Thought I'd just update this with a bit of info for UK-based posters. Lifescan are currently doing an upgrade programme where you can get a free Ultra2 monitor - just visit
LifeScan United Kingdom -- Free Upgrade to OneTouch Ultra2 and fill in the forms.
However, if you're feeling smart, you'll probably want the UltraSmart, which is a much more feature-laden meter. Just call 0800 121200 and tell them you're interested in trying out the UltraSmart. They'll ask if you want to buy it - just say you're interested in trialling it out. They'll take your details and ask you how many times a day you test. If you're doing your job right, be honest - anything over 6 times a day is 'a lot' to them and they'll agree that the UltraSmart is the best monitor for you and they'll send one out to you.
I also tried to blag a free USB cable too but the woman was very apologetic and said she couldn't do that. Even when I said, "Come on, we both know that you're making your money on the strips, not the cables." HOWEVER - 2 minutes after I'd got off the phone to them, they gave me a call back and said that they'd be happy to include a free USB cable as a gesture of goodwill. So in other words, I've just saved myself about £30 and got everything I need. Just remember when you're on the phone that deep down they really want you to have the monitor and they're quite happy to pony them up for free if they think they can get a prescription out of you - and if you're UK-based, remember, you don't have to pay for those either!
If it helps, I spoke to 'Henrietta', so it might be worth asking for her since she knows the procedure.
