Navigating Type 1 Diabetes: Tools, Supplies, and Lessons Learned
- lowryandleaf
- Jan 19
- 8 min read
Updated: Mar 18
Managing Maybel’s type 1 diabetes is an intricate, emotional journey that demands attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to her well-being. Every pod swap, every Dexcom sensor change, and every adjustment to her insulin regimen is an effort to maintain a balance between her health and the constant reality of living with a chronic illness. From the relentless vigilance to the emotional toll of watching her endure this condition, it’s a path that stretches far beyond the physical act of applying medical devices.
The Application Process
Every step in managing Maybel’s diabetes requires meticulous preparation, and the fear of even the smallest misstep can have consequences:
Skin Prep: At home, we use a gentle skin prep spray to thoroughly prep her skin before applying any adhesive. On the go, skin prep wipes provide convenience without compromising sterility. Skin prep protects skin from irritation and trauma caused by adhesives, tapes, and other medical devices.
Skin Tac: This adhesive enhancer comes in liquid and wipes forms, ensuring a stronger bond between her skin and her Dexcom sensor or Omnipod. Especially during her most active days, these are crucial to prevent detachment.
Overpatches: Overlay patches have become a crucial part of keeping her equipment securely in place. They help reduce moments of anxiety when a pod unexpectedly loosens, leaving her without continuous insulin delivery. While no product is foolproof, these patches significantly extend the longevity of device attachment, providing added stability and peace of mind.
Planning Ahead: Pod Swaps and Dexcom Changes
Managing Maybel’s type 1 diabetes is not just a logistical challenge—it’s an emotional one. Every day, we anticipate potential risks and the consequences of even the smallest oversight.
Dexcom Changes: Applying a new sensor requires a 2-hour warm-up period, leaving us in constant uncertainty during this time. These hours of waiting are filled with the fear of missing critical highs or lows. We frequently rely on finger pricks and the pod app to guide our decisions, knowing the stakes are high for her safety.
Pod Changes: The physical process of changing a pod takes anywhere from 10-20 minutes, but the emotional weight of ensuring Maybel’s comfort is immeasurable. The risk of infection, the discomfort of painful insertions, and the need for precision make every change a daunting task. There have been moments when we’ve had to unexpectedly change her pod, such as on a beach in the summer when the adhesive failed, leaving her vulnerable. These are moments of helplessness where her need for insulin outweighs any fear of discomfort or inconvenience.
Everyday Essentials
In moments of chaos, having the right supplies becomes a source of stability and security. Our carefully packed makeup bag, small enough to carry daily yet large enough to hold all essentials, is filled with life-saving supplies sourced from Amazon: skin tac, skin prep spray, Goo Gone skin-safe adhesive remover, foam cleanser, and both Omnipod and Dexcom overlay patches. These supplies offer a much-needed sense of control during constant pod swaps and sensor changes. I’ll share links to our favorite supplies as well as some we’ve tried but didn’t quite work for us— they might be just what you need! You can find them on our Amazon list and our resources page.
Breakdown of Everyday Essentials:
Medical Supplies:
Skin Tac & Skin Prep: Ensuring that her devices adhere properly is essential. Both liquid and wipe forms help manage changes easily, regardless of location.
Overpatches: Provide an extra layer of security, helping to extend device wear time and reduce skin irritation.
Goo Gone Skin-Safe Adhesive Remover: Safely removes adhesive overlays without damaging her delicate skin.
Cleansing & Skincare:
Foam Cleanser: Keeps Maybel’s skin clean and irritation-free by removing adhesive residue and maintaining skin health between changes.
Organization & Portability:
Medical Bags & Fanny Packs: A well-organized T1D bag is essential for carrying everything from insulin supplies to emergency low treatments. Amazon offers a variety of styles and sizes to suit our family’s needs.
Monitoring & Accessibility:
Omnipod & Dexcom Accessories: Accessories like overlay patches and holders for her phone ensure Maybel has constant access to her glucose readings, enabling her to monitor her health even while playing or being on the move.
Nutrition & Emergency Preparedness:
Snacks & Low Treatments: Stocking a variety of glucose tabs and juice boxes helps us manage sudden lows effectively. Bulk options on Amazon allow us to save money while always being prepared for emergencies.
These everyday essentials sourced from Amazon streamline our management of Maybel’s type 1 diabetes, offering both convenience and reliability.
Lessons Learned
Leaving her bag: It was a moment of pure panic—something I had never experienced in the three years since Maybel’s diagnosis. Two hours from home, her Dexcom stopped working, and I had forgotten her insulin bag. At that moment, all I could think about was how to verify her glucose levels without the usual tools—no backup supplies, no Dexcom, no Omnipod. I rushed to buy a new glucose reader and supplies, but the thought of her Omnipod potentially falling off was overwhelming. The sheer possibility of her being without insulin felt unbearable. Without insulin, Maybel’s body can’t regulate her blood sugar, which can lead to life-threatening complications like ketoacidosis or severe hypoglycemia. Mistakes happen, and I know I can’t beat myself up over it, but I’ll never forget again. The anxiety of that situation is seared into my memory, a constant reminder of how critical preparedness is when it comes to her care.
No snacks: Being prepared is crucial, especially in moments when every second counts. One day, I had her T1D bag with me on a quick trip to town, but I hadn’t replenished the juice boxes and low-blood sugar snacks after using them late the night before. Her blood sugar began plummeting, and there was nothing left in the bag. Waiting in the drive-thru with no exits, once you’re in, you’re stuck until you reach the window. The panic set in fast. I had to step out of my car and approach strangers, hoping someone would have something—trusting others in a vulnerable moment. Luckily, a mom behind me had toddlers with apple sauce pouches, and I was able to get her some sugar. These mistakes can be life-threatening, especially when managing a child with type 1 diabetes. As a T1D mom, my brain is often overloaded, and it’s terrifying trying to remember everything all the time. With a lack of sleep constantly and a high baseline of stress daily, it becomes even harder to stay on top of everything. It was an embarrassing moment, but one I’ll never forget. Now, we keep glucose tablets in the car at all times—they don’t melt in the heat or freeze in the winter—ensuring we’re always prepared for the unexpected.
We’ve all made mistakes and forgotten something at some point. It doesn’t feel good to make mistakes or forget, and when it comes to managing type 1 diabetes, it’s life or death—and the stress that comes with it is overwhelming. Just know, that if you’re struggling or feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone.
Challenges and Growth
When Maybel was first diagnosed, the overwhelming nature of her condition left us scrambling for answers. The trial and error phase was filled with missteps—adhesives that caused painful skin reactions, overlays that didn’t last long enough, and products that ultimately failed to meet her needs. The financial burden of these errors was daunting, compounded by the emotional toll of watching her suffer.
Over time, we’ve gained a deeper understanding of what works best for her, but the journey has been far from easy. Supplies add up rapidly, and the cost of managing her condition can feel unbearable at times. However, these challenges have spurred us to advocate for resources to support newly diagnosed families.
One day, I hope to use our experience to create starter packs filled with sample products that can ease the transition for new families navigating type 1 diabetes. These kits would provide a variety of options to trial different products without the pressure of committing to full-size versions that may not work.
Living with type 1 diabetes is a relentless balancing act of care, precision, and emotional resilience. Despite the sadness and the weight of responsibility, the love we have for Maybel propels us forward. The support of our community and the hope that new advancements will make her journey easier sustain us through the hardest days.
Additionally, if you're interested in supplies from my Type 1 Diabetes Amazon list, here’s a brief explanation of why each item is included:
VTech Monitor: Lack of sleep and sleeping through alarms happen. While we use the Follow app on our personal phones, we occasionally sleep through them. Maybel’s phone has a fire alarm sound, and we place this monitor next to her phone to help prevent oversleeping through alarms. It adds an extra layer of protection for us in those moments.
Freedom Bands: This helps keep both her Omnipod and Dexcom secure during water activities or situations where she might sweat more. Available for both arms and legs!
Spiggies and Talbot’s Teeth Wipes: When Maybel has low blood sugar in the middle of the night, instead of waking her up for a full teeth brushing session, we give her teeth a quick wipe with these wipes and a sip of water to remove any sugar residue. For those who can wake up and brush multiple times in the night, power to you!
Overpatches: We’ve tried and linked several overpatches that we’ve loved and used in the past. They provide an added layer of security and comfort. Maybel loves the variety, too!
Waterproof Bandage Cover: A more affordable option compared to Tegaderm, this is essential for days at the beach or swimming, helping protect fresh pods or Dexcom sensors during summer activities.
Temporary Tattoos: A fun way to add a little flair to the Omnipod, making T1D feel less daunting and more personalized.
Polysporin: Our go-to for skin infections or rashes, providing effective relief without irritation.
Stroller Wagon and Accessories: A lifesaver for us since Maybel was diagnosed at 11 months old. It makes trips and outings easier by carrying all her supplies, including juice boxes and comfortable seating for both kids. We still use it!
Relavel Travel Makeup Bag: The best bag we’ve used for organizing and carrying all of her medical supplies efficiently.
Medical Equipment Tag: Helps prevent issues with bag regulations at various locations, ensuring her everyday T1D bag is easily identifiable.
Linnalove Alert Bracelets: Maybel loves hers, and it’s lasted for 2 years—durable and functional!
SPI Belts: We’ve had 4 since her diagnosis, and they’ve held up exceptionally well through daily use and activity.
Nexcare Tape: Ideal for taping up tubing or securing devices in place without irritating, especially useful when she was on the Tslim.
Vet Wrap: A lifesaver for securing pods or sensors as they near the end of their wear, eliminating the need for tape or frequent patch replacements
Hibiclens Skin Cleanser: Helps cleanse and prep her skin before applying a new pod or Dexcom sensor for optimal adhesion.
Skin Tac & Skin Prep: Essential for ensuring devices adhere properly, especially during device changes, whether at home or on the go.
Goo Gone Skin-Safe Adhesive Remover: Safely removes adhesive overlays without damaging her delicate skin.
Favorite Books: We’ve included some of our favorite books for both parents and kids, offering support and understanding in managing T1D.
Disclosure
Please note that I am not currently an Amazon Affiliate or compensated in any way for the use of links. The products mentioned are shared based on personal experience and are not linked to any affiliate earnings. My goal is to provide insights into managing type 1 diabetes with the help of everyday essentials and resources that have made a difference in our journey.
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