(Updated: Added video, doctor and patient comments)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Bend diabetes specialist Dr. Eden Miller, who has Type 1 diabetes herself, is making the experience of a new high-tech treatment more empathetic for her patients. She helps ease their tension by relating to their similar suffering and also helps them manage it better and easier using new technology.
Kyle Schenberg said, “It was amazing when she first showed it to me. It was like, smack this down and you’re good to go!”
Miller, founder of the nonprofit organization Diabetes Nation and CEO of Diabetes and Obesity Care in Bend, is currently using Omnipod, a new insulin injection technology that has helped her live a more normal life despite her diagnosis. We are trying to raise awareness about 5.
Shenberg has been using the device for nearly a year.
“What it does is it screams at me if I’m not paying attention at all or I’m busy with other things and I should be paying attention,” she said. Ta.
Schenberg has four different devices to monitor his health levels. She says the new technology works in conjunction with other devices.
“Diabetes comes to mind when you want to forget,” says Miller.
“What we’re using for people with type 1 diabetes is these automated insulin dosing, these continuous blood glucose monitors, these AI artificial intelligence algorithms, things steeped in science and backed by safety. ” Miller explained.
Miller, who was diagnosed during medical school, grew up to realize that while her illness defined her, it didn’t mean it in a negative way.
“My life is diabetes,” she said. “I work it, I live it, I teach it. So it’s not a burden to me, but diabetes has been a part of my life.”
Miller’s personal experience with diabetes helps her connect with patients.
“I’m their Sherpa, so I’m guiding them on their journey and risking my life to try to match some of the greatest technology out there.”
Schenberg is grateful: However, I feel really lucky to have met her. And I want her to last forever. ”
Miller said she also wants to help others live more normal lives by spreading awareness about the rising prevalence and prevention of diabetes, especially among young people.
“It’s increasing,” she said. “And almost everyone who’s going to hear this either has diabetes or knows someone in their family who has diabetes. It’s not uncommon. It’s very common.”
According to the International Diabetes Federation, 537 million adults currently live with diabetes. By 2030, an estimated 643 million people will be living with diabetes.
Experts say type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease and cannot be prevented, but it can be effectively treated and managed. Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed by making lifestyle changes.
“Guess what? We can identify people who are at risk,” Miller said. “Diabetes can be prevented and treated, with lifestyle interventions and, in some cases, medication. If you know you have diabetes, you can avoid developing it. Never.
Miller emphasizes that many people don’t realize they have pre-diabetes until it’s too late. If you have high blood sugar levels or a family history of diabetes, you should talk to your doctor, she says.
