In the summer of 2018, the Scripps Whittier Diabetes Institute and San Diego Zoo teamed up to help Quincy, a koala, manage his diabetes. Quincy was well-known for being diagnosed with diabetes and then treated with a CGM (continuous glucose monitor).  

“Working with Quincy allowed us to extend our digital technology into an entirely new population,” said Athena Philis-Tsimikas, MD, corporate vice president for the Scripps Whittier Diabetes Institute

Interestingly, Dr. Tsimikas reported that working with Quincy gave additional insight into working with someone who was unable to speak, like a person who is unconscious due to hypoglycemia or a small child. 

The CGM transmitted Quincy’s blood glucose levels to an app, which helped caretakers manage his Diabetes. Prior to using the CGM, the zoo staff would have to prick Quincy many times a day. 

Quincy passed in late 2018 due to pneumonia but continues to be a beloved mascot for those with diabetes.

“Hopefully our experience with Quincy provided new approaches to the Zoo, not only for marsupials but for other species that may develop diabetes and need ongoing therapy for the future.” 

To learn more about how technology was used to help Quincy the koala: Remembering Quincy, a Beloved Koala with Type 1 Diabetes

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