advocate meter

[Guest guest]

Dear Friends,

Last night I was one of about 35 people who listened to a tech talk

presentation of Christmas gift ideas for blind givers and recipients.

The first presenter was a guy from a radio company. Not being technically

inclined, I understood very little of what he was offering. The second

presenter was Amy somebody from National Braille Press. I believe she's a

braille reader herself and I was impressed by her relaxed, highly articulate

but unpretentious, to the point, description of the kinds of products NBP

offers. I've bought all of the Harry Potter books from NBP as well as some

computer manuals, a knitting book, the Louis Braill bio, and assorted other

braille books. Since I love reading hard copy braille, I love this company.

Last night, she mentioned among other cookbooks, a dessert book for

Diabetics. I also bought an Atkins diet book from NBP which may interest

some of you.The braill books prices are quite affordable, much lower than

books you can buy from A P H.

The third presenter was from a company called Speak To Me whose name sums up

the kinds of products it offers. It offers items from cute cuddly talking

stuffed animals, to roudy, semi-gross funny stuff like Simpsons talking

bottle openers, Santas with digestive difficulties that make rude noises, to

fabulous, talking appliances etc including the most advanced voice activated

alarm clock I never imagined.

Now I come to the point. While aimlessly browsing their massive on line

catalog which allows you to hear what most of the products say or sing, I

stumbled on a talking glucometer. I use the ACU Check which I believe isn't

made any more but which is still supported. I like my acu check so much. I'm

very sorry the company found it unprofitable. On this list, I here about the

prodigy. I imagined I'd eventually have to buy one when I could no longer

get supplies for my Acu Check.

The meter offered by Speak to Me is called the Advocate. So many of you are

extremely informed and seem to use only the most reliable equipment. What do

you know about the Advocate? I'm not tempted to buy it, but I am curious.

And, if another blind diabetic, not on this list, asks, I wouldn't have any

idea whether or not to recommend it. Here is the ad as it appeared on the

website. And, I haven't even checked for the prodigy because I already know

most of you support it. The Woman who presented for Speak to Me was so down

to earth and prepared. People at Tech Talk spoke fondly of her and said she

was honest. She's visually impaired herself and said she would be honest if

any of her products were inaccessible to those of us who can't read print.

She will also explain how to use things. To give the radio guy credit, too,

he said he'd send taped instructions on how to operate radios people bought

from him.

Here is the ad.

Advocate Talking Glucometer Starter Kit

Introducing our newest technological wonder. A talking glucometer that

features a large LCD screen that is easy to use. Its female voice guides you

through its easy operation. Since it requires a small amount of blood, It's

virtually pain free. Results are spoken in just 7 seconds. Includes

everything you need to start testing! Glucose meter, control solution, 10

strips, 10 lancets, lancet device and carrying case. Unit will store up to

450 results in memory and you can download these to your computer to help

you track changes in your blood glucose level over time. Other features

include; sleep mode with auto shutoff after 3 minutes without action, FDA

approved, complete instructions, one year warranty with card and 2 AAA

batteries included. Unit measures 3 " high x 1 3/4 " wide x 3/4 " deep. To

order supplies visit the web or call.

Catalog code ADVOCATE price $56.95

While I'm on the subject of accessible products, I'll also mention I've

wanted a talking pedometer. I'm much too sedentary since I don't have a

guide dog any more I thought if I knew how many steps I took in a day, I'd

be motivated to try and top that figure the following day and continue in

that pattern ultimately becoming more active. I've bought two talking

pedometers and can't operate them. My scanner has been unable to help me

read the instructions. Does anyone here use a talking pedometer. Is there

one you'd recommend which you might be able to help me understand how to

operate? Obviously I should check to see if Speak To Me carries them. I was

in such a hurry to ask about the advocate, I didn't take time to check it

out.

Good thing I don't post too often since I talk so much when I do.

Best wishes for good health management to all of you!

Always with love,

Lissi