Well… the insulin pump I’ve been hoping Kay could switch to was denied by our insurance. So now, we’re officially in the appeal process. I’ve learned quickly that when dealing with insurance, every single piece of documentation has to be exact. If even one note doesn’t specifically mention the brand and type of pump being requested, they can — and will — deny it. And that’s exactly what happened to us.
Thankfully, Tandem (the pump manufacturer) has been incredible through this. They’ve already started the appeal process on our behalf and assured me that they’re taking care of everything. Now, we wait — and the waiting game can be up to 30 days.
I’ll admit, the denial really bummed me out. I’ve been looking forward to making this switch because this particular pump has a stronger algorithm that would give Kay more freedom — especially when it comes to food. Right now, what works best to keep her blood sugar in range is sticking to mostly lower-carb meals, with just a few exceptions here and there.
We’ve gotten lucky in finding some great food alternatives for Kay, and most of the time she’s happy with the options. But not always. Sometimes, there just isn’t a perfect substitute — and she knows it. She may be young, but she absolutely notices when things don’t taste or look like what she’s used to.
With this new pump, I’m hopeful we’ll be able to bring back some of her favorites — things like cereal in the morning, or a cinnamon roll as a weekend treat (her absolute favorite!). These are small joys that feel big when you’ve had to give them up.
I give Kay so much credit. Since being diagnosed, she’s made huge changes — and she continues to roll with every new challenge. No day is ever the same with diabetes, but every day we show up and try our best.
Here’s to hoping the next update brings good news — and maybe even a cinnamon roll or two.