Technology has progressed at an enormous speed over my lifetime. Growing up, I remember being in awe at having our own computer and dial up internet. Today, I’m sure the younglings baulk at the very notion of recording your favourite songs from the radio onto a cassette tape. I have to admit that I am a bit of a tech geek, but not when they decide to all play up on me in the same day!
Currently, I rely on my Fitbit to remind me to keep moving. I rely on my laptop, iPad and mobile to keep connected with the Diabetes Online Community and to do my research (and play Candy Crush). Now, I rely on my insulin pump to mimic the actions of my dud pancreas and keep me kicking.
A few days ago, I was reminded at how heavily I rely on them.
I upgraded my Mac to Yosemite. Chrome hates Yosemite, as it turns out. If I step away from my laptop for more than 10 minutes, it crashes. I think Mac really wants me to use the ‘new and improved’ Safari. Sorry Apple, I’m a Chrome girl and I will sniff out your little tricks.
Pumpagotchi decided that delivering insulin was optional because I had magically un-primed it. Um no. I’ve already primed you multiple times you little sucker. After yelling at me several times within the hour to prime pumpy, I called Animas. Funnily and thankfully, I got a familiar loving voice on the other hand who walked me through the magic troubleshoot.
My Fitbit stopped charging. I did everything I could find on the internet from using different USB ports to resetting it. But after a few successful attempts and many failed trials, I pronounced my Fitbit dead. I even logged a ticket with Fitbit asking them if the problem can be rectified. They wanted my non-existent receipt as proof of purchase and to discuss warranty. So I guess that’s that then.
These all happened within the same 24 hours. Amidst feelings of frustration and an increasing sense of stress to get all my work done, I was reminded that there are always ways around road blocks. All these technologies that we have are luxuries. They have become so engrained in our lives that we often take them for granted. So as much as I love my gadgets, it’s important to remember how things worked before we had these technologies.
From this life lesson, some of my goals this year will include:
- Revisiting my insulin to carb counting skills
- Make more time for friends and family away from screens
- Always keep my receipts for my gadgets
Dr Ashley Ng 
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