18 Comments
Do you approach strangers in public who have visible diabetes devices?
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I’ve had people comment on my tubing or even medical alert bracelet.
I’ve never not made a comment about it while out in public. It’s nice to recognize your people.
I was stuck between, “Yes, every chance I get,” and
“Yes, sometimes, depending on the exact situation.” I take every opportunity to introduce myself to every T1D I see, but sometimes the situation does not allow it.
I’ve always had a feeling of loneliness about my diabetes, because so few people know or care anything about it. If I get a chance to talk with someone, or even help someone possibly having a low blood glucose (which happened years ago about 2 or 3 times), I take advantage of the opportunity. And who know, maybe have a new friend.
I have to say I don’t know. I’ve never noticed anyone with visible devices. I have had people approach me a couple times.
I have not approached anyone. Probably because lack of opportunity. Have not seen many devices on people. On the other hand, have had people approach me about Dexcom CGM. Happy to educate.
I don’t usually approach but if I see someone w a diabetes device and they seem open to it, I smile give a thumbs up and point to mine. We are a community…:)
I have only done it a couple of times. It is not something that I think is appropriate in most situations.
“every chance I get” applies only to devices. (When I have noticed liposystrophy, or other physical things, etc, in the past, I said nothing, although there was often an opportunity to get acquainted later.
I put “yes, but depending on the situation”, but it is extremely rare
I have when it didn’t seem too intrusive, such as waiting in the grocery check-out line or at the airport during a lay over. I’ve met some nice people that way.
I’ll talk to anyone anywhere. Most people with medical devices are pretty friendly in grocery stores. gas stations, and drug stores. 😉
The only really ugly ones are the political wacko’s with huge chips on their shoulders. They are far from nice to talk to. 🔇
I may just be very unobservant but I have never noticed someone using diabetic devices in public. How I wish I could, since I don’t know anyone else with T1D and would love the opportunity to connect.
I don’t necessarily approach strangers, but if I catch their eye I’ll give a nod to my pump or CGM.
I’m with Nick Argento. I try to get their attention to the facat my “accessories” are like theirs. Usually a conversation starts and we both like the fact that there are members of our “tribe” all over the place.
Yes, connecting with strangers with T1d almost always means they are no longer strangers. Nice way to connect.
If I have reason to look at my pump in the proximity of another pump wearing person, I will comment on how often I view my pump.
I live in NYC, a massive city, and have yet to see a visible piece of diabetes tech on anyone. Some people do everything they can to hide it. In cooler weather clothes can cover it all up. Maybe I should pay more attention to random people next summer!
I don’t tend to approach people. But, I was just approached last night in the airport!