Celebration event for people living with type 1 diabetes

A celebration event for people living with type 1 diabetes for over 50 years took place last week and seven patients were presented with medals in recognition of the courage and perseverance of living with diabetes for so long.

Supported by Diabetes UK, the medals are awarded to those that have lived with the condition for 50, 60, 70 and 80 years. The awards include:

• The Alan Nabarro medal, which is awarded to people who have lived with diabetes for 50 years. Alan Nabarro waged a lifelong battle against discrimination against people with diabetes. In 1968, he was awarded the OBE for his work with young people in London.
• The Robert Lawrence medal, which is awarded to people who have lived with diabetes for 60 years. Dr Robert Lawrence co-founded the Diabetic Association, now known as Diabetes UK, with H.G. Wells in 1934.
• The John Macleod medal, which is awarded to people who have lived with diabetes for 70 years. John Macleod was awarded half of the Nobel Prize for the discovery of insulin. Diabetes UK’s Central Offices are named in honour of Macleod’s great work and dedication to diabetes.
• The HG Wells medal, which is awarded to people who have lived with diabetes for 80 years. H.G. Wells co-founded the Diabetic Association, now known as Diabetes UK, with Dr Robert Lawrence in 1934.

One member of the group, Eileen, was presented with the Robert Lawrence medal after living with diabetes for 60 years. She said: “When I was first diagnosed it was shocking. There was so much to learn, including how to count the calories of everything and knowing how much to eat. I didn’t like to tell anyone that I had diabetes as I felt that they would judge me.

“Over the years I have learnt to live with it; you have to just get on with it. My husband has been very good and knows exactly when I need to eat, drink and have my injections.

“Things have changed so much since I was first diagnosed. You used to have to boil the syringes after every use, which was a real pain. The care has come on massively and I feel so much better within myself now.”

Lizzie Moore, Manager of the Diabetes Centre, said: “We greatly enjoyed the event, and the recognition of those getting on and living with diabetes for over 50 years. Those who attended have already told us how much they enjoyed the event, finding it a special moment to meet others and compare experiences. We plan to hold an annual event to recognise those in the future.”

Nick Thomas, Deputy Chief Executive, attended the event to praise those receiving a medal. He said: “It was a real privilege to be invited to this event and meet everyone. I can’t begin to imagine what it was like years ago to be living with diabetes, but it was great to speak with those that have lived with it for long enough to see the huge improvements that have been made.”