How it all began: Melon Merl's Diabetes Journey with Dexcom and Tandem t:slim X2

Updated: May 2026 · Guest post by Melon Merl, editorially overseen by the Zuckerschmuck team

Foreword from the Zuckerschmuck Team

We sincerely thank Melon Merl, who thanks us directly and indirectly on her blog. We are glad that we could give her an impulse that has permanently changed her life. Congratulations on her beautiful writing and many thanks for the inspiration.

The Diagnosis and the First Pump

Melon Merl recounts:

"After I was diagnosed in the hospital, my mother read seven books in the next three days and argued with the doctors until we got the assurance that I would receive a pump in the next few days.

So, I never had to learn to be a 'penner'. For all non-diabetics reading this: 'Penner' in relation to diabetics refers to PEN-INJECTORS and not tramps, as you might know them. Just so that's not misunderstood.

Back to the pump. Since my hospital worked with Medtronic, a few days later I received the MiniMed Veo. I chose, as is hard to miss, the pump in purple, a decision I have never regretted.

I loved the pump, and if it were still being produced, I would still recommend it. For the first few years, we also got along great with Medtronic's service."

Diabetes Diaries and the First Sensor

"The thing I probably hated most (and I think I'm not alone in this) was keeping diabetes diaries. In my first year with diabetes, I didn't have a sensor yet, so I measured between 12 and 14 times a day via fingerprick. You can imagine how lovely my fingers looked. But that wasn't even the worst part.

The worst part was the constant writing things down. The values here, the food there. When did I correct? When did I exercise? And as is typical for a proper, growing teenager, I naturally started forgetting it after a few months. It got a little easier when I got my first sensor, but not much. But luckily, there are now many apps that, in conjunction with sensors, can replace pen and paper. It's still a bit annoying, though."

My Redemption: The Switch to Dexcom

"After a year (2015), I also got a Medtronic sensor. Unfortunately, I didn't get along with it at all. I talked to other diabetics who loved the sensor. I couldn't share that feeling. If we were 'lucky,' the sensor worked fine for two to three days, but that's not very good for a sensor that's supposed to last seven days. A lot of time has passed since then, of course, and I can't say how well the Medtronic sensor works today. I can only say from my experience that it didn't work well back then, and I haven't regretted my decision to switch to Dexcom for a single day.

After meeting someone at a diabetes weekend who raved about the Dexcom G4, I made the switch. I didn't have much to lose. The only slightly inconvenient thing was that the Dexcom didn't transmit to my Medtronic pump, of course. Back then, there was an extra receiver. But that was no problem at all in exchange for how incredibly well the Dexcom sensor worked.

After the G4, I wore the G4 Slim for a while, and shortly after, the G5 came out. I ordered the sensor stickers from Zuckerschmuck. I can only recommend them. There's a huge selection, also for other sensors, and beautiful designs. Plus, they really hold up well. As you can see in the picture, not a single sticker has ever come off for me. I'm definitely super happy that I could decorate my transmitters with watermelons."

[IMAGE-TODO: Photo of Dexcom transmitter with Zuckerschmuck watermelon sticker, originally in Elementor widget, please insert from WordPress backup]

Switching to the Dexcom G6

"In 2020, I switched to the Dexcom G6. Although the G6 was released in 2019, I waited quite a long time because I had read a lot from people who experienced allergic skin problems. I generally have big problems with plasters and was afraid I wouldn't be able to wear the G6 at all. But I'm very glad that I finally dared to test the G6. Ultimately, I have hardly any problems with the new plaster (no more than I have with all the others), and the sensor is really amazing.

I can especially recommend the G6 in combination with the t:slim pump. But even without it, the sensor has improved a lot, and my favorite feature is that you no longer have to calibrate it. After a two-hour warm-up phase, the values appear on your phone automatically. This has made my life much easier. I prefer to insert the sensors in the evening. But that was always annoying before, because I usually had just fallen asleep when the sensor wanted to calibrate. And anyone who knows Dexcom knows that the 'calibrate me' tone is not one you want to be woken up by.

With the G6 now, I can simply go to sleep with a clear conscience, knowing that I will soon have values, and thus, of course, alarms, which are quite nice after a pizza."

t:slim X2: The First German User

"In spring 2020, I had to face the difficult task of choosing a new insulin pump. My old Medtronic pump had cracks in the insulin reservoir, and every day I was afraid it would fall and break apart. In the middle of the Corona pandemic and the first lockdown, it was of course not easy to get in touch with pump representatives and look at new pumps. I didn't want the new Medtronic pump. It was too big for me and I just didn't like it.

I think it's very important that a diabetic likes their pump. At least as much as possible. In any case, the feeling has to be right, after all, you spend every minute of the next four years of your life with it. After a lot of research, the first pump I tried was the mylife YpsoPump. Unfortunately, nothing fit for me there.

After that trial went so badly, I was very frustrated for a short time until the t:slim X2 crossed our path on the internet. But unfortunately, it wasn't available in Germany at that time. The more videos I watched from a Canadian blogger, the better the pump seemed to me. When the release date for Germany finally approached, we contacted VitalAir (Tandem's German distribution partner). After an appointment with a super nice representative, I finally decided on this pump. The representative was even kind enough to ensure that I got the pump extra quickly so I could take it with me on vacation. So I can proudly say that I was the first German t:slim X2 pump user."

What Changed with the Switch

"What I also find very pleasant: the type of catheter hasn't changed much. Apart from the end of the tubing, pretty much everything has remained the same. With the reservoir, it's a bit different. The filling process has a few more steps than with Medtronic and is also a bit more complicated at the beginning. But you don't have to be afraid of that. After a few concentrated fillings, you'll quickly understand it. And I think it's somehow more fun. I've often read that this is one of the few negative points about the t:slim, which initially put me off a bit. But today I can say that it's really not worth mentioning.

A big difference that I had to get used to was the battery. Unlike my old pump, the t:slim doesn't run on batteries but has a rechargeable battery that needs to be charged every few days. In the first few weeks, I often forgot and then walked around for half an hour with a power bank in my pocket, which I think is a pretty cool solution. Meanwhile, I have a small charging station in the bathroom and have gotten used to plugging it in while showering. At first, I wasn't really convinced by the 'charge with a cable' thing, but now I'm quite enthusiastic about it. The fact that it's charged with a micro-USB cable is also quite well thought out.

I hardly know anyone who doesn't own such a cable. So if the pump is running low when you're at a friend's house, it's no trouble to quickly charge the pump. For emergencies, you can also put a short cable in your diabetes emergency kit. Then you could even charge the pump via the car's cigarette lighter."

Basal-IQ and Automatic Insulin Suspension

"For everyone using a Dexcom G6: this is my absolute favorite new feature: Basal-IQ.

I already mentioned above that the G6 has received great enhancements. Another one is the automatic suspension of insulin. Medtronic has had this for a while, but unlike Medtronic, the t:slim is smart enough not to turn back on after 30 minutes, but at the moment when the first blood glucose value is higher again than the previous one (meaning you're no longer dropping). Whenever Basal-IQ has been activated, you can see it on the screen as a red marked area. This great new feature has given me a lot of sleep. Sometimes, for example, if I've over-bolused or exercised, that alone is not enough, of course, but it buys you time. In everyday life, it definitely makes life easier.

I can truly and warmly recommend this pump.

Another small detail that I find very life-simplifying is the insulin display in the top right corner. This is a feature I never missed until the moment I first had it. Since that moment, I wouldn't want to give it up. When you insert a fresh reservoir, the pump first needs a few units delivered, but after that, the insulin amount is displayed precisely to the unit. This has already helped me save a lot of insulin. Nobody likes to go to sleep without being sure that the reservoir won't run empty. But if I can see that there are still 17 units left, and I only need about 12 units for the night, I go to sleep with a clear conscience and don't waste 17 good units. A nice feature for peace of mind."

Note from Zuckerschmuck team: Tandem now offers the extended Control-IQ feature as standard (predictive in both directions), which includes Basal-IQ and can automatically deliver small correction boluses.

The Clip on the t:slim

"Of course, you can also buy a clip for the pump. Unlike what I knew from Medtronic, the clip is integrated into a case. At first, I briefly thought that was silly, but that changed very quickly. You actually don't even notice that the pump has a case, as it's generally super small. Additionally, it's nice that it's a bit more protected from falls with it.

I personally clip the pump to the outside of my front pants pocket. That's why I would prefer to wear it vertically. It wasn't until a few days later, when I saw an Instagram post from someone wearing the same pump, that I realized this woman wore her pump vertically. So I started playing around with the clip. I noticed that you can easily slide the metal part out and slide it into the other designated vertical or horizontal opening."

Tip from the Zuckerschmuck team: If the original clip is too sporty for you, check out our brown leather version with clip for the Tandem t:slim X2 or the universal clip pouch in black genuine leather.

Cavilon: Skin Protection Before the Patch

"As mentioned above, I experience allergic reactions to all types of plasters. I've often read that this is unfortunately not uncommon for diabetics [1]. That's why I always use 'Cavilon' before inserting a new catheter or sensor. You have to get used to applying it, as it sprays everywhere but where you want it. But with a little practice, it's a really good skin protector. A nice side effect is that the plasters also last a very long time because Cavilon is highly adhesive."

Niltac: Removing Patches Without Pain

"On the other hand, for well-adhering patches, there's of course also the removal. Personally, I don't like the feeling at all when a catheter or sensor is slowly removed. When you consider that a Teflon tube or a thread is being pulled out of your body, it's quite unpleasant. That's why I use 'Niltac' for removal. Niltac can simply be sprayed onto the patch. After a few seconds of exposure, the patch should be very easy to remove from the skin."

My Favorite Dextrose Tablets

"Diabetics are known to consist not of 80 percent water like all other people, but of dextrose. The same, of course, applies to the contents of their pockets.

I was lucky enough to discover this dextrose while still in the hospital. The most famous ones are, of course, Dextro Energy. But personally, I'm not a fan of them at all. Especially not after seven years. Therefore, my advice to all diabetics: Raspberry dextrose effervescent lollipops from Mivolis. I proudly ignore the cheeky 'for children' sign. Thanks to the added effervescent component, the lollipops don't taste like dextrose at all. At least I haven't gotten tired of them yet.

The best thing for me is that I can tell by the taste whether I'm hypoglycemic or not. Because if I am, they taste incredibly sour to me. But if I have a good value, they taste sweet. If any of you have eaten them, let me know, I'm really curious if it's just me.

Another pleasant fact is that you can get them at any dm store. At least in every one I've been to so far. So even if you're out and about and forgot your dextrose."

We are a FAMILY

"I hope I was able to help you, inspire you, or give you something to think about. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to write to me. Also happy to hear from you on Instagram."

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Dexcom and Tandem

Is it worth switching from Dexcom G6 to G7?

The Dexcom G7 has been available in Germany since 2023. The sensor is significantly smaller than the G6, has a shorter warm-up phase (around 30 minutes instead of 2 hours), and integrates the sensor and transmitter in one component. Both generations are factory-calibrated and last 14 days. Whether the switch is worthwhile for you depends on your comfort level, your health insurance's coverage, and compatibility with your pump. You can find stickers and tapes for the G7 in our G7 sticker collection [2].

What is the difference between Basal-IQ and Control-IQ in Tandem?

Basal-IQ is the hypo-protection feature: The pump stops the basal rate if the sensor predicts a glucose drop and resumes it as soon as the value rises again. Control-IQ extends this in both directions: The pump also adjusts the basal rate upwards and automatically delivers small correction boluses if a glucose increase is predicted. Control-IQ is now a standard feature on the t:slim X2 [3].

What accessories are available for the Tandem t:slim X2?

At Zuckerschmuck, we carry special protective and carrying solutions for the Tandem t:slim X2: a brown leather case with clip as well as the universal black clip pouch. Also stickers for the pump casing and screen protectors.

What to do for patch allergies under the sensor?

Adhesive reactions to CGM sensors are documented in the professional literature [1]. Initial options include an underpatch (protective patch between skin and sensor), skin protection films like Cavilon, and gentle adhesive removers like Niltac. For recurring reactions, we recommend discussing alternatives with your diabetology practice.

Where can adults in Germany get the Tandem t:slim X2?

Through VitalAir (Tandem Diabetes Care's German distributor) and through specialized diabetology practices. Prerequisites are the usual indication criteria for insulin pump therapy and cost coverage by the health insurance company.

📚 Sources and References

1. Heinemann L, Kamann S. Adhesives Used for Diabetes Medical Devices: A Neglected Risk With Serious Consequences? J Diabetes Sci Technol. 2016;10(6):1211–1215. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27562857/ [Accessed: 08.05.2026].
2. Dexcom Inc. Dexcom G6 / Dexcom G7 Instructions for Use. San Diego (CA): Dexcom Inc. Available at: dexcom.com/de-DE [Accessed: 08.05.2026].
3. Tandem Diabetes Care. t:slim X2 Insulin Pump User Guide (Basal-IQ and Control-IQ Technology). Available at: tandemdiabetes.com/de-de [Accessed: 08.05.2026].

Note: This article is a personal experience report by guest author Melon Merl and does not replace medical or diabetological advice. The choice of an insulin pump or a CGM system should be made in consultation with your diabetology practice. In case of patch reactions, sensor detachment, or other abnormalities, please seek medical clarification.

Is the world of Dexcom interesting for you?

We are pleased that Melon Merl has written such a personal report. Current stickers and accessories for Dexcom can be found here:

• Stickers for Dexcom G6 Transmitter
• Stickers for Dexcom G7
• Bags for Dexcom G6 Reader
• Bags for Dexcom G7 Receiver

We look forward to your browsing.