Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Choosing An Insulin Pump: The Jedi Returns.

Guess what finally happened yesterday?


I think the image I linked to it that tweet got lost, so here's a similar one for reference:

SO FREAKIN' EXCITED


I had been pestering calling the CareCentrix (my DME provider; henceforth abbreviated as "CCX") rep just about every day since my case was reopened, and yesterday she finally got to call me with the good news that my request for a new insulin pump was approved. It was a bumpy and anxiety-ridden ride for me that was full of tweets, emails, and phone calls. In short: I had to be loud, persistent, and relentless, as well as my endocrinologist providing additional information of many different varieties.



To Cigna and/or CCX's credit, they did (for the most part) do a good job of keeping in contact with me. Most emails to Cigna customer service were responded to the same day, and the rep from CCX also gave me her direct extension so that I could call her any time I had a question or concern, which I did quite often. (By the end of it, I had her extension memorized!)



According to CCX, it was my endo's office that contributed to a lot of the delay. I don't know whether that's true or not, but with all of the requests CCX made of my endo's staff (fax records, answer these questions, now fax other records, now we need a letter from you explaining why she needs this, now we need to know what's wrong with her pump AGAIN....) and a short-staffed office that is no doubt bombarded at this time of year with last-minute requests, I can understand why it would take some time. Still, I was filled to the brim with anxiety and frustration.





And then, a breakthrough!





But who knows how long their "review" would take, and I could just imagine that it would conveniently require time into the New Year to complete, which is when our deductibles would reset (and I would be responsible for the balance of the cost insurance wouldn't cover).

This is when I may have gotten a little sassy, but you know what? That gets stuff done.



Shortly after I tweeted that, the nurse at my endo's office called. "Your insurance just called, and asked about your pump. So tell me again what's mechanically wrong with it?" I repeated myself for what seemed like the tenth time: the housing is scratched, and the buttons are not as responsive as they should be. "I'll press a button, but it doesn't always recognize that I did, the first time. I have to press it a second time for it to register."

"Ah, okay. Perfect. I'll call her right back. Thanks!"

And a couple of hours later, I got a call from CareCentrix. It was the nurse who had been reviewing the "audit" (I shouldn't call it an "appeal", but "audit" is okay? Whatever you want to call it is fine, just approve the darn thing), and I have to believe this is her favorite kind of phone call to make.

"Hi, Kim? I'm an RN with CareCentrix and have been the one reviewing your file - I spoke with a nurse at Dr. [name redacted]'s office this afternoon, and she was able to provide the last of the information we needed while completing your audit. I wanted to verbally let you know that your request for an insulin pump has been approved."

I made a noise that can't really be recreated, except by the combination of relief, exhilarating joy, and delicious victory.



Being that it was the second-to-last day of the month, my next question was, "So what is my next step to moving this along? Do I contact the pump company?" "I will fax over the authorization documents in the next few minutes here, so they actually haven't received them yet - give me 10 minutes or so, but yes, if you have a direct contact with them, you could call and tell them to look out for my fax." Whoopee!

No sooner had I hung up with the CCX nurse than I was on the phone again, asking if an authorization had been received yet. It hadn't, and the pump rep and I have been in contact back-and-forth since then, getting everything in place. There's still some panic in my system as this is really down to the last possible moments, but she assured me that she would "get this to you even if I have to drive it to you myself". Ha!

So, by now you may be wondering which pump I ended up going with - since the order hasn't technically been placed yet, I'm not real comfortable disclosing that at this time. It doesn't feel real yet! But once the order has been placed, I'll let you guys know.

For now, I'll be relishing in the feeling of finally having "won" the right to own one of the medical devices that helps me stay healthy.

Huzzah!!

UPDATE: The pump is now ordered, so I can feel okay telling you: I ordered a t:slim. If you're  wondering why I ended up going with it over staying with Animas or switching to the Snap... 

I'll explain my thoughts on Snap later this week(tl;dr: I love it, but it's missing a couple of features that are super important to me, personally), but it comes down to t:slim having the features most important to me, that the other two pumps just don't offer at this time. I think the Ping is a great pump, and doing the trial with a Snap pump was a pleasant experience, but for what I need right now t:slim seems to be the best fit. More on that later.


#GiveAllTheThings: SUM Mug and "Balancing Diabetes".

UPDATE:Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger... Happy reading and coffee-drinking to you, Brian Bosh!

Coffee. But probably some ice cream, too!

* * * * *

What you can win: A copy of the upcoming book "Balancing Diabetes: Conversations about finding happiness and living well", and a too-true "Coffee ≥ Insulin" coffee mug!



Made possible by: Kerri Sparling (www.sixuntilme.com)

Why you want this: I've read an advance copy of this book (spoiler: I'm quoted in it) and everything I had hoped Kerri would cover about living with diabetes, she just totally nailed - like she always does. You'll find anecdotes both from her and from many other people in our community about how they balance diabetes with everything else: relationships (siblings, friends, partners), exercise, devices, daily life, college, you name it.

I can't wait for this book to be released - you've created a wonderful thing here, Kerri!

Here's the more official blurb:
“When a person receives a diagnosis of diabetes, he or she starts a process of adjusting and making sense of the new normal living with a chronic disease. A large part of that adjustment is figuring out how to balance diabetes with all the intricacies of a life outside of diabetes care. In Balancing Diabetes, diabetes online community blogger Kerri Sparling compiles strategies used by people with diabetes and their caregivers to bring that elusive balance into their lives. Whether adult or child, type 1 or type 2, spouse or caregiver, male or female, people in the diabetes world will find themselves in this book and be inspired by the commonality of that continuing search for balance.”

To enter today's contest: Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter today's contest. You can enter today's contest by leaving a comment on this blog post (required) telling me what beverage you plan to drink out of that mug. (Creativity encouraged.)

The winner will receive their mug and an advanced reader copy of the book, which is slated for public release in March 2014.


Rules: This contest ends tonight at midnight CST, and is open to U.S. residents only. #GiveAllTheThings contests are intended for people with diabetes (or their caregivers) only. Since the Rafflecopter widget requires you to share an email address, I'll be emailing the winner (as well as announcing them through an update on this post) on Wednesday - you'll need to respond to me by Friday evening (let's say 7:00 pm CST) with your shipping address in order to claim your prize. If I don't hear from you, I'll pick a new winner.

Good luck!


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Monday, December 30, 2013

#GiveAllTheThings: Diabetes Forecast Subscription.

UPDATE: Congratulations to the winner - Jasmine!

My favorite features are recipes (with carb counts!) and about progress in research and technology. DF is pretty solid on those!

* * * * *


#GiveAllTheThings 2013 is winding down - only two giveaways are left! Thanks for playing along with me all month, and I hope you've enjoyed receiving these goodies as much as I've enjoyed being able to give them away. I also hope that the generosity and kindness shown by all of these sponsors inspires you to show some generosity and kindness to others in your life!





And now, onto today's "thing"....

What you can win: A one year subscription (12 issues) of Diabetes Forecast!



Made possible by: Diabetes Forecast (http://www.diabetesforecast.org/)

Why you want this: "In every jam packed issue of DIABETES FORECAST® magazine, you’ll read exciting features on exercise, fitness and wellness for all ages…Profiles of everyday people who are successfully living with diabetes….Plus great recipes for preparing food that’s not just delicious, but that’s good for you, too." Diabetes Forecast is a publication of the American Diabetes Association.

To enter today's contest: Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter today's contest. You can enter today's contest by leaving a comment on this blog post (required) telling me what kinds of features or stories you most enjoy reading in diabetes publications.

Rules: This contest ends tonight at midnight CST, and is open to U.S. residents only. #GiveAllTheThings contests are intended for people with diabetes (or their caregivers) only. Since the Rafflecopter widget requires you to share an email address, I'll be emailing the winner (as well as announcing them through an update on this post) on Tuesday - you'll need to respond to me by Friday evening (let's say 7:00 pm CST) with your shipping address in order to claim your prize. If I don't hear from you, I'll pick a new winner.

Good luck!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, December 27, 2013

#GiveAllTheThings: Diabetes Awareness Necklace.

UPDATE: Congrats to Lizzie! You won!

I would like to win this for my roommate and I to share. We both have type 1 diabetes. She was diagnosed 15 years ago and I was diagnosed 4 years ago.

* * * * *

What you can win: A Diabetes Awareness Pendant Necklace, handmade by the mom of a CWD!



Made possible by: Cari (http://www.etsy.com/shop/CCARIA)

Why you want this: Cari's necklaces can be found all over the DOC! (I own two different designs and they're both fab.)

Here is Cari's description of this piece: "I mixed resin with a faded white/silver background and poured it into the pendant. Once it was set I placed a gray ribbon in the shape of a 'hope ribbon' and then poured another coat of clear resin on top. Each of these pendants is made by hand, from the mixing of the resin to creating the hope ribbon, so no two are alike."

Materials: resin, antiqued brass (25mm), antiqued brass chain, lobster claw clasp

To enter today's contest: Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter today's contest. You can enter today's contest by leaving a comment on this blog post (required) telling me about the person you're trying to win this necklace for (it's okay if it's YOU!).

Rules: This contest ends tonight at midnight CST, and is open to all! #GiveAllTheThings contests are intended for people with diabetes (or their caregivers) only. Since the Rafflecopter widget requires you to share an email address, I'll be emailing the winner (as well as announcing them through an update on this post) on Saturday.

Good luck!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thursday, December 26, 2013

#GiveAllTheThings: American Medical ID.

UPDATE: Congratulations to the two winners:

Sarah 
I would love a new medical ID for my ten-year-old. The information has worn off of her most comfortable bracelet, and she would be really excited to pick out a new one!

* * * * *

What you can win: One of two $25 gift card codes to be used towards the purchase of a new medical ID!



Made possible by: American Medical ID (http://www.americanmedical-id.com/)

Why you want this: I definitely used to be one of those people who never wore a medical ID. I mean, I did as a kid - because my parents made me - but once I hit college, that clunky and unattractive silver bracelet began collecting dust in the bottom of my jewelry box. It really wasn't until a couple of years ago that I started wearing them again (thanks to seeing friends in the DOC wearing them), and there are so many more better-looking choices now!

You'll have dozens of designs (and an array of price points) to choose from - there will be two winners who will each get a $25 online gift card code to use towards your order!

To enter today's contest: Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter today's contest. You can earn TWO entries into today's contest by leaving a blog post comment (required), and additional entries for liking the American Medical ID Facebook page and following them on Twitter! (Four entries possible per person.)

Rules: You may only win one gift card code. This contest ends tonight at midnight CST, and is open to U.S. residents only. #GiveAllTheThings contests are intended for people with diabetes (or their caregivers) only. Since the Rafflecopter widget requires you to share an email address, I'll be emailing the winner (as well as announcing them through an update on this post) on Friday with their gift card codes and instructions for use.

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Merry Christmas!

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...From our family to yours:




Monday, December 23, 2013

#GiveAllTheThings: Victoria's Picks.

UPDATE: Congratulations, Nikki! You're the winner!

"Raising Teens with Diabetes: A Survival Guide" has definitely been my favorite book so far.

* * * * *

What you can win: A bundle of prizes that includes a copy of the book Diabetes: An Emotional Journey by Renea Jo Zosel, a $15 Starbucks gift card, and a unique coffee mug and Nashville gift package (approx. $20 value; hand-made items by local Nashville, TN artists) hand-picked by today's sponsor! (Total value is around $60.)

(Mug and other contents will vary)


Made possible by: Victoria Cumbow (www.victoriacumbow.com)

Why you want this: For the second time, Victoria (a fellow PWD) has generously offered to sponsor a giveaway during my month-long shindig - thank you, lady!

"Diabetes: An Emotional Journey is a book of poetry and prose written by the mother of a type 1 diabetic. The book's personal and reflective words will warm the heart of anyone with a connection to type 1 diabetes. Written from a place of love and honesty, Renea truly captures the emotions behind living life alongside diabetes.

About the author: Renea and her husband live in Washington state with their four children and an exchange student from Poland. Two of the couple's children have type 1 diabetes. Elizabeth was diagnosed at the age of two, and Jonathan at the age of six. The exchange student living with the Zosels for the school year is also a type 1 diabetic. Renea and Elizabeth have participated in multiple JDRF Ride to Cure Diabetes cycling events. She's a tremendous advocate for type 1 diabetes research and awareness, along with championing community and personal relationships with others affected by type 1 diabetes."

To enter today's contest: Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter today's contest. You can earn your entry into today's contest by leaving a blog post comment (required) telling me about your favorite diabetes-related book - make a recommendation for someone else!

Rules: This contest ends tonight at midnight CST, and is open to U.S. residents only. #GiveAllTheThings contests are intended for people with diabetes (or their caregivers) only. Since the Rafflecopter widget requires you to share an email address, I'll be emailing the winner (as well as announcing them through an update on this post) on Tuesday - you'll need to respond to me by Friday evening (let's say 7:00 pm CST) with your shipping address in order to claim your prize. If I don't hear from you, I'll pick a new winner.

Good luck!

***Please note that there will be no new contests announced on 12/24 or 12/25 - but #GiveAllTheThings will be back on Thursday, 12/26!***


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, December 20, 2013

#GiveAllTheThings: Pump Peelz.

UPDATE: We have our winners!

I've used these Peelz before on my old Dexcom but it has worn off over the months and I really could use a new skin! I would love the Dexcom Peelz in Chevron.
Jess B/saucygurl915December 20, 2013 at 9:12 AM
I would LOVE the Dexcom Chevron peel cuz I mean who doesn't love a good Chevron pattern and a pretty Dexcom? :) [Since your name was drawn after Jillian, we'll send you the Carbon Fiber Peelz.]
Dexcom Vintage Flair (but I REALLY want a better purple design!).

It would help me because it would make my Dexcom prettier :P
I would like the Peelz for the Verio IQ. Since I always keep 3 meters running to make checking easier and more frequent (my bedside, the kitchen counter, my purse), Peelz would help me remember which one is which!
Rachel K. - Omnipod Peelz

* * * * *

What you can win: One of several "peelz" for your diabetes gear:




Choose from:

Dexcom Peelz in Chevron, Carbon Fiber, or Vintage Flair

An Omnipod PDM Peelz in Chevron

A Verio IQ glucose meter Peelz in Little Polka


Made possible by: Pump Peelz (http://pumppeelz.com/)

Why you want this: "Founded by high school sweethearts – Emily Imblum and Scott Imblum - and created simply to help diabetics express themselves. Some may call them decals, others call them stickers, our manufacturer calls them coated vinyl adhesives... but we call them Peelz!

The Pump Peelz product [Editor's note: which is reusable!] was created through online collaboration with the diabetic community. Our goal is to help empower diabetics to express themselves and be proud of their ability to manage diabetes."

Heck yeah!

I should also note that they've been kind enough to create a discount code for us - you'll get 25% off your order when you enter the code "TextingmyPeelz" (ha!) at checkout.

To enter today's contest: Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter today's contest. You can earn two entries by leaving a comment on this blog post (required) telling me which Peelz product you'd like to win (and maybe something nice about how it would help you, too, if you're inclined to do so).

You may also earn additional entries for liking the Pump Peelz Facebook page, and following them on Twitter @PumpPeelz. Four entries are possible per person!

Rules: You may only win one item - so if you happen to use both Omnipod and Dexcom, for example, you'll have to choose between the two. This contest ends tonight at midnight CST, and is open to everybody - not just U.S. residents! #GiveAllTheThings contests are intended for people with diabetes (or their caregivers) only. Since the Rafflecopter widget requires you to share an email address, I'll be emailing the winner (as well as announcing them through an update on this post) on Saturday - you'll need to respond to me by Monday evening (let's say 7:00 pm CST) with your shipping address in order to claim your prize. If I don't hear from you, I'll pick a new winner.

Good luck!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thursday, December 19, 2013

#GiveAllTheThings: DCAF Gear.

UPDATE: We have our winners! Congrats to:

I wear blue for myself but also to represent other diabetics in the world. We're fighting this together. It's also a great conversation starter. Great for educating and debunking myths. :)
Its a great way to represent and like Elizabeth said a great conversation starter to educate people on diabetes, in my case T1.
I wear blue because we need a cure ASAP and wearing blue brings awareness
I wear blue for everyone living with diabetes- whether they have diabetes or are a caregiver or a loved one. I wear blue for people who don't have access to insulin or other medical supplies they need. But mostly, I wear blue for my daughter.
I wear blue so people might ask why and I can start the conversation about diabetes. A pin would do even better!

* * * * *

What you can win: Five "Blue Fridays" buttons, going to five lucky winners!



Made possible by: Diabetes Community Advocacy Foundation (http://diabetescaf.org/)

Why you want this: "The Blue Fridays Initiative was created by Cherise Shockley in 2010 (and is supported by the Diabetes Community Advocacy Foundation) to raise awareness for diabetes and World Diabetes Day. Wearing something blue every Friday can be a little tricky and expensive, so DCAF found a quick and easy solution by creating a Blue Fridays Initiative button!

The DCAF team will send five people five blue Fridays to help you and your loved ones raise awareness for diabetes."

To enter today's contest: Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter today's contest. You will need to leave a comment on this blog post (required) telling me why you wear blue. ("For my daughter!" "To spark a conversation about diabetes!" "Because Rock Chalk Jayhawk!" Any reason is fine.)

Rules: This contest ends tonight at midnight CST, and is open to U.S. addresses only. #GiveAllTheThings contests are intended for people with diabetes (or their caregivers) only. Since the Rafflecopter widget requires you to share an email address, I'll be emailing the winner (as well as announcing them through an update on this post) on Friday - you'll need to respond to me by Sunday evening (let's say 7:00 pm CST) with your shipping address in order to claim your prize. If I don't hear from you, I'll pick a new winner.

Good luck!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Dexcom G4 Platinum: What I Like (and What I Don't).

A baby and 14 months later, I finally can check "do a follow-up YouTube video on how I like my Dexcom G4 Platinum" off of my to-do list. Remember that unboxing one?

I realize none of this is earth-shattering news, but hey, you know, might as well provide some unsolicited user experience feedback. Mostly I did this so I can stop thinking to myself, "I really should get around to that..."


 

(I should also note that this video assumes you already know the basic "pros" like, "It tells me trend information!" and "It alarms for high and low BG parameters that I can set!", and "cons" like, "I have to wear a medical device!" and "Holy hell this thing is expensive!".)

#GiveAllTheThings: Lenny the Lion(s).

UPDATE: Congratulations to:

Avery would love this!! We've never used Medtronic but we ARE big Lenny fans!

Here we go...

Why did the lion lose at poker?
He was playing with a cheetah!

And one for good luck...
Would a lion ever cheat on his wife? No- but a Tiger Wood!

What do you call a lion wearing a stylish hat? A dandy lion.

What is a lion's favorite flower?

A dandelion!

Are you lion to me?!? ;)

To be purrfectly honest, I'd be lion if I said I didn't want one of these. Manely beclaws I started MM pumping at 12 and they weren't around then.

^^My losing comment from last year. (Let me know if that won't count [though the rules don't say that it wouldn't.] and I will come up with another.)


* * * * *

What you can win: One of five "Lenny the Lion" stuffed animals!



Made possible by: Medtronic Diabetes (http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/home)

Why you want this: "Lenny has diabetes, wears an insulin pump, and teaches kids how to lead a strong and active lifestyle like him, and to not let diabetes hold them back.

Every child 12 years or younger who goes on the Medtronic insulin pump for the first time receives their very own  Lenny stuffed animal at traning. Lenny has areas on his body to practice putting infusion sets in."

If you don't pump with Medtronic or fit the age requirement - here's your chance to own one anyway!

To enter today's contest: Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter today's contest. You will need to leave a comment on this blog post (required) with your best lion pun. Can't think of one? "Impawsible."

Rules:  This contest ends tonight at midnight CST, and is open to U.S. addresses only. #GiveAllTheThings contests are intended for people with diabetes (or their caregivers) only. Since the Rafflecopter widget requires you to share an email address, I'll be emailing the winner (as well as announcing them through an update on this post) Thursday morning - you'll need to respond to me by Sunday evening (let's say 7:00 pm CST) with your shipping address in order to claim your prize. If I don't hear from you, I'll pick a new winner.

Good luck!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

#GiveAllTheThings: Coco The Monkey Books.

UPDATE: Congratulations to the winners:

I would love to win these books for the school libraries in my district; these would be awesome for kids to be able to read and check out.
I would love to win this book for my 5 year old daughter, who has Type 1. She loves anything Mickey mouse related. As far as the extra books, I would give them to families with little ones in the wonderful support group I am in.

* * * * *

What you can win: Six "Coco's First Sleepover" books, available to TWO winners! (So you'll get three books - one to keep, and two to share!)




Made possible by: The Lilly Diabetes/Disney collaboration (http://t1everydaymagic.com/), and me (because I'm shipping them to you). They shipped me a package of them earlier this year, and I saved them for #GiveAllTheThings!

Why you want this: Lilly Diabetes and Disney joined together to create special materials for type 1 families, including books that cover real-life issues. This is the latest edition, which was "launched" at the Friends For Life conference this past July. The first Coco book (Coco and Goofy's Goofy Day) is also now available in digital format.

I wish books like this had been around when I was diagnosed as a child - I appreciate how these Coco stories involve her type 1 diabetes, but don't revolve around it.



To enter today's contest: Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter today's contest. Email me a video of you doing your best monkey impression.

Kidding. Don't do that.

What you SHOULD do is leave a comment on this blog post (required) telling me who you're trying to win the books for (and with whom any extra copies would be shared)!

Rules: This contest ends tonight at midnight CST, and is open to U.S. residents only. #GiveAllTheThings contests are intended for people with diabetes (or their caregivers) only. Since the Rafflecopter widget requires you to share an email address, I'll be emailing the winner (as well as announcing them through an update on this post) Wednesday morning - you'll need to respond to me by Friday evening (let's say 7:00 pm CST) with your shipping address in order to claim your prize. If I don't hear from you, I'll pick a new winner.

Good luck! a Rafflecopter giveaway

Monday, December 16, 2013

#GiveAllTheThings: Monica Vesci Clutch.

UPDATE: This contest is now closed! Our winner:

I would use it to keep test strips from showing up everywhere such as the bathtub, the front porch and my favorite in my shoes.

* * * * *

What you can win: A "Hot Pink Heidi Camino Sans" clutch purse, with clever hidden trash container and compartments for all of your diabetes gear!



Made possible by: Monica Vesci (http://www.monicavesci.com/)

Why you want this: My love for Monica Vesci clutches is well documented:

"What I like about this bag: it's sneaky in that it doesn't look like a diabetes bag, it's clearly very well-made (it actually reminds me, in terms of design, construction, and quality, of a Coach bag), it has appropriately-sized pockets and loops, and the sharps container is pretty genius. While I personally would prefer the outer material to be a bit more sturdy/stiff (it softens up a tad with use), I suppose that's a good thing for when you need to cram a bunch of stuff in there. It's a very roomy bag that is even long enough to hold a Dexcom G4 sensor still in its packaging - impressive!"

Other notables:
  • Handheld Bag with Zipper, Interior Round Zip Pocket Includes Removable 50ml Sharps Container with Screw Lid
  • Interior Insulin Penholder Sleeve
  • Two Interior Slip Pockets for Meters, Test Strips, Lancets, Glucose Tabs, CGM or Other Supplies
  • Interior Zippered Pocket with Two Slots, One for Credit Card another for Small Supplies like Batteries, Lancets and Insulin Pen Needle Heads
  • Treated Cotton Canvas Exterior with Metallic Leather Trim
  • Embossed Signature on Natural Cowhide
  • 100% Polyester Wipe Clean Lining
  • Chevron Pattern Placement May Vary from Sample Shown
  • 11.75"L x 3.5"W x 6"H
  • Designed in Denmark | Manufactured in U.S.A.

To enter today's contest: Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter today's contest. There are a lot of ways to earn entries into today's contest:

  • You will earn one entry by leaving a comment on this blog post (this is required to enter the contest), telling me how and/or where you'd use your Camino Sans clutch.
  • You can earn TWO entries by sharing a photo on Instagram or Twitter, using the hashtag #GiveAllTheThings, of your "test strip graveyards". Per Monica: "I would love for contestants to submit photos of their used test strip and/or needle graveyards at the bottom of their bags, pockets, on their desk after they empty out the contents of their bags, etc. I would love to see more real life photos showing why people want and need the Camino Clutch and how it can help solve their graveyard problem, so to speak."
  • You may also earn an additional entry for liking the Monica Vesci Facebook page, and one for following her on Twitter.
This means you can have up to FIVE entries total!

Rules: This contest ends tonight at midnight CST, and is open to U.S. residents only. #GiveAllTheThings contests are intended for people with diabetes (or their caregivers) only. Since the Rafflecopter widget requires you to share an email address, I'll be emailing the winner (as well as announcing them through an update on this post) Tuesday morning - you'll need to respond to me by Friday evening (let's say 7:00 pm CST) with your shipping address in order to claim your prize. If I don't hear from you, I'll pick a new winner.

Good luck!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, December 13, 2013

#GiveAllTheThings: Alecia Wesner Jewelry.

UPDATE: Congrats to the winner, Jennifer!

I would wear this necklace to work! At home my baby would rip it off, but at work it would remind me that even on the craziest classroom days, everything will work out!

* * * * *

What you can win: The Double Maple Seed necklace, handcrafted with sterling silver on an 18" chain by a fellow PWD!



Made possible by: Alecia Wesner (http://www.etsy.com/shop/AleciaWesner)

Why you want this: From Alecia:
"If things seem like they are spinning out of control, just remember, that's EXACTLY how little maple seeds get where it's going. 
I love being hands-on with the jewelry I create. What makes my Maple Seed collection so unique is that these 'charms" are not a direct casting or a "duplicate", but rather, they are an imprint. After painting a dried double maple seed with layers upon layers of precious metal clay (fine silver), I bake the concoction in a kiln. While the clay and Maple seed burn away, what remains is a fine silver imprint of the seed. After some polishing, I make a mold of my fine silver maple seed and later cast the seed in sterling silver (stronger and more durable than the fine silver).

Whew, so that's how it works. It takes time and dexterity and patience. Like I mentioned, sometimes things do seem to spiral out of control, but that's exactly how a little maple seed gets a shot a being a strong, beautiful tree."
To enter today's contest: Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter today's contest. You will earn two entries by leaving a comment on this blog post (this is required to enter the contest) telling me where you'd wear this gorgeous necklace, if you won. You can earn one additional entry for liking the Alecia Wesner Jewelry Facebook page.

Rules: This contest ends tonight at midnight CST, and is open to U.S. residents only. #GiveAllTheThings contests are intended for people with diabetes (or their caregivers) only. Since the Rafflecopter widget requires you to share an email address, I'll be emailing the winner (as well as announcing them through an update on this post) Saturday morning - you'll need to respond to me by Tuesday evening (let's say 7:00 pm CST) with your shipping address in order to claim your prize. If I don't hear from you, I'll pick a new winner.

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thursday, December 12, 2013

#GiveAllTheThings: SleekSleeves.

UPDATE: Contest closed! Congratulations to the winner, Kristina!

These would be perfect for my very active 3year old's Omnipod!

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What you can win: A SleekSleeves gift package - sticker, hat, and $100 worth of "sleeves" (customized just for you!), plus a personalized note.

Several "sleeve" options to choose from!

Made possible by: SleekSleeves (http://www.sleeksleeves.com/)

Why you want this: I found these guys on Twitter and thought, "that would be a neat way to 'protect' a CGM sensor or pump site while exercising/baby wrangling", and it turns out I wasn't the first to have that idea. :)

Here's their backstory:

In 2006, our dear friend, Diane, developed a medical condition that meant she’d have to wear a wrist brace. Always active and seriously put-together, Diane’s understandable desire to look good while playing bridge and visiting friends sparked the idea for what would become SleekSleeves. Diane knew that adding fashion to medical therapy would benefit her state of mind and, consequently, her health.

With Diane’s notion of the mind-body connection to guide us, we set about developing a product line to help individuals facing health challenges to Look Good and Feel Better. Today at SleekSleeves, we receive a continuous flow of inquiries, comments and accolades from new friends and fans of our products. From Alabama to Australia, New York to South Africa and beyond, SleekSleeves users are thrilled to find products that provide vibrant, stylish coverage for all types of medical devices. As SleekSleeves continues to reach further around the globe, Diane’s spirit remains our inspiration.

And as for how a real PWD uses them:

Whether Taylor is wearing her Omnipod on her arm or thigh, she adds an element of fashion and comfort to her every day wardrobe with a SleekSleeves arm band. Also worn by Robin Roberts to cover her PICC line while undergoing cancer treatment, SleekSleeves are versatile, comfortable and fashionable. Depending on your needs, SleekSleeves will work with you directly to determine what sleeve option is the best fit for you, your device and lifestyle.

"My daughter [Taylor] has worn her SleekSleeves to gymnastics, cheer practice and to the pool. They are perfect for fashionably covering her Omnipod and it stayed in place through all her activities." -Barb Heid

The winner will be contacted by SleekSleeves, and together will decide what products will suit their needs best.

To enter today's contest: Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter today's contest. You will earn two entries by leaving a comment on this blog post (this is required; no blog comment = not qualified to win!) telling me what you envision using SleekSleeves for, if you won! You can also earn extra entries for liking SleekSleeves' Facebook page and following @SleekSleeves on Twitter - so, four entries are possible per person.

Rules: This contest ends tonight at midnight CST, and is open to all, geographically-speaking. #GiveAllTheThings contests are intended for people with diabetes (or their caregivers) only. Since the Rafflecopter widget requires you to share an email address, I'll be emailing the winner (as well as announcing them through an update on this post) Friday morning - you'll need to respond to me by Sunday evening (let's say 7:00 pm CST) with your shipping address in order to claim your prize. If I don't hear from you, I'll pick a new winner.

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

#GiveAllTheThings: You Can Do This Project Bracelets.

UPDATE: This contest is now closed - congratulations to Catherine Forbes!

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What you can win: An entire bag of You Can Do This Project bracelets/bands! (I think there's 50/bag? 100? I don't remember, but it's "a lot".)

Duck not included.


Made possible by: These bands were manufactured by Hope Paige Medical and paid for, in part, with a Seeds grant from the Diabetes Hands Foundation.

Why you want this: These bands were originally purchased with the intention of handing them out at conferences in 2013 - after exhibiting at both Friends For Life and TCOYD - Omaha this year, we have some leftovers!

I know that several times in the past individuals have asked me how to get one of these - while I have some extras, it's not possible for me (financially, time-wise, etc.) to mail a bracelet to everyone who has asked for one. (And because Seeds grant money was used to purchase them, it gets kind of sticky to "resell" them, even to cover shipping costs. They have to be used for what they were intended for - to give away.)

But send one person a bag of them, to distribute to others in their community (or as they see fit)? I can do that.

Having a small reminder on your wrist of the diabetes online community and the fact that, whatever you're facing, you aren't alone - it can be a huge help.

To enter today's contest: Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter today's contest. You will earn two entries by leaving a comment on this blog post telling me who you would share your bracelets with  (required) if you won. You can also earn extra entries for liking the You Can Do This Project Facebook page and following @YCDTProject on Twitter - so, four entries are possible per person!

Rules: This contest ends tonight at midnight CST, and is open only to... wait, no, it's open to everyone. (How awesome would it be to get some You Can Do This love to another country?!) #GiveAllTheThings contests are intended for people with diabetes (or their caregivers) only. Since the Rafflecopter widget requires you to share an email address, I'll be emailing the winner (as well as announcing them through an update on this post) Thursday morning - you'll need to respond to me by Sunday evening (let's say 7:00 pm CST) with your shipping address in order to claim your prize. If I don't hear from you, I'll pick a new winner.

Getting to the post office doesn't happen too often with a four-month-old, so forgive me if it takes a bit for me to get them to you.

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway