A few words...
It’s often said that “managing diabetes without glucose monitoring is like flying an airplane blindfolded – it’s only when you hear an explosion that you know something went wrong.” With Roper data suggesting that Americans with diabetes are testing 1.7 times a day, let’s just say that many folks are flying with less than full vision.
So diaTribe would like to do its small part in removing those blinds. I was fortunate enough to have received a year’s worth of test strips after taking part in the OneTouch More Power To You campaign. So I find myself with more strips than I can use. Since we’ve been trying to get readers more involved in self-management and education – and we want diaTribe to help patients on their journey – we are going to give away a year’s supply of test strips! Given the tightening reimbursement environment, we hope this token can reach those who need a break in paying for their supplies. See this issue’s NewNowNext column to learn more about this offer.
I’m also excited about our Test Drive and Learning Curve articles, which may seem to be on different subjects but are very complementary. In Test Drive, we try out the much-anticipated Abbott Navigator continuous glucose monitor, which adds a crucial third player to this field. Learning Curve examines the hot research area of Glycemic Variability, which suggests that sharp fluctuations in glucose levels could be a risk factor for complications that’s independent of A1c. If further evidence supports that idea, than continuous glucose monitoring will become a vital tool for good care.
We’re fortunate to have a second Test Drive as well, thanks to Dana Lewis, who sampled the WaveSense Jazz meter by WaveSense. No, it doesn’t perform a Louis Armstrong solo when your glucose level is in range – though that would be swell – but the meter does offer some fine individualized options.
Getting married? We have a beautiful essay from Kerri Morrone Sparling in SUM Musings about love, relationships, and diabetes. And James Hirsch, in his Logbook, has written an open letter to Boston Celtics’ star Ray Allen, whose young son was recently diagnosed with diabetes – you won’t want to miss Jim’s touching comments to a famous father whose world has suddenly been turned upside down.
Thank you again for your interest in diaTribe. We hope you enjoy the issue.
Sincerely,
Kelly Close
