Life on an Even Keel

Paul was recently celebrated by his workplace, Pickering Joinery in Geelong, for 40 years of employment. His work as a joiner now sees him build timber windows and doors, but over the years he’s also created custom kitchens and staircases. He’s been honing his craft since he began his apprenticeship at age 16, all while managing the ups and downs of diabetes.

“It can be quite a physical job, so I’m careful about eating more when I’m working and having a bit less insulin,” Paul says.

“You just hope you don’t collapse in a heap, but I’ve done that a few times!”

He says he feels lucky to work for a family business where he feels supported.

“Everyone looks out for me at work, if I’m ever wandering around looking a bit dazed, someone’s always coming up to ask if I’m okay or if I need something,” he says.

“They're a pretty good bunch over there. A few guys, like the First Aid trained people keep an eye out, and everyone else knows I live with type 1.

“If I don’t look too good, we usually get it sorted quickly.

“The work can be strenuous some days, and other days it’s not too bad. I can keep my levels relatively stable by eating more, but it’s never an exact science.”

Paul received his Kellion Victory Medal in 2022 and credits 54 years of living well with diabetes to his positive attitude, keeping active, and his partner, Maree.

“I have lost count of how many times she has given me food, drink, called an ambulance, or got up in the middle of the night to revive me from a hypo and get me back on track,” he says.

“My daughter, who just turned 20, is another big support and so were my brother and sister when I was growing up.

“I’ve embraced managing diabetes as part of my daily life and I’ve never let it stop me from pursuing anything, be it work or sport or time with family and friends.

“I’ve been sailing for 30 odd years. I wanted a radio-controlled boat when I was a little kid and when we looked at prices, we found out you can buy a real boat for the same price.

“So, I ended up buying a real one.”

Paul learnt how to sail said boat and never looked back, progressing to state and world titles with his sailing crews over the decades.

“I travelled to Canada for the Thunderbird Internationals during the ‘90s, we had a good time over there,” he recalls.

“I’ve always felt like, ‘if you want to do something, go and do it.’ Life is short and you might die tomorrow!”

Paul says he only remembers a few occasions where diabetes management has impacted his sailing.

“Once I was doing something on the boat and dropped in a heap, so the crew shoved me downstairs, stuck a glucose needle in my arm and 5 minutes later I was back on deck,” he says.

“I think if you do some exercise and get out and do stuff, that’s better than sitting at home on the couch.

“I’ve always found that when I’m at work five days a week my numbers are great, and when I’m on holidays and I slow down the blood glucose level goes up a bit.

“Moving around and staying active is good for everyone and it’s certainly helped me manage type 1.

“I’m looking forward to the next milestone.”

If you live with type 1 diabetes and would like more information on exercise, nutrition or other healthcare, get in touch with the team at Diabetes Care Plus. Their nutritionists, dietitians and diabetes nurse educators are ready to help via in person clinics or telehealth appointments.