On Wednesday, November 17, 2004, approximately thirty-five persons with diabetes
and their support persons concerned with the delivery of insulin by means of
insulin pumps gathered at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 516 Victoria Avenue,
Belleville, Ontario, 7:00-9:00 pm.

The Guardian RT System

Jill Milliken RN C.D.E. gave the group a glimpse of the future by presenting a
new personal continuous monitoring system. Two QIP pumpers , Bruce Milliken and
Leslie Austin are currently wearing the unit and shared their experiences with
it.

These days, people with diabetes use pinpricks to obtain a drop of blood that is
tested in a glucometer for blood sugar levels. This is done four to twelve times
a day depending on the individual.

The new Guardian RT sensor is attached to a site on the body, much like an
insulin pump. Every five minutes, readings based in interstitial fluids are
taken. A separate cordless monitor screen reveals glycaemic levels in real time.

An alarm, either a sound or a vibration, can be set at high and low points to
give warnings before emergencies arise. For sleeping children, the sound can be
picked up by a baby monitor and broadcast in a room where the caregiver is
otherwise occupied. In a classroom or a workplace, the vibration mode is more
discrete.

The monitor unit is about 3" X 2" and can be carried easily in a pocket or be
placed for easy reading. When relaxing, working or driving, at any point in
time, the person with diabetes can simply glance at the monitor screen to be
reassured about their present blood sugar levels. If blood glucose levels are
rising or falling, they can take appropriate action.

With feedback possible every five minutes, more accurate bolus levels can be
set. Giving better control over daily glycaemic levels will reduce complications
affecting vision and the circulatory and neurological systems.

Data can be stored for 21 days and using specially designed software, the
information can be downloaded and shared between patients and their doctors.

The Guardian RT system can be used by both pumpers and non-pumpers. It is a new
diabetes management tool to give more knowledge and increased control over blood
sugar levels. Treatment decisions are still made by the individual.

For the latest information, check www.guardianrt.com and
www.protect-my-child.com . Information on the availability of the unit in Canada
will be posted on www.minimed.ca







Pumping Insulin, Next Edition

Author, John Walsh, has invited submissions of high resolution photos depicting
pump wearers and their activities for possible inclusion in his next book.