i'm debating this myself. i was diagnosed only about a month ago and have been using the pen ever since, but i've gotten my average readings down to about 100 mg/dL so my endo is setting me up with a pump at the end of this month. i requested a trial omnipod, wore it for 3 days, and was not entirely thrilled. as adamant as i was against having to deal with tubing, the omnipod is just a little too heavy and a little too large for me to wear comfortably. plus, i figure if i lose the pdm i'm totally s.o.l. i'll be making a 30 mile one-way commute this summer, and there's no way i'll want to drive back if i leave the pdm at home. it just seems like a disaster waiting to happen. so all things considered, i think i'm getting the ping. is there anything in particular you're not liking about the omnipod now?
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I was in the same boat as you when deciding on an insulin pump. To me, only being able to bolus from the PDM seemed like a major disadvantage. Sure, I would probably normally remember it, especially after a while, but sooner or later, I'm bound to forget it somewhere, let's just hope it would be at home. Additionally, while playing tennis or swimming, I realize that the omnipod's basal insulin can be shut off temporarily, but I really did not want to have the pod attached to me during these times. The ability to bolus from the meter or pump, and the ability to be able to disconnect are two of the major reasons I am ordering the Ping. Also, when considering the MiniMed, I took into account the dosage options, battery life, and honestly, when holding each of the pumps, the plastic that the MiniMed is made out of made it seem kind of cheap. While I felt that the Ping weighed a little bit more, it also felt much more durable, and I don't want the occasional "butterfingers" to cause me to start calling up the company for the replacement. I also felt that I could wait until the Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is incorporated with the Ping for now. I have not received my Ping yet, but I will be sure to let you guys know how it is after I get it!
~Side note: I am in no way degrading nor insulting the other pump companies; I am just trying to explain my thought process as I decided on a pump, and why I think I made the best choice for me. I have heard countless stories from people using all brands who are very satisfied, and all of the pumps give you a similar diabetes experience, and equal freedom!
My son has had the Omnipod since he was 3. he is now 5. He and I love it. I have the remote and that makes me happy knowing he cant bolus himself. When he gets older he can have control of it but now its awesome. Hes skinny and it works fine on his arm and tummy. doesnt come off and is bulky but he doesnt care - hes free.. and loves it.
Alison
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From everything I've read, I think the omnipod is especially perfect for young kids for exactly the reasons you've mentioned! I am so glad he enjoys it!
When I got my pump a year ago I went through the same decision making process. I researched so much about every kind of pump, and knew a lot about Animas products because my dad had one. I has a trial omnipod and because I'm so little I thought it was a little too heavy and bulky for me. I've had the ping since July of 2009 and absolutely love it! There are days when I get frustrated and aggravated because of the tubing and I get it caught on things occasionally but it suits my needs better than the omnipod. It all depends on the person and their preferences.
NIcole: as a "new" diabetic" this will all feel quite overwhelming but just as getting a new phone you should learn all of the options your device allows for. The hardest part will be understanding your own body and its reactions to food, exercise, stress etc....
I had used Cozmo pump for 4 years, once it was discontinued I was put under pressure to find a new pump immediately
Having a pump allows for so much freedom compared to multiple daily shots. I loved the Cozmo but the concept of being wireless was all the more freeing.
Each pump company gives you a trial period to experience the advantages each has to offer
After using a pump for 4 years you certainly get used to the idea of having something on you. Being a woman is also easier to throw PDM in a bag/purse. I have left my home w/o it and there was no effect.
The OmniPod allows for you to "disconnect" (suspend) through programing. They are anticipating CGM to be incorporated soon as well. Also the OmniPod PDM is only about $40-$50 so you can order a 2nd if you so desire. Compared to the Cozmo which was $6000
There is a service I have been using for the past 5 years...Integrated Diabetes Services....Philly area. Google if you want to check out. Gary will work with you as a remote client. I have never met another diabetic educator.....he calls himself "diabetic coach" ...for he is a diabetic. I have learned more from him in 5 years than I have learned from all my educators in 37 years