For Leonie Hall, a good night’s sleep is something she can enjoy again.
The peace of mind comes from the support of Diabetes Nurse Navigator Odharnaith Budler (Orna), who helped Leonie transition to an insulin pump after repeated low blood sugar episodes proved difficult to control.
“It has changed my life because I can now go to bed and sleep,” Leonie said. "I was worried to go to sleep and wake up surrounded by my alarmed husband and paramedics," she said.
"Now, if my sugar levels drop and anything happens during the night, the device is going to alarm and let me know.”
Earlier this year, Leonie spent two and a half weeks in hospital while clinicians worked to stabilise her blood sugar levels. Even after returning home, she continued to experience severe low blood sugar episodes, leaving both Leonie and her partner, Peter, anxious about managing her diabetes.
Through regular home visits, education and ongoing remote monitoring, Orna helped Leonie and Peter build the confidence to use the pump, which works with a continuous glucose monitor to automatically adjust insulin delivery based on Leonie's blood sugar levels.
"They were quite nervous because she was having so many lows before the pump," Orna said. "Learning to trust the automation was very hard at the beginning."
Today, Leonie says the technology has restored her confidence and independence, allowing her and husband Peter to travel.
"Orna’s support has been amazing," Leonie said. "We couldn't ask for a better person.She's so caring, thoughtful, and she explains it simply so everybody can follow her."
P.S. Basil the dog wasn't officially part of the interview, but he was determined to steal the spotlight ... and we think he succeeded. 🐾