Millions of people around the world live with various forms of diabetes. For these patients, traveling requires careful preparation to ensure they have the medical supplies and devices needed to prevent a serious health episode. But what happens when essential medical equipment is allegedly damaged or destroyed during an airport TSA screening? A Boston, Massachusetts, mother says her daughter’s Tandem insulin pump could not safely pass through an airport TSA X-ray machine while they were on vacation. Instead, the device had to be screened separately with a swab. What happened next, she claims, was both shocking and costly.
The video, captioned “I wish I were kidding,” was shared on the TikTok account @warriortats, which is run by the mother of a young girl with diabetes. Through her account, she frequently discusses the challenges and complications associated with the condition, along with the daily precautions she takes to help protect her daughter from a potential medical emergency. In this particular video, she recounts an incident that took place at the airport ahead of their trip to Jamaica, which she had referenced in an earlier post.
She explains that her daughter’s Tandem insulin pump was flagged by TSA after a swab test suggested the possible presence of explosive residue. According to the mother, the TSA agent assisting them said the pump could not be returned unless it was opened and its contents inspected, which would require breaking the seal. However, the pump must remain sealed for Tandem to accept it as a return.
With no other option, the seal had to be broken, which likely means the $5,000 pump is no longer eligible for return. Although she remains calm and keeps smiling, the situation is clearly unfortunate and deeply frustrating.
Boston Girl’s Tandem Insulin Pump Reportedly Tests Positive for Explosive Residue
Commenters were not especially surprised by the TSA’s actions, though many noted that the incident was likely unlawful. One person wrote, “Hey, TSA, it’s against the law to destroy medical devices.” Another argued that the agency should be held accountable, stating, “TSA needs to be liable for the damages they cause.”
No follow-up video has been posted showing the aftermath of the situation. However, I hope the now-viral video helps support their case when they contact Tandem to ask whether the product is still eligible for return.
