One of our longest-running Australian Dexcom Warriors, Jeremy, shared his recent road-trip from Sunshine Coast, QLD to Northern NSW. Jeremy spoke about the adventures he shared with his wife, Tayla, the challenges that arose whilst on the road and his experience with Dexcom G6.
Q. Can you briefly tell us about your latest road-tripping adventure?
My wife, Tayla, and I set off from the Sunshine Coast intending to reach the NSW snowfields, however due to possible state border closures and COVID-19 cases, we decided to explore more of the NSW North Coasts – and see some of the best surf breaks and national parks that Northern NSW offers. We recently bought and renovated a van so we could have the freedom to stop wherever and whenever we wanted. After crossing the border, we ended up stopping at Suffolk Park, Yamba, Yuraygir National Park and South West Rocks.
Q. How do you manage your T1D whilst on the move?
To manage my T1D, I use a combination of the Tandem t:slim X2 insulin pump and Dexcom G6 CGM. I love wearing Dexcom G6 while driving long distances as it makes it easy for me to check my levels and make sure they remain stable. The fact I could go 10 days without a sensor change and a calibration allowed me to let diabetes fall into the background and enjoy the trip!
Q. What do you think is the most important feature of Dexcom G6 when you’re travelling/staying away from home?
I had a few different people on the trip following me through the Dexcom Follow app, which provided great support. Although I am 27 years old, my mum still loves to keep an eye on me so the fact she can follow from home is a massive peace of mind for her. The alarms were also great as they notified me when I needed to take action.
Q. How does road tripping/camping affect your levels generally?
Each day would be different. We tried to be as spontaneous as possible and make plans day-by-day, which can certainly throw a spanner in the works when it comes to managing diabetes. It can be hard to keep a steady routine with so much going on, so using the Dexcom G6 and t:slim X2 insulin pump was great in keeping my diabetes as flexible as possible. We would surf when the tides and winds were good which wasn’t always first thing in the morning and meal-times could vary by hours too.
Q. What are some of your favourite features from the Dexcom G6, and how have they helped you?
I definitely noticed the slimline transmitter under my wetsuit was a lot thinner compared to the previous CGM I have worn, the Dexcom G5 Mobile CGM. Also after a long day, the lack of paracetamol interference is great too!
Q. How would you describe the process of switching from Dexcom G5 Mobile to Dexcom G6?
I had envisioned the switch between the two systems would be easy, however even I was surprised at how quick and easy the change between the Dexcom G5 Mobile and Dexcom G6 was. The team at the Sunshine Coast Diabetes centre were great in getting me in ASAP to switch over, and my local AMSL Diabetes representative, Jane McCall was amazing and super knowledgeable!
Q. How would you sum up the Dexcom G6 in 10 words or less?
Dexcom G6 is amazing and exciting diabetes technology!
Jeremy is an Australian Dexcom Warrior. For more information on the Dexcom Warrior Program, please click here
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. Read the warnings available on amsldiabetes.com.au/resources before purchasing. Consult your healthcare professional to see which product is right for you.
“It can be hard to keep a steady routine with so much going on, so using the Dexcom G6 and t:slim X2 insulin pump was great in keeping my diabetes as flexible as possible.”
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