I’ll be frank.

I don’t log. I’m not good at logging. I barely bother. I also still avoid technology that isn’t my pump or CGM when it comes to my health (my anxiety makes it all a little complicated- but I have been working on it!).

Maybe… occasionally… I’ll get a spark in me that says to go for it- but I don’t really even go anywhere with it. I did get into generally logging my chronic illnesses and mental health, but it wasn’t details or numbers or anything. Plus it was on paper. Yes… I’m one of those. I love my BuJo!

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post, and I am being compensated for my this post and resulting social media posts by mySugr. However, views are my own.

Disclaimer: I do not have any kind of medical degree (science and math are not my thing). My views are also my own and do not reflect where I work or any groups I am involved in. This is not medical or psycho-social advice. Please consult your doctor. Everyone also has different stories. experiences, and views. Please respect those- including mine. Thanks!- Mindy Bartleson

Disclosure: I’m also a big fan of Scott Johnson.

(Giveaway is closed)

I wish I had gotten that logging bug from my dad. He went to town. He made his own logs- and that took an entire piece of paper- with the information and then a graph based off it. You see, he didn’t like what was offered, and it was before online/computer was an option- and even the earlier versions- his was better.

I gave it a shot a few years after he passed away. But- it didn’t stick.

It’s how he processed the diabetes- at least in my opinion. He’d put all the graphs up on the wall, use the data and the notes to discover patterns- and then he’d fax it in to the office with his ideas on changes- he was usually pretty close. He’d then bring everything with him to appointments. Don’t ask how massive my file was… also sorry trees!

I love data but don’t love logging.

After he passed away, meters and insulin pumps only held so much data and using a computer for it all was pretty foreign to me. So on the way to every appointment- I’d fill out the log. We’ll I’d BS it. I used different colored pens and never let my days look too perfect or exactly the same.

I thought I was a pro- sometimes I’d get caught and sometimes I didn’t. (later found out my providers always knew- but they also knew I was checking and taking action- so they let it be.)

The technology continued changing, more information was stored, easy to connect to computers, etc. I was also on the pump. But as it became easier to just plug it in at the office-

All my motivation to even try or BS a log sheet or book completely disappeared.

I barely gave it another look to be honest.

By the time I was in my teens, I was comfortable making my own adjustments if they were minor- if not I’d call or wait for appointments. Also- I was a teen- let’s just throw that out there.

But this confidence continued- the desire to not log remained the same. Now that I’m not in college, my life is relatively consistent- I can detect a pattern within a few days and make small changes as needed. The bigger changes- or the ones I feel unsure about- I reach out to my provider. If there’s a life change or an event like stress, travel, new schedule- I know what to look for or I might even know what to do before chaos arrives.

There is one thing that just never seems to make any sense but does have a substantial impact on my blood sugars….

My PCOS and endometriosis- especially the flare-ups.

So when I was approached about this opportunity to try out the mySugr Bundle and do a giveaway-  I immediately thought- SURE- I’m in- Test strips and I think Scott is the coolest!

(Stitch enjoyed the mySugr Bundle too- boxes!)

But (should I saw fortunately?) insomnia hit one night, and I could feel a flare-up heading my way. So in the middle of the night, I knew what I was going to do- log for the pcos and endometriosis.

Not necessarily for the diabetes- but to see if maybe there is a slight thing I’m missing to make those flare-up’s easier to manage- so I guess yeah for the diabetes to- buttttttttt-

My end goal? Use the data to justify getting needed surgery even more. Numbers don’t lie. Providers react more to my blood sugars and a1c than the period issues. I hate that that is the case. But it is- so I gotta find a way to work it. I’m hoping this will help me to do so.

So as I continue pushing what I need to have a better quality of life- I can pull up this data and insights I learned from logging to be like BOOM- THERE IT IS. That’s the plan anyways.

I just started using the bundle and the meter a few days ago.

I saw the pre-loaded 6 lancets.

Hey… maybe that will help me change my lancet more? WHO knows. I am decent at that however- once per day I change it.

I’m also in life changes- especially because I’m doing more consulting- which also means possible insurance changes. I’ve been working from home and back in a office setting. I’m about to head off to volunteer for diabetes camp.

And last night my pump site ripped out- well more like slid off because it’s been so humid and icky in Boston (I don’t have a car, and I walk basically everywhere)- so I decided to start my annual-ish pump vacation- I was going to wait until camp- but I just decided to start.

Maybe this will help me get on track for embracing tech/online with my diabetes. Who knows? (G6 will be coming my way soon…)

Like I said, I started using it. In 6 months, I’ll revisit the overall experience. I have actually logged something at least once per day for almost a week. Which… is hugeeee for me. Like I said, I might consider logging, but I don’t even start! I’m not even backtracking with logging right now-  I want to get into the habit and then- that’s when I’ll let myself backtrack with my logging if needed.

I also appreciate it when the monster dances when I log. Plus- the point? My competitive nature comes in. I also like that my insurance company won’t be doing non-medical switching with the meter/strips I’m using.

 

About mySugr and the mySugr Bundle:

• mySugr makes diabetes suck less​ – mySugr is a smart,​ patient-focused company. Their playful and light-hearted approach to dealing with diabetes has gained widespread approval from people with diabetes around the world. The mySugr app makes dealing with diabetes data easy, beautiful, and immediately useful. In short, mySugr makes diabetes suck less​.
• The mySugr Bundle is affordable and convenient​ – Get peace of mind with automatic unlimited strip delivery that adjusts to your changing needs at a low monthly price. 
• Additionally, you have exclusive access to world-class certified diabetes educators at the touch of a button via mySugr Coach and upgraded access to the award-winning mySugr app for automatic logging.
• The mySugr Bundle is a high-value service and more than just unlimited test strips​ –
  • Coaching​: The retail value of an appointment with a certified diabetes educator (CDE) starts at $65/hour. With the mySugr Bundle​, you have exclusive and unlimited access to a highly trained CDE ​through mySugr Coach​. No more waiting for the next available appointment with your doctor or specialist if you have questions. Now you can get the help you want at the press of a button. The
  • mySugr app automatically synchronizes blood sugar values​ so your coach has instant access to your data and can provide personalized information based on you and your numbers.
  • Unlimited test strips​: Can you put a price on unlimited test strips that automatically come when you need them​? Now you have the freedom to check your blood sugar as often as you want without having to go to the pharmacy or place an online order. Just check your BG whenever you want and mySugr will take care of the rest, automatically. The out of pocket cost savings is amazing, and the convenience is unmatched.
  • The mySugr app: ​Upgraded access to mySugr Pro​ (retail value of $27.99/year) gives you an estimated HbA1c, offers PDF reports for your doctor, logs carbs, meds, activity, etc., and helps you leverage your data with smart search options.
• Restrictions:​ The mySugr Bundle is available for U.S. residents only​.

Giving a Diabetes App a Chance

Editor’s Note: This was originally published in July 2018 and was updated for clarity and accuracy after the giveaway in September 2018.

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We’ll both be glad you did! -Mindy