Messages That Matter
Diabetes isn’t simply a diagnosis or a percentage of the population. It’s the lived experience of millions of people across the state every single day.
We are coming together to raise awareness about diabetes. We want to ensure that every unique perspective within the Victorian community is heard.
It doesn’t matter if you’re living with diabetes or supporting someone who is, this is for you!
We’re calling all friends, family members, health professionals and most importantly people with lived experience to leave a message that matters.
Add your message
By sharing our collective journeys, we can shine a light on the misconceptions that too often surround diabetes.
At the Heart of the Campaign
At the heart of this year’s campaign is ‘Messages That Matter’.
We believe that personal stories are an effective tool for change. We are gathering short, impactful messages from across Victoria to break down stigma and build empathy for the diabetes community.
Your message could be a reflection on navigating daily life, a thank you to a supportive healthcare provider, or message of hope for better resources. Every message matters.
By sharing your ‘Message That Matters’, you help us go behind the numbers and shine a light on the faces, hearts, and voices of the diabetes community.
Let’s boost primary prevention of diabetes together!
Every woman with type 1 diabetes deserves access to best in class automated insulin delivery systems to have a happy and healthy pregnancy because it’s not just this generation but also the next that stand to benefit!
After 54 years of injections (~69,000!) I am now on an Omnipod. What a revelation – no more injections or finger pricks!!!
Listen to the community, act for the community, do better for the community!
Stigma thrives in silence, but it dies with education! As an ally and Mum to be I want to create a world for people living with diabetes that is defined by awareness rather than assumptions! I want my child to have the understanding I lacked growing up! Every person with diabetes deserves a community that truly stands with them!
As someone who loves someone with diabetes I’ve seen all of the hardships you’ve caused, but brighter than that is the resilience, strength and determination you have inspired. To all people with diabetes, keep going you’re amazing.
T1D suppporter.
You may never fully understand what it means to live with Type 1 diabetes every day – but you can choose to stand beside someone who does. Support them, encourage them, let them live life fully, and walk the journey with them one day at a time.
T1D partner
I wish people understood resilience is in built in diabetic kids. It is not a skill they need to learn. T1D life has already gifted this.
T1D Parent
Child first, diabetes second – positive regular childhood experiences are important!
T1D mum
I can eat chocolate when i’m low….. and jelly-beans too!
Lily, 8. T1D
Thank you!! Diabetes vic junior camp guarantees me 2 nights a year of uninterrupted sleep.
Love from T1D parents
If your child ever asks you “Why me?” don’t be afraid to tell them that you don’t know why and it’s ok to feel it is unfair
T1D mum
All the pump technology has been life changing for my son!
Anonymous, T1D mum
I don’t live with diabetes myself, but I work in this area and have people close to me who do. I see every day the strength it takes. To anyone living with diabetes — you’re not alone, and you’re doing an incredible job.
Dasha Gonetskaya
As a dietitian caring for people living with diabetes, I am learning more and more to see that individual as a whole person, not just the diabetes. I am privileged to share their journey with them.
Ivan Chan – Health Professional.
It’s so overwhelming at first. If you think you need it seek professional advice for your mental health. It takes time to get to know your body and how everything can effect it. Some days will be good and some days are not. But it’s going to be ok.
Trudy Bacon
Hi – welcome aboard. There’s so much to learn & so much going on. When you think of a question to ask, ask it as every question has an answer. The professionals are vital – but they are not mind readers. Every one living with T1D is an individual. Take care & good luck.
Jenny Edge
One incremental, small and manageable change at a time. Don’t let it all overwhelm you.
Tor Goldsmith
Absolutely every person is different and what works for one, may not work for you.
Leonie Harcourt – Health ProfessionalAll the pump tecnology has been life cAll the pump tecnology has been life changing for my son! T1D hanging for my son! T1D
You won’t always get it right, none of us do. Show up, stay curious, and keep learning.
Joanne. Living with T1D
The people who care about you want to be there. Let them.
Bryan, T1D husband.
Numbers are information, not judgement. A ‘high’ or ‘low’ is not a measure of how good you are at this. It’s just data to help you decide your next step.
Anonymous, T2D
From one supporter to another. You don’t need to fix everything. Being consistent, calm and kind is powerful. Learn with them. Celebrate with them. Stand beside them.
Anonymous, T1D supporter
The beginning is loud. All of the appointments, advice, new routines. Eventually it becomes part of your rhythm. Give yourself time to adjust.
Jess, T1D mum
Find your people. Whether it’s one friend, an online group or a local community,
connection makes this lighter. You don’t have to carry it alone.
Anonymous, peer support member
I know that being at risk doesn’t define me. It’s a blessing and has given me the chance to take action – an opportunity my mum and uncles did not have. It’s not just about me, but about supporting my husband and kids to live healthier lives too.
Liz W
I’m 67 and have lived with type 2 diabetes for a long time. It’s not easy. I’ve learned how to manage it. When heart complications started to creep in, that’s when it really hit me. Now I just take it one day at a time. Some days are better than others, but I’ve had to learn to be kinder and more patient with myself.
Cathy S, T2D
What gives me hope about the future of diabetes is all the incredible researchers in Victoria who are so passionate about improving diabetes management and trying to find a cure. Hearing about major breakthroughs firsthand makes me hopeful for a (near) future where type 1 diabetes can be prevented.
Britt Denton
You are loved, cared for, and supported. There are always people to rely on. Use your peers and always ask for help!
Kimba – T1D daughter
The same meal size and carb count, same insulin dosage, same level of exercise, same timing of meal will bring different results each day. Humans are complex as we think and feel. Make adjustments to manage diabetes but remember person first, not robot.
Jaclyn Curnow
Absolutely every person is different, and what works for one may not work for you!
Leonie Harcourt
My advice? Participate in research trials; you never know what might be beneficial for you.
Anonymous, living with diabetes.
Small Changes add up. I didn’t have to overhaul my life overnight.
Anonymous, living with diabetes.
Take it one day at a time.
Anonymous, living with diabetes.
Find a good support network of specialists, family and friends.
Anonymous, living with diabetes.
Diabetes has taught me to listen to my body instead of ignoring it.
Anonymous, living with diabetes.
It’s all about the support and the people around you; you’re never alone.
Anonymous, living with diabetes.
Being diagnosed can be scary, but with the right support, you can live a healthy and fulfilling life and achieve wonderful things. You just need the right people in your corner.
Jane Robinson.
Diabetes is a condition where you have to be in tune 24 hours a day. But it’s not the end of the world. Work with it, and there’s nothing that isn’t possible.
Anna Manche
Advice for those who may be newly diagnosed; don’t panic.
Geraldine McAvaney Zealley
Packing supplies for hypos and medical items allows you to do anything, anytime, anywhere.
Jaclyn Curnow
Find your people. Whether it’s one friend, an online group or a local community, connection makes this lighter. You don’t have to carry it alone.
Anonymous, living with diabetes.
I know that being at risk doesn’t define me. It’s a blessing and has given me the chance to take action – an opportunity my mum and uncles did not have. It’s not just about me, but about supporting my husband and kids to live healthier lives too.
Liz W
I made it , been diabetic type 1 for 60 years and still going strong. Listen to educators, don’t panic when you get things wrong, and live happily.
Lia Marra Sauzier
Always keep some quick glucose handy/with you just in case!
Tor Goldsmith
Why participate?
Because your message has the power to educate a neighbour, comfort a newly diagnosed peer, and inspire the policy changes that lead to a better future for everyone touched by diabetes.
Enter your message that matters
We’ve made it easy for you to contribute in whatever way feels most comfortable.
Choose how you would like to leave your message:
- Written Postcards: Leave a physical note by coming along to one of our events or download the template here.
- Digital note with your thoughts: Use our quick online form to type out your message and include a photos
- Video: Upload a 30–45 second video sharing your ‘Message That Matters’.
Submit your message that matters
Your Community Matters
Disclaimer and Frequently Asked Questions
By sharing my message, I agree that Diabetes Victoria can use my story, including my words, to help raise awareness about diabetes.
This may include sharing my message on the Diabetes Victoria website, social media channels, other materials, and with partner organisations that support Diabetes Victoria’s work.
I understand my message may be edited for clarity or length, but its meaning will not be changed.