Cheryl’s journey with type 2 diabetes began 15 years ago when she was diagnosed unexpectedly during a routine blood test.

“It turned my world upside down. I suddenly had to think consciously about everything I put in my mouth, whether it might raise my blood sugars, how many carbohydrates there were. The counting carbohydrates drives me mad.” 

Following extensive research and discussions with her doctor, a year after her diagnosis Cheryl decided to start insulin therapy.  

Cheryl first trialed using a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device five years ago. Using a CGM allows Cheryl to monitor her blood glucose trends in real time. However, as a pensioner, Cheryl can only afford to wear a CGM for two weeks every three to four months. While CGM devices are now subsidised for all people with type 1 diabetes, they are not funded for people who live with type 2 diabetes, including people who use insulin like Cheryl.  

“I would dearly love to be able to wear a CGM 365 days per year.” 

Cheryl is concerned that without affordable access to a CGM, she is unable to keep her blood glucose levels within the target range, which gives her the best chance of preventing complications. “I’ve been trying for ten years, and it’s just not possible without the CGM.”  

Watch Cheryl’s story: