I don't claim to have many records. But this one, I think T1Ds have a pretty solid claim to: most consistent visible logo wearer. For all intents and purposes, I've got at least one, likely two, logos on my body at all times.
CGMs and closed-loop pumps are EXTREMLY important (truly) vital tech for the modern T1D community. BUT - That doesn't stop it from being frustrating to be a walking billboard. The Dexcom logo on top of my Dexcom is always visible — especially in summer, no shirt or short sleeves, it's there. Same with the logos on my pump and its case. None of this is inherently negative. I support these companies. However, It's still frustrating to be biologically forced into wearing someone else's brand.
So, I learned to adapt. (I've got a habit.) Almost everything I carry day to day has its logos removed, covered, or swapped for something I'm actually okay displaying.
This isn't me saying I never want logos showing. Anyone who knows me knows I'm a HUGE sticker guy. Pretty much anything I genuinely support gets displayed (Fuck, i have a PlannedParenthood sticker on my wall!) — But, that is *my* choice. My water bottles and mugs are sticker bombed (every outside inch covered.) The difference, (and it's an important one) is: I get to choose what gets displayed.
Not Anti-branding. Anti-forceful-branding. If I put it there, it's staying. If it showed up on the packaging, it's probably not.
The Wallet
Take my wallet. I carry one every day, like every other "adult" member of society is apparently required to. When I bought this thing, it had what I'd call an aggressive logo slapped on the flat side — massive cross, big text, "Swiss Gear." So I wrapped it in carbon vinyl and covered the rest in my own stickers. Made my own logo, basically. Then I put black lettering on the black vinyl, so in low light — or if you're not looking for it — you can't read it. If I want to show you, I can. It's just not shouting at you by default.
The Knife
Which brings me to the instigating incident. I recently replaced my EDC pocket knife.
The old one was reliable, useful — but missing something important. Carrying a prybar, there's basically no way to deal with a screw. You'd think the prybar could double as a flathead. The angle says no. Every time.
Yes. I bought a new Milwaukee Fastback. Quick-release blade, quick-deploy multi-position bit holder on the back. Already saved the day once or twice, and I've had it 48 hours.
My favorite thing about it isn't even the functionality — it's that it's bright Milwaukee red. I am notorious for setting something down in grass while working and never seeing it again. Massive upgrade from my old black knife. I can actually find this one.
There's a very bright, and VERY distinct white "Milwaukee" logo on the side. Great knife — but don't like your logo. Currently working on matching a paint color to cover it (keeping it red). If that doesn't work, we're probably going safety orange.
The Point
In short: this isn't me saying every brand is terrible and we should abolish branding. It's me saying we shouldn't, as a society, force people — whether through medical necessity or everyday product defaults — to carry your logo without their permission. That's a compromise made on their behalf. They should get a say.
Thus: fuck your brand's logo.