Question:
Type I Insulin Pump Users and the outcome for them

Would really like to speak to any type I diabetics that are post op. I would like more info on all aspects of post op and any problems or sucess that have occured. I am 236 pds and have gone on all diets nothing has worked. I am going for consult 2/10/04. I am on insulin pump now and take 100 units a day. My email is [email protected].    — Susan R. (posted on January 25, 2004)

January 25, 2004
I am a 38 yo type one brittle diabetic 19 months post op. I use and insulin pump and average about 35 units a day. Prior to WLS I was on 140 units a day although I did not use the pump at teh time of my WLS. LBS is the biggest challenge and i NEVER leave home without glucose tabs or crackers , etc. early on the glucose tabs would make me feel so yuck but it would pass rapidly. I started at 252 and am 5 6.5 today I weigh around 157-160 and am perfectly happy at this weight although i would like to get another 10 pounds off. I recovered uneventfully and have had no complications at all. I think i lost kinda slow and I do have to exercise it keeps me honest and I attribute my low insulin need to my daily exercising as does my endocrinologist. I still get the insulin induced hunger and carb cravings which i submit to most of the time its jsut awesome to only eat 3 crackers and be satisfied ( 3 crackers no longer FILLS me up) or a few bites of something . I have been hungry since i began insulin many years ago and it hasnt stopped LOL Please feel free to email with specifics I am happy to share info ..........WLS has not only made me thin but more importantly has allowed me to really live with this dreadful disease. Lesley
   — Lesley T.

January 25, 2004
I'm 51, type I diabetic, but not on the insulin pump. I'm 7 wks post-op, and the insulin needs are reactions were one of my biggest concerns pre-op. Before surgery I used 4 injections per day using both N and Humalog - for a total of 138 units/day. I now use no Humalog at old and take an injection of 8 units twice a day. I have had no reactions at all, I check my blood sugar 2x a day and it is always even - averaging between 90 and 100. I couldn't be happier! I've lost about 35 lbs. and feel great! I've heard that they are doing some studies now to find out why the insulin needs go down so fast - even before weight loss - thinking it has something to do with hormones in the stomach....good luck! I couldn't be happier with my results.
   — mriley

January 26, 2004
Hi, I'm pre-op, insulin dependant diabetic for 10 yrs and have been wearing the insulin pump for almost a year. I'm currently taking bet. 80-100 units a day. Before the pump I was around 125-130 units. I am 5'6, 275 and scheduled for open RNY on 3/15/04. I'm always interested in hearing how other type 1 post ops are doing, and welcome any comments on the slower aspect of weight loss. That scares me alittle along with healing okay. I've met a few nice ladies on OH, including Lesley (hey there!), and continue to be inspired by them. Sorry I didn't answer your question or help, but wanted you to know your NOT alone with your diabetes & WLS journey. Feel free to e-mail me at [email protected] Take care!
   — SJWendy