Whether you work at Tandem Diabetes Care, or use our products, we consider you part of the Tandem Family. This series explores the roots of our Tandem Family Tree and introduces you to our family members outside of the company.
Meet Dennis, a man who knows how to curate a look. His style runs the gamut from fashion-forward to fashion-fun.
Dennis has been retired for nearly 20 years after spending his career in advertising. He also owned a vitamin company. These days he’s taking retail therapy, and his selfie game, to the next level with daily fashion shoots that he puts on his Instagram page: Dad’s Got Style.
All of the clothes he models are from his own collection which he says took decades to accumulate. He also likes to give the occasional nod to his t:slim X2™ insulin pump, which he keeps in a stylish, vintage phone case.
Let’s get to know the man behind the camera (and in front of the mirror).
How did you decide to start an Instagram page as a hobby?
Dennis: I've never really followed fashion. I'm much more focused on style — my style. And I pretty much wear what I like. Often, it'll be a new shirt, a belt, or a hat that will determine what I will wear. Or it might just be my mood. I do always make a point of showing off my vintage cell phone holster which I've repurposed to carry my pump.
Speaking of your pump, when were you diagnosed with type 1 diabetes?
Dennis: I was diagnosed T1D in 1971, when I was 20 years old. Within a couple years I was working in advertising and for a short while in the mid-70s I was president of the Maryland Chapter of the JDF. Back in those days ‘research’ was not part of the name. It felt like it required full-time attention and I eventually decided that I could not devote the necessary time.
What can we expect from you in the future and what advice do you have for the rest of the community?
Dennis: I will be 70 years old, already retired for 20 years, and I'm still going strong. I'm still a big believer in vitamins. Any time I meet a new doctor, they are usually amazed at my great condition, all things considered. I blame that on my reasonably tight [diabetes management] — my A1c is 6.6, nearly perfect in my opinion — my vitamin regimen, and perhaps most important, a very good and optimistic attitude.
Thanks, Dennis, for sharing your experience and being part of the Tandem Family Tree. We’ll be following along on Instagram to see your daily pics and next-level style.
You can follow Dennis and his fashionable feats on his DadsGotStyle Instagram page.
From time to time, we may pass along suggestions, tips, or information about other Tandem insulin pump user experiences or approaches to the management of diabetes. Please note, however, individual symptoms, situations, circumstances, and results may vary. Please consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider regarding your condition and appropriate medical treatment. Please read the Important Safety Information before using a Tandem Diabetes Care product.
