A highly successful diabetes technology information meeting took place in Tralee on Wednesday evening, attracting approximately 100 attendees from across Kerry and beyond. Hosted in the Manor West Hotel by Diabetes Technology Network Ireland (DTN IRL), in collaboration with Diabetes Ireland and the diabetes team at University Hospital Kerry (UHK), the event focused on the growing availability of diabetes technology for people living with Type 1 diabetes.
The evening began with a busy “Check the Tech” technology exhibition, where attendees had the opportunity to view and discuss the latest insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitoring systems offered by the companies which support Diabetes Technology Network Ireland: Abbott, AirLiquide, Dexcom, MiniMed, Roche and Ypsomed. Attendees had a chance to check the products directly, ask questions about their own devices and alternatives, see what is available and discuss their options with experts and healthcare professionals.
Following a warm welcome, Dr Tomás Griffin delivered an insightful presentation on Type 1 diabetes technology in Ireland, outlining the range of insulin pumps, CGMs and artificial pancreas systems now available, and how these innovations are transforming diabetes care and day-to-day management.
Dr Caoimhe Casey and advanced nurse practitioner Mairead Brosnahan then spoke about the exciting recent developments at University Hospital Kerry, where a new local service is now providing access to insulin pump therapy for people with type 1 diabetes attending the hospital. Their presentation was warmly received, highlighting the positive progress being made for people with diabetes in Kerry.
The final session of the evening featured personal and inspiring reflections from Kerry footballer Fay O’Donoughue and Dr Kate Gajewska, who shared their own experiences of living with diabetes and the benefits that technology has brought to their lives.
Presentations throughout the evening were informative, engaging and very well received, while the atmosphere was warm, positive and full of energy. Attendees welcomed the opportunity to learn more, ask questions and meet others in the diabetes community, and although the presentations finished on time, the last attendees left the venue an hour after it had concluded with many people having further questions for the healthcare professionals and company representatives . Many participants described the Type 1 diabetes Technology Discovery meeting as an uplifting and empowering evening for people living with diabetes and their families, and many of them promised the diabetes team in University Hospital Kerry they will have their hands full with new technology enthusiasts.
The next DTN IRL and Diabetes Ireland meeting will be held in Waterford in September.