Tennis Racket

Tim's Journey with Type 1 Diabetes

Tim's on a boat

Meet Tim!

Tim loves to keep busy – whether that be playing tennis, walking the dog, swimming or travelling! Tim has also lived with type 1 diabetes for 57 years. We spoke to Tim about how his diabetes technology has changed since then and how he navigates his diabetes management day-to-day.

1. Can you tell us a little about you and your interests?

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1964. I like playing tennis, swimming, going to the gym and walking the dog. I enjoy music and still play the piano! I’ve always loved travelling as well – just two years ago I went to Alaska and it was one of the best ever trips! I hope to keep on travelling soon.

2. How would you describe your journey with your diabetes management over the years?

I remember back in the day when blood glucose tests were done using Ames tablets mixed with samples of Urine. A colour chart was then compared with the result to give an approximate reading. The next advancement to come along was the Stanley Clarke meter, which used a finger prick to indicate the reading.
And now I’m using
Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) which is light years ahead of all the monitors I used previously for 57 years.
Back in the day for me it was ‘a needle a day keeps the diabetes at bay’ however these days it is more like 4 a day – but that’s okay by me. My HbA1c lingers around 7 mmol/L.

3. How has Dexcom CGM supported your diabetes care?

I share my Dexcom readings from the app with my healthcare team [via Dexcom Share**]. Dexcom is also really helpful as there is no need to fingerprick so often*. I have not had many low blood glucose levels while playing sport since I started using Dexcom CGM which is fantastic.
The other helpful thing that I like is the feeling of security when playing sport – a quick check of my Dexcom G6 app gives me a good idea where my glucose levels are at that moment. This eases my nerves and anxiety levels which can be overwhelming. Since I have been using Dexcom, I have come home from sport with a ‘reasonable’ glucose level for me, whereas in the past, it could be awry.

4. Can you tell us a scenario where Dexcom alerts and alarms have helped you stay on top of your levels?

Dexcom alerts and alarms have been very helpful in waking me overnight when I have high or low glucose levels. I have set the high limit at 16 mmol/L and the low at 4 mmol/L. This has made for a comfortable sleep overnight.

5. Why did you choose Dexcom CGM?

I have tried different devices previously, however after speaking to my Diabetes Educators we decided Dexcom CGM would be good for me as I was having low glucose levels when exercising at noon and going from high to low glucose levels in a short time. Also, with Dexcom I can easily monitor my glucose level on the go.

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ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. Read the warnings available on dexcom.com/downloadsandguides before purchasing. Consult your healthcare professional to see which product is right for you. Dexcom is a medical device used to continuously measure and record glucose concentrations in diabetic patients.
References
*Dexcom G6 requires zero fingerpricks, however if your glucose alerts and readings from the G6 do not match symptoms or expectations, use a blood glucose meter to make diabetes treatment decisions.
**Do not make treatment decisions based upon Follow readings. Always confirm with your compatible smart device or Receiver. Internet connectivity required to access Dexcom Follow
Testimonial Disclosure
This testimonial relates to an individual’s response to treatment with our products and has been edited to ensure it is consistent with the products’ indication(s). The testimonial does not provide any indication, guide, warranty or guarantee as to the response other persons may have to the treatment. Responses to treatment with our products may differ. It is important to consider individual circumstances and consult with your healthcare professional before considering any changes to your diabetes management. Tim Flakelar is an AMSL Diabetes All-Star.
Dexcom and Dexcom G6 are registered trademarks of Dexcom, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries.
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