Catching the Highs (Insulin Lamp) celebrates the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin, a life-saving hormone used to treat diabetes. In 1921, parents saw their comatose children revived once injected with insulin. High blood sugar levels were restored to normal ranges. Diagnosis was no longer a death sentence. Insulin became synonymous with hope.
The lamp structure is composed of two perpendicular helices, like those forming an insulin molecule. The lower helix is made with applicators used to insert continuous glucose monitoring sensors under the skin in order to track blood sugar levels in the body. Hanging from the center of the top helix are a chain of insulin infusion sets, linked by their needles.
While daily diabetes management can be painful and cumbersome, it can also spark inner strength, resilience, and gratitude. The scientific and technological advancements available to people with diabetes today are reminders that there is always the promise of what tomorrow may bring.
