary parenting, those forced to manage a child's illness, with all the heartbreak and drudge...

May DSMA - Why Data & Device Interoperability Matters

Amy Tenderich — Thu, 08 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

This month the Diabetes Social Media Advocacy (DSMA) blog carnival is taking a personal look how technology and its outputs affect our D-lives.It refers to the #WeAreNotWaiting campaign, a D-Community push for diabetes innovation now.It's a grassr...

The Next Stage of Evolution in Diabetes Advocacy?

Mike Hoskins — Wed, 07 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

OK, we're dubbing 2014 the Year of Diabetes Foot Soldier Advocacy.Yup, you heard right: foot soldiers.No, that's not some veiled reference to the fictional ninjutsu clan from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (well, maybe it is)... But it's the best wa...

New Diabetes Video Product Review: True2Go Glucose Meter

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 07 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Hello Dear Readers,Just a note to update you on our new DiabetesMine Test Kitchen -- where products designed to improved life with diabetes are evaluated by people who should know how well they hit that mark.As you hopefully know already, this is ...

True2Go Glucose Meter - Review

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 06 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Author and D-advocate Dan Fleshler reviews the tiny True2Go glucose meter, an option that's all about convenience. REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN - PROs: small, compact and convenient affordable accurate blood glucose readings doesn't require a large bloo...

Living with Celiac: Tips, Tricks and Annoyances

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 06 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

May seems like such a cheery month -- but it's also Celiac Awareness Month, time for another look at the "killer combo" of diabetes + gluten intolerance. I've written about my own experiences living with this combination in the past, and we've bro...

Extend Nutrition Bars - Review

Amy Tenderich — Tue, 06 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Ginger Vieira, life coach and diabetes advocate, reviews Extend Bars -- which claim to control your blood sugar for quite a long while. REVIEWER'S BREAKDOWN - PROs: affordable snack replacement bar chewy consistency in a variety of flavors that...

GlySens (Still) Developing Implantable CGM (See Also: ICGM)

Mike Hoskins — Mon, 05 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

As I write this, there's a continuous glucose monitoring sensor attached to my left arm. The little iPod-style receiver sits nearby on my desk, taking in blood sugar readings every few minutes and displaying those numbers on its color screen.What ...

Sunday Funnies: Uphill Battle

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 04 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, so now there's one more excuse for people to try and help us diabetics find a fitness opp... All we can say is: whew!Thanks to the talented Jerry King, a regular contributor here at the 'Mine an...

The DiabetesMine Test Kitchen: Our First 19 Videos

Amy Tenderich — Sun, 04 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Hi All,We hope you have already discovered the DiabetesMine Test Kitchen -- our new crowdsourced hub for video reviews of diabetes products, launched on Monday.Essentially, we at the 'Mine believe that people with diabetes are at a disadvantage as...

Ask D'Mine: The Great Diabetes Bagabond Quest

Wil Dubois — Sat, 03 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Living with 'My Sweet Girl' Diabetes... in Poland

Amy Tenderich — Fri, 02 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

We're always fascinated to connect with fellow diabetics living all around the world who are doing amazing things. That's the point of our Global Diabetes series, highlighting different perspectives from around the globe.Recently, we heard from an...

Father-Son Team Develop Nanotech for Better Insulin Therapy

Mike Hoskins — Thu, 01 May 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Not only is Bob Geho a fellow type 1 diabetic, but he likes to refer to himself as a "liver evangelist" when it comes to how glucose and insulin work inside the body.Or more accurately, how they don't currently work together the way they should in...

Around the Diabetes Blogosphere: April 2014 Edition

Amy Tenderich — Wed, 30 Apr 2014 07:00:00 GMT

April showers bring May flowers... or so they say. In 2014, many parts of the country are just now starting to warm up a bit after a crazy-cold winter, with ice and snow blasting the Midwest even into this month!Weather aside, we've been showered ...

Puffing Glucagon Up Your Nose

Mike Hoskins — Tue, 29 Apr 2014 07:00:00 GMT

Twice in the past month, my blood sugars dropped down into the hypoglycemia levels to the point where I needed two doses of glucagon.Actually, this was by choice. These induced hypos were part of a clinical study investigating a new type of gluca...

Lauren's Hope Medical IDs - Review