Wednesday 15 June 2011

Diabetes Awareness Week In England



Type 1 Diabetes, is an Autoimmune Disease,














So once again we have hit National Diabetes Awareness Week in the United Kingdom.In a week that I should be feeling very up beat. Why do I feel so let down?

My expectations:

A cure was announced. (unrealistic I know)

Everyone one in the media would highlight Type 1 & Type 2 (other types) in a positive light, clearly defining the differences.

Support within education.

Everyone who wanted a Pump & CGM could have one.

A first class Diabetes Service for all

Every GP understood & didn't deny blood glucose strips etc.

What has happened to date:

Lloyds have managed to be so completely insensitive to the diabetes community & be factually incorrect.

A delightful "Statue" in Trafalgar Square courtesy of Lloyds

As usual there are lots & lots of meeting with very little movement in key problem areas? Education, Pump & CGM access to name but a few.

Media coverage  still on many occasions this week, have managed to confuse Type 1 Diabetes & Type 2.

Media negatively raising the profile of Diabetes especially Type 2.

So it's been a typical week.

I just want to shout from the roof tops "for goodness sake, please understand Type 1 Diabetes, yes they enjoy life, but it's a beep of a condition that requires a relentless regime of daily treatment, support us we are not asking for much"

Facts

Type 1 Diabetes is an Autoimmune Disease

Type 1 Diabetes cannot be prevented.

Type 1 Diabetes cannot be reversed.

Type 1 Diabetes can happen at any age, male or female( usually in your younger years).

Type 1 Diabetes requires insulin each and every day for life in the form of injection or by pump.

Type 1 Diabetes has NOTHING to do with weight, lifestyle or diet.

Please feel free to add to the list.


2 comments:

  1. Frustrating, I know. The same goes on here in the U.S. But keep doing what you're doing, because you're making a difference. Your work has been fantastic!

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  2. Just checked out a picture of the 'statue' in Trafalgar square - not really what we need at the moment! I feel we are quite lucky here in Finland with the Diabetes care we receive. Sadly this may be due to the fact that here we have the highest incidence in the world of Type 1 diabetes in children. Keep fighting the good fight!

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