I had a Whipple for Ampullary Cancer in '04 at 53. Ampulle of the Vater (bile duct removed), head of pancreas+ additional piece, part of stomach, all of deuodenum were removed and bile ducts were redirected. For 1st 10 years I did not take any medication after chemo and radiation were completed. 10 years ago started Creon, an enzyme to help digest food. About 6 years ago I started having high blood sugar on blood draws. Because it returned to normal after 4 hours no action was taken (this was a mistake I know now). Finally began treatment for Type 3C Pancreatogenic Diabetes. It felt like a wasteland trying to get information. First tried dietary control only as doctor felt Type 2 treatment would kill me. Started insulin 2 years ago, I, too paid for strips, CGM, out of pocket for years before finally getting the 3C diagnosis. Started on an Omnipod5 pump in January. It has been a godsend. I have been very brittle as a result of the surgery and inability to absorb food. Nothing is truly predictable on a reliable basis. Working with a new Endo doc has been the key. That opened the door to other resources such as diabetes educators, nutritionists, etc. I had paid out of pocket for nutritionist previously during period of trying to control via diet. I am in range 89-92% of time at present. Still need more tweeking of carb/insulin ration, etc. , but we are working on it. There is a Type3C closed FB group and a DexcomG7/Omnipod group as well. Fighting elevated liver numbers AST/ALT again, along with very elevated Ferratin. CT, MRCP and Ultrasound of liver show no issues except for the malabsorption and by making tweeks to Creon #s are coming down. Happy to share info if you have specific questions.