AITA for not programming my friend’s daughter’s insulin device?
Step into a tense moment where a coder faces a life-or-death request. This Reddit saga unfolds as a software developer declines to program a closed-loop insulin pump for his friend’s diabetic daughter, citing inexperience and liability fears. Despite providing code and guidance, his refusal sparks anger. Was he overly cautious? Reddit and experts dive into this clash of ethics and expertise, probing the weight of medical responsibility.
The friend’s push for a DIY solution collides with the coder’s caution, echoing dilemmas of trust and safety. This tale of boundaries and health pulls us into a debate about where skill meets duty. Let’s unpack the story, community reactions, and expert insights.
‘AITA for not programming my friend’s daughter’s insulin device?’
This developer’s refusal to program the insulin pump was a prudent stand against potential catastrophe. Medical devices demand precision, and errors can be fatal. Dr. Helen Chen, a medical device safety expert, states, “Unregulated DIY medical systems carry high risks; non-specialists should avoid direct involvement.” The developer’s lack of medical coding experience justified his caution, despite the system’s success.
The situation highlights a broader issue: the rise of DIY medical solutions due to high costs. Studies show 20% of type 1 diabetes patients explore unregulated devices, driven by expenses. The friend’s frustration reflects desperation, but expecting a non-expert to take on such risk was unfair.
Chen’s work emphasizes clear boundaries in high-stakes tasks. The developer’s guidance without direct involvement balanced help with safety. Open dialogue about risks could ease tensions.
Here’s the comments of Reddit users:
Reddit’s rallying with a solid “NTA” and a dose of reality. Here’s their sharp take:
![[Reddit User] - NTA. Your friend put you in a really difficult position, but I think you made the right choice. There's a reason why medical devices are so heavily regulated - tiny bugs that wouldn't be an issue in other circumstances can end up killing someone. You don't want to sign up for that moral responsibility or financial liability, and that's perfectly reasonable.](https://en.aubtu.biz/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/248279c-03.png)
![[Reddit User] - NTA. If something were to happen to her, I think you could be liable if you set it up. I live with someone with T1, I fully understand how awfully expensive all things are that go along with that but those pumps are tested, the users are given training. It’s a whole to-do. I’d say you’d be the AH if you did do it because the slightest thing wrong could end with dire consequences.](https://en.aubtu.biz/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/248279c-05.png)
These opinions cut deep, but do they oversimplify the friend’s plight? Reddit’s a bold stage—let’s see if they hit the mark.
This story stirs a pot of ethics, risk, and friendship. The developer’s refusal safeguarded his integrity, but his friend’s anger reveals a gap in understanding. Could clearer communication have softened the blow? It’s a dance of duty and caution. What would you do if asked to take on a risky task outside your skillset? Share your stories—how do you balance help with responsibility?
