Christine reflects on the power of community support
Christine has been living with type 2 diabetes for over 40 years. A member and supporter of Diabetes Victoria since 1991, we recently caught up with her at our Community Matters event in Craigieburn.
Christine was diagnosed at age 28, in 1981. Both her parents lived with diabetes and her husband now also manages type 2 diabetes.
Given her four decades of lived experience, she has seen diabetes treatment evolve significantly. She attended the free Craigieburn event with her husband to learn about the latest in diabetes management.
“We wanted to refresh our memory and learn new information, because the information does change, and has changed considerably in the past 12 months,” she says.
The power of conversation
Christine vividly remembers the impact of one conversation she had when she was diagnosed.
“At the hospital I met a lady who was an amputee – coincidentally her daughter and my mum grew up together,” she recalls.
“I respected her, and I think it also frightened me when she said, ‘you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes Christine, so look after yourself or otherwise you might end up like me.’
“She had two legs amputated above the knee. I believe many people diagnosed with diabetes are in denial and I was too, until she said that to me.
“That’s when I realised diabetes is more serious than I thought.”
Community Matters events are an opportunity for similarly impactful conversations, with both health professionals and other locals living with diabetes.
“(Living with diabetes) is an interesting journey and I’ve had a few things happen that were not wonderful, but I always find new information helpful.
“Learning about new diabetes technology and treatment options is important, and to have many local health professionals available in one place is excellent.”
Christine is diligent with her annual cycle of care and sent us the above photo with her podiatrist.
Community Matters is for people living with, or at risk of, all types of diabetes and their families and carers. Each event is an opportunity to connect with other people in the diabetes community, learn from health professionals, and discover valuable resources and support services. Visit diabetesvic.org.au for more information about upcoming Community Matters events.
