DAVIS COUNTY, Utah – A Davis County mother is making patches for children’s blood glucose meters to help them feel a little less uncomfortable.
Pyper Fillingim, 4, was diagnosed with ketonic hypoglycemia and hyperinsulinemia just over a year ago and had to wear a continuous glucose monitoring device on her arm to monitor her blood sugar.
“She was sad and scared and didn’t want anyone to see. She wanted to wear long sleeves,” said her mother, Ashlee Fillingim.
So they decided to do something fun with it. They looked for patches online, but weren’t happy with what they found.
So they source the designs from small business artists and create the patches, which are called Pyper’s Patches.
“We create designs that are geared towards children and are a little more modern. They adhere well and are perfect for sensitive skin,” says Fillingim.
These patches also help children and adults who suffer from diabetes.
“We actually named our packages after different Type 1 diabetics here in Utah,” Ashlee explained.
Mike Somers, director of Breakthrough T1D, a type 1 diabetes education group, said the patches help spark conversations and educate people about medical devices.
“It gives you something unique and helps break down the stigma. Maybe you’ll find it easier to wear it on a part of your arm or leg where people might ask questions. And then you can also help break the stigma and learn what exactly it is and what it does for you,” Somers said.
They have expanded their offerings and now also produce patches for other devices and feeding tubes to sell online.
“What gives me the most joy is seeing people smile when they see a booth that is designed for them,” Ashlee said.
And people can give back too – Ashlee is partnering with the University of Utah Health and Primary Children’s Hospital to match special purchases on the website and donate bandages to families. Click the link here for more information.