I want to start a thread about the logistics of thru hiking with diabetes. I'm looking for some wisdom about maildrops, etc - I think nutrition is being well covered in other threads.
I am thinking about / starting to plan a 2015 (or later) thru hike.
My thoughts run like this, the insulin pens set the resupply interval. I go thru a fast acting pen in about 16 days and a long acting pen in about 11 days. The common denominator of those two numbers is about 32 days (2 fast acting pens and 3 long acting), with a factor of safety say a resupply after 24 days.
I get 25 test strips in a vial, but 100 would fit, at 4 per day that's 25 days.
The plastic containers that I use for sharps last me about 27 days, one to contain new needles and lancets, and another for used.
Alcohol pads are easy.
For planning purposes use map man's section hiking rates to template out where you might be every 24 days or so and plan a drop box at an appropriate place - avoid the PO that may be closed, etc - use Baltimore Jack's resupply information.
Yes, you could carry twice as much and resupply half as often. Yes, you might test more often, test strips are light, carry more. Yes, you might use less insulin, be flexible and extend the resupply interval.
The drop box would have insulin pens, alcohol pads, needles and Lancets (in a sharps container) - and other stuff, like food.
BD Diabetes Products has sharps disposal guidelines by state - http://www.bd.com/us/diabetes/page.a...=7002&id=10284 . In general, opaque, hard shelled, labeled and taped - every state is a little different.
Am I overthinking this or what? What has worked for people?