Farhana Alvi
My mother is now 79 - we now have a diagnosis of dementia in the mix as of the last 3 years. This has brought a whole different scenario - where my mother is finding it difficult to manage her diabetes as she can forget she has eaten - this has made the technology even more vital.
My mother has been living with type 2 diabetes for 35 years. Her fingers were sensitive from all the daily finger prick tests to check her blood sugar. This was made worse because she had fluctuating blood sugar levels so more frequent blood sugar checks were needed.
I was made aware of the Libre sensor technology through word of mouth. It was the answer we were looking for. Getting sugar readings from scanning the sensor would mean she wouldn’t have to use the finger prick blood glucose meter so often which would offer her some relief.
I asked for the system at her next diabetes review appointment. We were not given a prescription for the system because at the time they were only being issued to people living with type 1 diabetes, this is what was in the guidelines.
For a year and a half, we funded the sensors ourselves, which cost £90 per week. However, the impact it had on our quality of life was tremendous. I realise not everyone is fortunate enough to be able to self-fund, especially now due to the cost of living.
After persistently requesting the Libre sensors during my mother’s diabetes reviews, the consultant finally agreed. Perhaps seeing the evidence of how it improved our lives and the cost we had been bearing played a role in their decision. As a family, we were relieved that it was now covered by the NHS.
My mother is now 79 - we now have a diagnosis of dementia in the mix as of the last 3 years. This has brought a whole different scenario - where my mother is finding it difficult to manage her diabetes as she can forget she has eaten - this has made the technology even more vital.
Thanks to the Libre sensor technology, we are able to monitor her readings more frequently as per the doctor’s advice. It has markedly improved the quality of life for my mother and all of those that care for her. Be it the grandkids who use the mobile app or my brother who prefers to use the reader - and we are all linked, so we get the information as and when it’s needed.
