New Technology Helps Those With Diabetes Live Active Lifestyle

DENVER (CBS4)- New technology is helping some diabetics live an active lifestyle while treating the symptoms of the disease.

Tylin Stiller was recently diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes.

"At first it kind of set me apart because it's like I have diabetes. No one else has it," said Stiller.

She had to regulate what she did and what she ate, a tall order for an active child. Then, she was outfitted with the latest technology.

A high-tech pump works with a state-of-the-art glucose sensor on Tylin's body. She programs information into it, including what she's eaten and activity for the day.

"I can dose me and give insulin all day," said Stiller. "I can say, oh, I'm going to play soccer so I should probably put it down a little and it will allow me to put this down."

The device has a sensor and a pump that works with a newly developed computer.

"Designed in such a way that it learns, so that it takes blood glucose and determines how much insulin needs to be delivered," said Dr. Robert Slover, Director of Pediatrics at the Barbara Davis Center.

The device works like an artificial pancreas. Researchers said the possibilities for the future are promising.

"Potentially it could be surgically implanted and I guess it would be like not having diabetes," said Slover.

Additional Resources

The Tour de Cure is Saturday, Aug. 20 at the Boulder County Fairgrounds in Longmont. CBS4 is a proud sponsor of the event which raises awareness and money for the American Diabetes Association.

LINK: tourdecurecolorado.com